Low Activity Levels Research Articles

Leveraging LLMs and wearables to provide personalized recommendations for enhancing student well-being and academic performance through a proof of concept

Traditional one-size-fits-all recommendations for student well-being and academic success may not be optimal. Personalized recommendations based on individual data hold promise. This study explores the potential of Large Language Models (LLMs) to generate personalized recommendations for 12 high school students to enhance their well-being and academic performance. We analyzed data from 12 students, including Fitbit data (activity levels, sleep and stress scores), PSQI surveys (sleep quality), and school reports (grades, teacher observations). An LLM model was used to analyze this data and create personalized recommendations for each student. Validator scoring assessed the clarity, actionability, and alignment of recommendations with student data. The LLM generated various recommendations based on different student data profiles (e.g., low activity levels, poor sleep quality). Validation results indicated that the recommendations were generally clear and actionable, with high ratings in both areas, though alignment with student data showed more variability, suggesting areas for improvement. This study demonstrates the potential of LLMs to generate personalized recommendations based on student data, acknowledging the need for further validation with initial validator feedback indicating their value. However, improvements are needed at every stage, including enhancing prompts, refining models, and incorporating advanced data analytics and continuous feedback. Future research, particularly with intervention groups and potentially RCT studies, is crucial to establish causal relationships and validate the recommendations’ impact. As this technology evolves, ensuring ethical considerations and data privacy remains essential.

Small circular RNAs as vaccines for cancer immunotherapy.

Messenger RNA vaccines have shown strong prophylactic efficacy against viral infections. Here we show that antigen-encoding small circular RNAs (circRNAs) loaded in lipid nanoparticles elicit potent and durable T cell responses for robust tumour immunotherapy after subcutaneous injection in mice, particularly when combined with immune checkpoint inhibition. The small circRNA vaccines are highly stable and show low levels of activation of protein kinase R as well as low cytotoxicity, enabling long-lasting antigen translation (longer than 1 week in cells). Relative to large protein-encoding unmodified or modified mRNAs and circRNAs, small circRNA vaccines elicited up to 10-fold antigen-specific T cells in mice and accounted for 30-75% of the total peripheral CD8+ T cells over 6 months. Small circRNA vaccines encoding tumour-associated antigens, neoantigens and oncoviral or viral antigens elicited substantial CD8+ and CD4+ T cell responses in young adult mice and in immunosenescent aged mice. Combined with immune checkpoint inhibition, monovalent and multivalent circRNA vaccines reduced tumour-induced immunosuppression and inhibited poorly immunogenic mouse tumours, including melanoma resistant to immune checkpoint blockade.

Promiscuity Guided Evolution of Decarboxylative Aldolases for Synthesis of Tertiary γ‐Hydroxy Amino Acids

AbstractMany applications of enzymes benefit from activity on structurally diverse substrates. Here, we sought to engineer the decarboxylative aldolase UstD to perform a challenging C−C bond forming reaction with ketone electrophiles. The parent enzyme had only low levels of activity, portending multiple rounds of directed evolution and a possibility that mutations may inadvertently increase the specificity of the enzyme for a single model screening substrate. We show how to intentionally guide UstD towards generality through multi‐generational directed evolution using substrate‐multiplexed screening (SUMS). Mutations outside of the active site that impact catalytic function were immediately revealed by shifts in promiscuity, even when the overall activity was lower. By re‐targeting these distal residues that couple to the active site with saturation mutagenesis, broadly activating mutations were readily identified. When analyzing active site mutants, SUMS identified both specialist enzymes that would have more limited utility as well as generalist enzymes with complementary activity on diverse substrates. These new UstD enzymes catalyze convergent synthesis of non‐canonical amino acids bearing tertiary alcohol side chains. This methodology is easy to implement and enables the rapid and effective evolution of enzymes to catalyze desirable new functions.

Promiscuity Guided Evolution of Decarboxylative Aldolases for Synthesis of Tertiary γ-Hydroxy Amino Acids.

Many applications of enzymes benefit from activity on structurally diverse substrates. Here, we sought to engineer the decarboxylative aldolase UstD to perform a challenging C-C bond forming reaction with ketone electrophiles. The parent enzyme had only low levels of activity, portending multiple rounds of directed evolution and a possibility that mutations may inadvertently increase the specificity of the enzyme for a single model screening substrate. We show how to intentionally guide UstD towards generality through multi-generational directed evolution using substrate-multiplexed screening (SUMS). Mutations outside of the active site that impact catalytic function were immediately revealed by shifts in promiscuity, even when the overall activity was lower. By re-targeting these distal residues that couple to the active site with saturation mutagenesis, broadly activating mutations were readily identified. When analyzing active site mutants, SUMS identified both specialist enzymes that would have more limited utility as well as generalist enzymes with complementary activity on diverse substrates. These new UstD enzymes catalyze convergent synthesis of non-canonical amino acids bearing tertiary alcohol side chains. This methodology is easy to implement and enables the rapid and effective evolution of enzymes to catalyze desirable new functions.

