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Brain temperature (BT) is a crucial physiological parameter used to monitor cerebral status. Physical activities and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can affect BT; therefore, non-invasive BT monitoring is an important way to gain insight into TBI, stroke, and wellbeing. The effects of BT on physical performance have been studied at length. When humans are under extreme conditions, most of the energy consumed is used to maintain the BT. In addition, measuring the BT is useful for early brain diagnostics. Passive microwave radiometry (MWR) measures the intrinsic radiation of tissues in the 1–4 GHz range. It was shown that non-invasive passive MWR technology can successfully measure BT and identify even small TBIs. Here, we review the potential applications of MWR for assessing BT.

Aim of the work To investigate the sexual dysfunction in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and its relation to physical fitness and other disease parameters. Patients and methods The study included 47 SLE females and 47 matched healthy controls. SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) and systemic lupus international collaborative clinics damage index (SLICC DI) were assessed. Physical performance of the patients was assessed by the grip ability test (GAT), gait velocity test, Jebsen hand function test, fatigue severity scale (FSS) and the modified health assessment questionnaire (mHAQ). Sexual dysfunction of the patients was assessed by the sexual function index (FSFI). Depressive disorders of the patients were assessed by Beck depression inventory. Results The mean age of the patients was 28.7 ± 7.2 years and disease duration 4.4 ± 2.9 years. GAT was significantly lower (43.65 vs 70.00; p = 0.001), and FSS higher (6.5 vs 1; p = 0.001) in patients compared to control. The total FSFI was significantly lower (23.41 vs 29.60; p = 0.001) and all domains scores were significantly lower except the pain domain (p = 0.001). Beck depression inventory score was higher in patients (13.29 vs 12.74; p = 0.365). SLE females with prescribed corticosteroids and azathioprine had significantly lower FSFI as compared to those without while FSFI score was higher in those receiving hydroxychloroquine. The FSFI significantly correlated with C4 level (r = 0.328, p = 0.024 and inversely with, SLEDAI (r = −0.07, p = 0.001), FSS (r = −0.54, p = 0.001), mHAQ (−0.37, p = 0.01) and with Beck depression inventory (r = −0.57, p = 0.001). Conclusion Married female patients with SLE revealed a higher degree of sexual dysfunction of all domains except pain.

Using microwave heating technology to assist concrete recycling have great potential for improve the quality of recycled concrete aggregate. Unfortunately, there are few studies explored on the properties of concrete incorporating microwave treated coarse aggregates. This study aims to investigate the performance of coarse aggregate after microwave treatment and to evaluate the properties of the resulting concrete incorporated microwave treatment aggregate. The water absorption and crushing value tests were carried out to study the effect of microwave heating treatment on the physical properties of coarse aggregates. Concrete incorporated aggregate with various microwave heating parameters was fabricated and tested. The results indicated that physical performance of microwave treated aggregate was within the range of specification requirement and water absorption and crushing value of coarse aggregate heated under low microwave power levels (2–3 kW) is very closed to the untreated samples, while coarse aggregates treated with high power levels showed a significant increase. It was also observed that concrete made out of low microwave power levels heated aggregates are able to achieve strength on par with natural coarse aggregate concrete. In addition, in case of similar strength, the elastic modulus of microwave treated aggregate concrete is similar to natural aggregate concrete. These results indicate that using low microwave power levels to assisted aggregates recycling can reduce the damage to coarse aggregates to some extent, which provide a further understanding for the application of microwave-assisted aggregates recycling.

Summary Background With increasing age physical performance decreases. However, especially in orienteering, with the risk of running too fast in relation to map reading skills and thus of not being able to process important map information correctly a lower running speed can be an advantage. Further, with increasing age and the often-greater experience, the susceptibility to errors should decrease yielding to the aim of the study to analyze the relationship between average speed and age in senior orienteering. Material & methods All national Competitions of Middle and Long Distance as well as the Swiss Championships in the Middle and Long Distance as well as in night orienteering were analyzed for the season 2018 and 2019 for all senior categories. Average running speed was calculated per category with the concept of performance km, whereby in 2018 ten competitions and in 2019 nine competitions yielding to a total sample size of 855 female and 950 male orienteers analyzed. Furthermore, polynomial analyses of second degree between average running speed and age were conducted with calculation of coefficient of determination and in addition multilinear regression analysis between average course time and age respectively distance absolved. Results Average age of peak performance was identified with 50.0 ± 2.3 years for men and 47.3 ± 3.1 for women in 2018 respectively 51.1 ± 3.1 years for men and 47.0 ± 3.0 for women in 2019. Furthermore, high coefficients of determination were identified with average values of 0.916 ± 0.061 in men and 0.910 ± 0.051 in women 2018 respectively 0.891 ± 0.102 in men and 0.913 ± 0.079 in women in 2019. Discussion The relatively high ages are probably due to the fact that Classic beginner mistakes such as running too fast compared to map reading skills become less common, which is reflected in an absolutely lower error rate and correspondingly leads to a less severe decrease in age-related performance.

Introduction Performance tests of the upper limb have been frequently used in the evaluation of individuals to identify risk of injury and to determine improvement in physical performance. Understanding the variables related to the performance of the tests is important for better applicability and interpretation of test results. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investige the correlation between isometric strength of scapular, shoulder and spine muscles with physical performance test of upper limb in men and women. Experimental Forty-nine healthy and physically conditioned individuals, men (n = 24) (22,7 ± 3,2 years; 74,6 ± 8,1 Kg; 176,7 ± 7,1 cm) women (n = 25) (23 ± 2,7 years; 61,5 ± 9,1 Kg; 163,2 ± 5,6 cm), were evaluated for shoulder abductor isometric strength (S-ABD); Middle (MT) and lower (LT) trapezium; lateral shoulder rotators (S-LR); flexors (T-FLEX), lateral incliners (T-INCL), and trunk extenders (T-EXT). Evaluation of upper limb physical performance was carried out by Upper Quarter Y Balance test (YBT-UQ) and Chain upper extremity stability test (CKC-UEST). Pearson's test (r values) p ≤ 0.05 was used to analyze the correlation. Results The results reveal strong correlations between S-ABD and CKC-UEST in male group; and strong correlations in female group between S-ABD strength with CKC-UEST; and S-LR with all YBT-UQ directions and score and between T-EXT strength with CKC-UEST. Conclusion Therefore, strength of shoulder and spine stabilizers influences performance in upper limb tests, but with different correlations as to sex. To improve test performance, it may be important to increase the strength of the shoulder and spine muscles.

This study explored the association of back pain and heart failure (HF) with health outcomes among community-dwelling older adults. Older adults who completed a follow-up in the 11th year (2007–2008) of the Health, Aging, and Body Composition (Health ABC) study were included. The mean age was 83.4 ± 2.78 years. Back pain and heart failure were reported by 55.40% (n = 657) and 8.09 % (n = 96) of the total subjects (N = 1186), respectively. Regression analysis indicated that older adults with back pain reported worse depressive symptoms, fatigue, and physical performance and function compared with those without back pain (p < 0.05), and HF presence increased fatigue levels and decreased physical function (p < 0.05) among older adults with back pain. The high incidence and negative impact of back pain highlight the need to develop strategies for pain management among older adults with and without HF.

