Strength Levels Research Articles

Effect of double rocking jump rope training on lower limb muscle strength of badminton players.

Double rocking jump rope training can effectively enhance physical recovery, adaptability to exercise load, and lower limb muscle strength of badminton players in sports colleges, thus offering valuable insights for improving training methods in sports colleges and universities. To investigate the effect of double rocking jump rope training on the lower limb muscle strength of badminton players specializing in badminton in sports colleges. An experimental study was conducted through a ten-week teaching intervention experiment with badminton players. Relevant heart rate indexes and badminton related lower limb muscle strength indexes were measured before and after the experiment. The data of the measured relevant indexes were statistically and analytically analyzed. At the end of the experiment, the physical recovery level and the heart's adaptability to the exercise load of the control group were improved, and the lower limb muscle strength test indexes and sports performance were better than before the experiment. In the experimental group, badminton players' physical function, anaerobic metabolism of the body and other aspects also improved. The physical function of the experimental group of badminton players, the energy supply capacity of the body anaerobic metabolism and aerobic work capacity all have an enhancement effect, enabling badminton players to adapt to large exercise loads quickly and improve the recovery rate of physical fitness. The introduction of double rocking jump rope into badminton training classes in sports colleges and universities as a means of lower limb muscle strength training is conducive to improving the level of lower limb muscle strength of special badminton players, enriching the teaching and training means of lower limb muscle strength in sports colleges and universities, and broadening the research field of lower limb muscle strength in badminton in sports colleges and universities.

Physical fitness and body build parameters of children and adolescents participating in the physical activity promotion programme “Athletics for all!”

BackgroundThis study attempts to analyse physical fitness and basic anthropometric parameters of children and adolescents participating in the nationwide physical activity promotion programme “Athletics for All!” (AFA). The programme aims to establish a national system for diagnosing, selecting, recruiting, and identifying talents in youth training. It also aims to build a career development path for athletics, forming the basis of a new structure for youth training in Poland. The primary goal of this study was to assess physical fitness of AFA participants over the years of its implementation (2015–2022) and to identify the leading motor ability with consideration for age, gender, and body build parameters determined with Body Mass Index and Ponderal Index.MethodsNationwide measurements of basic anthropometric parameters as well as physical fitness tests were conducted among 31,790 girls (F) and 22,260 boys (M) participating in the AFA programme. Physical fitness assessments were performed using the OSF test (3 × 10 m shuttle run, standing broad jump, 1 kg medicine ball throw, 4-minute run). Comparative analysis of OSF test results, considering gender, was conducted using the independent samples T-test. The strength and direction of correlations between variables were calculated using the rho-Spearman coefficient.ResultsOSF test results were converted into points, considering age and gender. Gender was found to be a significantly differentiating factor in physical fitness of AFA participants. Among twelve- and fifteen-year-olds, statistically significant differences were observed in all analysed variables, i.e. in each of the four tests and the overall score. It was noted that the examined girls aged 11 to 17 exhibited higher levels of strength compared to their male counterparts. Statistical analysis revealed significant correlations between OSF test results and the age and body build indicators, with the strength of the correlations being negligible in most cases.ConclusionsParticipants of the nationwide programme “Athletics for All!” demonstrate a high level of physical fitness, with endurance being a fundamental motor ability. Physical fitness levels show significant correlations with the anthropometric parameters of children and adolescents. The study results confirm the need and justification for implementing physical activity promotion programmes for the younger generation.

Strength gradient in impact-induced metallic bonding

Solid-state bonding can form when metallic microparticles impact metallic substrates at supersonic velocities. While the conditions necessary for impact-induced metallic bonding are relatively well understood, the properties emerging at the bonded interfaces remain elusive. Here, we use in situ microparticle impact experiments followed by site-specific micromechanical measurements to study the interfacial strength across bonded interfaces. We reveal a gradient of bond strength starting with a weak bonding near the impact center, followed by a rapid twofold rise to a peak strength significantly higher than the yield strength of the bulk material, and eventually, a plateau covering a large portion of the interface towards the periphery. We show that the form of the native oxide at the bonded interface—whether layers, particles, or debris—dictates the level of bond strength. We formulate a predictive framework for impact-induced bond strength based on the evolution of the contact pressure and surface exposure.