Physical activity and sedentary behavior of the adult population in the light of some sociodemographic variables and nutritional status based on a study in Hungary

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study is to explore the level of physical activity, sitting time, and body mass index and their associates with sociodemographic variables in the Southern Great Plain of Hungary. Methods 3665 participants (1349 men; 2316 women) participated in our study. Their average age was 45.08 (SD = 15.68). Physical activity and sitting time were measuring the short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF). The participants were also asked about their sociodemographic (e.g., residence, income, etc.) and body mass index. Results Our result showed that men had higher total, vigorous, and moderate physical activity levels. Younger adults (18–29) had higher total, vigorous and moderate activity than older adults (65+). Residents of large cities and graduates showed higher levels of physical activity. Higher activity was not linked to higher income, while moderate activity was slightly associated with lower income. Normal BMI was associated with the engaging in high levels of physical activity. Sitting time was higher among young adults, village residents, university graduates, those with moderate incomes, normal BMI, and lower physical activity levels. Conclusion Our study demonstrated the impact of sociodemographics on physical activity, BMI, and sitting time. The findings were consistent with other Hungarian samples, suggesting that the Southern Great Plain aligns with the national average.

Low physical activity levels of military police officers during day and night radio patrolling

IntroductionThe São Paulo State Military Police officers have a higher mortality rate than the civilian population. The radio patrolling work (RP190) is carried out by pairs of military police officers...

Exploring the synergistic effects of soil nutrients, rhizosphere fungi, and endophytic fungi on the shaping of root metabolites in Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels.

The root of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels (Ang) is a bulk Chinese herbal medicine, and the microecological regulation is a sustainable means to enhance its quality. In this study, Angs at five bases (LZ, XZ, QS, PM, MZC) in Minxian County, Gansu Province were taken as the research objects. These bases locate in the typical spatial spans of the Ang authentic area, and are important planting bases. The Angs from production bases were systematically compared with respect to soil physicochemical properties, rhizosphere fungi, endophytic fungi, and metabolic profiles. Typically, LZ showed low levels of available nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), available potassium (AK), and soil enzyme activities, while QS had the highest AN, AP, AK, and cellulase activity. Although XZ exhibits moderate nutrient contents, its sucrase activity was highest. Based on microbiome sequencing, rhizosphere fungal communities responded these physicochemical differences, with XZ harboring more probiotics, including Tetracladium, Itersonilia, and Vishniacozyma, compared to LZ, which showed the lowest abundance of these microorganisms. Differential patterns were presented among their endophytic fungal communities. Through LC-MS detection, it was revealed that Angs in QS synthesized more short peptides, organic acids and phenylpropanoid ingredients. Upregulated metabolites with plant defense efficacy are mostly found in LZ's Angs. Whereas XZ's Angs had a moderate abundance of bioactive ingredients. Structural equation fitting further highlighted the synergistic effects of soil nutrients (AN, AP, AK) with key fungal genera (Tetracladium, Itersonilia, Paecilomyces, Aspergillus) and their potential shaping effects on amino acids, short peptides, organic acids, and phenylpropanoids such as L-phenylalanine, acetyl-L-tyrosine, Ile-His-Met-Thr, caffeic aldehyde, L-pipecolic acid, and 4-methoxycinnamic acid. This study further refined the potential action modes of these key microecological factors shaping the accumulation of main types of active ingredients. These results are expected to provide an important reference for the development of quality regulation strategies in Ang ecological cultivation.

On Thermospheric Molecular Oxygen and Its Relationship to Solar Activity

AbstractObservations from the Global‐scale Observations of Limb and Disk (GOLD) mission have provided a new remote‐sensing data source of molecular oxygen profiles in Earth's lower‐to‐middle thermosphere (120–200 km). GOLD O2 observations indicate increasing densities of molecular oxygen at 170 km with rising solar activity between solar radio flux F10.7 values of 60 and ∼120 solar flux units (sfu). This is also seen in comparisons with solar extreme ultraviolet irradiance QEUV between 1 and ∼2.25 erg cm−2 s−1. However, the empirical Mass Spectrometer Incoherent Scatter radar 2.0 (MSIS 2.0) model overestimates O2 densities at 170 km at these low levels of solar activity and predicts a decreasing density with increasing solar flux below ∼120 sfu. Additional data sets validate GOLD observations of O2 and their relationship with solar activity. Accurately determining and forecasting O2 is critical for accurately modeling plasma densities in the ionosphere and thermospheric density in the lower‐to‐middle thermosphere.

Immunization but not natural infection of horses results in antibody activity against the S protein of Streptococcus equi subsp equi.

