Battery Of Performance Tests Research Articles

The proSAAS Chaperone Provides Neuroprotection and Attenuates Transsynaptic α-Synuclein Spread in Rodent Models of Parkinson's Disease.

Parkinson's disease involves aberrant aggregation of the synaptic protein alpha-synuclein (aSyn) in the nigrostriatal tract. We have previously shown that proSAAS, a small neuronal chaperone, blocks aSyn-induced dopaminergic cytotoxicity in primary nigral cultures. To determine if proSAAS overexpression is neuroprotective in animal models of Parkinson's disease. proSAAS- or GFP-encoding lentivirus was injected together with human aSyn-expressing AAV unilaterally into the substantia nigra of rats and motor asymmetry assessed using a battery of motor performance tests. Dopamine neuron survival was assessed by nigral stereology and striatal tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) densitometry. To examine transsynaptic spread of aSyn, aSyn AAV was injected into the vagus of mice in the presence of AAVs encoding either GFP or proSAAS; the spread of aSyn-positive neurites into rostral nuclei was quantified following immunohistochemistry. Coinjection of proSAAS-encoding lentivirus profoundly reduced the motor asymmetry caused by unilateral nigral AAV-mediated human aSyn overexpression. This was accompanied by significant amelioration of the human aSyn-induced loss of both nigral TH-positive cells and striatal TH-positive terminals, demonstrating clear proSAAS-mediated protection of the nigrostriatal tract. ProSAAS overexpression reduced human aSyn protein levels in nigra and striatum and reduced the loss of TH protein in both regions. Following vagal administration of human aSyn-encoding AAV, the number of human aSyn-positive neurites in the pons and caudal midbrain was considerably reduced in mice coinjected with proSAAS-, but not GFP-encoding AAV, supporting proSAAS-mediated blockade of transsynaptic aSyn transmission. The proSAAS chaperone may represent a promising target for therapeutic development in Parkinson's disease.

Acute Effect of a Dietary Multi-Ingredient Nootropic as a Cognitive Enhancer in Young Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Triple-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Trial.

AimTo study the acute effect of a dietary multi-ingredient nootropic on cognitive performance in young healthy adults. We also analyzed the influence of the dietary multi-ingredient nootropic on emotional state, heart rate (HR), and heart rate variability (HRV).MethodsThis is a randomized, triple-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. In total, 26 young healthy adults (50% women; 24.9 ± 3.3 years old) ingested 10 g of a dietary multi-ingredient nootropic [Evo-Gamers®; Harrison Sport Nutrition (HSN), Granada, Spain] or placebo (maltodextrin) in a randomized order (clinicaltrials.gov No. NCT04790188). After 30 min of the ingestion, participants performed a battery of cognitive performance tests to measure the processing speed, inhibitory control, working memory, cognitive flexibility, creativity, and verbal fluency. The emotional status was assessed through questionnaires, and HR and HRV were measured using a heart rate monitor.ResultsIn comparison with placebo, the acute ingestion of the nootropic showed a significantly better response time in several cognitive tests (i.e., processing speed, inhibitory control, spatial working memory, and cognitive flexibility, all P < 0.05 and effect size range of 0.4–0.6). It also displayed a higher accuracy in the processing speed, the inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility tests (all P < 0.05; effect size ranged from 0.4 to 0.6). Furthermore, the nootropic showed a higher creativity and positive emotions and lower sadness-depression emotions, whereas HR and HRV remained similar between placebo vs. nootropic conditions. However, there were no differences between the nootropic and placebo in verbal fluency, motivation, or anxiety (all P > 0.05).ConclusionAn acute ingestion of a dietary multi-ingredient nootropic enhances cognitive performance in comparison with placebo without negatively influencing HR or HRV in young healthy adults.