INFLUENCE OF POPLITEUS MUSCLE MANIPULATION AND QUADRICEPS STRENGTHENING ON ANTERIOR KNEE PAIN IN RUNNERS

Background: Anterior knee pain is prevalent among young athletes, with sports-related injuries accounting for 25–30% of cases. Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) contributes to up to 40% of knee disorders, with annual prevalence rates reported at 22.7% in the general population and 28.9% in adolescents. Among runners, the incidence of PFPS ranges from 37% to 56%. Objective: The popliteus muscle is primarily associated with anterior knee pain but may also influence posterior knee discomfort. This study aims to investigate the effects of soft tissue manipulation of the popliteus muscle combined with quadriceps strengthening exercises on anterior knee pain in athletic runners, addressing a gap in the literature regarding the interaction between these muscle groups. Methods: In this experimental study, 30 subjects with non-traumatic anterior knee pain were recruited. Baseline assessments included quadriceps strength and pain levels. Participants then underwent six sessions of popliteus manipulation alongside quadriceps strengthening exercises. Post-intervention, all parameters were reassessed. Results: A significant reduction in knee pain (P < 0.005) was observed after the six-week intervention, with more pronounced improvements in Group A compared to Group B. Conclusion: The results suggest that incorporating popliteus soft tissue manipulation can effectively reduce anterior knee pain while strengthening the quadriceps enhances muscle function. These findings support the integration of popliteus manipulation into treatment protocols for athletes experiencing anterior knee pain.

Do fear-of-COVID-19 and regional identity matter for the linkage between perceived CSR and brand evangelism? A comparative analysis in South Asia

PurposeThere is a dearth of evidence on how and when perceived corporate social responsibility (PCSR) contributes to brand evangelism in the consumer behavioural literature, especially during a pandemic situation. In an attempt to examine this phenomenon, this study investigates the effect of fear-of-COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019) and regional identity on PCSR and brand evangelism effect in the South Asian retail context. It theorises linkages mainly from behavioural inhabitation system theory and social identity theory.Design/methodology/approachA survey was administered to a representative sample of 2,242 retail consumers representing Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan and India.FindingsThe results revealed a positive impact of PCSR on brand evangelism, but interestingly varying levels of strength of the key relationships based on country-wise fear-of-COVID-19 and regional identity during the pandemic.Practical implicationsFor the first time, the results of this research shed light on incorporating consumers’ regional identity as well as consumer fear as cultural predictors for better explaining the PCSR and brand evangelism link of nations within a region. This has implications for both theory and practice in the domain of consumer behaviour.Originality/valueThe study reflects its originality by revealing the relevance of country level social identity and negative emotions of nations that can manipulate the business results of corporate ethical responsiveness from a consumer culture theory perspective, especially during and just after a crisis. These results underlie what is active inside consumer black box by explaining as to what external stimuli drive consumer collective and moral mind set in a given culture. This adds to the body of knowledge on ethical consumption behaviour more specific to consumer–brand interaction in market crises.

5G Analysis using Wi-Fi Analyzer Application

In the current cellular communication,5G connection is the most popular way to connect people together for real-time communication and data transmission. In order to improve the quality of service, researchers are studying the data generated from cellular communication systems to predict user. For the research analysis, Wi-Fi Analyzer applications that can measure parameters related to cellular communication and has been used as a measurement tool. The application shows the available signal networks in the nearby area together with the signal strength level. At the end of the research, it is concluded that the networks give good connection for the users

Clinical and radiological results of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with or without lateralization as revision procedure for failed arthroplasty

