Low Activity Levels Research Articles

24-h Energy Expenditure Estimation From Accelerometry Assessments: A Cross-validation At Low Levels Of Physical Activity

24-h Energy Expenditure Estimation From Accelerometry Assessments: A Cross-validation At Low Levels Of Physical Activity

Clinical Profiles and Risk Factors of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Young Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study in Myanmar.

Introduction Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with an increasing prevalence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) among younger populations. Despite this rising trend, there are limited data from Myanmar on the clinical profile and associated risk factors for premature CAD in young adults. This study aims to investigate the clinical characteristics and predisposing risk factors for AMI in individuals aged 40 years and below, contributing to a better understanding of disease patterns in this population. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the coronary care unit of Yangon General Hospital over a 12-month period from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2019. A total of 59 young adults, diagnosed with AMI based on the Fourth Universal Definition of Myocardial Infarction, were included. Clinical data, laboratory investigations, and demographic characteristics were collected and analyzed. Results Among the 59 participants, 46 (78%) were male, and smoking was prevalent in 45 (76.3%) cases. Dyslipidemia was common, with 46 (77.9%) exhibiting low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels and 27 (45.8%) having elevated total cholesterol. Hypertension was observed in 31 (52.5%) patients, and 32 (54.2%) reported a family history of premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, 28 (47.5%) of the cohort were classified as overweight, and 26 (44.1%) demonstrated low levels of physical activity. Chest pain was universally reported by all 59 (100%) patients as the presenting symptom. ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) was the predominant type, affecting 47 (79.6%) patients, with anterior wall involvement in 36 (61%) cases. Conclusion The findings of this study reveal that AMI in young adults is more prevalent among males, with smoking and dyslipidemia being the most significant risk factors. The high prevalence of low physical activity, hypertension, and overweight status further underscores the need for early lifestyle interventions. These results can be directly applied to clinical practice and public health policy in Myanmar by prioritizing smoking cessation programs, improving dyslipidemia management, and promoting physical activity in young populations. Additionally, this study provides a foundation for further research to explore more specific risk factors and paves the way for broader studies focusing on young AMI cases in Myanmar.

Implementing a multisite shared haemodialysis care programme.

Adults receiving centre-based haemodialysis (HD) have low levels of patient activation which are associated with poorer outcomes. Shared haemodialysis care (SHC) describes an intervention whereby individuals are supported to undertake elements of their treatment to improve their activation levels and promote better self-care. This project aimed to increase the proportion of those performing SHC in seven HD centres within the Oxford Kidney Unit's catchment area. Sequential Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles effected change first in two central HD centres, in cycles 1 and 2, before rolling out to five satellite HD centres, in cycles 3 and 4. Cycle 1 explored and transformed staff perceptions regarding SHC using a questionnaire and teaching sessions while in cycle 2, staff partnered with patients to develop leaflets and noticeboards to improve awareness and participation. These interventions were then rolled out to the remaining HD centres in PDSA cycles 3 and 4. Other interventions included: Enrolling staff and patients in virtual training courses; designating SHC 'Champions'; engagement with a national SHC forum; and changes to the electronic patient record to enable the monitoring of patient SHC opportunity and to promote sustainable change. Outcome measurement data on the number of patients performing SHC and the number at different defined stages of SHC competency were captured monthly. In April 2022, only 4% (19/483) of those receiving centre-based HD performed any aspect of SHC. By the end of the project in December 2023, this had increased to 43% (220/511). There was a significant and sustained growth in the stage of patient SHC competency as well as the number of patients performing SHC in each HD centre. The project demonstrated that it is possible to implement, scale-up and maintain a multisite SHC programme even with little baseline staff and patient SHC experience.

Group Social Dynamics in a Seminatural Setup Reflect the Adaptive Value of Aggression in Male Mice