Objectives The purpose of this study was to establish beliefs and practices of physical performance coaches regarding sprinting and Hamstring Strain Injury (HSI) in Australian Rules football. Designs Delphi-validated questionnaire. Setting Online. Participants Eighteen high-performance managers of the Australian Football League. Main outcome measures Descriptive statistics were collected to establish experience; central themes were established for the analyses of the beliefs and practices. Results Nine (50%) physical performance coaches responded to an invitation to complete the questionnaire. Participants held an undergraduate degree and had 9.2 ± 4.3 years of experience. Accelerations (n = 9), maximum speed sprints (n = 9) and running with hip flexion (n = 7) were the most common activities associated with HSI. Coaches believed sprinting, eccentric strength training and proper periodisation were effective strategies to reduce HSI risk. There’s a disparity between beliefs and practices when using GPS to monitor sprinting, however, all coaches reported regular exposure to sprint training across both pre and in-season. Overstriding (n = 9) and pelvic instability (n = 6) were identified as key flaws in running mechanics. Conclusions This information can be used to improve training strategies, whilst these findings indicate further investigations into sprint training and running mechanics for HSI risk reduction.

It is unclear whether the combined effects of exercise and nutrition are better than those of exercise alone or nutrition alone in older adults with sarcopenia. This paper assesses the comparative effects of exercise, nutrition, and the combination of exercise and nutrition on muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance in older adults with sarcopenia. In this systematic review and network meta-analysis, 11 electronic databases were searched up to November 2020. Inclusion criteria were: (1) adults aged 65 years and older with sarcopenia; (2) interventions of exercise, nutrition, or the combination of both; (3) the outcomes include at least one of the following: muscle mass, muscle strength (hand grip and knee extension strength), or physical performance (gait speed and dynamic balance); and (4) randomized control trials. For each outcome measurement, a network meta-analysis was conducted to determine the direct and indirect effects of each intervention compared with each of the other interventions. A total of 26 studies were included in the network meta-analysis. Compared with the control group, exercise alone and the combination of exercise and nutrition significantly increased handgrip strength (1.12 kg, 95% CI: 0.12, 2.11; 2.03 kg, 95% CI: 1.10, 2.97) and improved dynamic balance (-1.76 seconds, 95% CI: -2.24, -1.28; -1.02 seconds, 95% CI: -1.64, -0.39). Both exercise alone and the combination of exercise and nutrition have beneficial effects on muscle strength and physical performance in older adults with sarcopenia.

(Pb, La)(Zr, Sn, Ti)O3 (PLZST) ceramic is one of the most prospective antiferroelectric (AFE) materials for variety of functional applications including energy storage and converter. Systematic structural investigation of domain structures should be of fundamental importance for understanding the structure-property relationship in AFE ceramics. In this study, the hierarchical domain structures and modulated structures correlated to the compositional variation in (Pb0.97La0.02) (Zr0.50SnxTi0.50-x)O3 (x = 0.375, 0.45 and 0.50) were observed and investigated in details by transmission electron microscopy. The PLZST ceramics show exclusively incommensurate modulated structures (IMS) whose modulation period changed from 9.37 to 6.15 and to 4.04 with increasing of the x value. The hierarchical domain structures include, in decreasing scales, AFE domains, incommensurate domains and nanodomains. The elementary domains in PLZST ceramics are pinstriped nanodomains which were formed based on IMS configuration but by frequent modulation of IMS periodicity and formation of faults. Nanodomains accumulated and then dissociated into incommensurate domains and AFE domains successively. The presently revealed structural characteristics in antiferroelectric PLZST may stimulate future researches on the evolution of IMS-based hierarchical domains under external physical fields, e.g. thermal or electrical, and their correlation to the physical performance.

Introduction No study determined if vitamin D supplementation improves health-related quality of life (HRQL) using pediatric Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System or physical functioning in type SS sickle cell disease (HbSS). Method Subjects with HbSS (n = 21) and healthy subjects (n = 23) were randomized to daily oral doses (4,000 vs. 7,000 IU) of cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) and evaluated at 6 and 12 weeks for changes in serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), HRQL, and physical functioning. Results In subjects with HbSS, significant reductions in pain, fatigue, and depressive symptoms and improved upper-extremity function were observed. In healthy subjects, significant reductions in fatigue and improved upper-extremity function were observed. Significant improvements in peak power and dorsiflexion isometric maximal voluntary contraction torques were observed in both groups. In subjects with HbSS, improved plantar flexion isometric maximal voluntary contraction torques were observed. Both groups saw significant improvement in their total Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency score. Discussion Daily high-dose vitamin D supplementation for African American children with and without HbSS improved HRQL and physical performance.

Objectives The purpose of this study was to assess the association of adolescent and parent psychological beliefs with 1) self-reported functional ability, 2) pain and 3) objective measures of function. Study design Cross-sectional study. Setting Pediatric Outpatient Hospital. Participants Eighty-six adolescents with patellofemoral pain (PFP) (14.6 ± 1.7 years old, 62% female) and 72 parents. Main outcome measures Patient questionnaires were used to describe pain, knee function, fear avoidance (Fear Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire-Physical Activity; FABQ-PA), kinesiophobia (Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia-11; TSK-11), and pain catastrophizing (Pain Catastrophizing Scale; PCS) in adolescents with PFP. Parents (n = 72) completed FABQ-PA, TSK-11, and PCS questionnaires. Hip and knee strength, quadriceps and dorsiflexion motion, the single-leg hop for distance and lateral-step down test measured physical performance. Results Adolescent psychological beliefs were significantly associated with pain (FABQ-PA r = 0.33, and PCS r = 0.34), function (FABQ-PA r = −0.59,TSK-11 r = −0.33), hip strength (FABQ-PA r = −0.41, TSK-11 r = −0.32), and single leg hop for distance (FABQ-PA r = −0.38). Parent psychological beliefs were not associated with the adolescent’s beliefs, pain or function. Conclusions Adolescent, but not parent, psychological beliefs were associated with pain, self-reported function and objective measures of function.

Graphical abstract, Rationale & Objective Physical function is not routinely measured in older adults receiving dialysis. We evaluated the appropriateness of repeated measurements of physical function, including Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), handgrip strength, and activities of daily living (ADLs), in older adults receiving dialysis. Study Design Prospective study. Setting & Participants 37 community-dwelling adults 65 years and older receiving in-center hemodialysis at 5 dialysis units located in North Carolina. Exposures SPPB (an assessment of standing balance, chair stands, and gait speed), handgrip strength, and Katz and Lawton ADLs at baseline and subsequent 3-month intervals up to 6 months. Outcomes Completion rate, presence of floor or ceiling effects, and presence of clinically meaningful change in physical function measurements. Results Of 55 potential participants, we enrolled 37 (67%) older adults receiving hemodialysis. Among 35 enrolled participants who completed baseline assessment in a dialysis unit, mean age was 70.1 (SD, 5) years, 46% (n = 16) were women, 77% (n = 27) were African American, and median time receiving dialysis was 2.7 (IQR, 0.6-5.0) years. There were 3 deaths within the observation period, and study retention at 3 and 6 months was 83% (n = 29) and 74% (n = 26), respectively. Participants tolerated measurements; only 2 participants did not attempt 1 of the performance-based tests at a study visit. Baseline median SPPB score, grip strength, and gait speed were 6 (IQR, 4-9), 55 (IQR, 42-70) kg, and 0.76 (IQR, 0.46-0.86) m/s, respectively. Baseline median for Katz and Lawton ADLs were 6 (IQR, 6-6) and 7 (IQR, 4-8), respectively; ceiling effects were observed for both measures. For some participants, clinically meaningful changes (improvement or decline) in SPPB score, grip strength, and gait speed occurred at each 3-month interval. Limitations Limited geographic and ethnic variation. Conclusions SPPB, handgrip strength, and gait speed alone are appropriate measures for interval physical function assessment in community-dwelling older adults receiving in-center hemodialysis.