The Association of Physical Activity Fragmentation with Physical Function in Older Adults: Analysis from the SITLESS Study

The distribution of physical activity bouts through the day may provide useful information for assessing the impacts of interventions on aspects such as physical function. This study aimed to investigate the associations between physical activity fragmentation, tested using different minimum physical activity bout lengths, with physical function in older adults. The SITLESS project recruited 1360 community-dwelling participants from four European countries (≥65 years old). Physical activity fragmentation was represented as the active-to-sedentary transition probability (ASTP), the reciprocal of the average physical activity bout duration measured using ActiGraph wGT3X+ accelerometers. Four minimum bout lengths were utilised to calculate the ASTP: ≥10-s, ≥60-s, ≥120-s and ≥300-s. Physical function was assessed using the 2-min walk test (2MWT) and the composite score from the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) test. Linear regression analyses, after adjusting for relevant covariates, were used to assess cross-sectional associations. After adjustment for relevant covariates, lower ASTP using ≥10-s bouts were associated with longer 2MWT distances and higher SPPB scores. Lower ASTP using ≥120-s bouts and ≥300-s bouts were associated with longer 2MWT distances but not the SPPB. Less fragmented physical activity patterns appeared to be associated with better physical function in community-dwelling older adults.

Seckel Syndrome: case report of functional motor recovery using proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation/Kabat Method

Introduction: Seckel syndrome (SCKL) is a heterogeneous autosomal recessive disorder, the major characteristic of which is microcephalic osteodysplastic dwarfism, which is defined as severe intrauterine growth retardation, severe short stature, severe microcephaly, bird-like profile, retroverted chin and forehead, prominent nose, mental retardation and other congenital anomalies. Objective: Evaluate the therapeutic effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation/Kabat method (PNF/KM) for functional recovery in SCKL. Methods: A pre-treatment evaluation was performed, followed by an intervention involving PNF/KM. Sessions were held twice a week for ten weeks (total: 20 sessions), followed by a post-treatment evaluation. The evaluator and the therapist were blinded. The assessment instruments were Lawton &amp; Brody's Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Scale, Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Short Physical Performance Battery, Timed Up and Go test and upper limb muscle strength using a digital dynamometer. Results: No significant changes were found regarding ADL Scale or DASH. However, functional gains were achieved in activities that require biomechanical and proprioceptive actions of the shoulder, arm and wrist. Regarding the Short Physical Performance Battery, improvement was found in variables that require stabilization, strength, balance and agility. An improvement was found in the execution speed of the Timed Up and Go test. An improvement in muscle strength was following the intervention. Conclusion: This study showed that the PNF/KM method was not able to improve the performance on activities of daily living, but improvements were found with regards to balance, stabilization, strength and agility of the upper limbs and lower limbs.

CORRELATION BETWEEN SARCOPENIA AND HEPATIC ENCEPHALOPATHY IN PATIENTS WITH CIRRHOSIS

Malnutrition is a frequent complication in patients with cirrhosis, associated with greater disease progression, complication rate, and mortality. Sarcopenia is one of the main indicators of malnutrition, characterized by a general decrease in muscle mass and functional deterioration. CT determination of muscle mass is not easily accessible in routine clinical practice, so practical measurement tools are essential. It has been proposed to classify sarcopenia as severe when decreased muscle strength, muscle mass, and low physical performance coexist. The impact of severe sarcopenia on the risk of developing hepatic encephalopathy is currently unknown. Primary outcome: Determine if there is a significant correlation between the degree of sarcopenia and hepatic encephalopathy. Secondary outcomes: to determine the prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with cirrhosis, the association between sarcopenia and liver decompensation events, to determine the correlation between individual tests (battery of functional physical performance tests [SPPB], grip strength, and skeletal muscle mass) with hepatic encephalopathy. Prospective, cross-sectional, observational, descriptive, and analytical study in patients with liver cirrhosis evaluated by outpatient consultation, with diagnosis confirmed by transitional elastography (Fibroscan® 502 ECHOSENS® equipment). The presence of sarcopenia was determined by measurement of grip strength with a hand-held hydraulic dynamometer (JAMAR® B001D7QDJG) and determination of muscle mass by tetrapolar electrical bioimpedance (OMRON® HBF 500). A positive case was considered when coexisting force ≤27 kg / ≤16 kg and skeletal muscle mass ≤20 kg / ≤15kg in men and women respectively, classifying it as severe sarcopenia with a score of ≤8 pts in SPPB. The presence of hepatic encephalopathy was determined by clinical evaluation and critical flicker rate (cut-off <39 Hz). Logistic regression analysis and Chi-square test were performed. 96 patients were included, of which 35 (36.4%) had sarcopenia and 21 (60%) were classified as severe sarcopenia. The demographic characteristics and severity of cirrhosis were comparable in patients with and without sarcopenia. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, a significant correlation was demonstrated between the presence of sarcopenia and manifest hepatic encephalopathy p = 0.014, HR 9.05, 95% CI (1.54-52). No significant correlation was shown with ascites (p = 0.08) or recent variceal bleeding (p = 0.53). A significant correlation was demonstrated between previous events of encephalopathy (p = 0.021) and ascites (p = 0.032) with the presence of sarcopenia. Regarding individual tests, a SPPB score ≤8 was independently associated with overt encephalopathy (0.009, HR 19.7, 95% CI (2.1-182). Handgrip strength, chair stand, and muscle mass were not statistically significant. This pilot study suggests that the presence of sarcopenia is significantly correlated with the risk of developing overt hepatic encephalopathy, and the presence of previous ascites could increase the risk of developing sarcopenia. Evaluation of physical performance by SPPB could be independently correlated with the development of hepatic encephalopathy. The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest

Resting‐state functional connectivity of basal forebrain is associated with training gains in normal aging

AbstractBackgroundCognitive training can improve cognitive performance in healthy older adults. The effectiveness of a training is considered as a maintenance of training skills outside of a training context. Research data indicate an association between cognitive decline and changes of brain function in normal aging. A better understanding of the brain mechanisms that can enhance or preserve cognitive training skills could help identifying healthy older adults who will benefit from cognitive interventions. The cholinergic basal forebrain is involved in several aspects of cognition including attention. In our study, we aimed to assess the association of functional connectivity of the basal forebrain with maintained training skills.MethodA sample of 60 healthy older adults (mean age: 68 years) underwent a 4‐week multi‐modal cognitive training and neuropsychological assessments before and after the training. A second follow‐up assessment was applied 12 weeks after the training. Baseline resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging was used to derive the global functional connectivity of the anterior‐medial and posterior‐lateral compartments of the basal forebrain. We focused on attention capacities using the Test battery for Attention Performance (TAP), which assesses a variety of attentional aspects, including alertness. Maintenance of training gains was defined as higher improvement in the alertness tasks after 12 weeks than a no‐training control group.ResultA high functional connectivity of anterior basal forebrain was a significantly associated with maintenance of training gains in the phasic arousal tasks, i.e. the reaction time in response to a critical stimulus preceded by a cue stimulus presented as a warning tone. There was no significant association for the posterior basal forebrain.ConclusionFunctional activation patterns of basal forebrain contribute to maintenance of training gains of alertness tasks.

Impact of chronic stress exposure on cognitive performance incorporating the active and healthy aging (AHA) concept within the cross-sectional Bern Cohort Study 2014 (BeCS-14)

PurposeThis study aims to verify that the mental-cognitive domain of the validated generic bio-functional status (BFS)/bio-functional age (BFA) assessment tool, incorporating the concept of Active and Healthy Ageing (AHA), reflects cognitive performance. In addition, the effects of chronic stress exposure on the mental-cognitive BFS/BFA should be investigated.MethodsThe study was carried out as a monocenter, cross-sectional, observational, non-interventional trial (Bern Cohort Study 2014, BeCS-14) with the participation of 147 non-pediatric, non-geriatric subjects. All participants followed a standardized battery of biopsychosocial assessments consisting of BFS/BFA, a validated cognitive performance test battery (Inventar zur Gedächtnisdiagnostik; IGD) and a validated questionnaire for the assessment of chronic stress (Trier Inventory for the assessment of Chronic Stress; TICS), respectively.ResultsMean cognitive performance was average and higher in younger or better educated individuals. The BFA of the participants was 7.8 ± 7.8 year-equivalents below their chronological age. The mental-cognitive BFS/BFA assessment correlated well with the validated questionnaire for cognition assessment, the IGD. Further, three TICS subdomains (work overload (r = − 0.246, p = 0.003), work discontent (r = − 0.299, p = 0.006) and pressure to succeed (r = − 0.274, p < 0.001)), reflecting mainly work-related stress, showed a significant negative correlation with the mental-cognitive BFS/BFA.ConclusionsOur study shows that the BFS/BFA assessment tool follows European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing (EIP-AHA) requirements. Further, we could demonstrate that higher levels of chronic work-related stress may be associated with poorer mental-cognitive performance and a pro-aging state indicating that cognitive impairments can be reduced by stress management interventions.