BackgroundMaladaptive aggression in humans is associated with several psychiatric conditions and lacks effective treatment. Nevertheless, tightly regulated aggression is essential for survival throughout the animal kingdom. Studying how social dominance hierarchies regulate aggression and access to resources in an enriched environment (EE) can narrow the translational gap between aggression in animal models and normal and pathological human behavior. MethodsThe social box is a seminatural setup for automatic and prolonged monitoring of mouse group dynamics. We utilized the social box to decipher tradeoffs between aggression, social avoidance, resource allocation, and dominance in 2 mouse models of increased aggression: 1) a model of early exposure to an EE and 2) a model of oxytocin receptor deficiency (OxtR−/−). While an EE increases aggression as an adaptive response to external stimuli, hyperaggression in OxtR−/− mice is accompanied by marked abnormalities in social behavior. ResultsEE groups exhibited significant social avoidance, and an increased proportion of their encounters developed into aggressive interactions, resulting in lower levels of exploratory activity and overall aggression. The hierarchy in EE groups was more stable than in control groups, and dominance was correlated with access to resources. In OxtR−/− groups, mice engaged in excessive social encounters and aggressive chasing, accompanied by increased overall activity. In OxtR−/− groups, dominance hierarchies existed but were not correlated with access to resources. ConclusionsMeasuring aggression and social dominance hierarchies in a seminatural setup reveals the adaptive value of aggression in EE and OxtR−/− mice, respectively. This approach can enhance translational research on pathological aggression.

Investigating the mediating role of physical activity within the association between food insecurity and BMI

Food insecurity is linked with obesity and while the mechanisms behind this association are complex, lower levels of leisure-time physical activity in those with food insecurity may contribute to this. Individual-level factors (such as concerns of performing physical activity) may partly determine levels of physical activity within individuals with food insecurity, as such individuals may seek to minimise their levels of physical activity in order to preserve energy. Using the Food Insecurity Physical Activity Concerns Scale (FIPACS) (used to measure concerns of performing leisure-time physical activity, focusing on factors specific to food insecurity), the current study investigated whether the association between household food insecurity and body mass index (BMI) is explained by a mediation pathway of FIPACS scores and leisure-time physical activity. We also investigated whether the association between food insecurity and FIPACS scores is moderated by nutrition knowledge. Participants (N = 329, food insecure = 55) completed an online survey consisting of the FIPACS, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire long-form (IPAQ), the Diet, Disease, and Weight management sub-section of the General Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire, a measure of diet quality, and self-reported BMI. Findings revealed that FIPACS scores and leisure-time physical activity did not mediate the association between food insecurity and BMI (b < .01, SE = 0.01). Additionally, nutrition knowledge did not moderate the association between food insecurity and FIPACS scores (b = -0.09, SE = 0.08). Findings suggest that concerns of performing physical activity in the context of food insecurity are unrelated to leisure-time physical activity, and that these two factors do not explain the association between food insecurity and BMI. Future research should investigate other factors in the link between food insecurity, physical activity, and BMI.

Impact of Feeding Artemia franciscana Enriched with Various Oil Resources on Growth, Blood Biochemical and Behavioral Indices, and Survival of Oreochromis Niloticus

Abstract The main objective of the present trial was to examine the efficacy of feeding tilapia fry fish on Artemia franciscana diets supplemented with various oil emulsion resources in terms of performance, behavior indices, survival rate, blood biochemical parameters, and immunological response. Four hundred Nile tilapia fry (weighing 0.15±0.05 g and measuring 2.17±0.08 cm) were randomly allocated into four equal groups (each with five repetitions) and acclimatized for fifteen days. The first group served as the control and received unenriched Artemia franciscana (G0), while the remaining three groups were fed Artemia franciscana diets enriched with different oil resources (0.5 mL oil per liter for 6 hours): soybean oil (G1), sesame oil (G2), and rice bran oil (G3). Behavioral observations were recorded during the 45-day experimental period. At the end of the feeding trial, the chemical composition and fatty acid content of both Artemia and fingerlings were analyzed. Furthermore, the growth performance, survival, and immune response of the fingerlings were evaluated. The results indicated noticeable improvements in behavioral measurements (feeding, foraging and schooling), performance (final length, final weight, net weight gain, feed conversion ratio and specific growth rate), survival, and immune response among fry fish supplemented with enriched Artemia, particularly those enriched with soybean oil. Additionally, the chemical composition and fatty acid content of both Artemia and fish fry were significantly enhanced when oil emulsions are applied, with soybean oil demonstrating the most prominent improvements. Whereas, supplementing fry fish Artemia diets with oil resulted in lower liver enzyme activity and higher protein component levels in plasma in comparison to the control group. In brief, feeding Nile tilapia fry fish Artemia diets enriched with a soybean oil emulsion (0.5 mL/L) is recommended for promoting high performance, immunological activity, and survival throughout the early stage till fingerlings phase.