In patients with a continuous-flow left ventricular assist device, preimplant predictors of poor physical performance are not well-described. We aimed to identify predictors of inability to walk more than 300 m on 6-minute walk test (6MWT) 6 months after HeartMate 3 implantation.Using data from the European Registry of Patients Implanted With a Full Magnetically Levitated LVAD, patients with available 6MWT at 6 months after implantation were included (N = 194) and grouped according to 6MWT distance (6MWD) of300 m (n = 150) or 6MWD of300 m (n = 44). Patients walking300 m were older (60 ± 10 vs 52 ± 12 years; P.001), more often New York Heart Association functional class IV (63% vs 42%; P = .03), and more often had type 2 diabetes (43% vs 17%; P.001) at implantation. Atrial fibrillation was seen in 57% in those with a 6MWT of300 m vs 31% in those walking longer (P.002). Further, hemoglobin and estimated glomerular filtration rate was lower in those walking300 m (both P.01). In multivariable regression analysis, independent predictors of a 6MWD of300 m were: atrial fibrillation (odds ratio [OR], 3.22; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12-8.67), older age (OR for 10-year increment, 2.81; 95% CI, 1.55-5.07), New York Heart Association functional class IV (OR, 3.37; 95% CI, 1.27-8.98), and Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support profile 1 or 2 (OR, 6.53; 95% CI, 1.92-22.19).Six months after HeartMate 3 implantation, 77% of patients walked300 meters in 6 minutes. Apart from age and measures of heart failure severity, atrial fibrillation at implantation is an independent predictor of low 6MWD at 6 months after implantation.

Objectives To assess whether a 24-week multidomain lifestyle intervention including a nutritional milk supplement and an exercise program had any effect on physical and cognitive function, self-rated health, and health-related quality of life in older Chinese adults. Design Randomized controlled trial. Setting and participants Community-living people aged 50 years and older. Methods 180 participants (mean age 61 ± 6 years) were randomized to 24 weeks of exercise plus nutrition supplementation or no intervention. The primary outcome was gait speed, with additional physical and cognitive function measures, self-rated health, and health-related quality of life as secondary outcomes. Information collected also included dietary intake by 3-day dietary records, and blood sampling for renal function, glycated hemoglobin, serum vitamin B12, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and biochemical indices of bone turnover. Results There was no significant group difference in the change of gait speed, muscle strength, muscle power, cardiovascular fitness, or cognitive function over time, either by intention-to-treat or per-protocol analysis. A significant time × group effect (P = .039) on self-rated health was detected, but there was no significant time or time × group difference in the change of physical and mental health-related quality of life measures over time. In addition, moderate physical activity level was greatly increased from baseline to 24 weeks in the intervention group compared with the control group. Conclusions and implications A 24-week exercise and nutrition supplementation program among community-living people in late midlife to early old age improved self-rated health and the overall level of physical activity, without objective improvements in physical and cognitive function.

Summary Our purposes were to examine the fitness characteristics of padel players and to determine differences in physical performance regarding players’ competitive level. Eighteen non-professional male padel players were divided according to their competitive level (low-level vs. high-level). Players completed a 2-days evaluation process including body composition, groundstroke padel accuracy, upper body power, handgrip strength, dynamic balance, agility and speed and cardiovascular fitness. Heart rate recovery after 60 s and dynamic balanced were identified as the most determinant factors in padel performance. High-level players reported a better heart rate recovery after 60 s. Low-level players with better heart rate recovery showed better groundstroke accuracy. Dynamic balance in anterior directions was alarmingly poor in both high- and low-level players (mean

Objective: The present bibliometric study aimed to identify and perform the analysis of top one hundred cited publications on Ramadan fasting and health. Methods: The Web of Science database was searched for publication analyses of the papers published from January 2004 till June 2019. The search was performed using keywords “Ramadan” AND “Health” OR “Fast*”. The descriptive analysis was performed using SPSS (version 20) software. The coauthor collaborations and keywords were analyzed using VOS viewer software (version 1.6.11). Results: The present study found that the United Kingdom was the most productive country (n = 15) followed by Turkey (n = 13), Tunisia (n = 12) and Saudi Arabia (n = 11). The most prominent institution was National Center of Medicine and Science in Sports, Tunisia (n = 7) followed by King Saud University, Saudi Arabia (n = 6) and Loughborough University, United Kingdom (n = 5). Conclusion: The most frequently occurring keywords in this analysis were Ramadan, fasting, exercise, Ramadan fasting and physical performance. The present study provides insight into the impactful papers pertaining to Ramadan fasting and associated health benefits. Keywords: Fasting, Public health, Muslims, Islam, Bibliometrics

In the group with reduced functional reserves and low level of physical performance, the correction of the mechanisms of psychophysical regulation in the direction of their optimization is possible both under the influence of combination of physical activity and essential oils, and with the independent use of only essential oils. In the latter, more adequate regulation by adaptation processes occurs not due to the accumulation of functional reserves, but as a result of a decrease in adaptation stress.

Physical performance could be negatively affected by sleep deficiency and fatigue. The present study assesses the role of sleep quality, fatigue and motivation on cardiovascular performance (VO

There is a lot of evidence indicating that exercise has a short-term positive effect on cognitive performance. Results have found contrasting findings as whether what is the optimal intensity to maximise this effect. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has increased as a choice for both sport and health benefits. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of HIIT on physical, reaction time and cognitive performance. Forty-four recreationally active university students (aged 18–25 years) performed the following tests before and immediately after an acute high-intensity interval training bout: the Victoria Stroop test, Reaction Time test and Countermovement Jump test. A dependent sample t-test was conducted with statistical significance set at p ≤ 0.05. The results of the study was that there were significant improvements in Stroop test timing (p = 0.001) and a significant decrease in the number of errors (p = 0.040). Counter movement jump performance decreased slightly but not significantly (P = 0.170). Performance in both reaction time tests improved but not significantly (visual: p = 0.100; auditory: p = 0.16) To conclude, researchers found that HIIT had a positive effect on cognitive performance without significantly compromising physical performance in the short-term.

