Limb Muscle Strength Research Articles

Brain abscess caused by Streptococcus pyogenes with atypical symptoms: a case report and literature review.

Streptococcus pyogenes is a common gram-positive bacterium, belonging to group A Streptococcus (GAS), and is responsible for causing a range of clinical conditions. Brain abscess caused by GAS is uncommon in pediatric infectious diseases, and GAS brain abscess without acute infectious symptoms has been rarely reported. We present a case of one GAS brain abscess in a previously healthy child with unusual clinical manifestations of decreased muscle strength in the left limbs. The right frontal lobe mass lesion was resected using a microscope-based neuronavigation system. A sole defectively beta-hemolytic Streptococcus pyogenes was isolated from the lesion. The patient's peripheral blood whole-exome and the pathogen's whole-genome sequencing were performed respectively, revealing a heterozygous mutation in the interferon regulatory factor-8 (IRF8) gene in the patient and lack of hyaluronic acid capsules in Streptococcus pyogenes (genotype emm22). The patient eventually recovered after prompt surgical drainage of the abscess and appropriate antibiotic treatment. It is important to pay attention to Streptococcus pyogenes brain abscesses with mild clinical manifestations. Upon reviewing all the cases of pediatric GAS brain abscess reported in the published literature, we discovered that early diagnosis and treatment are crucial factors that impact the prognosis of GAS brain abscess.

Analysis of EEF1A2 gene variant in a child with Global developmental delay

To summarize the clinical manifestations of Autosomal dominant complex neurodevelopmental disorders due to variants of EEF1A2 gene and explore their pathogenic mechanisms. A child who had visited Luoyang Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital in July 2021 for global developmental delay was selected as the study subject. Clinical data of the child was reviewed. The child was subjected to whole exome sequencing, and relevant literature was reviewed. This study has been approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of Luoyang Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital (No. YCCZ-KS-KY-2021-03). The patient, a 2-year-and-4-month-old girl, had presented with global developmental delay, gait instability, low limb muscle strength, and absence language development. Her parents were both healthy and denied relevant family history. Genetic testing revealed that she has harbored a de novo heterozygous c.44A>G (p.H15R) missense variant of the EEF1A2 gene (NM_001958.5), which was unreported previously. Based on the guidelines from the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics, the variant was rated as pathogenic. The c.44A>G (p.H15R) variant of the EEF1A2 gene probably underlay the pathogenesis in this patient. Above finding has also enriched the mutational spectrum of the EEF1A2 gene.

Gender features of clinical manifestations and quality of life indicators in generalized myasthenia

Objective. To study the influence of clinical indicators of myasthenia gravis severity to the quality of life of men and women with generalized myasthenia gravis.Materials and methods. The study included 41 patients aged 60.4±16.4 years with generalized myasthenia gravis: 31 (76 %) women and 10 (24 %) men. Clinical manifestations of myasthenia gravis were assessed with quantitative myasthenia gravis score, myasthenia gravis-specific activities of daily living scale and short form of specialized quality of life questionnaire. Forced vital respiratory capacity was measured in all patients with subsequent additional data calculation.Results. We revealed significant improvement of examined data during hospitalization in both males and females, but in females, significant improvement was established in all quantitative myasthenia gravis score subscales. In men worse affection of swallowing muscles and severe pain phenomena were revealed. Correlations of physical functioning parameter with total quantitative myasthenia gravis score and with score characterizing the strength of limb muscles were revealed in studying group.Conclusion. Clinical manifestations and course of myasthenia gravis have the peculiarities n men and women. Quality of life disorder in studying patients correlated with severity of clinical manifestations, mainly with limb weakness.

The strength of associations between ultrasound measures of upper limb muscle morphology and isometric muscle strength: An exploratory study.