Influence of Obesity and Sociodemographic Features on the Physical Fitness of Breast Cancer Survivors.

Obesity is a chronic, relapsing, and progressive disease. The issue of obesity affects 50 to 80% of patients who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. The aim of this study is to assess the scale of the problem of obesity among breast cancer survivors (BCS) older than 60 years, evaluate their physical fitness, and study the relationship between the occurrence of obesity and levels of fitness among breast cancer survivors. The relationship between fitness and sociodemographic factors has also been analyzed. This original epidemiological clinical study included a cohort of 88 female breast cancer survivors treated in 2022 in Holycross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland. A questionnaire involving demographic information and medical data was utilized. The Senior Fitness Test (SFT) battery has been used to assess the physical fitness of the patients. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) were also analyzed. More than 70% of the studied breast cancer survivors were classified as overweight or obese, according to BMI and WC indices. Depending on the SFT trial, the regression coefficients indicated worse results in participants who were older, lived in urban areas, were professionally active, less educated, and had higher obesity indices. The analysis of the relationship between obesity indices and fitness components revealed that all obesity indices were significantly associated with lower body flexibility (BMI p = 0.0118, WC p = 0.0092, WHR p = 0.0364, WHtR p = 0.0095). Upper body flexibility was significantly correlated with BMI indices (p = 0.0091, p = 0.0193) and WHtR (p = 0.0095). Agility and balance were significantly associated with WC (p = 0.0193), WHR (p = 0.098), and WHtR (p = 0.0095). Lower body strength was significantly correlated with the WHR index (p = 0.0487). Significant differences were found in upper body strength depending on the WHtR category. In the studied group of breast cancer survivors, there is a high prevalence of overweight and obesity. With increasing obesity rates, older age, and lower education levels, physical activity measured by the SFT decreases. Living in urban areas and being professionally active also predispose to lower physical activity levels. As obesity indices increase, physical fitness decreases in trials assessing upper and lower body strength, upper and lower body flexibility, as well as agility and dynamic balance.

Females demonstrate lower levels of activity, psychological readiness and strength symmetry after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction than males, and also recovery of quadriceps strength and hop symmetry is delayed in females undergoing reconstruction with a quadriceps tendon autograft.

To investigate sex-based recovery differences in patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with a hamstring (HT) or quadriceps (QT) tendon autograft. This study included 97 patients, including 50 females (HT = 25, QT = 25) and 47 males (HT = 24, QT = 23), assessed presurgery and at 12- and 24-month postoperatively via surveys, laxity, isokinetic knee extensor and flexor torque and a 6-hop performance battery. Limb symmetry indices (LSIs) were calculated. Outcomes were compared between males and females, as well as within each graft type. Males reported significantly higher Tegner scores at 12 (p = 0.029) and 24 (p = 0.031) months, Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport after Injury scores at 12 (p = 0.009) and 24 (p = 0.010) months, and a significantly higher lateral hop LSI at 12 (p = 0.045) months, knee extensor torque LSI at 12 (p = 0.020) months, and knee flexor torque LSI at 12 (p = 0.001) and 24 (p = 0.039) months. Females undergoing ACLR with a QT (vs. HT) graft demonstrated a lower knee extensor torque LSI at 12 (p = 0.006) months, a lower lateral hop LSI at 12 (p = 0.038) months, and a lower medial hop LSI at 12 (p = 0.042) months. Females reported less activity and psychological readiness, as well as strength symmetry. Furthermore, the recovery of quadriceps strength and hop symmetry was delayed in females (vs. males) undergoing ACLR with a QT graft. A better understanding of these differences will assist in counselling on expectations, determining the most appropriate graft construct and permitting more targeted rehabilitation. Level IV.

