Grip Strength Research Articles

Association between total bilirubin and sarcopenia in people with type 2 diabetes: The KAMOGAWA-A study.

Bilirubin is associated with vascular complications in diabetes. However, the correlation between bilirubin and sarcopenia or muscle strength has not been investigated. This study aimed to investigate the association between total bilirubin and skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), hand grip strength (HGS), and sarcopenia in patients with type 2 diabetes. This cross-sectional study included 1,108 patients with type 2 diabetes from three hospitals in Japan. Multiple and logistic regression analyses were used to examine the relationships between total bilirubin and SMI, HGS, and sarcopenia. Of the participants, 473 (43%) were women. The median (interquartile range) age, and glycated hemoglobin were 67 (59-73) years, and 7.4 (6.7-8.6) %, respectively. The median SMIs for women and men were 6.32 (5.73-7.04) kg/m2 and 7.53 (7.02-8.19) kg/m2, respectively. The median HGS for women and men were 21.5 (17.5-25.0) kg and 36.0 (30.0-41.5) kg, respectively. Sarcopenia was present in 11% and 12% of women and men, respectively. No correlation was observed between total bilirubin and SMI in both sexes. No significant association was observed between total bilirubin and HGS in men, whereas a positive correlation was observed in women (β = 0.18, p = 0.01). Total bilirubin was negatively associated with sarcopenia in women (odds ratio = 0.80, 95% confidence interval: 0.64-0.98, interaction p = 0.02). The total bilirubin was significantly associated with HGS and sarcopenia in women with type 2 diabetes. Total bilirubin may serve as a useful indicator of sarcopenia in Japanese women.

Evaluating repeated handgrip strength measurements as predictors of mortality in malnourished hospitalized patients. Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial.

Handgrip strength (HGS) is a simple yet effective bed-side tool for assessing muscle strength, which plays an important role in clinical evaluation and monitoring. We hypothesize that repeated measurements of HGS during the hospital stay may serve as a reliable and robust indicator of clinical course and outcomes. We re-analyzed data from 565 out of 2028 patients who had repeated handgrip measurement (on admission and on day 7) included in EFFORT, a Swiss-wide multicenter, randomized controlled trial comparing individualized nutritional support with usual care nutrition in medical inpatients. The primary endpoint was 180-day all-cause mortality. The mean change in HGS from baseline to day 7 was 0.6 kg (SD 4.2) in female and 0.7 kg (SD 3.7) in male patients. Patients with a positive HGS trend had a lower risk of dying within 180 days compared to patients without a positive trend (mortality 11.4% vs. 25.4%, adjusted HR 0.45 [95% CI 0.27 to 0.77], p = 0.003). The change in HGS was also associated with the nutritional intake during the hospitalization in male patients: those who met their energy and protein targets were twice as likely to have an increase in HGS during hospitalization (adjusted OR 2.05 [95% CI 1.23 to 3.42], p = 0.006). Achieving nutritional targets was associated with a short-term increase in HGS during hospitalization, and a positive HGS trend was associated with a lower risk of mortality after 180 days. These data provide evidence that repeated HGS measurements are a robust bedside tool for assessing and monitoring patients receiving nutritional therapy in the hospital. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02517476.

Association between muscular strength and sleep quality in older adults undergoing hemodialysis: a cross-sectional study.

Older adults undergoing hemodialysis experience improved survival rates but often suffer from sleep disorders, resulting in adverse health outcomes. This study aims to assess the association between handgrip strength (HGS), a key indicator of muscular strength, and sleep quality in older adults undergoing hemodialysis. This cross-sectional and analytical study assessed 150 older adults undergoing hemodialysis selected by simple randomization. Data on demographics, clinical parameters, HGS, and sleep quality (PSQI) were collected and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS version 20. The mean age of the participants was 65.61 ± 4.07years. Mean mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) and calf circumference (CC) were 29.59cm and 36.96cm, respectively. The mean HGS was 28.7 ± 8.55kg, with males exhibiting higher HGS (37.72 ± 6.17kg) than females (23.55 ± 5.38kg). The mean PSQI score was 6.71, with 54.1% reporting poor sleep quality. Sleep quality was significantly associated with income source, underlying diseases, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), BMI, MUAC, CC, HGS, and blood levels of potassium and creatinine. A moderate negative correlation (r = -0.438, p < 0.001) was observed between HGS and PSQI scores, indicating better sleep quality with greater muscular strength. Elevated potassium levels increase the risk of poor sleep. Older adults undergoing hemodialysis frequently experience poor sleep quality, which is associated with lower muscular strength. These findings highlight the importance of implementing targeted interventions, such as strength-training programs, to improve muscular strength and, consequently, sleep quality in this vulnerable population.