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR)-enhanced exercise training is a novel approach to promoting health. Previous systematic reviews have focused on the effectiveness of VR interventions in clinical settings. The present study was the first systematic review to investigate the effectiveness of exercise-based VR and AR training as preventive measures in improving physical activity, psychological outcomes, and physical performance of a healthy population when compared with traditional programs and no-exercise controls. This study included 22 research articles published between 1997 and 2017, involving 1,184 participants aged 18 to 79. The results showed a large effect on physical activity (Hedges' g = 0.83, SE = 0.18), a small to moderate effect on physical performance (Hedges’ g = 0.31, SE = 0.09), and no significant effect on psychological outcomes. VR training programs were particularly shown to be effective for enhancing frequency of physical activity and strength of physical performance. Only two studies examined the effectiveness of AR training programs on physical performance, and the findings concerning those effects were not separately reported. A list of plausible moderators was tested but that variable was not significantly associated with the effects of VR on the three outcomes. Limitations and future directions are discussed.

This study was performed to identify factors that discriminate muscle echo intensity (EI) among parameters of body composition, physical function and daily physical activity in elderly individuals. A total of 209 men and women (73.7 ± 2.8 y) were evaluated. EI was measured on ultrasonographic axial thigh muscle images. The participants were categorized into the low, mid and high EI groups. We measured the skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) and physical functions. The high EI group exhibited a significantly lower SMI, slower 5-m walking time and shorter 6-min walking distance than the low EI group and had a shorter moderate-intensity activity time than the mid EI group. As a result of the discriminant analysis, elderly individuals were categorized into EI groups by SMI, daily activity and physical function. The data indicate that morphologic and functional parameters and the daily activity level help to discriminate higher and lower muscle EI.

Objective To evaluate the relationship between the regional and total muscle mass, muscle strength and physical performance, and also to investigate the affected muscles, their strength and physical performance with aging. Methods A total of 145 healthy subjects were included for the cross-sectional descriptive study. Demographic data were obtained, and body composition was consecutively assessed by anthropometric methods, bioelectrical impedance analysis and ultrasound (muscle thickness, fascicule length and pennation angle). Functional status was assessed using hand grip strength and gait speed measurements. Results Abdominal and thigh muscles were thinner and triceps muscle was thicker in older subjects when compared with younger ones. Age and grip strength were significant predictors for physical performance. Gait speed, grip strength and regional muscle measurements decreased with age at higher rates (26–28%), skeletal muscle mass index was affected at a lower rate (15%). Conclusions Low muscle strength and regional muscle measurements should be used to confirm the diagnosis of sarcopenia.

BACKGROUND: Older adults may have difficulty meeting the Physical Activity (PA) Guidelines. A favorable balance between PA and sedentary time (SED) is an important determinant of physical performance in older adults. Our objective was to explore associations of PA/SED with physical performance across mid-older age in adults without overt mobility disability. METHODS: Framingham Offspring Study participants free of mobility disability with accelerometry and physical performance data (gait speed, chair stand time, and handgrip strength), were studied in cross-sectional analysis (n = 1352). We regressed physical performance on PA level, measured using steps, moderate to vigorous (MV) PA and SED. We stratified by age groups, adjusted for covariates, and modelled MVPA and SED separately and together as predictors. RESULTS: Only 38% of adults 50–64 years and 15% of adults ≥75 years met the PA Guidelines (i.e., 150 min MVPA per week). Individuals achieving at least 5 min/day of MVPA had 0.062 ± 0.013 m/s greater gait speed and better chair stands and handgrip strength (in women) than those with < 5 min/day of MVPA (p < 0.01) across mid-older age. SED was associated with poorer performance on gait speed and chair stand tests, but results were not significant after adjusting for MVPA (p > 0.05). For adults ≥75 years, every 5000 more steps/day related to ~0.045 m/s greater gait speed (p = 0.006). CONCLUSION: Our cross-sectional study demonstrated that, across mid-older adulthood, MVPA related to better physical performance, but in adults ≥75 years, total steps walked associated with better gait speed. These data warrant future research on the impact of PA on physical performance and health outcomes in older age.

The ketogenic diet (KD) is being increasingly promoted as a strategy to fight obesity. Although the KD is effective for weight loss and weight control, comprehensive determination of its relationship with biochemical, physiological and psychological changes is still largely unexplored. We hypothesized that a 12-week KD (12KD) would significantly affect body weight, physical performance, cognitive function, eating behaviors, the metabolic and hormonal profile in obese adults, although differently in men and women. In an uncontrolled intervention, 35 sedentary obese adults (13 men, 25 women), aged 37 ± 7 years with a BMI 36.1 ± 5.6 kg/m2 underwent a 12KD between March 2017 and June 2017 at the University of Primorska. The 12KD resulted in decreased appetite, significant weight loss of participants (−18 ± 9 kg men vs. -11 ± 3 kg women; P

A calculation model is developed to investigate the pressurization performance and thermal stratification in a liquid hydrogen (LH2) tank. Viscous flow is considered in the stratification model to ensure the continuity of fluid flow and heat exchange. The tank pressure rise, energy distribution and thermal stratification are studied respectively. Compared to the results without considering the phase change, the tank pressure, the stratified layer temperature and the ullage temperature calculated with phase change considered, have increased about 69.98%, 70.90% and 15.53%. Moreover, influences of the gravity level, initial wall temperature and initial liquid height on the development of thermal stratification are analyzed. It turns out that the larger the gravity level is, the faster the liquid thermal stratification develops. The effect of the initial wall temperature on the growth of thermal stratification is the same. Both the ullage pressure and the stratified temperature increase with time. While the gravity level is larger than a certain value and the initial wall temperature is less than a certain value, the ullage pressure and the stratified temperature decrease firstly, and then increase. Meanwhile, it costs much more time for fluid thermal stratification development fully for a larger initial liquid height.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) can potentiate heat stress, which may have a negative impact on the wearer's performance, safety and well-being. In view of this, a survey was distributed to healthcare workers (HCWs) required to wear PPE during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in the UK to evaluate perceived levels of heat stress and its consequences. Respondents reported experiencing several heat-related illness symptoms, and heat stress impaired both cognitive and physical performance. The majority of respondents stated that wearing PPE made their job more difficult. These, and additional, responses suggest that modification to current working practices is required urgently to improve the resilience of HCWs to wearing PPE during pandemics.