Assessing upper limb muscle strength is important for understanding health outcomes, such as daily function and mortality. Ultrasound (US) is increasingly used to evaluate muscle health, but the relationship between its measures of morphology and isometric strength has not been thoroughly explored in upper limb muscles. The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between US morphological measures and isometric strength in functionally relevant upper limb muscles in healthy adults. Twenty-four healthy volunteers (30.0 ± 10.8 years) underwent B-mode, axial US scans of the first dorsal interosseus (FDI), flexor pollicis longus (FPL), biceps brachii (BB), brachialis (BR), and triceps brachii lateral head (TB). Participants performed corresponding maximal voluntary contractions (MVC), including first digit distal phalanx flexion, second digit abduction, and elbow flexion and extension. US images were segmented to obtain maximal muscle thickness (MT) and cross-sectional area (CSA). Strong positive correlations were found between muscle strength and BB MT (r = .83; p < .001), BR CSA (r = .84; p < .001), and TB MT (r = .70; p < .001). Moderate positive correlations were found for strength and FDI CSA (r = .67; p < .001), FDI MT (r = .47; p < .05), FPL CSA (r = .54; p < .01), and FPL MT (r = .42; p < .05). No significant correlation was found between strength and BR MT (r = .16; p > .05). Our data showed moderate-to-strong associations between US muscle morphology and strength, suggesting that US is likely a good biomarker for strength. However, its use is not "one size fits all." Future investigations should continue to assess this relationship in different muscles and expand the generalizability to clinical populations.

Mazor X robot-assisted upper and lower cervical pedicle screw fixation: a case report and literature review

BackgroundManual placement of cervical pedicle screws is risky, and robot-assisted placement of atlantoaxial pedicle screws has not been reported.Case reportWe describe a 74-year-old female patient with atlantoaxial fracture and dislocation combined with spinal cord injury caused by a car accident. The left lower limb muscle strength was grade 0, the right upper limb muscle strength was grade 1, and the right lower limb muscle strength was grade 2. Loss of sensation below the clavicle level, decreased superficial sensation in the extremities, loss of deep sensation in the left lower extremity, and incontinence were observed. We successfully placed atlas pedicle screws with the assistance of the Mazor X robot. One week after the operation, radiological imaging revealed that the reduction effect was good, the placement of the pedicle screws was satisfactory, the left upper limb and left lower limb muscle strength was level 2, the right upper limb and the muscle strength of the right lower limb were grade 3, and the sensory function was partially restored. No complications related to screw placement were found at the 3-month postoperative follow-up.ConclusionsMazor X robot-assisted descending pedicle screw fixation of the atlas is feasible and safe.

Comparative Analysis of Lower Limb Muscle Strength Based on Gender and Children Aged 10-12 Year at Muhammadiyah Elementary School 08 Dau

Background: The growth and development of children aged 0-12 years are individuals who experience a very rapid growth and development process. However, in this modern era, technological developments have resulted in children becoming very lazy and reluctant to do physical activity. This can affect the development of motor skills. Muscle strength is a crucial aspect in human physical development. Muscle strength, especially in the lower leg muscles, can be influenced by several factors such as age and gender. Objective: to determine the comparison of leg muscle strength based on gender and children aged 10-12 years at SD Muhammadiyah Malang. Method: The research used was cross-sectional by taking a sample of 116 respondents. Meanwhile, the test used uses a comparison test. Results: One way ANOVA test showed p-value = 0.79 (&lt;0.05) which shows that there is no significant difference at the age level of 10, 11 and 12 years on leg muscle strength in children. And Mann Whitney p-value = 0.00 (&lt;0.05) which shows that there are differences based on male and female gender. Conclusion: Comparative analysis of lower leg muscle strength based on gender and age 10-12 years at SD Muhammadiyah 08 Dau did not provide significant results regarding differences in lower leg muscle strength based on age 10, 11, 12 years. Meanwhile, there are differences in lower leg muscle strength based on gender.