Associations between skeletal muscle strength and chronic kidney disease in patients with MASLD

BackgroundA skeletal muscle strength (SMS) decline is associated with metabolic diseases, but whether SMS also declines with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is uncertain. This study examined the associations between SMS and the risk of CKD in MASLD population.MethodWe performed a large-scale study with four cohorts: PERSONS and NHANES 2011–2014 cohorts for the cross-sectional investigation, and TCLSIH and UK Biobank cohorts for the longitudinal investigation. A handgrip dynamometer measured handgrip strength as a proxy for overall SMS. Participants were stratified according to CKD status [non-CKD vs. CKD (stages 1–5) groups].ResultsIn the PERSONS cohort, the CKD group has a lower handgrip strength than the non-CKD group (27.14 ± 9.19 vs. 33.59 ± 11.92 kg, P < 0.001). Higher handgrip strength is associated with lower odds of abnormal albuminuria or CKD (OR: 0.96, 95%CI:0.92-0.99 and OR:0.95, 95%CI: 0.91-0.99 respectively). The highest handgrip strength tertile is associated with the lowest risk of having abnormal albuminuria or CKD (compared with the lowest or middle tertile). Results are similar in NHANES cohort. Furthermore, the highest handgrip strength is independently associated with the lowest risk of incident CKD in MASLD (HR: 0.95, 95%CI: 0.92-0.99 and HR:0.99, 95%CI: 0.98-0.99 in TCLSIH and UK Biobank cohorts). In Kaplan-Meier curve analysis, the cumulative incidence of CKD is lowest in the highest handgrip strength tertile compared to the lowest or the middle tertile.ConclusionsHigher handgrip/muscle strength is independently associated with a lower risk of CKD and abnormal albuminuria in MASLD population.

Ulnar Extrinsic Ligament Tears: Clinical Presentation, Surgical Management, and Outcomes of Surgical Repair Extending Into Long-term Follow-up.

Injury to the ulnar extrinsic ligaments often causes significant pain without obvious instability. This study aims to further investigate the clinical presentations and outcomes following ulnar extrinsic ligament repair. A retrospective analysis of 113 patients who underwent ulnar extrinsic ligament surgery was conducted. Collected data included demographics, clinical presentation, intraoperative findings, and postoperative outcomes, such as grip strength, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (Q-DASH) scores, complications, and reoperations. Continuous variables were represented by the mean and standard deviation, whereas categorical variables were expressed as counts and percentages. A matched pair T-test was performed for grip strength and Q-DASH changes from pre-op to post-op for patients who had data available at both time points. Preoperative symptoms primarily included wrist pain (100%), difficulties in rotation (16%), and weakness (16%). Intraoperatively, split tears (75%) and avulsions (11%) were common, often accompanied by triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) pathology (83%). Postoperatively, grip strength improved significantly (P < .001), with a mean reduction of 30.3 points in Q-DASH scores (P < .001). Eighty percent of patients returned to work fully, 14% returned in a limited capacity, and 6% were unable to return to work. The overall complication rate was 9%. Reoperation rate was 8.8%. At final follow-up, 83% of patients reported that they would elect to undergo the same surgery again. Ulnar extrinsic ligament injuries frequently present with wrist pain and TFCC pathology. Surgical repair of ulnar extrinsic ligament injuries improves grip strength and functional outcomes with high patient satisfaction.

Hyperandrogenaemia, PCOS, and Physical Fitness in Women - A Northern Finland Birth Cohort Study.