Muscle strength and physical performance are associated with fracture risk in men. However, it is not known whether these measurements enhance fracture prediction beyond Garvan and FRAX tools. A total of 5665 community-dwelling men, aged 65+, from the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) Study, who had data on muscle strength (grip strength) and physical performance (gait speed and chair stand tests), were followed from 2000 to 2019 for any fracture, major osteoporotic fracture (MOF), initial hip and any hip fracture. The contributions to different fracture outcomes were assessed using Cox's proportional hazard models. Tool-specific analysis approaches and outcome definitions were used. The added predictive values of muscle strength and physical performance beyond Garvan and FRAX were assessed using categorical net reclassification improvement (NRI) and relative importance analyses. During a median follow-up of 13 (IQR: 7-17) years, there were 1014 fractures, 536 MOFs, 215 initial hip and 274 any hip fractures. Grip strength and chair stand improved prediction of any fracture (NRI for grip strength: 3.9% and for chair stand: 3.2%) and MOF (5.2% and 6.1%). Gait speed improved prediction of initial hip (5.7%) and any hip (7.0%) fracture. Combining grip strength and the relevant performance test further improved the models (5.7%, 8.9%, 9.4% and 7.0% for any, MOF, initial, and any hip fractures, respectively). The improvements were predominantly driven by reclassification of those with fracture to higher risk categories. Apart from age and FNBMD, muscle strength and performance were ranked equal to or better than the other risk factors included in fracture models including prior fractures, falls, smoking, alcohol, and glucocorticoid use. Muscle strength and performance measurements improved fracture risk prediction in men beyond Garvan and FRAX. They were as or more important than other established risk factors. These measures should be considered for inclusion in fracture risk assessment tools. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Summary Objectives The aim of this study was to examine the determinant factors of physical performance in beach handball players at different competitive levels. Equipment and methods Twenty-three beach handball players were pooled in 2 groups: elite (n = 13) and sub-elite (n = 10). The following fitness tests were completed: 10-m running sprints (measuring split times at 0–5, 0–10, and 5–10 m); countermovement jump and handball throwing (standing throw, three steps standing throw and 360° jump throw). Results Elite players attained better performances in 5 and 10 m sprints and countermovement jump. However, sub-elite players showed significantly better performance in split sprint time from 5 to 10 m. No significant differences were found between elite and sub-elite beach handball players in throwing velocity. Conclusion Elite beach handball players showed better acceleration capacity and jump performance than sub-elite players, but sub-elite players attained better flying sprint performance. Throwing velocity did not differentiate between different standard levels.

Background Locomotive syndrome (LS) was proposed by the Japanese Orthopedic Association and refers to a scenario in which imminent future nursing care services will be required by elderly adults to manage the functional deterioration of their locomotive organs. It is a social imperative to clarify the risk factors and treatment strategy for LS. However, the relationship between LS and adult spinal deformity (ASD) in those who are treated with spinal corrective surgery remains largely unknown. Methods Forty consecutive patients who had ASD and underwent spinal surgery for their disorder were included in this study. Locomotive dysfunction was evaluated using the 25-item Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale-25 (GLFS-25) questionnaire and physical performance tests including the one-legged standing test, the two-step test, the stand-up test, the handgrip strength, and gait speed test which were measured preoperatively, 6 months after surgery, and 1 year after surgery. Results Of the patients with ASD treated surgically, 95% of them had LS preoperatively and LS prevalence decreased significantly 1 year after surgery by 67.5% compared with the preoperative rate. Among physical performance tests, the walking stride and one-legged standing test improved significantly after spinal corrective surgery. The GLFS-25 items for the domains of pain, mobility, and domestic life improved overall postoperatively, whereas items in the self-care domain did not and the item for difficulty in putting on and taking off trousers and pants worsened. Conclusions Spinal corrective surgery significantly improved physical performance tests as well as the frequency and severity of LS in patients with ASD. However, some GLFS-25 items can worsen after surgery and require attention.

Turkish abstract: Gunumuzde ekstrem sporlara artan yogun bir ilgi bulunmaktadir. Sportif tuplu dalista bu ekstrem sporlarin basinda gelmektedir. Ancak dalis, sualtinda yapilan, riskleri olan, farkli bir fizyolojik ve psikolojik ortama adaptasyon gerektiren, kisilik ozelliklerine etki eden, ciddi motivasyon gerektiren bir spordur. Tuplu dalis, dalis esas ve kurallarina uyuldugu, egitimi alindigi surece diger ekstrem sporlara gore nispeten daha guvenli ve yapilandirici niteliktedir. Dalis, kismi olarak guvenli ve heyecan verici bir spor turudur. Sportif tuplu dalis sualti dunyasina adaptasyon gerektirmektedir. Bu adaptasyon hem fizyolojik ve psikolojik olarak gerceklesmektedir. Dalis sporunda, bu iki degisken birlikte ele alinmalidir. Sualti aktivitelerinin psikolojik yonu fizyolojik yonu kadar onemli bir alandir, tuplu dalis davranis ve tutumda yuksek derecede uyum gerektirmektedir. Spor psikolojisi acisindan, dalis uzun sureli fiziksel performans, orta duzeyde efor, aktivasyon, konsantrasyon ve gevsemede dogru zihinsel denge gerektirmektedir. Dalgiclarin tutum ve davranislari deniz cevresindeki durum acisindan onemli bir faktor oldugu icin dalicilarin davranislari yakindan incelenmelidir. Dalicilarin kisilik ozellikleri ve tuplu dalis arasindaki iliskiyi tanimlamak ve dalisin bireyin psiko-sosyal iyilik haline etkisini tespit etmek icin yapilmis cok az arastirma bulunmaktadir. Davranis kuramlarindan cevresel davranis kuramlarini aciklayan bircok calisma, cevreyi tutum ve davranis uzerindeki en onemli etkilerden biri kabul edilmektedir. Tuplu dalis egitiminde anksiyete ve panik uzerinde yeterince durulmamakta, olumle sonuclanan ve bogulma olarak bildirilen kazalarin cogunda panigin ve kisisel basetme mekanizmasinin onemli rol oynadiginin bilinmesine karsin, tuplu dalis egitim kitaplarinda bu konu yer almamaktadir. Bazi psikolojik rahatsizliklar iyi bilinmesine ragmen, tuplu dalisin riskleri ile ortaya cikan psikolojik sorunlarin incelendigi vaka sayisi oldukca azdir. Bunlar depresyon, bipolar bozukluk, anksiyete, fobiler, panik atak gibi rahatsizliklardir. Dalgiclarin farkli yapilari ve kisilik ozellikleri vardir, basinc altindaki cesitli gazlarin etkileri nedeniyle her dalgic, anormal fizyolojik ve psikolojik durumlara maruz kalabilmekte ve cevrelerindeki degisikliklere farkli tepkiler verebilmektedir. Kisilik ozelliklerinin sualti adaptasyonundaki eksiklik ve fazlaliginin, ya da farkliliginin, onemli olcude bireyin psiko-sosyal iyilik halini etkiledigi dusunulmektedir. English abstract:Today, there is an intense interest in extreme sports. Sportive scuba diving is one of these extreme sports. However, diving is a sport that is done underwater, has risks, requires adaptation to a different physiological and psychological environment, affects personality traits and requires serious motivation. Scuba diving is relatively safe and constructive compared to other extreme sports as long as diving principles and rules are followed and trained. Diving is a safe and exciting sport in part. It requires adaptation to the underwater world of sporty scuba. This adaptation takes place both physiologically and psychologically. In diving sport, these two variables should be considered together. Underwater psychological aspect is as important as the psychological aspect, scuba diving requires a high degree of adaptation in behavior and attitude. Apart from sports psychology, long physical performance requires the correct mental balance in moderate effort, activation and relaxation. Since the behavior and behavior of divers are a factor in an important event at sea, their behavior is studied. The personality traits of divers and the scuba diving relationship include psycho-social well being to find when diving is needed to make the individual psycho-social well-being. The study, which explains environmental behavioral theories, one of the behavioral theories, is accepted as one of the important effects on the environment in attitudes and behaviors. In scuba diving training, anxiety and panic are not emphasized enough, although it is known that panic and personal coping mechanisms play an important role in most accidents that result in death and reported as drowning, this issue is not included in scuba diving education books. Although some psychological disorders are well known, the number of cases investigating the psychological problems associated with the risks of scuba diving is very few. These are depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, phobias, and panic attacks. Divers have different structures and personality characteristics. Due to the effects of various gases under pressure, each diver can be exposed to abnormal physiological and psychological conditions and react differently to changes in their environment. It is thought that the lack and excess, or difference, in the underwater adaptation of personality traits significantly affects the psycho-social well-being of the individual.