Circulating respiratory viruses including SARS-CoV-2 during 2021-2022 season in Tunisia: Epidemiological and dynamic changes

BackgroundChanging patterns in community respiratory virus activity were reported in different geographical locations during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, we aimed to assess the prevalence of circulating respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, during the season 2021-2022 in Tunisia. MethodsWe retrospectively enrolled 328 nasopharyngeal samples received at the Triage Center of Habib Bourguiba Hospital from patients with acute respiratory symptoms during September 2021-May 2022. All samples were screened for both SARS-CoV-2 and common respiratory viruses. This latter detection was performed using end-point multiplex RT-PCRs, Real-Time PCR, and AllplexTM Respiratory Panel 1 kit (Seegene) for Influenza Virus A (IFVA) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) subtyping. ResultsAmong included patients, at least one viral pathogen was identified in 118 (35.9%) patients. The detection rate of SARS-CoV-2 was 21.6%. A low viral coinfection rate was observed (3.3%). The most prevalent pathogen among non-SARS-CoV-2 viruses was Enterovirus/Rhinovirus (HEV/HRV) (59.6%) followed by IFVA (15.3%) and Adenoviruses (ADV) (11.5%). Only IFVA H3N2 was found to circulate during the study period. A negative virus interaction was eventually induced by SARS-CoV-2, as it was shown by lower levels of activity of non-SARS-CoV-2 viruses (not exceeding 17.7%) while infections due to pandemic Omicron variants of concern became widespread. ConclusionsThis study highlights the relative return of community IFVA circulation during the 2021-2022 season in Tunisia. A negative viral interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses is highly suggested, which explains, in addition to the easing of COVID-19 restriction measures, the epidemiological changes in non-SARS-CoV-2 viruses circulation.

Applications of ancestral sequence reconstruction for understanding the evolution of plant specialized metabolism.

Studies of enzymes in modern-day plants have documented the diversity of metabolic activities retained by species today but only provide limited insight into how those properties evolved. Ancestral sequence reconstruction (ASR) is an approach that provides statistical estimates of ancient plant enzyme sequences which can then be resurrected to test hypotheses about the evolution of catalytic activities and pathway assembly. Here, I review the insights that have been obtained using ASR to study plant metabolism and highlight important methodological aspects. Overall, studies of resurrected plant enzymes show that (i) exaptation is widespread such that even low or undetectable levels of ancestral activity with a substrate can later become the apparent primary activity of descendant enzymes, (ii) intramolecular epistasis may or may not limit evolutionary paths towards catalytic or substrate preference switches, and (iii) ancient pathway flux often differs from modern-day metabolic networks. These and other insights gained from ASR would not have been possible using only modern-day sequences. Future ASR studies characterizing entire ancestral metabolic networks as well as those that link ancient structures with enzymatic properties should continue to provide novel insights into how the chemical diversity of plants evolved. This article is part of the theme issue 'The evolution of plant metabolism'.

Current state of development of innovation activity at the enterprises of manufacturing industry

The article "The current state of development of innovation activity in manufacturing enterprises" examines the level and dynamics of innovation activity in Kazakhstan, focusing on manufacturing enterprises. The authors analyse the existing theoretical approaches to the definition of the concept of "innovation activity", study the state support of SMEs in this area and analyse statistical data on innovation activity in medium- and high-tech sectors of the manufacturing industry in Kazakhstan. The study identifies a number of problems: low level of innovation activity of enterprises, inefficiency of innovation expenditures, as well as a number of factors limiting the development of innovation activities, such as lack of demand for innovation, lack of financial resources, market uncertainty and lack of qualified personnel. The article offers a number of recommendations to improve the situation: the need for a systematic approach to the technological modernisation of industries, open discussion of the results of state programmes, adequate assessment of enterprises' capabilities for innovative development and setting target indicators.

Path to Green Economy: Analyzing Innovation, Investment and Taxation in Kazakhstan

The concept of a green economy has gained significant attention, aiming to achieve sustainable development without environmental harm. This study examines Kazakhstan's transition to a green economy, focusing on indicators such as green innovation, investment in environmental protection, and green taxes. Despite Kazakhstan's commitment to a carbon-neutral economy by 2060, significant challenges were identified. The methodology involved three steps: descriptive analysis of green economy indicators for 2016–2022, correlation analysis to identify significant relationships, and trend forecasting for 2023–2025 using a linear regression model. This approach provided a thorough examination of the green economy's current state and future projections. Over the study period, the number of organizations engaged in environmental innovation and their activity levels have decreased. Investments in environmental protection showed initial growth, but declined in recent years. Conversely, there has been an increase in environmental taxes, reflecting the government’s focus on tax instruments to promote sustainable development. Correlation analysis revealed complex interdependencies, indicating that higher investments and taxes are often associated with lower levels of green innovation activity. Projections for 2023-2025 suggest a further decline in green innovation indicators unless significant policy measures are taken. The study underscores the need for a balanced approach that encourages green innovation while maintaining robust investment and tax bases.

