Improvement In Physical Performance Research Articles

What is confirmed in the treatment of metabolic acidosis in chronic kidney disease?

Precise regulation of the acid-base balance is essential for the functioning of various organs and physiological processes. Acid retention and metabolic acidosis (MA) are frequent complications of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and can also occur following kidney transplantation. In addition to dietary modifications, pharmacological interventions, most notably sodium bicarbonate, are employed to correct MA. While several studies have reported abeneficial effect of MA correction on the progression of CKD, the results remain inconsistent and the magnitude of the treatment effect may be limited. Importantly, no beneficial effect on graft function has been demonstrated after kidney transplantation. The MA is associated with impaired bone quality and although alkali treatment has generally shown positive effects on markers of bone metabolism, consistent changes in bone density have not been observed. Additionally, MA is linked to an increased incidence of cardiovascular events but so far there is alack of interventional studies with definitive cardiovascular endpoints. Sodium bicarbonate may lead to sodium retention, potentially increasing blood pressure, although the data on this are inconclusive. One interventional study with notable limitations reported apositive effect of alkali treatment on mortality. Correction of MA has been suggested to positively impact protein and muscle catabolism, although no improvement in physical performance was observed in ageriatric population. Limited studies exist on the endocrinological effects of alkali treatment but these indicate afavorable impact on glucose metabolism and potential benefits for thyroid function in predialysis CKD patients. Given the overall low to moderate level of evidence supporting the benefits of alkali treatment, the current guidelines from Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) propose alkali treatment to prevent serum bicarbonate levels < 18 mmol/l (prior < 22 mmol/l) in adults and the resulting complications.

Anodal tDCS improves neuromuscular adaptations to short-term resistance training of the knee extensors in healthy individuals.

Experimental studies showed improvement in physical performance following acute application of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). This study examined the neuromuscular and neural response to a single training session (Part 1) and after a 3-week resistance training (Part 2) performed with the knee extensors, preceded by tDCS over the primary motor cortex. Twenty-four participants (age, 30 ± 7 years; stature, 172 ± 8 cm; mass, 72 ± 15 kg) were randomly allocated to perform either resistance training with anodal tDCS (a-tDCS), or by a placebo tDCS (Sham). Resistance training consisted of 3 × 10 isometric contractions of 3 s at 75% MVC. Measures of neuromuscular function (MVC, voluntary activation and potentiated twitch force), corticospinal excitability, and short and long cortical inhibition were assessed. Acute tDCS did not affect neuromuscular and neural responses to a single training session (all ps ≥ 0.10). Conversely, after the 3-week training program, MVC increased in both groups (p < 0.01), with a greater increase observed for a-tDCS vs. Sham (⁓6%, p = 0.04). Additionally, increased voluntary activation (⁓2%, p = 0.04) and corticospinal excitability (⁓22%, p = 0.04), accompanied with shorter silent period (-13%, p = 0.04) was found following a-tDCS vs. Sham. The potentiated twitch force and measures of short and long cortical inhibition did not change after training programme (all ps ≥ 0.29). Pre-training administration of tDCS only resulted in greater neuromuscular adaptations following 3-weeks of resistance training. These results provide new evidence that tDCS facilitates adaptations to resistance training in healthy individuals.

Influence of rubber aggregates from the recycled tires on the physico-mechanical and durability properties of compressed earth blocks

To meet sustainable development goals, global policies are strongly oriented toward valorizing alternative resources such as local materials and waste from different sectors of activity. This study aims to evaluate the influence of adding rubber aggregates from used/recycled tires (GPU) on the physico-mechanical and durability properties of compressed earth bricks (CEB). The CEB were made with an earthen matrix containing 8% cement, and 0 to 2% mass of GPU. The CEB were cured under ambient conditions (30±5°C) for 28 days. The results showed a real improvement in physical and mechanical performance and durability indicators of CEB with increasing GPU content. The apparent density changed slightly from 1697 kg/m3 to 1733 kg/m3. Total water absorption decreased from 21% to 19% with a slight decrease in water-accessible porosity from 35.7% to 33.1%. The capillary absorption coefficient at 10 minutes also decreased from 14 g/cm2.min1/2 to 10 g/cm2.min1/2 The increase of 29% was noted on the compressive strength in the dry state ranging from 3.5 to 4.5 MPa and of 60% on the compressive strength in the wet state ranging from 1.1 MPa to 1.7 MPa. This resulted in the improvement of the structural efficiency coefficient by 27% ranging from 2080 to 2651 Pa.m3/kg. Abrasion resistance coefficient increased more than 50% ranging from 10.8 to 16.9 cm2/g. By comparing the results to the normative references, the CEB containing GPU can be classified as CEB usable in load-bearing walls in a dry environment and resistant to abrasion.