Contribution of a multicomponent intervention on functional capacity and independence on activities of daily living in individuals with neurocognitive disorder

BackgroundTo examine the effects of a 6-month multicomponent (MT) exercise intervention in the functional capacity and ability to independently perform activities of daily living (ADL) of individuals diagnosed with neurocognitive disorder (NCD).MethodsA quasi-experimental controlled trial with a parallel design study was conducted in multicentered community-based settings. Forty-three individuals (N Female: 30) were allocated to an exercise group (EG; N: 23; mean 75.09, SD = 5.54 years) or a control group (CG; N:20; mean 81.90, SD = 1.33 years). The EG engaged in a 6-month MT program (60-min sessions, twice a week). Exercise sessions were divided into a warm-up, specific training (e.g., coordination and balance, lower and upper body strength, and aerobics), and cool down. Lower body function, mobility, and gait speed were evaluated through Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), Timed-Up and Go test (TUG) and 6-Meter Walk test, respectively. The Barthel Index (BI) was administered to assess individuals’ ADL independence. Evaluations were performed before and after the 6-month intervention.ResultsLinear Mixed Models revealed a statistically significant interaction (time X group) effect factor on SPPB (B = 2.33, 95% CI: 1.39–3.28, p < 0.001), TUG (B = − 11.15, 95% CI: − 17.23 – − 5.06, p = 0.001), and 6-Meter Walk test (B = 0.17, 95% CI: 0.08–0.25, p < 0.001). No differences between groups or assessment moments were found in the ability of individuals to independently perform ADL.ConclusionsThe 6-month MT exercise intervention improves the functional capacity of older adults living with NCD.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov – identifier number NCT04095962; retrospectively registered on 19 September 2019.

Instrumental diagnosis of osteosarcopenia in diagrams and tables

Osteoporosis and sarcopenia are age-associated diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Osteosarcopenia, the presence of osteopenia/osteoporosis and sarcopenia. The prevalence of osteosarcopenia in older adults with failing was 37% and associated with higher rate of death. Diagnosis of osteosarcopenia consists of describing medical history of fractures, providing x-ray of the spine (if it is needed) and bone densitometry, calculation of Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX), evaluating muscle strength, mass, function. The most common exam which is used to measure bone mineral density (BMD) is dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA). Screening using the FRAX is recommended in all postmenopausal women and mеn over 50 in order to identify individuals with high probability of fractures. It is recommended to diagnose osteoporosis in patients with fragility fracture of large bones of the skeleton. Diagnosis of sarcopenia is consist of measures for three parameters: muscle strength, muscle quantity/quality and physical performance as an indicator of severity. Muscle strength can be measured with carpal dynamometry. Muscle mass can be evaluated dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (program «Whole body»). Muscle function can be evaluated with short physical performance battery (SPPB) tests. In this article described algorithm of diagnosis of osteosarcopenia.

Geriatric assessment in elderly patients receiving oral anticoagulants: results of the nursing study

Abstract Background It is well known that thrombosis and bleeding risk increases with age, in the same time prevalence of geriatric syndromes increases too. It can influence negatively on efficacy and safety of anticoagulant therapy. However, impact of geriatric syndromes is often underestimated in clinical practice. Purpose To evaluate prevalence of geriatric syndromes in elderly patients receiving oral anticoagulants (OAC). Methods This study enrolled 510 patients (19% male) aged 75–100 (mean 82±4) years hospitalized to our clinic consecutively from June to November in 2019. Nurses examined all patients according to specially designed nursing assessment algorithm that included Mini-Cog test, Morse Fall and Norton scales, Barthel Activities of daily living Index, Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) tests, Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) scale, Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15), and some other questionnaires. Before hospitalization, 61 patients (12%) received OAC due to atrial fibrillation (AF) (83,6%), venous thromboembolism (VTE) (9,8%) and AF+VTE (6,6%). In all patients, AF frequency was 21% (n=107), but OAC were prescribed in 51% (n=55) only. Patients receiving OAC (group 1; n=61) did not differ from those without OAC (group 2; n=449) by age, sex, frequency of hypertension, previous myocardial infarction and revascularization, stable angina, and some other chronic diseases. Results Patients in group 1 had lower score on Norton scale (17,2±2,3 vs 18,1±1,8; p=0,001), Barthel Index (87,9±19,1 vs 94,4±10,7; p&amp;lt;0,001), SPPB (4,5±3,1 vs 6,0±3,3; p=0,001), walk speed (0,50±0,44 vs 0,60±0,30 m/s; p=0,014) and higher score on Morse Fall scale (47,8±20,7 vs 39,8±20,6; p=0,005) compared to patients in group 2. They had higher frequency of frailty (SPPB tests ≤7 score) (82% vs 66%; p=0,011), functional dependence (Barthel Index ≤60 score) (71% vs 44%; p&amp;lt;0,001) and pressure ulcers high risk (Norton scale ≤13 score) (6,6% vs 1,6%; p=0,012). They also had higher frequency of fall in the past year (57% vs 41%; p=0,017), high fall risk (Morse Fall scale ≥51 score) (38% vs 28%; p=0,073) and subcutaneous hematomas (25% vs 12%; p=0,009). Univariate regression analysis with age and sex adjustment showed that patients receiving OAC had higher risk of functional dependence (OR 3,05; 95% CI 1,69–5,49; p&amp;lt;0,001), frailty (OR 2,31; 95% CI 1,16–4,62; p=0,018) and pressure ulcers high risk (OR 4,24; 95% CI 1,19–15,16; p=0,026). OAC therapy was also associated with falls in the past year (OR 1,94; 95% CI 1,13–3,35; p=0,016) Conclusion Patients receiving OAC had a higher incidence of some geriatric syndromes, such as frailty, functional dependence, falls, pressure ulcers high risk, and lower functional status compared to patients without OAC. Nursing assessment of geriatric patients provides physician with additional data that allows to identify factors potentially affecting the efficacy and safety of OAC therapy. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Physiological responses, self-reported health effects, and cognitive performance during exposure to carbon dioxide at 20000ppm.