Comparative effects of cognitive and instability resistance training versus instability resistance training on balance and cognition in elderly women

This study investigates the effects of integrated instability resistance training and cognitive training (IRCT) versus isolated instability resistance training (IRT) on balance, gait, muscle strength, and cognitive functions in elderly women.This randomized controlled trial included 36 participants, with 18 in the IRCT group and 18 in the IRT group. The sample size was estimated to achieve a statistical power of 0.95 with a large effect size (0.40; n = 12 each group). The closed-eye single-leg stand test was measured for static balance, the closed-eye stepping test, and the Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT) were measured for dynamic balance. Dual-task balance was assessed by combining the TUGT with cognitive tasks (TUGT-C) and motor tasks (TUGT-M). Gait performance was evaluated using a gait function system. Lower limb muscle strength was measured with the 30-Second Chair Stand Test. Cognitive function was assessed through the Trail Making Test (TMT), Digit Span Test (DST), Stroop Color and Word Test (Stroop), and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). Results IRCT group showed better improvements in both cognitive (p < 0.001) and motor (p = 0.812 for baseline; p < 0.001 for post-intervention) dual-task abilities, IRCT also experienced better enhancement in certain cognitive functions, particularly in the TMT (p = 0.001) and DSST (p = 0.022) compared to the IRT group. Both groups demonstrated enhancements in walking abilities as shown on selective markers of the gait performance test (p < 0.05) and leg muscle strength via 30-Second Chair (p < 0.001 for time main effect). These results suggest that combining cognitive exercises with physical training more effectively addresses the complex challenges associated with aging in women. The study highlights the potential of comprehensive training approaches in boosting health and quality of life for the elderly, with implications for developing tailored exercise programs focused on reducing fall risks and enhancing quality of life in this population.

Discipline-specific adaptation patterns in respiratory and lower limb musculotendinous structures: cyclists vs. basketball players.

This study aimed at assessing how chronic exposure to specific exercise training (high-intensity intervals vs. endurance), comparing experienced basketball-players (BP, N.=16), cyclists (CY, N.=16), and non-specifically trained individuals (CN, N.=16), influences the structural and functional characteristics of both lower limb and respiratory musculotendinous structures. Vastus lateralis, gastrocnemius lateralis, and medialis, diaphragm muscles, as well as patellar tendon and Achilles tendon, were assessed using B-mode ultrasonography. Maximal voluntary isometric and passive torque measurements were conducted in the knee-extensors and plantar-flexors. Additionally, a subset of participants (N.=10 for each group) underwent a fatigue-inducing exercise-till-exhaustion protocol, and the strength of lower limb and respiratory muscles was evaluated immediately before and after the trial. Athletes had bigger and stronger musculotendinous structures and greater endurance to fatigue than CN (P<0.05). BP had bigger plantar-flexors and diaphragm, greater fascicles length, more explosive plantar-flexors and respiratory muscles and bigger tendons than CY (P<0.05). On the other hand, CY showed greater muscle pennation angle and greater endurance to fatigue for both, lower limb, and respiratory muscles (P<0.05). The present study emphasizes that chronic and specific exercise training leads to distinctive adaptations, not only in lower limb musculotendinous structures but also in other components such as respiratory muscles.

Light Physical Activity Throughout the Day and Physical Function in Older Adults

Abstract Background Light physical activity (LPA) plays a crucial role in preventing muscle loss and disability in older adults. Since LPA makes up a significant portion of daily activity, understanding how the timing of LPA influences physical function is important for designing effective health interventions. Methods This cross-sectional study investigated the association between the timing of LPA and physical function among 200 older adults (mean age 76.3, 55.5% female) attending the geriatric outpatient clinic at National Taiwan University Hospital. LPA was objectively measured using wrist-worn accelerometers for seven consecutive days. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to identify distinct patterns of LPA timing. Participants underwent assessments of grip strength, basic mobility, walking speed, and lower limb muscle strength. Multivariable linear regression models were adjusted for potential confounders, including gender, age, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and accelerometer wear time. Results Our findings revealed that higher levels of LPA during the morning to noon period were positively associated with better performance across all four physical function tests. Moreover, after controlling for relevant confounders, increased LPA in the late afternoon and evening was positively associated with enhanced basic mobility, walking speed, and lower limb muscle strength. Conclusions This study highlights the importance of considering LPA timing when promoting physical function in older adults, independent of MVPA participation. Encouraging LPA, particularly during the morning to noon period, could be a valuable strategy for maintaining and improving physical capabilities in this population. These findings provide actionable insights for clinicians and health professionals when tailoring physical activity recommendations for older adults within geriatric care settings. Key messages • Morning LPA boosts physical function in seniors, enhancing grip, mobility, walking speed, and muscle strength. • Timing of light activity crucial for older adults’ physical health, with morning to noon activity showing most benefits.