IRON OVER LOAD AND ITS RELATION WITH HAEMOSTATIC PARAMETERS IN BETA-THALASSEMIA PATIENTS

Background: Patients with beta-thalassemia major have been observed to experience changes in their coagulation profile. These changes include an elongated prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time as well as bring down levels of natural anticoagulants and coagulation factors. The mechanisms underlying the occurrence of thrombotic tendencies in some thalassemia patients remain unclear. This study aims to examine the alterations in the iron and coagulation profile among beta-thalassemia patients. Methods: After informed consent, 50 children having beta-thalassemia, and 50 healthy controls were included in this study. Blood samples were collected and serum ferritin, haematological and haemostatic parameters were measured. Data was analysed on SPSS-24. Results: The laboratory assessment revealed 43.5% of the patients had thrombocytopenia, 54% had prolonged prothrombin time (PT), and 56% of the patients had prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). All estimated coagulation factors exhibited lower activity levels in comparison to the control group. Serum ferritin exhibited a positive relationship with PT and aPTT and a substantial negative relationship with total platelet count. Conclusion: High serum ferritin levels are associated to abnormal haemostatic parameters in thalassemia patients. Regular monitoring of serum ferritin levels is essential to ensure that thalassemia patients receive appropriate treatment and support. Pak J Physiol 2024;20(3):71–3, DOI: https://doi.org/10.69656/pjp.v20i3.1742

Ending Pyjama Paralysis; Physical Steps In The Right Direction For An Irish University Hospital

Abstract Background The risk of hospital-associated deconditioning for frail older adults (i.e. reduced functional performance after acute hospitalisation, due to low activity levels during an admission) is well recognised, yet continues to occur commonly. This quality improvement project aimed to promote a cultural change within two acute medical wards, in line with the principles of “End PJ Paralysis”, which aims to “get patients out of bed, dressed in their own clothes and when possible, moving rather than lying in bed”. Methods A multidisciplinary committee was formed to oversee this project. An initial audit on observed levels of patient activity was performed, along with a root cause analysis to identify points of action. A multicomponent intervention was designed and implemented over an 8-week period (Oct to Nov 2023), with weekly re-audit of activity levels. Data on the monthly incidence of falls &amp; pressure areas, as well as average length-of-stay, was also collected, with the results for the intervention period (Q4) compared with the monthly averages for the nine months prior (Q1-3). Results A total of 570 Patients were included. Improvements were observed in all outcomes. The proportion of patients dressed in their own clothes increased from 28.5% (18/63) to 51.8% (263/507), those sitting out in a chair increased from 50% (32/63) to 64% (326/507), and those mobilising at the time of audit increased from 60% (38/63) to 71% (360/507). Average falls (Q1-3 vs Q4) fell from 14.8 to 12.6 per month, average pressure sores from 5.5 to 5 per month, and average length of stay from 11.20 to 10 days. Conclusion This project demonstrates that a ward-based multidisciplinary initiative can lead to an increase in the proportion of patients on an acute medical ward being dressed in their own clothes, sitting out, and mobilising, without an increase in the incidence of falls.

Structural investigation, computational analysis, and theoretical cryoprotectant approach of antifreeze protein type IV mutants.

Antifreeze proteins (AFPs) have unique features to sustain life in sub-zero environments due to ice recrystallization inhibition (IRI) and thermal hysteresis (TH). AFPs are in demand as agents in cryopreservation, but some antifreeze proteins have low levels of activity. This research aims to improve the cryopreservation activity of an AFPIV. In this in silico study, the helical peptide afp1m from an Antarctic yeast AFP was modeled into a sculpin AFPIV, to replace each of its four α-helices in turn, using various computational tools. Additionally, a new linker between the first two helices of AFPIV was designed, based on a flounder AFPI, to boost the ice interaction activity of the mutants. Bioinformatics tools such as ExPASy Prot-Param, Pep-Wheel, SOPMA, GOR IV, Swiss-Model, Phyre2, MODFOLD, MolPropity, and ProQ were used to validate and analyze the structural and functional properties of the model proteins. Furthermore, to evaluate the AFP/ice interaction, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were executed for 20, 100, and 500 ns at various temperatures using GROMACS software. The primary, secondary, and 3D modeling analysis showed the best model for a redesigned antifreeze protein (AFP1mb, with afp1m in place of the fourth AFPIV helix) with a QMEAN (Swiss-Model) Z score value of 0.36, a confidence of 99.5%, a coverage score of 22%, and a p value of 0.01. The results of the MD simulations illustrated that AFP1mb had more rigidity and better ice interactions as a potential cryoprotectant than the other models; it also displayed enhanced activity in limiting ice growth at different temperatures.