To investigate the independent associations of hyperandrogenaemia (HA) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with physical fitness in women among the general population. A population-based birth cohort study including 5889 women. Longitudinal associations of serum testosterone (T), free androgen index (FAI), and PCOS with cardiorespiratory fitness (measured by heart rate after a submaximal exercise test) and grip strength over the 31 to 46 years of age timespan were examined using multivariable linear mixed models adjusted for time, body mass index, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, physical activity and smoking. The results are reported as regression coefficients (β) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals [95%CI]. The third and fourth T and FAI quartiles associated positively with higher heart rate after the submaximal exercise test in multivariable models indicating poorer cardiorespiratory fitness compared to women in Q1 of T and FAI (Q3: β of T=1.58 [95% CI: 0.21-2.96], β of FAI=1.97 [0.54-3.39]; Q4: β of T=1.88 [0.46-3.30], β of FAI=2.70 [1.15-4.25]). The second, third and fourth quartiles of FAI associated with higher grip strength in multivariable models compared to women in Q1 (Q2:β=0.59 [0.04-1.14], Q3:β=0.74 [0.16-1.30], Q4:β=0.68 [0.06-1.27]). Excluding women with PCOS did not alter these results, while PCOS itself was not associated with cardiorespiratory fitness or grip strength. Hyperandrogenaemia in premenopausal women was associated with poorer cardiorespiratory fitness but better grip strength, independently of PCOS, which suggests that hyperandrogenaemia, rather than PCOS, has an independent and complex association with physical fitness in premenopausal women.

Relationship between skeletal muscle mass and strength with metabolic syndrome in children

Objective: To explore the correlation between skeletal muscle mass and strength with metabolic syndrome in children. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted involving 383 children aged 10 to 15 years who visited the Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from June 2021 to December 2022. Their height, weight, waist circumference, body composition, grip strength and blood pressure were measured. Relative skeletal muscle mass, muscle-to-fat ratio, and grip strength-to-body weight index were calculated. The levels of fasting blood glucose, lipids and insulin were tested. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated. Children were divided into the metabolic syndrome group and the non-metabolic syndrome group. Independent t test or Mann-Whitney U test etc. used to compare the difference between groups. Spearman correlation analysis and binary Logistic regression were used to investigate the correlation between skeletal muscle mass and strength and metabolic syndrome. The area under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to compare the accuracy of the index of skeletal muscle in predicting metabolic syndrome in children. Results: Among the 383 children, 282 (73.6%) were male, at the age of 11.4 (10.6, 12.5) years. There were 216 children (56.4%) diagnosed with obesity and 90 children (23.5%) diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Relative skeletal muscle mass, muscle-to-fat ratio, and grip strength-to-body weight index of the metabolic syndrome group were all lower than those in the non-metabolic syndrome group (all P<0.001). After adjusting for sex and age, relative skeletal muscle mass, muscle-to-fat ratio, and grip strength-to-body weight index were all negatively correlated with body mass index (r=-0.84, -0.38, -0.63), waist circumference (r=-0.76, -0.36, -0.70), systolic blood pressure (r=-0.42, -0.21, -0.38), diastolic blood pressure (r=-0.33, -0.18, -0.24), triglycerides (r=-0.29, -0.13, -0.23), fasting insulin (r=-0.28, -0.20, -0.29), and HOMA-IR (r=-0.26, -0.18, -0.26) (all P<0.05), and positively correlated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (r=0.38, 0.13, 0.31, all P<0.01). After adjusting for sex and age, high relative skeletal muscle mass, high muscle-to-fat ratio, and high grip strength-to-body weight index all decreased the risks of metabolic syndrome (OR=0.80, 0.55, 0.90), obesity (OR=0.53, 0.64, 0.82), hypertension (OR=0.86, 0.58, 0.92), low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (OR=0.83, 0.62, 0.92), hypertriglyceridemia (OR=0.88, 0.78, 0.96). After adjusting for sex and age, high relative skeletal muscle mass and high grip strength-to-body weight index all decreased the risks of hyperglycemia (OR=0.93 and 0.95, all P<0.05). ROC curve analysis showed that the relative skeletal muscle mass, muscle-to-fat ratio, and grip strength-to-body weight index all had good predictive accuracy of metabolic syndrome in children (AUC=0.79, 0.71, 0.76), with optimal cutoff values of 40%, 1.2, and 35%, respectively. Conclusions: High relative skeletal muscle mass, high muscle-to-fat ratio, and high grip strength-to-body weight index are all protective factors for metabolic syndrome in children. Regular measurement of skeletal muscle mass and grip strength can aid in the early identification and prevention of obesity and metabolic syndrome during childhood.