The Effect of Blood Flow Restriction Exercise Prior to Total Knee Arthroplasty on Postoperative Physical Function, Lower Limb Strength and Patient-Reported Outcomes: ARandomized Controlled Trial.

30-s sit to stand (30STS). Timed Up&Go, 40-m walk test (40mWT), knee range of motion (ROM) 1-repetition maximum (1RM) leg press and knee extensor strength, maximal isometric contraction (MVIC) for the knee extensors and flexors, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and Euroqol 5-dimensions (EQ-5D-L5) questionnaire. Data were collected at baseline (12 weeks pre-surgery), ~3 days pre-surgery, 3 and 12 months postoperatively. Intention-to-treat analysis revealed no significant between-group differences in the change from baseline to 3 and 12 months postoperatively on 30STS, TUG, or 40mFWT. Significant between-group differences were observed at 3 but not 12 months postoperatively for the corresponding changes in 1RM leg press strength, 1RM knee extensor strength, and MVIC knee extensor favoring BFR-RT. No between-group differences were observed for the delta changes from baseline in knee ROM, KOOS subscales or EQ-5D-L5 at any postoperative time points. These findings suggest that preoperative BFR-RT offered no superior effects compared with usual preoperative care on postoperative physical function or patient-reported outcomes. Preoperative BFR-RT produced amplified gains in lower limb muscle strength at 3 months postoperatively. NCT04081493.

Use of the international classification of functioning, disability and health in a group of older persons with osteoarticular disorders

Objective: to describe the main structural and functional impairments, activity limitations, and social participation restrictions in elderly individuals with myoarticular dysfunctions using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF). Methods: a descriptive, cross-sectional, and retrospective study based on the analysis of clinical and functional data of elderly individuals with osteomyoarticular dysfunctions. A questionnaire including components of Functionality and Disability (ICF, 2004), mobility and stability (Timed Up and Go), lower limb muscle strength (Sit-To-Stand Test), and pain (visual analog scale) was used. Results: a total of 11 elderly individuals (70±1.4 years) with at least two comorbidities (100%) were included, with the majority reporting episodes of falls (54.5%). Pain was the primary complaint in "Body functions," reported by all participants. In "Body structures," the lower limbs (45.4%) and upper limbs (18.1%) had the highest prevalence of complaints. In "Activities and Participation," the most frequently mentioned items were performing housework tasks (31.8%), moving around (31.8%), and recreation and leisure (27.3%). Conclusion: among the ICF components, pain sensation was the most common finding in elderly individuals, especially affecting the lower limbs. Regarding activity limitations and social participation restrictions, performing housework tasks, moving around, and recreation/leisure were prevalent.

Effects of variable resistance training within complex training on strength and punch performance in elite amateur boxers.

This study explored the effects of 6 weeks of variable resistance training (VRT) and constant resistance training (CRT) within complex training, on muscle strength and punch performance. Twenty-four elite female boxers from the China National team were divided randomly between an experimental group (VRT) and a control group (CRT). Maximum strength of the upper and lower limbs, countermovement jump (CMJ) performance, and punch performance (single, 10s and 30s continuous) were assessed pre- and post- intervention. VRT and CRT showed significant increases (p < 0.001) in the bench press (ES = 1.79 and 1.07, respectively), squat (ES = 1.77 and 1.10, respectively), and CMJ (ES = 1.13 and 0.75, respectively). The bench press (p < 0.05) and squat (p < 0.05) improved significantly more following VRT compared to CRT. Additionally, single punch performance (speed, force, and power) increased significantly in the experimental group (ES = 1.17-1.79) and in the control group (ES = 0.58-1.32), except for the lead punch force in the control group (p > 0.05, ES = 0.20). 10s continuous punch performance (number, speed, force, and power) increased significantly (both p < 0.05) in the experimental group (ES = 0.52-1.65) and in the control group (ES = 0.32-0.81). 30s continuous punch performance (number, force, and power) increased significantly increased significantly (both p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant differences were found between groups for punch performance. These findings provide evidence that VRT may improve maximum muscle strength in both upper and lower limbs, vertical jump and punch performance in elite amateur boxers.