BackgroundAs reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) becomes a common treatment option in the revision setting, common problems associated with Grammont’s design such as scapular notching, instability, and rotator cuff weakening occur. Design changes associated with superior outcomes in primary rTSA, such as glenoid or humeral lateralization have not yet been examined in the revision settings. The purpose of this consecutive series of revision rTSA is to evaluate the clinical and radiological short-term results after aseptic and septic revision rTSA and explore potential benefits of metallic glenoid and humerus lateralization. MethodsIn this study, patients treated with a rTSA between 2014 and 2020 after failed shoulder arthroplasty were included. Fifty-nine consecutive patients were divided into comparative groups using lateralized rTSA with metallic baseplate augmentation (latrTSA) and additional humeral lateralization using a 145° onlay curved stem (bi-latrTSA); or no baseplate offset with a Grammont-type 155° stem (non-latrTSA). Further, outcome of post-infection revision rTSAs was compared to aseptic loosening. Constant-Murley-Score (CS), Subjective-Shoulder-Value (SSV), shoulder range of motion (ROM) including Apley’s scratch test, abduction strength and pain levels were assessed. Radiographs were reviewed for implant loosening, scapular notching, fractures and osteolysis. Lateralization (LSA) and Distalization Shoulder Angle (DSA) were measured at final follow-up. ResultsThirty-eight patients showed significant improvement in all functional measurements at final two-year follow-up compared to baseline (p<0.01). There were no significant differences in favor of glenoid or bipolar lateralization. However, no scapular notching was seen in patients with both humeral and glenoid lateraliazion (non-latrTSA: 33%; latrTSA: 8%; bi-latrTSA: 0%; p=0.103), with no signs of implant loosening. Patients with bi-latrTSA showed significantly greater LSA (p=0.017); DSA was lower, but not significantly (p=0.230). Post-infectious rTSA (n=17; 45%) presented better internal rotation (p=0.036). The overall complication rate was 16% and 8% leading to revision. ConclusionRTSA is a viable option for revision cases and presents good results after failed shoulder arthroplasty, including the infected shoulder. The effect of metallic augmentation on clinical results is not comparable to those in literature in primary rTSA setting due to advanced preoperative medialization. However, scapular notching was prevented in all cases with bipolar lateralization.

A Comparison between Severity-dependent Protocol and Fixed Dose Regimen of Oral Vitamin D Supplementation on Correction of Hypovitaminosis D among Dialysis Patients

Low vitamin D status is associated with either low muscle mass or impaired muscle function in dialysis patients. However, there is no consensus on how best to correct hypovitaminosis D, defined as serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] level <30 ng/mL, in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). This study investigated the effect of different vitamin D supplementation regimens on sarcopenia outcomes in dialysis patients. This was a prospective randomized controlled trial. ESKD patients treated with maintenance hemodialysis (HD) or peritoneal dialysis (PD) with low vitamin D status on a ratio of 1:1, randomized to either receive oral ergocalciferol utilizing a severity-dependent treatment protocol for low vitamin D status suggested by the K/DOQI as a control group, or a fixed-dose regimen of 20,000 international units (IU)/week. The changes in muscle mass were measured by bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS), muscle strength was assessed by a hand grip dynamometer, physical performance was determined by gait speed, and muscle-related biomarkers were examined. A total of 76 dialysis patients were randomized (HD=43.4%). Baseline characteristics, including age, dialysis vintage, and muscle parameters were similar. After supplementation, the average serum 25(OH)D levels in the severity-dependent and fixed-dose groups were significantly elevated from 14.5±7.3 to 27.2±13.2 ng/mL, p<0.001 and from 15.1±6.4 to 28.8±11.5 ng/mL, p<0.001, respectively, and did not differ between groups at six months (p=0.60). Despite comparable energy and protein intake, the mean BIS-derived total-body muscle mass normalized to height squared was significantly increased at six months in the fixed-dose group (14.5±3.3 to 15.3±3.0 kg/m2, p=0.03) compared with the severity-dependent protocol (13.5±2.7 to 13.7±2.9 kg/m2, p=0.58). In the subgroup analysis, muscle mass improvement was statistically elevated in PD patients (p=0.01) while unaltered among HD patients (p=0.88) in the fixed-dose group. Muscle strength, gait speed, and serum insulin-like growth factor-1 level, as the mediators of muscle cell growth, were not different between the two groups at six months (p>0.05). Neither hypercalcemia nor hyperphosphatemia was found throughout the study. A fixed-dose ergocalciferol supplementation demonstrates similar performance in the correction of low vitamin D status but better muscle mass improvement than a severity-dependent protocol among ESKD patients. Regular dosing intervals of weekly vitamin D supplementation appear to be a promising treatment for sarcopenia among patients undergoing dialysis.