Comparison Between Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty on Short-Term Performance-Based Outcomes and Factors Associated with the Improvement of Gait Function During Post-Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation

Background: Data on the differences in functional recovery between inpatient rehabilitation for total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are lacking, and the factors influencing the improvement of short-term functional mobility remain unknown. In this study, we compared the short-term functional outcomes of both procedures and identified early postoperative predictors of physical function gain during post-acute rehabilitation. Methods: A total of 435 patients who underwent THA and TKA were included. The main outcomes were knee extension strength, the motor component of the Functional Independence Measure, Numerical Rating Scale, 10 Meter Walk Test, Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and the Berg Balance Scale. The recovery process and rehabilitation outcomes were compared between patients with THA and TKA. Additionally, predictors related to physical performance improvement were examined for each procedure. Results: Patients with THA and TKA achieved significant short-term functional recovery after multidisciplinary rehabilitation (time; p &lt; 0.001). However, the pain score was higher at discharge in patients with TKA (p &lt; 0.001). Age (β: −0.264, p = 0.009) and TUG test (β: −0.884, p &lt; 0.001) in THA, and non-operated knee extension strength (β: 0.234, p = 0.016) and TUG test (β: −0.783, p &lt; 0.001) in TKA were significant early postoperative predictors of functional mobility. Conclusions: Multidisciplinary rehabilitation was beneficial for functional improvement in patients with THA and TKA despite persistent pain at discharge after TKA. Baseline functional levels in both groups and non-operated knee extension strength in TKA can be useful performance-based predictors of short-term gait function improvement.

Post-Lunch Napping as a Strategy to Enhance Physiological Performance and Cognitive Function in Elite Volleyball Players

Background and Objectives: Volleyball demands high levels of anaerobic strength, flexibility, agility, and mental focus. Adequate sleep has been shown to enhance athletic performance and cognitive function. This study investigates the impact of post-lunch naps of varying durations (25 and 45 min) on the physiological performance and cognitive focus of elite volleyball players. Materials and Methods: Sixteen elite volleyball players (8 male, 8 female) with at least 7 years of competitive experience participated in a randomized crossover study. They underwent three experimental conditions: no nap (No-Nap), a 25-min nap (N25), and a 45-min nap (N45). Physical performance was measured through counter-movement jumps (CMJ) and volleyball agility tests, while cognitive function was assessed using the D2 attention test. Statistical analysis included repeated measures ANOVA to examine the differences between nap conditions and gender-specific responses. Results: Significant improvements in both physical performance and cognitive focus were observed in the N25 and N45 conditions compared to the No-Nap condition (indicating the effectiveness of short naps in enhancing both physical and mental performance). Males outperformed females in most physical metrics, while females scored higher on the D2 attention test (suggesting possible gender-specific responses to napping). The 25-min nap showed slightly better results in terms of sleep quality and subsequent performance (confirming that shorter naps may be more beneficial). Conclusions: Post-lunch naps, especially of 25 or 45 min, enhance both physiological and cognitive performance in elite volleyball players. These findings suggest that integrating short naps into athletes’ training regimens can improve performance and focus, with potential gender-specific benefits. Further research is needed to explore long-term effects and variations across other sports.

The effect of neurofeedback and somatosensory exercises on balance and physical performance of older adults: a parallel single-blinded randomized controlled trial

This study examines the effects of a 5-week program of neurofeedback combined with somatosensory exercises on balance and physical performance in older adults, with the goal of addressing age-related declines in sensory processing and motor function. Sixty older adult men with balance disorders were randomly assigned to one of three groups: neurofeedback combined with somatosensory training, somatosensory training alone, or a control group. The interventions were administered over 5 weeks, with participants attending three sessions per week. Assessments were conducted both before and after the intervention period, including measurements of static balance using the Stork test, dynamic balance using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and physical performance using the Continuous Scale Physical Functional Performance-10 (CS-PFP-10) test. The findings revealed significant improvements in balance and physical performance among participants who received either neurofeedback combined with somatosensory training or somatosensory training alone. Specifically, the Stork test (with both open and closed eyes) showed significant increases in duration, while the TUG test indicated reductions in completion times for both intervention groups (p = 0.001), suggesting enhanced balance and mobility. Additionally, the CS-PFP-10 test results demonstrated a significant difference following the interventions (p = 0.001). These findings suggest that incorporating neurofeedback training into somatosensory exercises may provide additional benefits for older adults in improving balance and mobility.