The COMbined Physical and somatoSEnsory (COMPoSE) training intervention to improve upper limb recovery after stroke: a single-case experimental study

Purpose The COMbined Physical and somatoSEnsory (COMPoSE) program is a novel intervention combining training of somatosensory and motor variables synchronously to improve upper limb recovery after stroke. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of COMPoSE on the upper limbs after stroke, using a single-case experimental study design. Methods Five people with chronic stroke (62–89 years) completed the COMPoSE intervention trial (15 h, 10 sessions). Effects on participants were assessed using laboratory measures (maximal tactile pressures) and clinical motor and somatosensory measures. Results Notable improvements were observed in measures of maximal tactile pressures in four out of five participants between baseline and post-intervention (range of change index: 12.0–62.5%; change in level: 2.3–10.6 KPa). Also, improvements were observed in the Wolf motor function test (score and time), box and block test, motor activity log, grip strength, wrist position sense test, tactile discrimination test, stroke impact scale at post-intervention (range of change index: 3.0–50.3%) compared to baseline. Conclusion Our findings suggest that COMPoSE could be beneficial to people with mild to severe somatosensory and motor deficits after stroke. The delivery of the COMPoSE intervention could be tailored to individual needs to maximize somatosensory and motor improvements in the upper limb after stroke. Clinical Trials Registry This study was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12615001222538.

Genetic Liability to Higher Muscle Strength Associates With a Lower Risk of Cardiovascular Disease Mortality in Men Irrespective of Leisure-Time Physical Activity in Adulthood: A Longitudinal Cohort Study.

Low muscle strength predicts premature mortality. We determined whether genetic liability to muscle strength is associated with mortality and whether this association is influenced by long-term leisure-time physical activity (LTPA). We estimated the effects of a polygenic score for handgrip strength (PGS HGS) on all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality risk in the older Finnish Twin Cohort (N=8815, 53% women). LTPA was assessed longitudinally using validated questionnaires. During the 16.9-year median follow-up (143 723 person-years), 2896 deaths occurred, of which 1089 were attributable to CVD. We found a significant interaction between sex and PGS HGS (P=0.016) in relation to all-cause mortality. In men, 1-SD increase in the PGS HGS was associated with a decreased risk of all-cause (hazard ratio [HR], 0.93 [95% CI, 0.89-0.98]) and CVD mortality (HR, 0.88 [95% CI, 0.81-0.96]), but was not statistically significantly associated with mortality in women (HR, 1.01 [95% CI, 0.96-1.07]; and HR, 0.96 [95% CI, 0.87-1.05], respectively). In men, associations remained after adjusting for LTPA and persisted for CVD mortality (HR, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.76-0.96]), even after accounting for other lifestyle covariates. This remained statistically significant even when non-CVD death was accounted for as a competing risk event. No PGS HGS×LTPA interactions were found. The predictive area under the curve estimates for PGS HGS alone were limited (0.53-0.64) but comparable to that of several lifestyle factors. Higher PGS HGS was associated with a decreased risk of CVD mortality in men. Long-term LTPA in adulthood did not potentiate this association.

Relationship between dietary protein and amino acid intake and handgrip strength in Korean adults: data from the 2014–2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