Low handgrip strength as a marker of severity in the diagnostic criteria for cancer cachexia

Background & AimsThe diagnostic criteria for cachexia, as proposed by the Asian Working Group for Cachexia (AWGC), include weight loss, a low body mass index, and additional factors such as a low handgrip strength (HGS), anorexia, or elevated CRP levels. This study aimed to evaluate the significance of low HGS as a diagnostic criterion in patients with advanced cancer. MethodsThis single-centre, retrospective cohort study was conducted between April 2019 and March 2023. Patients aged ≥18 years with malignant diseases were included. Patients without records on HGS were excluded. Low HGS was defined as a HGS <28 kg for men and <18 kg for women. The overall median survival time (MST) was analysed by univariate and multivariate analyses. ResultsA total of 894 patients were analysed. Cachexia was prevalent in 74%, though only 3.4% were diagnosed based solely on low HGS. The MST in patients with cachexia was 122 days, and in those with low HGS was 73 days. The associations between low HGS and high mortality remained significant after adjusting for AWGC criteria, modified weight loss grading system, age, gender, performance status, calf circumferenceand fluid retention. The MST varied with the number of additional factors being met: 422 days for one criterion, 92 days for two, and 55 days for all three (p <0.0001). ConclusionThis study supports that HGS serve as important prognostic tool in patients with various cancers.

Load-Velocity Relationship in the Bulgarian Split-Squat Exercise.

Rabal-Pelay, J, Gutiérrez, H, Bascuas, P-J, Pareja-Blanco, F, and Marco-Contreras, LA. Load-velocity relationship in the Bulgarian split-squat exercise. J Strength Cond Res 38(11): 1849-1853, 2024-The objective of the current research was to analyze the load-velocity relationship in the Bulgarian split-squat (BSS) exercise and to compare these relationships between the dominant and nondominant legs. Twenty-one strength-trained men (age: 27.3 ± 7.3 years) performed a progressive loading test in the BSS exercise using a Smith machine for each leg. The protocol began with a load of 30 kg, incrementally adding 10 kg until the mean propulsive velocity (MPV) fell below 0.4 m·s -1 . At that point, 5 kg increments were employed, with a final addition of 2.5 kg for the last estimated attempt one-repetition maximum (1RM). A total of 324 lifts were analyzed. Subjects exhibited a relative strength ratio of 1.23 ± 0.10, a 1RM of 91.3 ± 14.2 kg, and a mean range of motion of 44.7 ± 3.7 cm. Polynomial regression analysis showed a robust relationship with an R2 value of 0.945 ( ρ ≤ 0.001) between the relative load (%1RM) and MPV. Despite the differences in 1RM between the dominant and nondominant legs, there were no significant differences in MPV at the %1RM between both legs. These findings suggest that training intensity can be prescribed via the MPV during the BSS exercise. Moreover, the load-velocity relationship is stable between limbs despite the potential differences in absolute strength levels.