Effect of septoplasty on physical performance

The nasal septum is a key component of the nasal structure, affecting proper airflow and providing support for the nasal structures. A deviated septum (DSN) can lead to breathing disorders, impaired nasal patency, recurrent nosebleeds, olfactory disorders and frequent upper respiratory tract infections. In competitive sports, where ventilation performance is critical, septal deviation can adversely affect athletic performance. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of septoplasty on patients' physical performance. Methodes This article is based on the available literature found in the Google Scholar, PubMed database with the use of key words such as ,,septoplasty'', ,,nasal septal deviation'', ,,septoplasty quality of life'', ,,nasal septal deviation athletes'', ,,septoplasty sport'', ,,nasal obstruction sport''. Results Conducted studies show that surgical correction of a deviated nasal septum improves physical performance as well as respiratory and cardiovascular functions. Restoring proper airflow through the nose after surgery leads to a noticeable improvement in physical performance, highlighting the significance of septoplasty in enhancing patient comfort and improving athletic outcomes.

Basketball-Based Physical Education on Students’ Physical Fitness in a Selected Technical Vocational College, Fujian, China

The role of basketball-based physical education in enhancing students' physical fitness has been extensively documented, with numerous studies highlighting its benefits. In China, where sports and physical education are integral components of the educational curriculum, the importance of understanding the specific impacts of basketball-based physical education cannot be overstated. This study focuses on the technical vocational college setting in Fujian, China, aiming to fill a crucial research gap and address the need for tailored physical education programs. Basketball has been widely promoted and accepted in major universities across China, garnering broad support from both students and faculty. Wang (2024) emphasizes that with its increasing incorporation into university physical education programs, basketball significantly impacts students' physical fitness and athletic abilities. The current educational reforms in China necessitate the continual optimization of teaching methods and approaches to establish a solid foundation for the physical and mental development of students. Sui (2024) explores the impact of community basketball programs on high school students' physical and mental health in Guangzhou, highlighting improvements in physical fitness, social skills, and mental well-being. This study underscores the broader benefits of basketball beyond mere physical health, emphasizing its role in fostering social interaction and emotional resilience. Additionally, Shao et al. (2022) examine the individual characteristics of physical and mental development and their connection with regular physical exercises when playing basketball. Their findings suggest that basketball enhances motor fitness, moral, volitional, and mental qualities, as well as creativity and decision-making skills in rapidly changing circumstances. This holistic development is crucial for students, particularly in a competitive and fast-paced society like China. Butenko (2023) presents the effectiveness of a comprehensive use of sports games, including basketball, during extracurricular activities for high school students. The study found significant improvements in physical performance, physical qualities, and health indicators, demonstrating the high potential of integrating sports games into physical education programs to enhance students' overall fitness and health. As a teacher and coach in a technical vocational college in Fujian, China, the researcher has observed the transformative impact of sports, particularly basketball, on students' lives. Professional experience has shown that students engaged in basketball not only develop better physical fitness but also exhibit improved teamwork, leadership skills, and emotional resilience. These observations have fueled the researcher's passion for integrating basketball into the physical education curriculum and inspired a systematic exploration of its broader impacts. The researcher's personal motivation stems from a deep-seated belief in the power of sports to shape character and foster holistic development. Having been a basketball player, the researcher has experienced the discipline, dedication, and camaraderie that the sport instills. These values are essential for students, especially those in technical vocational education, as they prepare for their future careers and personal lives. Despite the known benefits of basketball-based physical education, there is a significant gap in research specifically targeting technical vocational colleges in China. Most existing studies focus on general high school or university settings, leaving a void in understanding how basketball impacts students in technical vocational education, who may have different needs and challenges. This study addresses this gap by focusing on a technical vocational college in Fujian, China. It aims to provide evidence-based insights into how basketball-based physical education influences various aspects of students' physical fitness, including physical attributes development, motor skills enhancement, cardiovascular fitness, strength and power development, flexibility and agility, coordination and balance, mental and emotional benefits, social interaction and teamwork, skill development and performance, and health and fitness awareness. By filling this research gap, the study seeks to inform policy and practice in physical education, providing valuable recommendations for optimizing physical education programs to enhance the health and fitness outcomes of vocational students.