BackgroundSarcopenia contributes to an increased risk of falls and fractures, and reduced mobility, and mortality. Supplementation with dietary protein and amino acids has been suggested as a potential strategy to slow or prevent the associated loss of muscle mass and strength. However, most previous studies have focused on dietary protein or limited populations, such as older adults. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between dietary protein and amino acid intake and handgrip strength (HG) in Korean adults.MethodsThis study used data from the 2014–2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. A total of 18,565 adults who participated in a 1-day 24-hour recall method were included. Protein intake was calculated as a percentage of total energy intake from food sources (animal and plant). Amino acid intake (g/day), including essential amino acids (EAAs), branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and non essential amino acids (NEAAs), was assessed using a database expanded based on amino acid composition databases constructed by national institutions. Low HG was diagnosed based on the 2019 guidelines of the Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia.ResultsIn the fully adjusted model, total and plant protein intakes were positively associated with HG levels (kg) (β = 0.04 and 0.07 per 1% increase, respectively; p < 0.05 for both). Participants aged ≥ 65 years in the highest NEAA intake group had a 42% lower risk of low HG compared to those in the lowest intake group (odds ratio 0.58; 95% confidence interval 0.35–0.97; p for trend = 0.1026). A lower risk of HG was observed in older participants whose plant protein intake ranged from 8 to 10% of energy, compared to those consuming less than 7%. However, no association was found when intake exceeded 10% of energy.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that a high intake of NEAAs and a moderately high intake of plant protein may be associated with a lower risk of low HG among Korean older adults. Further prospective studies are needed to explore the effects of protein and amino acid intake on muscle mass and strength.

Lipoprotein profile as a predictor of type 2 diabetes with sarcopenia: a cross-sectional study.

This study investigated the relationship between lipoprotein profiles and sarcopenia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The objective is to provide a solid theoretical foundation and treatment strategies for clinical prevention and management of diabetes, particularly in individuals with concurrent sarcopenia. In this study, we selected inpatients aged over 60 years diagnosed with T2DM who were admitted to the Department of Geriatrics at Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital from July 2023 to June 2024 as research subjects. We collected general patient data, including gender, age, ethnicity, height, weight, and calculated body mass index (BMI). Key indices measured included glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), apolipoproteins A and B (ApoA and ApoB), phospholipids, lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and free fatty acids (FFA). Additionally, we assessed limb skeletal muscle mass, grip strength, walking speed, and calculated the appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI). Based on Asian diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia, patients were categorized into a non-sarcopenic group or a group with T2DM combined with sarcopenia. Baseline laboratory data along with ASMI measurements, grip strength assessments, and walking speeds were statistically analyzed for both groups. Compared with T2DM patients without sarcopenia, the levels of HbA1c, Lp(a), FFA, serum albumin, TC, TG, HDL-C, ApoA and VLDL in type 2 diabetic patients with sarcopenia were statistically significant (all P < 0.05). When multivariate adjustments were made for these clinical features, age (OR = 1.18, 95%CI: 1.11-1.25, P < 0.001), BMI (OR = 0.81, 95%CI: 0.72-0.92, P < 0.001), ApoA (OR = 0.03, 95%CI: 0.00-0.90, P = 0.043), Lp(a) > = 15.5 mg/dL (OR = 3.14, 95%CI: 1.51-6.54, P = 0.002) and FFA > = 0.48 g/L (OR = 4.11, 95%CI: 1.97-8.57, P < 0.001) were independent predictors of diabetes mellitus with sarcopenia. ROC curve analysis showed that free fatty acids (AUC = 0.721, 95%CI: 0.660-0.782, P < 0.001) in T2DM with sarcopenia has good predictive value judgment. Age, BMI, ApoA, Lp(a), and FFA were independent predictors of T2DM with sarcopenia. Serum free fatty acids have a good predictive value in the judgment of T2DM complicated with sarcopenia.

Using a polyurea resin-bonded mounted wheel, dental resin composites and porcelain are polished precisely.

BackgroundThe success of dental restorations depends on achieving adequate surface integrity. However, grinding and polishing are generally ineffective because of the special physical and chemical compositions and properties of the composites. Polyurea resin is an elastomer with high elasticity, abrasion resistance, heat resistance, and toughness. When it is used as a bond, grinding wheels with high grain grip strength can be fabricated.ObjectiveWe fabricated a mounted wheel with a polyurea resin as the bond and used it to polish a composite resin and porcelain under clinical polishing conditions. The effects of the approach on the polished surface roughness and morphology were evaluated with respect to the type of mounted wheel, initial surface roughness, abrasive particle size, and polishing time.MethodsThis study fabricates a mounted wheel with polyurea resin as the bond and uses it to polish composite resin and porcelain under clinical polishing conditions. The effects of the approach on the polished surface roughness and morphology are evaluated against the type of mounted wheel, initial surface roughness, abrasive particle size, and polishing time.ResultsAmong single-crystal diamond, siliconcon carbide (GC), and alumina (WA) abrasive grains, diamond abrasive grains produced the best finish for most tested resin composites. However, WA abrasive grains are effective for polishing Estenia (it has the highest filler content). The polishing performance of the porcelain varied with the initial surface roughness and abrasive particle diameter.ConclusionThis study provides guidance for improving and developing mounted wheels for clinical applications.