Background: The site and angle of kyphosis are important factors that affect quality of life (QOL). Lumbar kyphosis, rather than thoracic kyphosis, is reported to affect the QOL in patients with kyphosis. Increased angle of kyphosis in elderly people is associated with a decline in motor and physical functions, and also correlates with reduced QOL. Investigation of how physical performance affects their QOL would be helpful in developing an effective physical therapy program for elderly patients with kyphosis. The aims of the current study were to evaluate the physical performance including back muscle strength, spinal range of motion, and walking ability in elderly patients with lumbar kyphosis, and to examine its association with back pain-specific QOL. Methods: The design of this study is a cross-sectional study in a single hospital. A total of 51 elderly women aged 65 years or older diagnosed with kyphosis were enrolled in the study. The items evaluated were back pain (visual analog scale [VAS]), back-pain specific QOL (the Oswestry Disability Index [ODI]), maximum gait speed, thoracic kyphosis angle, lumbar lordosis angle, sacral inclination, spinal inclination, trunk extension/flexion range of motion (ROM), thoracic spinal ROM, lumbar spinal ROM, and back muscle strength. Data were analyzed using bivariate analyses and multivariate regression analyses. Results: Significant positive correlations were observed between ODI and VAS (rs=0.506) or spinal inclination (rs=0.626). Significant negative correlations were observed between ODI and maximum gait speed (rs=-0.664), lumbar lordosis angle, (rs=-0.553), trunk extension ROM (rs=-0.571), lumbar spinal ROM (rs=-0.651), or back muscle strength (rs=-0.521). Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that maximum gait speed (standard partial regression coefficient; b=0.484) and lumbar spinal ROM (b=0.463) had a significant impact on ODI. The results of analysis of variance were significant with R2 of 0.622. Conclusions: The current study demonstrated that maximum gait speed and lumbar spinal ROM influenced back-pain specific QOL in the elderly women with lumbar kyphosis. Maximum gait speed and lumbar spinal ROM should be evaluated thoroughly to effectively perform non-operative treatment in elderly people with lumbar kyphosis.

Background Muscle pump dysfunction is an essential component of chronic venous disease (CVD) pathology. Aging reduces muscle strength which further weakens the venous return. However, the epidemiology of CVD and its relationship with the physical performance in older persons is poorly studied. We studied the prevalence of CVD in subjects aged over 70 years and its association primarily with the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and 10 m walk test. Methods An accurate clinical leg examination was performed and the Clinical-Etiological-Anatomical-Pathophysiological-classification (CEAP, clinical classification of chronic venous disorders, C1-C6) determined by dermatologists in 552 subjects aged between 70 and 93 years belonging to the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 – Parents’ Study (NFBC-PS). Linear regression analyses were used to examine the association between CVD and functional tests and anthropometric measurements. Results The prevalence of CVD (C1-C6) was 54.3%. C1 was diagnosed in 22.1% (n=84), C2 in 15.2% (n=45), C3 in 8.2% (n=45), C4 in 7.8% (43), C5 in 0.4% (n=2) and C6 in 0.5% (n=3). The prevalence and severity of CVD increased with increasing age (p Conclusions It is recommended that detailed skin examination of legs should be performed by physicians treating older subjects in order to improve early diagnosis of CVD. We highlight the importance of physical activity in older persons - lower limb activation of older persons with CVD may improve venous return and therefore prevent progression of CVD. We found an association between CVD and gait speed, however, there may exist bidirectional relationship.

A preserved ambulation is one of the keypoints for functionality and polypharmacy, a common problem in older adults, is associated with worse functional status. Our aim was to examine the associations of polypharmacy with certain physical performance measures used to evaluate ambulation.This retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted in a geriatric outpatient clinic. Using ≥5 medications was accepted as polypharmacy. Usual gait speed (UGS), chair sit-to-stand test (CSST), timed up and go test (TUG) and short physical performance battery (SPPB) were performed to assess physical performance status. We created two models for logistic regression analyses: Model 1 was adjusted for age, sex and body mass index (BMI). We added comorbidities to Model 1 and further created Model 2.There were 392 participants (69.1% were female, mean age: 73.9±6.2 years). Polypharmacy was seen in 62.5%. Participants with polypharmacy presented with a poor physical performance compared to the no-polypharmacy group (p0.001, for each). In multivariate analyses, polypharmacy was independently associated with poor SPPB (Odds Ratio (OR)=2.5; 95% Confidence Interval (CI)=1.3-4.7 and OR=2.4; 95% CI=1.2-4.8 for Model 1 and 2, respectively) and long CSST (OR= 2.6; 95% CI=1.3-5.2 and OR=3.7; 95% CI=1.7-8.2 for Model 1 and 2, respectively). There was a significant association between polypharmacy and slow UGS in Model 1 (OR=1.9; 95% CI=1.0-3.5); but relationship did not persist after adding comorbidities into the first model (OR=1.6; 95% CI= 0.8-3.1). There was no significant association between long TUG and polypharmacy in any of the models.Polypharmacy is well-known with its association with falls and fractures in older adults and this might be explained by its association with poor physical performance. Whether polypharmacy causes a deterioration in physical performance is an issue needs to be enlightened by further longitudinal studies.

Publisher's version (útgefin grein), Background:The ongoing “Sarcopenia and Physical fRailty IN older people: multi-componenT Treatment stra-tegies (SPRINTT)” randomized controlled trial (RCT) is testing the efficacy of a multicomponent intervention inthe prevention of mobility disability in older adults with physical frailty & sarcopenia (PF&S). Here, we describethe procedures followed for PF&S case finding and screening of candidate participants for the SPRINTT RCT. Wealso illustrate the main demographic and clinical characteristics of eligible screenees.Methods:The identification of PF&S was based on the co-occurrence of three defining elements: (1) reducedphysical performance (defined as a score on the Short Physical Performance Battery between 3 and 9); (2) lowmuscle mass according to the criteria released by the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health; and (3)absence of mobility disability (defined as ability to complete the 400-m walk test in 15 min). SPRINTT wasadvertised through a variety of means. Site-specific case finding strategies were developed to accommodate thevariability across centers in catchment area characteristics and access to the target population. A quick “parti-cipant profiling” questionnaire was devised to facilitate PF&S case finding.Results:During approximately 22 months, 12,358 prescreening interviews were completed in 17 SPRINTT sitesresulting in 6710 clinic screening visits. Eventually, 1566 candidates were found to be eligible for participatingin the SPRINTT RCT. Eligible screenees showed substantial physical function impairment and comorbidityburden. In most centers, project advertisement through mass media was the most rewarding case findingstrategy.Conclusion:PF&S case finding in the community is a challenging, but feasible task. Although largely autonomousin daily life activities, older adults with PF&S suffer from significant functional impairment and comorbidity.This subset of the older population is therefore at high risk for disability and other negative health-relatedevents. Key strategies to consider for successfully intercepting at-risk older adults should focus on mass com-munication methods., The present work was funded by a grant from the InnovativeMedicines Initiative - Joint Undertaking (IMI-JU 115621). The workwas also partly supported by the nonprofit research foundation “CentroStudi Achille e Linda Lorenzon” and by intramural research grants fromthe Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (D3.2 2013 and D3.2 2015).The authors thank all the participants and the staff involved in thetrial for the enthusiastic participation and dedication.