In this study, 24subjects (20-58years) were exposed to carbon dioxide (CO2 ) at 770ppm and 20000ppm in an exposure laboratory for 4-h, including 2×15min of cycling to investigate the effects on acid-base balance, physiological responses, cognitive performance and acute health. Capillary blood analysis, heart rate, respiratory rate, divided attention, flexibility, and sustained attention from the Test Battery for Attentional Performance (TAP), critical flicker fusion frequency (CFF), and self-reported symptoms were measured before, during, and after the 4-h exposure. Blood pH decreased and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2 ) increased significantly when exposed to 20000ppm CO2 compared to 770ppm. However, the values remained within the normal range. In addition, respiratory rate increased slightly but significantly at 20000ppm CO2 . No significant changes in heart rate, CFF, task performance or acute health were found. In sum, the findings suggest that the observed changes in acid-base balance and ventilation can be classified as physiological adaptation responses. Impairment of cognitive performance is not expected from exposure to 20000ppm CO2 , neither as direct effect on central nervous system function nor as a distraction related to perception of health effects.

Ecological validity of the PERF-FIT: correlates of active play, motor performance and motor skill-related physical fitness

BackgroundActive games are important health enhancing physical activities in children with and without developmental disorders and will help children to develop fundamental motor skills, while inactivity exacerbates coordination difficulties and increases the risk of obesity. Regular engagement in active play promotes physical, social and cognitive development. It is therefore important to know if children have the capabilities for healthy behavior. Motor skills and muscular fitness are both important components to participate in play, sport and leisure. The Performance and Fitness (PERF-FIT) test battery integrates motor skills (running, jumping, hopping, catching, bouncing, throwing, balance) and muscular fitness (explosive power and muscular endurance) needed in many forms of active play. AimTo test the ecological validity of the PERF-FIT test battery; a field-based test integrating motor skill proficiency and muscular fitness. MethodsSeventy-five children were assessed on the PERF-FIT, Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC)-2 and performance in 6 active games was scored. Of these children, 52 children scored in the normal range and 23 (or 30.3%) below the 16th percentile of the MABC-2. Association between the outcomes of the two tests and the 6 games was calculated. ResultsHigh to moderate associations were found between game scores and PERF-FIT items; moderate to low associations between game scores and MABC-2 items. Principle axes factor analysis with oblique rotation revealed communalities between the explosive power and agility items of the PERF-FIT and the running and ball catching games but not between the games and the balance items. Conclusions and implicationsScores on the PERF-FIT are significantly related to performance in active play. The tool is able to measure aspects of motor skills, muscle endurance and explosive power needed in children's active games and could be used as an additional tool to measure requirements for participation in everyday physical activity in children with and without developmental disorders.

High BMI and Low Muscular Fitness Predict Low Motor Competence in School-Aged Children Living in Low-Resourced Areas.