Minimally Invasive Screw Fixation in Bennett Fractures: A New Reposition Technique in a Case Series.

Transfixation or open reduction are conventional methods for treating Bennett fractures, with no current gold standard. Transfixation only allows for insufficient reduction, while the open approach by Wagner is relatively invasive. We present a minimally invasive surgical approach that allows anatomical reduction and short operation time. We report previous experiences in a case series of five patients. The disabilities of arm, shoulder, and hand score, visual analog scale, range of motion of the thumb, grip, and pinch strength were used for assessing the outcomes. Closed reduction employs an additional K-wire drilled through the ulnar base of metacarpal 2 into the Bennett fragment or into the oblique posteromedial ligament, followed by fixation with 2 cannulated compression screws. By the new technique, anatomical reduction and fixation of the Bennett fragment can be achieved minimally invasive. Previous interventions demonstrated good clinical, radiographic, and patient-reported outcomes after 6 months. In conclusion, minimally invasive screw fixation in Bennett fractures, coupled with repositioning using an additional guide wire, combines the advantages of allowing anatomical reduction and a less invasive approach seen in established methods.

Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis of wrist using Ilizarov wrist joint distraction technique: a case report

To report the clinical experience of using Ilizarov wrist joint distraction technique in the treatment of a case of rheumatoid arthritis of the wrist. In January 2019, a 49-year-old female patient with rheumatoid arthritis of the left wrist, complicated by ulnar impaction syndrome, was admitted for treatment. Preoperatively, the active range of motion of the left wrist was as follows: extension 0°-flexion 0°, pronation 65°-supination 35°, and grip strength of 4.0 kg. The visual analogue scale (VAS) score was 9, and the Cooney wrist function score was 15, indicating poor function. As conservative treatment failed to achieve symptom relief, Ilizarov wrist joint distraction surgery was performed. Postoperatively, joint distraction was applied at 2 mm increments on postoperative days 2 and 7, in 4 separate sessions. Postoperative X-ray film examination at 7 days revealed a distraction of 3.6 mm in the affected wrist joint compared to the contralateral side. The external fixator was removed 2.5 months postoperatively. At 22 months postoperatively, X-ray film and MRI examinations revealed that the joint space of the left wrist had returned to near-normal, with significant reduction in joint effusion and synovial proliferation. The active range of motion of the left wrist improved to extension 15°- flexion 30°, pronation 90°-supination 90°, with a grip strength of 18.0 kg. The wrist pain VAS score decreased to 0, and the Cooney wrist function score improved to 90, indicating excellent function. At 50 months postoperatively, follow-up X-ray film, MRI, and functional assessments showed the results similar to those at 22 months. Ilizarov wrist joint distraction may be a viable treatment option for rheumatoid arthritis of the wrist.

Establishing normative pinch and grip strengths across adult age groups in Singapore

BackgroundPinch and grip strengths are vital indicators of upper limb function, musculoskeletal health, and general health. While most research has focused on older individuals, it is crucial to build normative data for younger populations. This cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the normative values for lateral pinch strength (LPS) and hand grip strength (HGS) in healthy adult Singaporeans.MethodsThe study recruited 500 healthy individuals without any serious general illnesses and upper limb pain, aged 21–80 years. LPS and HGS were measured using a standardized JAMAR hand dynamometer. Age, gender, hand dominance, and participant demographics were recorded. Normative values were then established for different age groups and hand dominance. A machine learning approach was employed to determine the most relevant variables for dominant LPS and HGS in our data, respectively.ResultsOur data showed that HGS and LPS peaked between 40–44 years of age in women. In men, average HGS peaked between 35–39 years and LPS peaked between 50–54 years. Compared to the non-dominant side, dominant HGS was 6.86% and 6.23% higher in women and men, respectively. The difference between dominant and non-dominant LPS in men and women was 6.96% and 9.18%, respectively. Age was strongly associated with hand strength for older participants, but not for younger ones. Height, weight, and age were important for predicting dominant HGS and LPS, and gait speed for HGS only.ConclusionsOur data align with past results, but the normative values are comparatively lower than the consolidated Western norms. Compared to the non-dominant hand, the strength of the dominant hand is significantly higher. No statistical difference between the right- and left-handed participants in terms of dominant HGS and dominant LPS. The results can be valuable for researchers and healthcare providers working with young and older adults.