Development of an artificial intelligence-enabled non-invasive digital stethoscope for monitoring the heart condition of athletes in real-time

This study investigates the efficacy of AI-enabled digital stethoscopes in enhancing physical performance, increasing student engagement and motivation, and improving psychological well-being among physical culture students. The experimental design involved two groups of 40 students each: the experimental group used AI-enabled stethoscopes for real-time cardiovascular monitoring, while the control group relied on traditional heart rate monitoring methods. The results indicated significant improvements in physical performance, engagement, and psychological well-being for the experimental group. Real-time monitoring facilitated personalized training adjustments, optimizing training loads and preventing overexertion, leading to superior performance outcomes. Additionally, the use of innovative monitoring tools significantly increased student motivation and engagement in physical culture classes, as reflected in higher attendance rates and more enthusiastic participation. Psychological assessments revealed that continuous health monitoring reduced anxiety levels and enhanced overall mental well-being, providing students with a sense of security and proactive health management. These findings underscore the transformative potential of integrating advanced monitoring technologies into physical education and rehabilitation programs, offering precise, real-time data that supports individualized and responsive interventions. The study concludes with a call for further research to explore the long-term impacts and broader applications of AI-enabled health monitoring tools in diverse educational and clinical settings, aiming to maximize their benefits and improve overall student and patient outcomes. Keywords: Sports therapy, Physical culture education, Health monitoring technology, Personalized training, Student engagement, Real-time cardiovascular monitoring, AI-enabled stethoscope.

Effects of self-perception of aging interventions in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background and Objectives Self-perception of aging (SPA) is associated with various health outcomes in the aging process. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review of existing interventions targeting SPA among older adults, and to synthesize their effects on self-perception of aging, physical performance, and mental health. Research Design and Methods A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, CENTRAL, CNKI, SinoMed, VIP, and WanFang databases for randomized controlled trials that reported intervention effects on self-perception of aging, physical performance, and mental health in older adults. Two researchers independently conducted study selection, data extraction and quality assessment. Results A total of 16 studies were included for qualitative analysis, and 12 studies of them were included for meta-analysis. The results showed a significant impact of interventions on self-perception of aging, with the effect size of -0.56 (95% CI -1.06 to -0.07, P=0.03). And the results also supported a significant improvement in physical performance and mental health among older adults. Discussion and Implications Self-perception of aging interventions present a promising approach to enhance positive aging perception for older adults, with potential benefits extending to physical performance and mental health. However, larger-scale and more robust trials are still required to validate these findings and obtain more accurate conclusions.

Which intervention is optimal to control blood glucose and improve physical performance in the elderly living with type 2 diabetes mellitus? A network meta-analysis.

This study aimed to find the optimal intervention available to both control blood glucose and improve physical function in the geriatric population with T2DM. A systemic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) was conducted to assess and rank the comparative efficacy of different interventions on glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbAc1), fasting blood glucose (FBG), muscle mass, grip strength, gait speed, lower body muscle strength, and dynamic balance. A total of eight databases were searched for eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that the elderly aged more than 60 years or with mean age ≥ 55 years, the minimal duration of the RCT intervention was 6 weeks, and those lacking data about glycemic level and at least one indicator of physical performance were excluded. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to assess the bias of each study included. Bayesian NMA was performed as the main results, the Bayesian meta regression and the frequentist NMA as sensitivity analysis. Of the 2266 literature retrieved, 27 RCTs with a total of 2289 older adults were included. Health management provided by health workers exerts beneficial effects that is superior to other interventions at achieving glycemic control, but less marked improvement in physical performance. Exercise combined with cognitive training showed more pronounced improvement in muscle strength, gait speed, and dynamic balance, but ranked behind in decreasing the HbAc1 and FBG. Personalized health management combined with physical and cognitive training might be the optimal intervention to both accomplish glycemic control and improvement of physical performance. Further RCTs are needed to validate and assess the confidence of our results from this NMA.