Childhood obesity is a relatively new problem for Sub-Saharan developing countries. Especially in children with a low socioeconomic background, the link between motor competence, muscular fitness, and body mass index (BMI) remains poorly investigated. Due to the interrelatedness of BMI and physical fitness, the aim of this study is to determine the predictive value of these factors in relation to low motor competence in school-aged children living in low-resourced areas. Motor competence and physical fitness were assessed in 1037 school-aged Ghanaian and South African children using the Performance and Fitness test battery (PERF-FIT). “Low motor competence” was predicted using odds ratios calculated from backward logistic regression analyses. Low motor competence was less prevalent in Ghanaian children (3.7–11.1%) compared to the South African children (21.9–24.2%). Increased BMI and decreased muscular fitness predicted low motor competence in both Ghanaian and South African children. For example, the chance for a Ghanaian child to have low static balance increased by 22.8% (OR = 1.228, p < 0.001) with a 1-point increase in BMI, whereas this decreased by 30.0% (OR = 0.970, p < 0.001) with a 10-cm increase on the standing long jump. In the case of the South African children, if their BMI increased by 1 point, the chance for those children of having low static balance increased by 7.9%, and if their SLJ performance decreased by 10 cm, their chance of low performance increased by 13%. Clearly, motor competence is associated with both BMI and muscular fitness. Policy makers can use this information to counteract the establishment of childhood obesity by promoting weight control through physical activity and stimulating motor competence at school.

Performance Evaluation of Asphalt Mixtures Modified with Recycled Polyethylene via the Wet Process

The plastics and asphalt pavement industries have shown increasing interest in recycling waste plastics in asphalt because of potential environmental benefits. One approach to incorporating recycled plastics in asphalt is the wet process, which requires mechanical blending of recycled plastics into the asphalt binder as polymer modifiers. This study was aimed at exploring the use of recycled polyethylene (rPE) and a reactive elastomeric terpolymer (RET), which was used as a potential compatibilizer to rPE, for asphalt modification. Moreover, the study evaluated the impact of both modifiers on the bond strength characteristics of asphalt-aggregate systems as well as on the rutting and cracking resistance of asphalt mixtures. To this end, a battery of laboratory performance tests was conducted on asphalt mixtures containing binders: one neat; two rPE modified; and one styrene-butadiene-styrene modified. One rPE modified binder was formulated by adding 3% rPE to a PG 58-28 neat binder, while the other was modified with 3% rPE, RET, and polyphosphoric acid. Test results indicated that the rPE-plus-RET modified binder yielded an asphalt-aggregate system with enhanced moisture resistance, before and after oxidative aging. When compared with the control mixture, using rPE alone or rPE plus RET for asphalt modification significantly improved the rutting resistance. However, the rPE and rPE-plus-RET modified mixtures were found to be more susceptible to intermediate-temperature fatigue cracking at both short-term and long-term aging conditions. Finally, adding rPE or rPE plus RET did not have a significant impact on the mixture reflective cracking and thermal cracking resistance after long-term aging.

MO606FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY AND NUTRITION-INFLAMMATION BINOMIUM IN PATIENTS WITH ADVANCED CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE (ACKD)