Possible association between metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease predictors and hand grip strength

Both Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) and sarcopenia are associated with numerous chronic diseases, and the link between the two broad-spectrum phenotypes has been extensively researched. We focused on the relationship between the hepatic steatosis index (HSI) and hand grip strength (HGS). The Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (2014–2019) were utilized to identify the association between estimated MASLD (eMASLD) and muscle strength. HSI determined eMASLD status, and HGS evaluated muscle strength. The HSI demonstrated a positive correlation with HGS. The alanine transaminase (ALT)/aspartate aminotransferase (AST) ratio and diabetes among the five components of HSI exhibited significant relationships with HGS in men and women. The robust linearity between HSI and HGS was observed in multivariate models and stratified analyses, particularly in older non-diabetic men with a higher body mass index (BMI) and young women without diabetes. However, younger men and older women exhibited nonlinear associations influenced by the ALT/AST ratio, BMI, and diabetes. After adjusting HGS with BMI, a significant negative association between HSI and muscle strength was observed, particularly in women. The disruption in linearity was influenced by the ALT/AST ratio, particularly in men with diabetes. Our findings highlight the complex interplay between HSI and HGS. The relationship between the two broad-range phenotypes was observed, and liver profiles influenced the linearity.

Roles of Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 in Muscle Wasting and Osteopenia in Mice with Hyponatremia

Hyponatremia is associated with sarcopenia and osteoporosis in elderly individuals. Skeletal muscle releases myokines, which affect distant organs, including bone. However, the detailed mechanisms by which hyponatremia influences muscle and bone remain unclear. We herein investigated the effects of hyponatremia on muscle, bone, and myokines linking muscle to bone in mice treated with 1-desamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin (dDAVP) or furosemide, which induce hyponatremia. Muscle mass and bone mineral density (BMD) were analyzed 8 weeks after the administration of dDAVP or furosemide. dDAVP significantly reduced grip strength, but did not affect tissue weights of gastrocnemius or soleus muscles of mice. Furosemide significantly decreased muscle mass, tissue weights of gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, and grip strength in mice. dDAVP and furosemide decreased trabecular BMD, trabecular bone volume, and cortical BMD at the femurs. Among myokines linking muscle to bone, hyponatremia reduced expression of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 in gastrocnemius and soleus muscles and serum IGF-1 levels in mice. In simple regression analyses, serum IGF-1 levels were positively related to muscle IGF-1 expression, trabecular bone volume, and cortical BMD in mice. The administration of sodium chloride solution to mice ameliorated the decreases in grip strength, muscle mass, trabecular bone volume, cortical BMD, and the levels of muscle and circulating IGF-1 in furosemide-treated mice. The present study demonstrated that hyponatremia induces muscle and bone loss as well as a decrease in muscle IGF-1 expression in mice. The present findings suggest that IGF-1 might be related to muscle wasting and bone loss induced by hyponatremia in mice.