Evaluation of the shear behavior of RC beams strengthened with prestressing BFRP grids

The shear behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened with prestressing basalt-fiber-reinforced polymer (BFRP) grids was experimentally evaluated. Parameters, including grid type, concrete strength, and prestress direction and level, were numerically investigated. Equations for the shear capacity of prestressing grid-strengthened beams were derived. The results showed that using BFRP grids with a 30 % prestress level increased the number of mid-span flexural cracks in the strengthened beam but reduced their length. Compared to the control beam, the load capacity under the serviceability limit state was enhanced by 48 %. The strain responses of the grids exhibited a linear stage followed by a nonlinear stage due to diagonal cracks. The maximum strains of longitudinal and transverse grid tendons in the prestressed strengthened beam decreased by 15 % and 30 %, respectively, compared to the non-prestressed beam. The BFRP grids showed a comparable strengthening effect to low-modulus carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer grids. Increasing concrete strength greatly improved the shear capacity of RC beams. The enhancement effect was greater for transverse tendons with a 30 % prestress level than for longitudinal tendons with a 60 % prestress level. The derived equation accurately predicted shear capacities in experiments or simulations within an error range from −4.7–1 %.

The Role of Al/Ti in Precipitate-Strengthened and Austenite-Toughened Co-Free Maraging Stainless Steel.

The strength of ultra-low carbon maraging stainless steels can be significantly enhanced by precipitating nanoscale intermetallic secondary phases. Retained or reversed austenite in the steel can improve its toughness, which is key to achieving an ideal combination of strength and toughness. Ti and Al are often used as cost-effective strengthening elements in maraging stainless steels but the synergistic toughening and strengthening mechanisms of Ti and Al have not been studied. To investigate the synergistic toughening and strengthening mechanisms of Ti and Al in Co-free maraging stainless steels, this paper focuses on the microstructure and mechanical properties of three alloys: Fe-12Cr-11Ni-1.7Al-0.5Ti (Steel A), Fe-12Cr-11Ni-0.5Ti (Steel B), and Fe-12Cr-11Ni-1.7Al (Steel C). The impact of Ti and Al on the microstructure and mechanical properties was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and thermodynamic simulations. The relationship between microstructure, strength, and toughness is also discussed. The results indicated that Steel A, containing both Al and Ti, exhibited the highest strength level after solution treatment at 900 °C, with an ultimate tensile strength reaching 1571 MPa after aging at 540 °C. This is attributed to the simultaneous precipitation of spherical β-NiAl and rod-shaped η-Ni3Ti phases. Steel B, with only Ti, formed a significant amount of Ni-rich reversed austenite during aging, reducing its ultimate tensile strength to 1096 MPa. Steel C, with only Al, showed a high strength-toughness combination, which was achieved by forming dispersive nano-sized intermetallic precipitates of β-NiAl in the martensitic matrix with a slight amount of austenite. It is highlighted that Al has superior toughening and strengthening effects compared to Ti in the alloy system.

Key effects on the structural behavior of fiber-reinforced lightweight concrete-ribbed slabs: A review

Abstract A concrete slab is one of the chief structural members in buildings, considered the most prominent member consuming concrete. Structural engineers are challenged to work on the new trend introduced using different slabs. One-way ribbed slabs are commonly used in construction due to their efficiency in spanning long distances while maintaining a low overall depth and giving the least possible number of columns. The main limitation of slab design in the construction of a reinforced concrete structure is the span between columns; a greater span between columns necessitates more supported beams or increased slab thickness; these requirements lead to an increase in the structure weight due to other concrete and steel which make the structure more costly. On the other hand, any increase in the structure’s self-weight limits the horizontal slab’s span, increases the structure’s stress, and raises the inertia forces that must be resisted. Lightweight aggregate concrete has been effectively utilized for structural applications for a long time. The density of lightweight concrete (LWC) is sometimes more essential than its strength in structural applications. The dead load is reduced for structural design and foundations when the density is lower for the same strength level. Reinforced concrete ribbed slabs have become increasingly popular in industry construction as an alternative to solid slabs in building structures. The incorporation of steel fibers facilitates flexural softening, which takes longer than sudden brittle failure, indicating its ability to increase energy absorption and improve crack behavior. Designing structures requires materials with higher strength-to-weight ratios. Ribs and LWCs are two leading sustainable assets. The world is moving toward sustainability by reducing the amount of concrete used and the overall weight of the unit. Studies have shown that the drop in compressive strength was about 4.85–65.55%. The structural performance of lightweight fiber-reinforced concrete slabs is influenced by the concrete mix ratio, fiber type and content, reinforcement detail, and rib geometry. The study provides valuable insights into the properties and performance of key effects on the structural behavior of fiber-reinforced LWC-ribbed slabs. It provides recommendations for future research and advancement of sustainable building methods.