Which Variables Are Associated with the Magnitude of the Physical Fitness Response in Older Adults? An Analysis of Their Development and Influence.

Regular physical exercise has proven to be an effective strategy for enhancing the health and well-being of older adults. However, there are still gaps in our understanding of the impacts of exercise on older adults with different health conditions, as well as in the customization of training programs according to individual capabilities. This study aimed to analyze the variables that influence the response of physical capabilities in older adults, considering their development over the aging process, with the goal of assisting professionals in creating personalized training programs. To achieve this, we conducted a cohort study involving 562 previously inactive adults and older adults who underwent anthropometric assessments, blood pressure measurements, and comprehensive physical tests. These assessments were conducted before and after a 14-week training program. Results indicated no significant variations in variables such as waist circumference (p = 0.0455, effect size = 0.10), body mass index (p = 0.0215, effect size = 0.15), systolic (p < 0.0001, effect size = 0.35) and diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.0001, effect size = 0.25) pre- and post-intervention. Strength tests, agility, the 6 min walk test (6MWT), and the back scratch test (BS) showed significant improvements post-intervention, with p-values all below 0.0001 and effect sizes ranging from 0.30 to 0.50. Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that lower initial values in physical capabilities were associated with more significant improvements during training (R2 = 0.73, p < 0.001). These results underscore that individualized guidance in training can lead to clinically meaningful improvements in physical performance and health among older adults, with effect sizes indicating moderate-to-large benefits (effect size range = 0.30 to 0.50). Therefore, personalized training programs are essential to maximize health benefits in this population.

Sphingolipid and Trimethylamine-N-Oxide (TMAO) Levels in Women with Obesity after Combined Physical Training.

Obesity causes metabolic changes, such as the development of cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, physical exercise promotes protection against these diseases. Thus, the objective of the present study was to evaluate whether combined physical training can improve the metabolic system of women with obesity, reducing plasma concentrations of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and sphingolipids, regardless of weight loss. Fourteen obese women (BMI 30-40 kg/m2), aged 20-40 years, sedentary, were submitted to 8 weeks of combined physical training (strength and aerobic exercises). The training was performed three times/week, 55 min/session, at 75-90% maximum heart rate. All participants were evaluated pre- and post-exercise intervention, and their body composition, plasma TMAO, creatinine, lipid profile, and sphingolipid concentrations were recorded. Maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), Speed lactate threshold 1 (SpeedLT1), and Speed lactate threshold 2 (SpeedLT2) evaluated physical performance. Results: After combined exercise, it did not change body composition, but TMAO, total cholesterol, and sphingolipid concentrations significantly decreased (p < 0.05). There was an increase in physical performance by improving VO2max, SpeedLT1, and SpeedLT2 (p < 0.05). The combined physical exercise could induce cardiovascular risk protection by decreasing TMAO in obese women, parallel to physical performance improvement, independent of weight loss.

Changes in Physical Fitness in Youth Padel Players during One Season: A Cohort Study.

The aim of this study was to investigate how physical fitness performance, which is related to the strength and power of the lower extremities and core, as well as lateral agility, changes across 20 weeks of in-season training in youth female and male padel players. This study was conducted using a prospective cohort design on 16 Swedish high school padel players aged between 15 and 18 years old. The players were assessed at baseline with five tests of their physical fitness and followed prospectively, with the registration of their training load for 20 weeks, and then assessed at a follow-up, approximately five months later. The players increased their performance in all tests (p ≤ 0.02). The mean improvement in their Isometric squat test performance was 20% for peak force, 18% for relative strength value and 69% for average rate of force development. Their improvement in the squat jump test performance was 9%, whereas the improvement in their countermovement jump test was 6%. For the 30 second sit-up test, an improvement of 14% was observed. Improvements were also noted for the 30 second side hop test performance on both the right (9%) and left leg (11%). The effect size ranged from 0.31 to 1, respectively, for the tests, representing a small to large effect. The data from this study suggest that an improvement in physical fitness performance can be obtained during 20 weeks of padel training.