Analysis of the Effectiveness of a Fall Prevention Program Incorporating an Interprofessional Team Collaboration Model on Reducing Fall Risk in Elderly Living in Long-term Care Facilities

Concurrent with population ageing, falls have become a significantly more challenging public health issue among older adults. Three years of data collected recently from a nursing home in northern Taiwan reveals an increasing trend in fall density that is primarily associated with aging, physiological decline, chronic diseases, polypharmacy, osteoporosis, and lack of exercise. The percentage of nursing home residents at high risk of falls is currently at 12.6%, and the fall rate has been reported as reaching as high as 30% annually. A fall prevention program was implemented to reduce the fall incidence rate to 18%, with secondary goals of improving fall prevention awareness, behavior, self-efficacy, lower limb muscle strength, balance, and gait by 10% on average, respectively, between pre-test and post-test. From September 30, 2023 to February 29, 2024, a health promotion activity and fall prevention exercise course were implemented using an interdisciplinary team collaboration model over a six-week period, providing individualized exercise for the participants. The study included 20 older adults with an average age of 88 years. Most (90%; n = 18) had chronic diseases, 25% (n = 5) were on more than nine medications, 70% (n = 14) had reduced bone mass, and 40% (n = 8) were at high risk of falls, with a fall incidence rate of 30% during the immediately preceding year. Post-intervention, the fall incidence rate dropped to 5%, fall prevention awareness, behavior, and self-efficacy increased by 18.3%, and lower limb muscle strength, balance, and gait improved by 11.7%. The post-test results in fall prevention awareness, behavioral changes, self-efficacy, and lower limb strength, balance, and gait were all significantly better than pre-test results, with all results achieving statistical significance. The project results support the positive effects of the developed intervention effectively on elderly physical fitness and fall risk, providing valuable insights for the implementation of fall prevention strategies in nursing homes.

Predictors Of Handgrip Strength And Its Relationship To Physical Performance In Older Irish Adults

Abstract Background Handgrip strength declines with age and predicts poor physical performance and increased risk of falls and mortality. However, the strength of the relationship between handgrip strength and other physical measures is less well studied. We aimed to explore the predictors of handgrip strength in older Irish adults and its relationship to the Timed and Up and Go (TUG). Methods Study participants were from a longitudinal cohort of Irish adults aged &amp;gt;60 years; Trinity Ulster University Department of Agriculture (TUDA) study. Participants on current or long-term steroids, a history of stroke and with MMSE &amp;lt;24 were excluded. Handgrip strength was assessed with a dynamometer and defined as &amp;lt;27 kg for males and &amp;lt;16 kg for females. Abnormal performance in the TUG was defined as &amp;gt;12 seconds. Predictors of impaired handgrip were explored in multivariate logistic regression. Results There were 748 participants (68.9% female, mean age 70.2 years), of whom 33.4% had abnormal handgrip strength, which was more common in female’s vs males (39.4 vs 20.2%, p&amp;lt;0.001). Both abnormal handgrip strength and TUG was present in 13.6%. Normal handgrip strength had a negative predictive value of 76.0% for ruling out poor TUG, while abnormal handgrip had a positive predictive value of 62% for poor TUG. Predictors of impaired handgrip strength were older age (P&amp;lt;0.0001), female sex (p&amp;lt;0.0001), lower protein intake (P=0.024) and higher waist hip ratio (p=0.014). Conclusion Handgrip strength had a modest correlation with TUG A significant proportion had abnormal TUG but normal handgrip. Changes in lower limb muscle strength (affecting TUG) precede muscle loss in the upper limb. Higher protein intake predicted greater grip strength and supports the recommendation to maintain adequate intakes to prevent sarcopenia. Greater waist hip ratio is associated with reduced lean muscle mass which may explain the negative relationship we identified with handgrip strength.

Prognostic factors for patient-reported satisfaction after percutaneous lumbar endoscopic discectomy at a minimum of two years' follow-Up.

Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) is increasingly used in patients with lumbar disc herniation due to its less invasive nature and faster recovery. In this study, we aimed to investigate the prognostic factors associated with patient satisfaction index (PSI) in PELD. A retrospective study of 337 patients who underwent PELD between November 2015 and October 2020 in our department was conducted. Preoperative data of the enrolled patients were recorded. A logistic regression model was developed to explore the preoperative factors associated with postoperative PSI. After a mean follow-up of 28.7 ± 3.6 months, 310 patients were satisfied (NASS score of 1 or 2) and 27 patients were dissatisfied (NASS score of 3 or 4), resulting in a patient satisfaction rate of 91.99%. Demographic data, clinical symptom characteristics, and neurological physical examinations (including lower limb hypesthesia, muscle strength, and tendon flex) did not show any significant differences between the four groups (NASS1,2,3,4). The satisfactory group showed a higher rate of positive Lasegue sign (P = 0.010) and higher preoperative VAS (P = 0.002). The dissatisfaction group showed a higher rate of contiguous double-level disc herniation (P = 0.003). Our findings indicated that positive Lasegue sign and high preoperative VAS were prognostic factors for patient-reported satisfaction and PELD might not be the first choice for contiguous double-level disc herniation.

Acupuncture in Treating Osteopenia: A Multicenter, Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial

Introduction: The aim of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of acupuncture as an early intervention in the treatment of osteoporosis and prevention of osteoporosis. Methods: This multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trial was conducted in 226 patients with osteoporosis for 6 months. Participants were randomized to the control group (n = 110) and the acupuncture group (n = 116), both groups received basic treatment with daily calcium carbonate and vitamin D3 tablet (containing calcium 600 mg/tablet) supplementation (n = 116), and the acupuncture group received additional acupuncture treatment. Bone mineral density (BMD), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), bone metabolism indexes, and lower limb muscle strength and balance indexes were tested to evaluate the therapy outcomes of the two groups. Results: After 6 months of treatment, BBS11 (p = 0.046), BBS12 (p = 0.042), and total BBS scores (p = 0) in the acupuncture group were significantly higher than those before treatment; comparing between groups, BBS8 in the acupuncture group was higher than that in the control group after 3 and 6 months, with statistically significant differences (p = 0.036 and 0.0270). After 6 months of treatment, the total BBS score of the acupuncture group was significantly higher than that of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.039). After 6 months of treatment, the BMD of total bone of femoral neck (p = 0.031) and hip joint (p = 0.013) in the acupuncture group was significantly higher than that before treatment, but there was no statistical difference with the control group. The time of five sit-to-stand test (FTSST) was shortened in the acupuncture group, and the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.023), but there was no significant change in the control group (p > 0.05). In addition, the specific sequences of blood phosphorus (p = 0.007), β-collagen (p = 0.009), and N-osteocalcin (p = 0.007) were significantly lower than before treatment after 3 months of acupuncture treatment, and the blood phosphorus level continued to decrease after 6 months of treatment (p = 0.007). In addition, the levels of N-osteocalcin in the acupuncture group were significantly lower than those in the control group after 3 months of treatment (p = 0.008). Conclusion: Acupuncture can increase hip bone density, improve bone metabolism, reduce bone turnover rate, and improve body balance and lower limb muscle strength in patients with osteoporosis.

Anthropometrical and Physical Performance Profiles of Military Cadets from Angola

Military efforts must include different evaluations to prepare for battles around the world. This study aimed to characterize the body composition and physical performance levels of military cadets from Angola. Ninety military academy participants (males: n=48, females: n=42) aged 18-24 years old performed a battery of physical fitness tests to evaluate upper and lower limbs muscle strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and body composition. Significant differences between sexes were observed in all variables (p&lt;0.05). Males and females, respectively, showed normal-range values in the body mass index (BMI) (23.32±3.95; 24.75±4.01 Kg/m2), body fat (9.09±6.17; 14.59±8.86 kg), push-ups (36.88±9.81; 20.67±6.62 repetitions), sit-ups (71.04±17.14; 61.95±19.05 repetitions) and medicine ball throwing (5.06±0.89; 4.00±0.84 m). However, countermovement jump (36.14±6.54; 23.53±7.62 cm), 80-meter sprint (13.08±1.90; 14.96±2.01 s), cardiorespiratory fitness (maximal oxygen uptake: 38.02±6.3; 33.18±6.49 ml/kg/min), and fat-free mass values (54.17 ± 8.06; 46.18 ± 6.9 kg) were considered low, specifically in females. Military cadets from Angola, especially females, presented low values of fat-free mass, cardiorespiratory fitness, and neuromuscular maximal performances (countermovement jump and sprint). This highlights a need for body composition and physical condition improvement to perform physical tasks with high military relevance.