Exploring the dynamics of alcohol use, poverty and the role of social context in Athens, Greece

Abstract Background A body of research conducted across diverse national context, including the United Kingdom, Russia, Denmark and Norway, shows a robust link between poverty and increased alcohol related harm, even after accounting for different drinking patterns. This paper examines the unexplored relationship between poverty and alcohol use in Athens, Greece, focusing on alcohol’s impact related to the familial and social life of individuals and whether this system is affected by poverty. Methods This is a 2021 cross-sectional study, with 300 adult participants of mean age 45.8. We administered four questionnaires. The participants were equally distributed above and below the poverty threshold, sampled randomly. The latter were beneficiaries of social services. The data analysis established two scoring variables: the level of dysfunction from alcohol use and the level of strength of family ties. We computed their correlation and multiple linear regressions to assess their relationships. Results Individuals not residing in poverty exhibit a higher frequency of alcohol use (81.9%) than their counterparts (57.1%), however, those living in poverty tend to consume greater quantities of alcohol per occasion (p &amp;lt; 0.001) and reported elevated levels of dysfunction within familial and social interactions. Conclusions This study indicates that different consumption patterns are tied to diverse socioeconomic strata, with binge drinking behaviours specifically linked to financial hardship. Also, alcohol related dysfunction and family and social dynamics are affected by poverty. Our findings show that as dysfunction attributed to alcohol use increases, participants socialize less and report lower levels of well-being. In contrast those with balanced family ties and social encounters exhibit the opposite trend. This study warrants further exploration in cities in Southern Europe. Key messages • To mitigate alcohol use, policies empowering social and familial connections are of high importance. • Uncovering poverty as a factor for binge drinking can inform prevention strategies.

Optimal Configuration Model for Large Capacity Synchronous Condenser Considering Transient Voltage Stability in Multiple UHV DC Receiving End Grids

In a multi-fed DC environment, the UHV DC recipient grid faces significant challenges related to DC phase shift failure and voltage instability due to the high AC/DC coupling strength and low system inertia level. While the new large-capacity synchronous condensers (SCs) can provide effective transient reactive power support, the associated investment and operation costs are high. Therefore, it is valuable to investigate the optimization of SC configuration at key nodes in the recipient grid in a scientific and rational manner. This study begins by qualitatively and quantitatively analyzing the dynamic characteristics of DC reactive power and induction motors under AC faults. The sub-transient and transient reactive power output model is established to describe the SC output characteristics, elucidating the coupling relationship between the SC’s reactive power output and the DC reactive power demand at different time scales. Subsequently, a critical stabilized voltage index for dynamic loads is defined, and the SC’s reactive power compensation target is quantitatively calculated across different time scales, revealing the impact of transient changes in DC reactive power on the transient voltage stability of the multi-fed DC environment with dynamic load integration. Finally, an optimal configuration model for the large-capacity SC is proposed under the critical stability constraint of dynamic loads to maximize the SC’s reactive power support capability at the lowest economic cost. The proposed model is validated in a multi-fed DC area, demonstrating that the optimal configuration scheme effectively addresses issues related to DC phase shift failures and voltage instability resulting from AC bus voltage drops.