Association between handgrip strength and hypertension in children and adolescents: an analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011–2014

AimHandgrip strength (HGS), a measure of muscle strength, has been reported to be associated with the risk of hypertension in adults. This study intended to assess the relationship of relative HGS (rHGS) and HGS asymmetry ratio with elevated blood pressure and hypertension in children and adolescents.MethodsThis cross-sectional study included children and adolescents aged 6–19 years with HGS and blood pressure measurements in the 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) dataset. The relationships of rHGS and HGS asymmetry ratio with elevated blood pressure and hypertension were assessed using weighted logistic regression models and described as odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Subgroup analysis was conducted according to age (&amp;lt;13, ≥13 years) and gender (male, female).ResultsIn total, 3,736 children and adolescents were included in the study, of whom 509 (13.75%) had elevated blood pressure and 188 (4.72%) had hypertension. High rHGS levels were related to lower odds of elevated blood pressure (OR = 0.52, 95%CI, 0.33–0.81) and hypertension (OR = 0.34, 95%CI, 0.18–0.66). In addition, children and adolescents with HGS asymmetry ratio of &amp;gt;30.0% had higher odds of elevated blood pressure (OR = 2.14, 95%CI, 1.27–3.61) and hypertension (OR = 3.02, 95%CI, 1.42–6.42). Subgroup analyses demonstrated that the relationship between high rHGS levels and lower odds of elevated blood pressure and hypertension did not differ by age or sex, whereas the association between HGS asymmetry ratio of &amp;gt;30.0% and higher odds of elevated blood pressure and hypertension was found only in children ≥13 years and males.ConclusionHigh rHGS levels were associated with lower odds of elevated blood pressure and hypertension in children and adolescents, whereas an HGS asymmetry ratio of &amp;gt;30.0% was related to higher odds of elevated blood pressure and hypertension.

Associations between sarcopenia and domains of quality of life in older adults: a population-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundSarcopenia is an age-related skeletal muscle disorder associated with deleterious health outcomes. Few studies have examined associations between sarcopenia and quality of life (QoL). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether sarcopenia is independently associated with specific domains of QoL.MethodsThis cross-sectional study examined associations between sarcopenia and domains of QoL in a population-based sample of 682 adults aged 60–96 years. Sarcopenia was defined according to the revised European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People algorithm. Appendicular lean mass was assessed using dual-energy Xray absorptiometry, handgrip strength by dynamometry, and physical performance using the Timed UupandGo test. The World Health Organisation’s abbreviated QoL tool was used to assess QoL across four domains: physical health, psychological, social relationships and environment. Multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate associations between sarcopenia and poor QoL.ResultsAfter adjusting for potential covariates, sarcopenia (either probable or confirmed) was associated with an increased likelihood for poor physical health-related QoL [OR 2.77 (95% CI 1.31–5.88)] and poor psychological-related QoL [OR 2.69 (95% CI 1.41–5.15)]. No associations were detected between sarcopenia and the social relationships or environment domains.ConclusionsThese findings highlight the importance of maintaining skeletal muscle health in older age. Interventions to prevent or manage sarcopenia among older adults may contribute to better QoL for this population and warrant further investigation.

Sarcopenia defined by the global leadership initiative in sarcopenia (GLIS) consensus predicts adverse postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer: analysis from a prospective cohort study

BackgroundGlobal Leadership Initiative in Sarcopenia (GLIS) has recently established a conceptional definition of sarcopenia, which incorporated muscle strength, mass, and muscle-specific strength as three components of sarcopenia. The present study aimed to investigate the value of sarcopenia defined by the GLIS consensus in predicting the postoperative outcomes.MethodsClinical data of 1654 patients who underwent radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer were prospectively collected. Muscle strength was measured by the grip strength test. Muscle mass was measured by calculating skeletal muscle index (SMI) using abdominal computed tomography images. Muscle-specific strength was determined by the ratio of grip strength to SMI. Sarcopenia was diagnosed by having low muscle-specific strength (criteria 1), or low muscle strength plus low muscle mass (criteria 2), or low muscle strength plus either low muscle mass or low muscle-specific strength (criteria 3).ResultsThe incidence of sarcopenia identified by criteria 1, 2, and 3 were 24.2%, 17.0%, and 32.5%, respectively. All three criteria showed significant association with postoperative total complications, overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS). However, criteria 1 showed no significant association with severe complications. Criteria 2 did not remain significant in predicting DFS in the multivariate analyses. Criteria 3 showed the largest Youden index and area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) in predicting total complications, 3-year and 5-year mortality, and low physical performance.ConclusionSarcopenia defined by low muscle strength plus either low muscle mass or low muscle-specific strength showed optimal predictive value for postoperative outcomes in patients with gastric cancer.