Background and AimsThere are differents factors that will influence the functional capacity of ACKD patients, among them the nutritional condition.Aimto assess the functional capacity of ACKD patients with the Short Physical Performance test Battery (SPPB), and its relationship with the malnutrition-inflammation binomium.MethodWe have evaluated 216 ACKD patients, 66.2% (143) male. xage 70.85 ?12.01 years, being female older than male (72.58 ?13.19 vs 69.96 ?11.32, p = 0.129). We have determine plasma proteins indicators of nutritional status such as albumin, prealbumin and CRP as a marker of the status of inflammation. And we have applied malnutrition inflamation score (MIS).ResultsIn the univariate analysis, we found an association between the functionality determined with the test and the age (RR95% 0.866 p = 0.000), sex (RR95% 0.387 p = 0.005). albumin (RR95% 2,222 p = 0.035), prealbumin (RR95% 1.065 p = 0.018), CRP (RR95% 0.733 p = 0.022) and the state nutritional value determined with the MIS scale (RR95% 0.791 p = 0.000). We donot any found any association with DM, transferrin and total lymphocytes. Albumin values were established as 3.8g / dl, and CRP at 1g / dl, obtaining 4 groups: (G1: alb> 3,7-PCR <1, G2: alb> 3,7-PCR> 1, G3: alb <3,7-PCR <1 and G4: alb <3,7-PCR> 1 ).The table shows the results of the relationship between groups and the limitations determined with SPBB. Group 1 was the most numerous, also being the one with the best nutrition-inflammation profile, observing that in this group 68 patients (78.2%) presented minimal / no limitations.Conclusions1. The nutritional-inflammation status will influence the functional capacity of the patient with ERCA.2. The SPPB test, in addition to being a good choice to evaluate the functional capacity of patients with ACKD, can provide guidance on the nutritional status of patients.3. Maintaining a good nutritional status will also have a positive influence on the functional capacity of ACKD patients.MO606 Table 1:Transplant Kidney Biopsy Findings from Positive COVID-19 CasesG1:G2:G3:G4:*pAlb>3.8 * CRP<1Alb>3.8 * CRP>1Alb<3.8 * CRP<1Alb<3.8 * CRP>1Severe limitations66.7% (8)0,0% (0)25% (3)8.3% (1)0.012Moderates Limitations64.9% (24)27% (10)0,0% (0)8.1% (3)Mild Limitations83.3% (65)7.7% (6)6.4% (5)2.6% (2)M?mal Limitations78.2% (68)10.3% (9)5.7% (5)5.7% (5)*P<0.05 (sig.) (Fisher test)

510 A Profile of Physical Performance Variables in an Out-Patient Adult Population with Narcolepsy

Abstract Introduction Narcolepsy can significantly impact the physical and mental wellbeing of people with narcolepsy, and has been associated with significant reductions in quality of life and physical performance. People with narcolepsy demonstrate many barriers to being physically fit and active, such as sleepiness and social isolation. Despite physical functioning and vitality being the most affected domains of health-related quality of life in this cohort, little is known about how physical performance variables are affected in people with narcolepsy. Methods This cross-sectional study profiled the physical performance of adults with narcolepsy attending the Narcolepsy Centre located in St. James’s Hospital. Participants underwent a physical performance test battery that investigated cardiopulmonary fitness, physical activity, muscle strength and endurance. Furthermore, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), symptom severity and sedentary behaviour was ascertained through self-report questionnaires. Results A total of 23 participants were recruited in this study. The majority of participants were female (n=13, 56.52%) and the mean age was 31.53 (± 13.17) years. Physical performance was generally found to be lower than age-and-gender matched normative values for cardiopulmonary fitness, physical activity and muscle strength and endurance. Participants’ completed 42.20 ± 21.41 minutes of moderate-vigorous physical activity daily as measured by actigraphy. Considerable sedentary behaviour was objectively measured in this sample (10.21 hours). Symptom severity was high as measured by the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and the Narcolepsy Severity Scale, and participants reported reduced quality of life when compared to general population norms (US, UK, France and Norway). Conclusion Markedly reduced physical performance was identified in this sample of people with narcolepsy, irrespective of participant age, gender and BMI. Future research should explore the role of exercise in improving the physical fitness in people with narcolepsy, and the influence of exercise on HRQoL and symptom severity in this cohort. Support (if any) This study was completed as part of Mr Ragy Tadrous’ Master of Science (MSc) degree in Trinity College Dublin. This degree was co-sponsored by the Physiotherapy Department in St. James’s Hospital, Dublin.

With great power comes great ability: Extending research on fitness characteristics that influence work sample test battery performance in law enforcement recruits.

Fitness could influence task performance in police officers. Limited research details relationships between different fitness characteristics and police-specific tasks. Determine relationships between anaerobic and aerobic capacity with police-specific task performance. Data for 308 recruits was analysed. Fitness tests included: push-ups, sit-ups, and mountain climbers (muscular endurance); pull-ups (strength); vertical jump (VJ) and 2 kg medicine ball throw (MBT; power); 75-yard pursuit run (75PR; change-of-direction speed); 201 m run (anaerobic capacity); 2.4 km run and multistage fitness test (aerobic capacity). Police tasks included: 99-yard obstacle course (99OC); 74.84 kg body drag (BD); chain link fence (CLF) and solid wall (SW) climbs; and 500-yard run (500R). Partial correlations controlling for sex and linear regression calculated relationships between fitness and job tasks. 99OC correlated with all assessments; BD only with 75PR. CLF related to the power and aerobic capacity tests, pull-ups, and 201 m run. SW related to VJ, 75PR, pull-ups, sit-ups, 201 m run, and aerobic capacity. 500R related to all except the MBT and 2.4 km run. 75PR and VJ predicted 4/5 tasks. Police research has shown the importance of muscular endurance and aerobic capacity. Specific to this studies' correlations, the value of power and change-of-direction speed development for task performance was indicated.