Buckling behaviour of high-strength retrofitted steel sections manufactured through post heat-treatment processes

High-strength steel is increasingly popular in construction for its strength-to-weight ratio, which lowers the self-weight of structures and reduces transportation, erection, and foundation costs. Induction hardening (IH) process which involves rapid heating and cooling of the material leads to microstructural changes which enhance the hardness and strength of conventional steel, elevating it to the level of High Strength (HS) steel. This study reports an extensive investigation on the buckling response and design of IH post-treated structural steel Circular Hollow Sections (CHS). It includes tensile coupon tests, microstructural analyses, initial geometric imperfection measurements, and residual stress evaluations to determine the effects of IH treatment on CHS. Column buckling tests were conducted, and a numerical model was developed and validated against the experimental results which was utilised to study systematically the effect of imperfections. The findings suggest that the magnitude of the imperfections in IH steel sections doubled compared to the non-treated condition, whilst there was a minimal impact on the residual stresses. A comprehensive parametric study was performed using finite element models to study the structural response of IH steel CHS columns over a large range of global slendernesses and allow the assessment of the buckling curves specified in EN 1993–1–1. It was concluded that the buckling curve a (imperfection factor, α=0.21) specified in EN 1993–1–1 provides the best buckling load predictions for the IH steel CHS columns, the response of which is superior to that of their virgin counterparts, despite the increased imperfections caused by the heat-treating process.

A Study of Hypertension and Fitness of Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background/Objectives: Individuals with spinal cord injuries have a higher incidence of chronic conditions such as hypertension and cardiovascular diseases due to a sedentary lifestyle and low levels of physical activity caused by their disability. Additionally, their physical fitness levels are lower compared to those without disabilities. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between hypertension and the fitness of individuals with spinal cord injuries in South Korea while considering differences across sexes and spinal cord injury levels. Methods: This study used data for 835 individuals with spinal cord injuries aged 20-64 years who visited the Korea Paralympic Committee fitness standard test centers from 2018 to 2022, obtained from the Korea Culture Information Sports Association's big data market. The data were analyzed using a series of t-tests, a one-way analysis of variance, a logistic regression analysis, and the four-quartile method. Results: The prevalence of hypertension was 24.4%, and it was different according to the spinal cord injury impairment level. A lower grip strength, a lower arm curl, and a higher body mass index were associated with increased blood pressure. Conclusions: Therefore, a high level of physical strength in people with spinal cord injuries is thought to contribute to lowering blood pressure.

Graded association of muscle strength with all-cause and cause-specific mortality in older adults with diabetes: Prospective cohort study across 28 countries.

The worldwide prevalence of diabetes is increasing, particularly among older adults. Understanding the association between muscle strength and mortality in this population is crucial for developing targeted exercise recommendations. To assess the prospective association of muscle strength with mortality in older adults with diabetes. From the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) study, spanning 28 countries, we included 16 149 diabetic adults aged 50 years and older (mean age 68.2 [standard deviation, SD, 9.2] years). Participants fulfilled two criteria: (1) diabetes diagnosis (ever) and (2) current use of diabetes medication. Muscle strength was assessed using handgrip dynamometry (unit: kg). Using time-varying Cox regression with restricted cubic splines, we determined the prospective association of muscle strength with all-cause and cause-specific mortality, controlling for various confounders. Over a mean follow-up of 5.9 years (SD 3.8), 2754 participants died (17%). Using the median level of muscle strength as reference (30 kg), lower and higher levels were associated in a curvilinear fashion with higher and lower all-cause mortality risk, respectively. The 10th percentile of muscle strength (17 kg) showed a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.65 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.53-1.79). The 90th percentile (47 kg) of muscle strength showed a HR of 0.55 (95% CI 0.49-0.63). A somewhat similar pattern, with varying strength of associations, was seen for mortality due to cardiovascular disease (CVD), respiratory disease, severe infectious disease, digestive system disease and cancer. Muscle strength is gradually and inversely associated with all-cause and cause-specific mortality risk in older adults with diabetes. As muscle strength is highly adaptable to resistance training at all ages, the present findings highlight the importance of improving muscle strength in older adults with diabetes.

Identifying Factors for Predicting Postoperative Segmental Motor Paralysis in Patients Undergoing Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery: A Multicenter Study.