Can a cementless partial hip prosthesis be preferred in patients with hip fractures when the Spotorno criterion is greater than 5?

Aims: Partial hip arthroplasty is preferred in elderly patients with low activity levels, numerous comorbidities, and limited mobility for hip fractures. To decide whether to use cement in femoral stem implantation, scoring systems such as Spotorno, Dorr, and Canale Flare Indices are used. Generally, cemented application is frequently for patients with over 5 points according to Spotorno criteria. In this study, our aim is to present the outcomes of patients who had a score of 5 or more according to the Spotorno criteria and required cemented prostheses but instead received cementless partial hip prostheses. Methods: Patients who underwent partial hip arthroplasty due to post-traumatic femoral neck fractures in our hospital’s orthopedics and traumatology clinic between 2017 and 2021 were retrospectively evaluated. To calculate the total score according to the Spotorno criteria, which evaluate age, sex, singh index and morphological cortical index, the radiographs of the patients included in the study were assessed, and the Singh index and morphological cortical index (MCI) were calculated.Periprosthetic fractures, prosthesis dislocations, heterotopic ossification, femoral loosening and mortality had been recorded. A total of 192 patients over the age of 70 with ASA III and ASA IV who underwent cementless partial hip arthroplasty were included in the study. Among these patients, 126 were female (% 5.7) and 66 were male (%34.3). Mean follow up was 5.8 years (0-7 years). Results: According to the Spotorno criteria, the total score for all patients was greater than 6. Periprosthetic fractures were detected in % 3.1. Heterotopic ossification was observed in %9.3. In the postoperative 1st month, mortality was observed in %5. Conclusion: Cementless hip arthroplasty in elderly patients with a Spotorno score of 5 or higher can be as effective and applicable as cemented hip arthroplasty. Although the literature generally recommends cemented hip prostheses for such patients, cementless partial hip arthroplasty can be a viable option if standard latest-generation cementing systems are not available.

The Impact of Physical Activity on Adolescent Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review.

Background: The relationship between physical activity and low back pain (LBP) in adolescents is complex, with conflicting evidence on whether activity is protective or a risk factor. The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced new challenges, increasing sedentary behaviors among adolescents. This systematic review updates the evidence on the association between physical activity and LBP in this population, focusing on the impact of the pandemic. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Medline, and SCOPUS identified observational studies published between January 2011 and December 2023. This review focused on adolescents aged 10 to 19 years, examining the effects of various physical activity levels and types on LBP incidence. Quality assessment was conducted using the ROBINS-I tool. Results: Twelve studies were included, with a total of 78,850 adolescents. The findings suggest a U-shaped relationship between physical activity and LBP, where low and high activity levels increase LBP risk, while moderate activity appears protective. The pandemic exacerbated LBP prevalence, likely due to increased sedentary behavior. Gender differences were noted, with females more likely to report LBP, particularly related to sports participation. Conclusions: Moderate physical activity may protect against LBP in adolescents, whereas both inactivity and excessive activity heighten risk. The pandemic's impact highlights the need for balanced physical activity to prevent LBP. Further research should explore the long-term effects of these changes.

Impact of Chronic Psychological Stress on Cardiovascular Disease Risk: A Narrative Review