Highlights • Exercise training is beneficial to cardiovascular system • MicroRNAs are responsible for cardiac adaptions to exercise • Exercise regulated microRNAs benefits heart • MicroRNAs mediate protective effects of exercise in cardiovascular diseases • Circulating microRNAs mediate beneficial effects of exercise, Exercise training is beneficial to the cardiovascular system. MicroRNAs (miRNAs, miRs) are a class of conserved non-coding RNAs and play a wide-ranging role in the regulation of eukaryotic gene expression. Exercise training alters the expression levels of large amounts of miRNAs in the heart. In addition, circulating miRNAs appear to be regulated by exercise training. In this review, we will summarize recent advances in the regulation of miRNAs during physical exercise intervention in various cardiovascular diseases, including pathologic cardiac hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis, ischemia-reperfusion injury, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. The regulatory role of circulating miRNAs after exercise training was also reviewed. In conclusion, miRNAs might be a valuable target for treatment of cardiovascular diseases and have great potential as biomarkers for assessment of physical performance., Graphical abstract Image, graphical abstract

We recently developed a new personal electrostatic bioaerosol sampler (PEBS) for determining exposures to airborne microorganisms. PEBS was shown to collect airborne non-biological particles with efficiencies approaching 80% while producing very low ozone concentrations. In this work, we analyzed the performance of this sampler when collecting airborne Bacillus atrophaeus bacterial cells and Penicillium chrysogenum fungal spores as a function of sampling flow rates (e.g., 10 and 20 L/min) and sampling time (e.g., 10, 60, and 240 min). The collected samples were analyzed using microscopy, adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-based bioluminescence, flow cytometry (Live/Dead test), and culture techniques. PEBS's physical and biological performance was compared against that of BioSampler (SKC Inc., Eighty Four, PA) when the samplers were operated at 10 and 12.5 L/min, respectively. PEBS achieved physical collection efficiency as high as 83%, and its physical performance in terms of measured bioaerosol concentration was better than that of BioSampler. In addition, a fraction of live microorganisms recovered by PEBS was not different from that of BioSampler. Compared to BioSampler, PEBS measured similar or higher concentrations of culturable bacteria, but lower concentrations of culturable spores. The airborne ATP concentration measured by PEBS was significantly higher than that measured by BioSampler. Overall, we show that PEBS is a viable and efficient technology to determine personal exposures to airborne microorganisms using multiple sample analysis techniques.

Both domestic oil and gas and imported oil and gas are essential to meet the enormous energy demand in China, which is incurred by its rapid economic growth. However, which is better than another? To address this issue, an energy return on investment (EROI) analysis, which is a useful method to evaluate the physical performance of an energy process, is applied. Besides, the EROIs time series of offshore domestic oil and gas and onshore domestic oil and gas are calculated, and the causes of the change tendency of EROIs time series are studied. The EROIs of imported oil and gas from different import countries are also calculated, laying the foundation for optimization of the import structure from an EROI perspective. Moreover, environmental inputs, which cause the externality of an energy process, are also studied. The results show that the EROIs of the entire domestic oil and gas fluctuate between 8.5 and 12, and the EROIs of the imported oil and gas lie in the range between 2.9 and 9.5. We conclude that: 1) The EROIs of domestic oil and gas is higher than those of imported oil and gas, indicating that domestic oil and gas has a higher physical efficiency than imported oil and gas. 2) The change tendency of EROIs is influenced by the extractions of natural gas. Moreover, the EROIs of imported oil and gas are additionally related to oil and gas prices. 3) From an EROI perspective, LNG and pipeline gas are better than imported crude oil. Australia, Kazakhstan, and the USA should be prioritized for China to import LNG, pipeline gas, and crude oil respectively. 4) Environmental inputs reduce the EROIs. Therefore more caution should be paid on the reduction of environmental inputs.

Little is known about the reduction of lean body mass (LBM) in obesity, or how to identify it in standard clinical settings. We therefore aimed to assess the prevalence of low LBM in adult females with obesity, and to identify the reliability of simple tools for its screening in this population.Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) body composition assessment was used to categorise 147 female participants with obesity as with or without low LBM, according to the new definition that takes into account both appendicular lean mass (ALM) and body mass index (BMI)-ALM/BMI0.512. Participants were also administered the six-minute walking test, handgrip-strength test and 4-metre gait-speed test. Of the sample of 147 participants, 93 (63.3%) met the criteria for reduced LBM. Stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the six-minute walking test was the only independent test associated with low LBM (OR = 0.992, 95%CI 0.987-0.998). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis found that the discriminating cut-off points of the tests considered were 470 m, 3.30 s (gait speed = 1.2 m/sec) and 23.5 kg respectively; the 4-metre gait-speed test seems to provide the best balance of sensitivity and specificity, and the greatest discriminatory power at 90% sensitivity.Treatment-seeking adult females with obesity display a great prevalence of reduced LBM. The six-minute walking test was the only independent test associated with low LBM, but the 4-metre gait-speed test seems to be the most accurate functional test for screening for this condition in that population.

OBJECTIVE: To determine if differences in physical function, assessed via self-report questionnaires and physical performance tests, exist between individuals with lower-limb loss using a prosthetic device classified as a K3 versus a K4 functional level. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: University of Delaware Physical Therapy Amputee Clinic. PARTICIPANTS: Participants (n=55) were included if they were aged ≥18 years with a unilateral transfemoral or transtibial amputation, classified as K3 or K4 functional level, completed all relevant outcome measures, and currently were using a prosthesis. INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Locomotor Capabilities Index (LCI), Prosthetic Evaluation Questionnaire-Mobility Section (PEQ-MS), Timed Up and Go (TUG), 10-Meter Walk Test (10MWT), Amputee Mobility Predictor (AMPPRO), and 6 Minute Walk Test (6MWT). K-level was determined by group consensus based on a standardized clinical evaluation. RESULTS: After controlling for covariates, patients classified as K3 had slower TUG times (p=.002) and self-selected and fast gait speeds (p

Paying attention to the constructed city and renovating buildings are two objectives of current European policies. This article develops a system of physical performance indicators to detect multi-family housing estates that perform worse in energy efficiency, airborne sound insulation against outside noise and accessibility terms. Indicators were developed in close cooperation with the local Administration for residential estates and on a district scale, and allowed the buildings in worse conditions to be detected. The results are graphically represented on urban plans. Indicators are presented by a case study of social housing states in the city of Zaragoza for the 1939–1979 period. © 2017 Elsevier Ltd

The Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA) is an ongoing prospective cohort study in a representative sample of Dutch older persons. In previous LASA studies, lower serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) values, as assessed by a competitive protein binding assay or radioimmunoassay, have been associated with decreased physical functioning, falls and fractures. Recently, serum 25(OHD) values in LASA were standardized using the Vitamin D Standardization Program (VDSP) protocol as part of the European ODIN project. In the current manuscript, the influence of standardizing serum 25(OH)D values will be discussed using the associations with physical functioning, falls and fractures as examples.