Retrospective cohort study. To investigate the incidence of and risk factors for segmental motor paralysis after anterior cervical spine surgery. Segmental motor paralysis is a potential complication following both anterior and posterior cervical decompression procedures; however, previous studies investigating risk factors for segmental motor paralysis after anterior cervical spine surgery were limited by small sample sizes. Consequently, the exact pathogenesis and risk factors for this complication remain poorly understood, highlighting the need for larger-scale investigations focused exclusively on anterior cervical spine surgeries. We retrospectively reviewed the clinico-demographic and operative factors and postoperative outcomes of 1,428 patients undergoing anterior cervical spine surgery at three spine centers in Japan. Postoperative segmental motor paralysis was defined as deterioration of upper extremity muscle strength by ≥1 grade; recovery was defined as a return to preoperative muscle strength levels. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors. Ninety-nine patients (6.9%) developed segmental motor paralysis, mostly involving the C5 segment (81.8%), the incidence being highest in patients with ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) and those undergoing anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion or hybrid fusion (discectomy + corpectomy). Older age, male sex, higher body mass index, OPLL, and cervical corpectomy were independent risk factors for paralysis, with these patients having significantly worse clinical outcomes at 1 year postoperatively. Most patients (74/99, 79.6%) regained preoperative muscle strength levels an final follow up. This study identified important clinico-demographic and operative risk factors for segmental motor paralysis after anterior cervical spine surgery. Patients undergoing corpectomy, with or without OPLL, were found to be at particularly high risk. While most patients recover well, worse outcomes with segmental motor paralysis highlight the importance of preventing this complication, particularly for OPLL patients and corpectomy procedures. III.

Association of Muscle Strength With All-Cause Mortality in the Oldest Old: Prospective Cohort Study From 28 Countries.

Ageing is associated with a gradual loss of muscle strength, which in the end may have consequences for survival. Whether muscle strength and mortality risk associate in a gradual or threshold-specific manner remains unclear. This study investigates the prospective association of muscle strength with all-cause mortality in the oldest old. We included 1890 adults aged ≥ 90 years (61.6% women, mean age 91.0 ± 1.5 years) from 27 European countries and Israel participating in the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) study. Muscle strength was assessed using handgrip dynamometry (unit: kilogram). Using time-varying Cox regression with restricted cubic splines, we determined the prospective association of muscle strength with mortality, controlling for age, sex, smoking, BMI, marital status, education, geographical region and self-perceived health. Over a mean follow-up of 4.2 ± 2.4 years, more than half of the participants died (n = 971, 51.4%). The mean handgrip strength was 20.4 ± 8.0 kg for all participants, with men (26.7 ± 7.5 kg) showing significantly higher strength than women (16.4 ± 5.4 kg) (p < 0.001). Using the median level of muscle strength as reference (18 kg), lower and higher levels were associated in a gradual and curvilinear fashion with higher and lower mortality risk, respectively. The 10th percentile of muscle strength (10 kg) showed a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.27 (95% CI 1.13-1.43, p < 0.001). The 90th percentile (31 kg) showed an HR of 0.69 (95% CI 0.58-0.82, p < 0.001). Stratified for sex, the median levels of muscle strength were 26 kg for men and 16 kg for women. The 10th percentile of muscle strength showed HRs of 1.33 (95% CI 1.10-1.61, p < 0.001) at 15 kg for men and 1.19 (95% CI 1.05-1.35, p < 0.01) at 10 kg for women. The 90th percentile of muscle strength showed HRs of 0.75 (95% CI 0.59-0.95, p < 0.01) at 35 kg for men and 0.75 (95% CI 0.62-0.90, p < 0.001) at 23 kg for women. Sensitivity analyses, which excluded individuals who died within the first 2 years of follow-up, confirmed the main findings. Rather than a specific threshold, muscle strength is gradually and inversely associated with mortality risk in the oldest old. As muscle strength at all ages is highly adaptive to resistance training, these findings highlight the importance of improving muscle strength in both men and women among the oldest old.