Enhancing upper extremity muscle strength in individuals with spinal cord injury using low-intensity blood flow restriction exercise.

This study explores the feasibility and effects of low-intensity blood flow restriction exercise on forearm muscle strength and function in individuals with spinal cord injury. Pilot randomized clinical trial. Ten male and female adult participants with chronic cervical and thoracic spinal cord injury underwent an 8-week low-intensity blood flow restriction exercise programme that targeted forearm muscles. Each participant's contralateral forearm served as the control. Grip strength was the primary outcome measure, and participants also provided qualitative feedback on their experiences. The study revealed a significant increase in participants' forearm muscle strength on the experimental side engaged in low-intensity blood flow restriction training, with an average strength gain of 7.5 ± 0.36 kg after 16 exercise sessions (Cohen's d = -6.32, 95% CI -8.34, -6.68). In comparison, the control side, following a conventional high- intensity exercise regimen without BFR, showed a more modest strength increase of 4.4 ± 0.67 kg. A mean Patient's Global Impression of Change score of 2.2 reflected overall improvements in participants' daily activities and health status. This study highlights the feasibility and effectiveness of low-intensity blood flow restriction exercise as a safe and promising approach to enhancing forearm muscle strength in individuals with spinal cord injury. The observed positive outcomes, coupled with a high level of participant satisfaction, underscore the potential of this innovative method to significantly improve limb muscle strength, thereby contributing to greater functional independence in this population.

Tongue pressure, respiratory muscle and limb strength and functional exercise capacity in oesophageal cancer

ObjectivesPreoperative management of oesophageal cancer requires effective prehabilitation. This study investigates the relationship between tongue pressure, respiratory muscle, handgrip and lower limb muscle strengths, and functional exercise capacity in patients...

Accuracy Validation of a Sensor-Based Inertial Measurement Unit and Motion Capture System for Assessment of Lower Limb Muscle Strength in Older Adults-A Novel and Convenient Measurement Approach.

(1) Background: The aim of this study was to assess lower limb muscle strength in older adults during the transfer from sitting to standing (STS) using an inertial measurement unit (IMU). Muscle weakness in this population can severely impact function and independence in daily living and increase the risk of falls. By using an IMU, we quantified lower limb joint moments in the STS test to support health management and individualized rehabilitation program development for older adults. (2) Methods: This study involved 28 healthy older adults (13 males and 15 females) aged 60-70 years. The lower limb joint angles and moments estimated using the IMU were compared with a motion capture system (Mocap) (pair t-test, ICC, Spearman correlations, Bland-Altman plots) to verify the accuracy of the IMU in estimating lower limb muscle strength in the elderly. (3) Results: There was no significant difference in the lower limb joint angles and moments calculated by the two systems. Joint angles and moments were not significantly different (p > 0.05), and the accuracy and consistency of the IMU system was comparable to that of the Mocap system. For the hip, knee, and ankle joints, the ICCs for joint angles were 0.990, 0.989, and 0.885, and the ICCs for joint moments were 0.94, 0.92, and 0.89, respectively. In addition, the results of the two systems were highly correlated with each other: the r-values for hip, knee, and ankle joint angles were 0.99, 0.99, and 0.96, and the r-values for joint moments were 0.92, 0.96, and 0.85. In the present study, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between the IMU system and the Mocap system in calculating lower limb joint angles and moments. (4) Conclusions: This study confirms the accuracy of the IMU in assessing lower limb muscle strength in the elderly. It provides a portable and accurate alternative for the assessment of lower limb muscle strength in the elderly.