ENGLISH

This study investigates the impact of Guanidinoacetic Acid (GAA) supplementation in basketball, a high-intensity sport requiring optimal nutrition and recovery strategies. Ergogenic aids like Creatine (CRM) are common, but GAA, a creatine precursor, may be more beneficial. Involving 31 semi-professional male and female players, the study compared GAA, CRM, and placebo groups. Results showed significant physical performance improvements in females using GAA, particularly in Counter Movement Jump (CMJ) and Handgrip (HG). Male GAA users showed CMJ improvements, while CRM enhanced cognitive functions in males. The study suggests GAA’s potential in enhancing physical performance, especially in women, and highlights the need for further research on GAA and CRM effects, considering gender differences.

Evaluating the feasibility and acceptability of a co-designed physical activity intervention for rural middle schoolers: a pilot study

BackgroundLack of physical activity is a concern for children across diverse backgrounds, particularly affecting those in rural areas who face distinct challenges compared to their urban counterparts. Community-derived interventions are needed that consider the unique context and additional physical activity barriers in under-resourced rural settings. Therefore, a prospective pre-post pilot/feasibility study of Hoosier Sport was conducted over 8-weeks with 6th and 7th grade children in a low-socioeconomic rural middle school setting. The primary objective of the present study was to assess trial- and intervention-related feasibility indicators; and the secondary objective was to collect preliminary assessment data for physical activity levels, fitness, psychological needs satisfaction, and knowledge of physical activity and nutrition among participating youth.MethodsThis prospective 8-week pilot/feasibility study took place in the rural Midwestern United States where twenty-four middle school students participated in a mixed-methods pre-post intervention during physical education classes. The intervention included elements like sport-based youth development, individualized goal setting, physical activity monitoring, pedometer usage, and health education. Data were collected at baseline (T1) and post-intervention (T3), with intermediate measures during the intervention (T2). Qualitative data were integrated through semi-structured interviews. Analytical methods encompassed descriptive statistics, correlations, repeated measures ANOVA, and thematic analysis.ResultsKey findings indicate robust feasibility, with intervention-related scores (FIM, AIM, and IAM) consistently surpassing the “good” threshold and 100% retention and recruitment success. Additionally, participants showed significant physical performance improvement, shifting from the 25th to the 50th percentile in the 6-minute walk test (p < 0.05). Autonomy and competence remained high, reflecting positive perceptions of program practicality. Nutrition knowledge, initially low, significantly improved at post-intervention (p < 0.01), highlighting the efficacy of targeted nutritional education in Hoosier Sport.ConclusionsThis study pioneers a community-engaged model for physical activity intervention in under-resourced rural settings. Positive participant feedback, coupled with improvements in physical fitness and psychosocial factors, highlights the potential of the co-design approach. The findings offer valuable insights and a practical template for future community-based research, signaling the promising impact of such interventions on holistic well-being. This research lays the foundation for subsequent phases of the ORBIT model, emphasizing collaborative, community-driven approaches to address the complex issue of declining physical activity levels among adolescents.

The impact of gas transfer on responses to exercise training in patients with pulmonary hypertension.

Exercise training is recommended for pulmonary hypertension (PH). Post hoc analysis of the PH and Home-Based (PHAHB) trial stratified patients into two groups based on median diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO). Patients with higher DLCO had a greater improvement in physical activity performance in response to exercise training, compared to those with lower DLCO. DLCO may be an important consideration in prescribing exercise in PH.

Evaluating the Role of Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Synbiotics Supplementation in Age-related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Older Adults: A Systematic Review.

The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate musculoskeletal changes in response to prebiotics, probiotics, or synbiotics supplementation in older adults or in animal models of aging musculoskeletal disorders. A comprehensive search was conducted on electronic databases, including PubMed/Medline, Cochrane, and Web of Science until April 2024. The quality assessment of clinical trials was conducted using the Cochrane Collaboration tool and for animal studies, the SYRCLE's tool was used. Our literature search resulted in 652 studies. After removing duplicates and screening the articles based on their titles and abstracts, we assessed the full text of 112 articles, which yielded 20 clinical trials and 30 animal studies in our systematic review. Most of human and animal studies reported an improvement in physical performance, a decrease in frailty index, and a lower reduction in bone mineral density in the intervention groups. Body composition tends to increase in muscle ratio, muscle mass, and reduce in appendicular lean mass and muscle atrophy. Also, the intervention induced bone turnover and mineral absorption, significantly increasing Ca, P, and Mg absorption and short-chain fatty acid concentration. Additionally, levels of inflammatory markers such as IL1, IL6, IL17, T helper 17, and TNF-α exhibited a decreasing trend, while an increase in IL10 and IFN-γ was observed. Prebiotics, probiotics, or synbiotics supplementations could effectively improve the physical performance and muscle strength and reduce the risk of bone loss and frailty in the elderly.