Rationale Vitamin D deficiency is associated with bone loss, poor muscle strength, falls and fracture. This information in older African Americans (AAs) is sparse. Objective The study of the relationship of P hysical performance, O steoporosis prevention with vitamin D in older A frican Americans (PODA) is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 3-year trial examining the effect of vitamin D on bone loss and physical performance in older AA women. Methods 260 healthy AA women aged > 60 years were assigned to receive placebo or vitamin D 3 . Initial vitamin D 3 dose was determined by the baseline serum 25OHD level, and adjusted further to maintain serum 25OHD between 30 and 69 ng/ml. Subjects with baseline 25OHD levels ≤ 8 ng/ml or ≥ 26 ng/ml were excluded. Objective measures of neuromuscular strength [Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), grip strength and 6-minute walking distance (6MWD)] and bone mineral density (BMD) were obtained. Results SPPB gait speed, grip strength and 6MWD showed a significant positive correlation with free 25OHD. 1 pg/ml increase in free 25OHD predicted a 32% increase in the odds of having higher gait speed and a 1.42 lb. increase in grip strength. No significant differences in BMI, BMD, muscle mass, grip strength, serum total 25OHD and free 25OHD were observed between groups. None of the measures of physical performance showed an association with baseline serum 25OHD. Conclusions This is the first study to show an association between free 25OHD and physical performance. These findings indicate a positive relationship of free 25OHD with gait speed and grip strength in older AA women. Further studies are needed to understand the role of free 25OHD.

Within the United States, chronic low back pain (cLBP) is a leading cause of pain and the second leading cause of disability. Individuals with cLBP frequently report sleep disturbances—most commonly, cLBP impacts sleep efficiency and quality. Additionally, cLBP most visibly impacts physical functioning with individuals with cLBP being not able to perform physical function tasks as effectively as pain-free individuals. Emerging evidence indicates that sleep has a significant relationship on physical functioning, however whether pain exacerbates sleep disturbances and physical functioning of people with cLBP, relative to pain-free individuals (PF) has not been previously examined. This study quantified differences by pain-status (cLBP and PF) for an individual's actigraphic sleep variables (e.g. sleep efficiency) and physical function, and examined the influence of pain on actigraphic variables and physical function in cLBP. Participants (cLBP = 102, PF = 45) completed the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), daily pain ratings, and home sleep monitoring for 7-consecutive days/nights. Analyses revealed that cLBP individuals had reduced objective sleep quality (p = .003), and SPPB dynamic performance (p = .000), but not for static tasks (p >.05) compared to PF. Sleep quality prior to SPPB was associated with SPPB tasks for cLBP individuals (total battery r=.23) but not for PF (r=-.08). Additionally, daily pain ratings influenced sleep efficiency (p = .003), and pain from the night prior to SPPB was associated with worse outcomes for the dynamic SPPB tasks, but not the balance tasks for cLBP. Our findings suggest that sleep and pain may influence physical performance tasks for cLBP, but not PF– this further reinforces the importance of further examination of identifying whether pain or sleep are antecedents to reduced performance and outcomes in cLBP or if a bilateral relationship exists with pain severity and sleep quality. This work was supported by Examining Racial And SocioEconomic Disparities in cLBP; ERASED; R01MD010441.

Firefighting is a mentally and physically demanding profession which is compounded by poor sleep due to shift schedules commonly used by fire departments. Compared to other professions, firefighters are at high risk for musculoskeletal injuries, mental illnesses, and cardiovascular diseases. The purpose of this study was to systemically review the effects of sleep on firefighter occupational performance and health. A search was conducted for studies that conducted a quantitative analysis involving sleep and occupational performance in firefighters. Relevant data were extracted and study quality evaluated with Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. There were 15 articles meeting the inclusion criteria with a total sample of 1591 (1539 male, 52 female) firefighters. We found that firefighters with poor sleep measures had worse cognitive performance and overall health, but physical capabilities were not impacted by acute sleep restriction. However, chronic poor sleep would likely negatively impact physical performance due to being associated with a decline in numerous health measures. To avoid sleep-related declines in occupational performance fire departments should consider the consequences of shift schedules on the performance and health of firefighters. Furthermore, sleep education interventions, the use of wearables to monitor, recovery and sleep health screening appear beneficial based on prior research.

Low physical performance may contribute to reduced exercise capacity in older patients with heart failure (HF). We sought to identify the determinants of exercise capacity out of a plethora of background factors, including measures of physical performance.We performed a post-hoc analysis of a cohort study that included 1205 consecutive older (age ≥ 65 years) hospitalized patients (the median age, 80 years; 57.4% males).Low physical performance, defined as ≤1.0 m/s for gait speed, ≥12 s for the 5-time chair stand test, or ≤ 9 points for the Short Physical Performance Battery in both sexes, was seen in 83.9% of the cohort. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that each parameter of physical performance (i.e., gait speed, chair stand test, and balance test) was identified as an independent determinant of lower exercise capacity assessed using the 6-min walking distance. In a logistic regression model, low physical performance predicted short (300 m) 6-min walking distance (adjusted odds ratio 10.28, 95% CI 6.01-17.60, p 0.001). No interaction was detected between patients with preserved and reduced ejection fraction.Low physical performance was prevalent and independently associated with exercise capacity in older patients with HF, irrespective of preserved or reduced ejection fraction.

Purpose The assessment of body composition is an integral part in diagnosing sarcopenia. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationships between peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT)-derived measures of body composition and measures of physical performance in older adults. Methods Muscle density, muscle area, and fat area of 168 patients aged 65 years and older (76.3±6.5) were measured with pQCT at the distal forearm additionally to clinical assessment consisting of medical history, physical examination and physical assessment including hand grip strength, gait speed and chair rise tests. Regression analyses assessed associations between patients’ physical performance and pQCT derived data. Results Among the three pQCT parameters, especially muscle density was significantly correlated with all of the three measures of physical performance even after adjusting for sex, age, BMI, vitamin D serum level and the level of physical activity. The same analysis for muscle area achieved significance level only for handgrip strength but not for gait speed nor for chair rise time. Fat area was significantly correlated only with gait speed after adjusting for sex and age. The association of muscle density with physical performance held up in an additional subanalysis stratified by body mass index. Conclusion Muscle density, a proxy for muscle fat infiltration, seems to be better than muscle area or fat area at assessing muscle quality and physical performance in older adults. This association seems to be independent of the body mass index.