The Effect of Growth Hormone Treatment on Physical Performance Indices in Children With Idiopathic Short Stature.

To examine the effect of growth hormone (GH) treatment on physical performance in children with idiopathic short stature and normal GH secretion. A total of 24 children participated in the study (13 GH-treated, 11 non-treated, aged 8-13y, 11 males and 13 females, Tanner stage 1-2). Participants performed a battery of motor skill performance tests (Eurofit), as well as the Wingate anaerobic test. No statistically significant differences in any of the Eurofit physical fitness test results (eg,20-m shuttle run 33.0 [15.1] vs 25.1 [21.0] laps in treated and nontreated participants, respectively, P = .25) or the Wingate anaerobic test were found between the groups (eg,peak power 5.0 [2.9] vs 3.9 [2.6]watts/kg in treated and nontreated participants, respectively, P = .2). Therapeutic usage of exogenous GH for pre and early pubertal children with idiopathic short stature and normal GH secretion was not associated with beneficial effects on physical performance indices. This suggests that the use of GH as a potential performance enhancing agent, in this age group, at least at commonly used doses, is not advantageous.

A Group-Based 8-Week Functional Interval-Type Outdoor Training Program Improves Physical Performance in Recreationally Active Adults.

Even though physical activity is an important aspect of health, lack of time or motivation impede people from working out regularly. One type of training program that is both efficient and motivating is functional interval-type outdoor training. To evaluate this, our study had 81 participants complete a battery of physical performance tests (incremental treadmill test, core stability test and functional fitness test) before and after an 8-week outdoor interval-type training intervention. Training procedures included multimodal and high-intensity exercises performed in consistent, small groups. Results showed that the interval training program produced significant increases in the intervention group (n = 43) in functional and strength exercises (p < 0.001; squat (+27%), burpee (+24%), bridge (+39%), push-up (+34%), sit-up (+25%), high knees (+25%), row (+19%), effect sizes 0.4–0.11) for almost all parameters in comparison to a non-intervention control population (n = 38). Interestingly, trunk stability increased significantly (p < 0.001; flexion (+86%), extension (+43%), lateral left (+39%), lateral right (+32%), effect sizes 0.3–0.15) even though it was not explicitly trained; this was rather a secondary outcome of the functional exercises. Drop-out rates (Intervention group: 27%) suggest that this form of training seems to improve adherence to exercise and may help participants to stay committed to regular, intense activity. By simultaneously triggering adaptations in functional fitness, endurance and whole-body movements, this program can be used by people at different training levels.

Motor performance is not related to injury risk in growing elite-level male youth football players. A causal inference approach to injury risk assessment

ObjectiveTo identify the causal relation between growth velocity and injury in elite-level youth football players, and to assess the mediating effects of motor performance in this causal pathway. DesignProspective cohort study. MethodsWe measured the body height of 378 male elite-level football players of the U13 to U15 age categories three to four months before and at the start of the competitive season. At the start of the season, players also performed a motor performance test battery, including motor coordination (Körperkoordinationstest für Kinder), muscular performance (standing broad jump, counter movement jump), flexibility (sit and reach), and endurance measures (YoYo intermittent recovery test). Injuries were continuously registered by the academies’ medical staff during the first two months of the season. Based on the causal directed acyclic graph (DAG) that identified our assumptions about causal relations between growth velocity (standardized to cm/y), injuries, and motor performance, the causal effect of growth velocity on injury was obtained by conditioning on maturity offset. We determined the natural indirect effects of growth velocity on injury mediated through motor performance. ResultsIn total, 105 players sustained an injury. Odds ratios (OR) showed a 15% increase in injury risk per centimetre/year of growth velocity (1.15, 95%CI: 1.05–1.26). There was no causal effect of growth on injury through the motor performance mediated pathways (all ORs were close to 1.0 with narrow 95%CIs). ConclusionsGrowth velocity is causally related to injury risk in elite-level youth football players, but motor performance does not mediate this relation.