#899 The effect of exercise training on microRNAs in patients undergoing hemodialysis

Abstract Background and Aims Physical inactivity is a risk factor for mortality and morbidity in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). Therefore, physical exercise (PE) is recommended as part of the management of HD patients. Although the benefits of PE for HD patients have been well documented in the literature, the pathophysiological mechanism still needs to be fully understood. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs) have come to light as potential mediators of PE's therapeutic effects in healthy individuals. Currently, no information is available about how PE affects the expression of miRNAs in HD patients, mainly for osteogenic differentiation, a critical process in forming vascular calcification. Therefore, this observational longitudinal study aims to assess the expression of miR-9 and miR-30b, two regulators of the osteogenic commitment from endothelial progenitor cells, in HD patients engaged in an interdialytic exercise program. Method Male HD patients aged between 50 and 80 could walk for at least six meters were enrolled. Exclusion criteria were uncorrected anemia, acute infectious disease, uncontrolled hyperparathyroidism, active oncologic disease, and severe cardio-respiratory, musculoskeletal, or neurological conditions inhibiting exercise training. Patients were engaged in a structured interdialytic program supervised by an exercise facilitator. Exercise training was performed at home or the dialysis centre based on the patient's needs and preferences. It consisted of a 10-minute session/day of low-intensity walking and/or resistance exercises. The speed was increased weekly and controlled with a metronome application on the patient's smartphone. The maximum distance covered evaluates the patients' physical performance, as measured by the 6-minute walking test (6MWT). It was assessed at baseline and the 6-month follow-up. Blood samples for miRNA analysis were collected during the short interdialytic period at baseline and at the 6-month follow-up. MiRNAs will be extracted from serum samples using the miRNeasy Serum/Plasma Advanced Kit. Statistical analysis will be performed using SPSS 21.0. The difference between the two groups was assessed using a t-test for paired data. P-values&amp;lt;0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results Patients’ characteristics at baseline are shown in Table 1. Five patients were enrolled in the study, three undergoing exercise training at the dialysis centre and two at home. At six months, miR-30b expression appeared significantly upregulated in all patients (p&amp;lt;0.03) (Fig. 1). At the same time, the upregulation of miR-9 did not reach significance (p = 0.07). In one patient, miR-9 was not detected (Fig. 2). The mean distance covered during the 6MWT did not improve at six months (255 ± 129 meters) compared to baseline (235 ± 118 meters) (p = 0.49). Conclusion Preliminary results of this longitudinal observational study show that miR-30b was upregulated in patients engaged in the exercise training period at the 6-month follow-up despite no improvement in physical performance. The upregulation of miR-30b levels can potentially reduce the dedifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells into an osteoblastic-like phenotype. At the end of our study, novel evidence concerning the potential effect of exercise training on miRNA expressions correlated to the vascular calcification process in HD patients will be available.

The effect of a suspension training on physical fitness, lower extremity biomechanical factors, and occupational health in Navy personnel: a randomized controlled trial

Optimal physical fitness is essential for military personnel to effectively meet their rigorous physical demands. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a suspension training program on physical fitness, biomechanical risk factors for lower extremity injury, mental health, and work-related factors in Navy personnel. A total of 50 young men participated in a randomized controlled trial. The participants were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 25): the intervention group and the control group. The intervention group performed an eight-week suspension training session three times per week, while the control group maintained their daily duties. The primary outcome was physical performance. The secondary outcomes were determined biomechanical risk factors for lower extremity injuries, mental health, and work-related factors. The data were analyzed using the analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Compared with the control group, the intervention group showed significant improvements in physical performance, biomechanical risk for lower extremity injuries, and work-related factors from baseline to follow-up (p ≤ 0.05). However, there was no improvement in mental health. Based on these findings, suspension training positively impacted physical fitness, reduced injury risk, and enhanced the work-related factors of Navy personnel. This study provides new insights for various related experts and military coaches because it is an easy-to-use and feasible method with minimal facilities.