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of death worldwide, and identification of its risk factors is pivotal in ensuring a lower socioeconomic burden on society. Psychological stress shows a strong causal link with CVD through the interaction of physiological and behavioral risk factors. Importantly, there is an association between the duration and level of stress and propensity for CVD. Chronic stress exerts its physiological effects through the release of glucocorticoids (GCs) such as cortisol, which subsequently promote proinflammatory effects, exacerbating atherosclerotic plaque development. Stress also exacerbates the secretion of cardiokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Elevated TNF-α is associated with endothelial dysfunction and angiogenesis-mediated atherosclerotic plaque progression, with increased secretion as the duration of stress is extended. Stress-induced GC secretion also inhibits glucose uptake leading to hyperglycemia and consequent hyperinsulinemia. This increases an individual’s susceptibility to another CVD risk factor, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). These risk factors are further exacerbated by the impact of chronic stress on behavior such as eating habits. Increased consumption of comfort foods, typically containing high fat and sugar contents, is directly associated with increased body mass index and increased low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, both of which are well-known drivers of atherosclerosis. Moreover, chronic stress often results in reductions in physical activity, particularly in individuals at low baseline levels of activity. This further increases an individual’s susceptibility to obesity, T2DM, and increased LDL-cholesterol levels, all of which promote the development of CVD. This review outlines key research findings relating to the role chronic psychological stress plays in altering physiological and behavioral risk factors for CVD.

Immune status of students with different levels of physical activity

The nature of changes in the immune system during physical work is a complex process involving many different mechanisms. Research in this direction is an urgent problem. The purpose of the research was to study the indicators of cellular and humoral immunity in students with different levels of physical activity. A total of 77 male students were examined, consisting of 3 groups: 1) with a low level of physical activity (n = 32) – students who were not involved in sports activities on a regular basis; 2) students with an average level of physical activity (n = 22) – beginner sambo wrestlers without sports categories; and 3) students with a high level of physical activity (n = 23) – highly qualified sambo wrestlers – first-class athletes, candidates for masters and masters of sports. In students of all groups, the quantitative content of various phenotypes of lymphocytes in the blood was studied by flow cytometry; serum immunoglobulin levels by laser nephelometry; phagocytic parameters by traditional methods; and oxygen-dependent metabolism of neutrophils by chemiluminescence. In students with a high level of physical activity, the content of T and B lymphocytes in the blood was significantly increased compared to similar indicators of the group with a low level of physical activity and the group of students who did not participate in sports. The concentration of class G immunoglobulin in the blood serum of students with a high level of physical activity significantly exceeded the corresponding values in students with an average level and students not engaged in sports. The highest concentration of class M immunoglobulin was observed in students with high levels of physical activity. Phagocytic activity and phagocytic count in individuals with high levels of physical activity and neutrophils were significantly higher than those of students with medium and low levels of physical activity. The rates of spontaneous and induced chemiluminescence in the groups with high and medium levels of physical activity were significantly higher than in students with low levels. The studies carried out indicate the positive effect of regular training physical activity on the factors of humoral and cellular links of immunity in students in the conditions of the educational environment of a higher educational institution.

Association between physical activity performed at different intensities and cardiovascular health in patients with peripheral artery disease: an observational study.

We examined the sedentary behavior and physical activity of 260 patients with peripheral artery disease. Women engaged in more light physical activity than men did. Light physical activity was associated with lower arterial stiffness in men only, while no significant associations were found between sedentary behavior, moderate-vigorous physical activity, and cardiovascular outcomes. ◼ Women with peripheral artery disease exhibited higher blood pressure and arterial stiffness than men. ◼ Low levels of physical activity, particularly moderate to vigorous activity, were observed in individuals with peripheral artery disease. To analyze the association between the time spent in sedentary behavior and physical activity of different intensities with cardiovascular health in men and women with peripheral artery disease. Two hundred and sixty patients with peripheral artery disease and claudication symptoms (65.7% men; 66±1 years; ankle brachial index 0.57±0.18) were evaluated. Physical activity and sedentary behavior were assessed using an accelerometer. Physical activity was classified into light and moderate-vigorous intensities. The cardiovascular outcomes included blood pressure (oscillometric method), cardiac autonomic modulation (heart rate variability), and arterial stiffness (pulse wave velocity). Women spent more time engaged in light physical activity than men (341±14 min/day versus 306±9 min/day; p=0.040, respectively). There was no significant difference in the time spent on sedentary behavior and moderate-vigorous physical activity. Women had a higher systolic blood pressure (p=0.025), higher augmentation index (p<0.001), and lower sympathovagal balance (p=0.047) than men. Pulse wave velocity was only negatively associated with light physical activity (β= -4.66; 95%CI= -8.57; -0.76) in men. Light and moderate-vigorous physical activity and sedentary behavior were not associated with other cardiovascular outcomes. Higher levels of light physical activity were associated with lower arterial stiffness in men with peripheral artery disease.