Evaluate the immunogenicity of a vaccine targeting the S protein (Ssee) of Streptococcus equi subsp equi and determine antibody activity against Ssee in horses with strangles. The study was designed as a prospective experiment using 20 university-owned Quarter Horses and a cross-sectional serosurvey of 78 privately owned horses with strangles. Horses were immunized IM with 0 (n = 4), 200 (n = 8), or 400 (n = 8) μg of recombinant Ssee at weeks 0, 4, and 12. Serum and nasal secretions were collected at weeks 0, 4, 6, 12, 16, and 28 and tested by ELISA for immunoglobulin (Ig)-G against Ssee; nasal secretions were also tested for anti-Ssee IgA. The function of anti-Ssee IgG in serum was tested for complement deposition onto Ssee and opsonophagocytic killing of S equi subsp equi. Serum from horses with strangles was tested by ELISA for anti-Ssee IgG activity. Immunization with Ssee significantly (P < .05) increased serum and nasal IgG (but not nasal IgA) against Ssee for up to 12 weeks after the third immunization, and serum from vaccinated horses mediated significantly (P < .001) greater complement deposition onto Ssee, but not opsonophagocytic killing (P > .05), than controls. Horses with strangles did not develop high levels of serum IgG activity against Ssee. Immunizing horses with Ssee resulted in increased activity of functional IgG in serum and nasal secretions, and horses with strangles had very low levels of serum IgG activity against Ssee. S protein has potential as a vaccine to reduce the severity of strangles and differentiate between infected and vaccinated horses.

Dysmenorrhea, Premenstrual Syndrome, and Lifestyle Habits in Young University Students in Spain: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Menstruation is a physiological process that may be accompanied by pain, headache, edema, emotional changes, and other symptoms, all of which affect quality of life. Although the results of some studies indicate lifestyle habits can affect the menstrual cycle and associated symptoms, few have investigated this issue, and even fewer have explored the impact of these symptoms on quality of life, in Spanish women. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of dysmenorrhea and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) among students at a Spanish university, assess the impact of these conditions on quality of life, and analyze the relationship among lifestyle habits, dysmenorrhea, and PMS. A cross-sectional study was carried out on 743 women enrolled at the University of Extremadura in the 2021-2022 academic year. Data related to the menstrual cycle, pain, and PMS-related physical and emotional symptoms were collected. Quality of life related to menstruation was evaluated using the CVM-22 scale. Lifestyle data collected included adherence to a Mediterranean diet (PREDIMED [Prevención con Dieta Mediterránea] questionnaire), level of physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire), and alcohol and tobacco consumption (Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test Version 3). Also, other clinical data were recorded. In terms of the sample, the median age was 21 (19-23) years, the prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 57.9%, 92.7% reported premenstrual physical symptoms, and 55.6% reported experiencing premenstrual emotional changes. Having a low level of adherence to a Mediterranean diet was associated with the presence of dysmenorrhea, with an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 1.47 (95% CI [1.06, 2.03]). Having a low level of physical activity was strongly associated with the presence of premenstrual physical symptoms, with an aOR of 5.89 (95% CI [1.71, 20.26]). Also, an association was found between tobacco use and premenstrual emotional changes, with an aOR of 2.02 (95% CI [1.25, 3.25]). Furthermore, dysmenorrhea and PMS were both associated with a low quality of life, with pain and emotional changes being the most significantly associated factors, with ORs of 16.25 (95% CI [10.36, 25.47]) and 26.73 (95% CI [16.46, 43.40]), respectively. Similar to previous studies, the findings of this study indicate a high prevalence of dysmenorrhea and PMS among young university students in western Spain, with both of these symptoms impacting quality of life significantly and negatively. In addition, lifestyle habits, diet, physical activity, and tobacco use seem to influence the occurrence of these symptoms. Promoting lifestyle changes may be an effective strategy to reduce the incidence of dysmenorrhea and PMS and improve the quality of life of young women.

Using the EPIS Framework to Implement a Physical Activity Promotion Intervention at a Large Academic Healthcare System.

This study aimed to describe the implementation of a workplace health promotion to address low levels of physical activity (PA). Using the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) framework, we implemented and evaluated a 10-week workplace step-count challenge to promote PA. All health system employees invited to participate. Data were collected on the exploration, preparation, and implementation phases. During exploration, we recognized inadequate PA among employees. Meetings with key personnel were held to determine details of the health promotion and obtain support. We pursued a step-count PA intervention, capitalizing on employee ownership of smartphones with accelerometers. Vendors to host the intervention were evaluated. All employees were invited to participate. Participants received weekly messages about improving PA and notifications of weekly challenges. Exit interviews provided feedback and suggestions. A workplace health promotion focused on employee PA is feasible using EPIS.

Complement function and activation in human serum and plasma collected in different blood collection tubes.

Complement analysis necessitates strict control of pre-analytical blood handling, including time, temperature, and additives. Here, we compared complement function and activation status across five different serum preparations and two plasma preparations. Serum was collected from ten healthy volunteers using glass tubes without additives, tubes with a silica clot activator (with or without a gel separator), and tubes containing thrombin (with or without a gel separator). Plasma was collected in the presence of EDTA or the thrombin inhibitor lepirudin. Serum and plasma aliquots were snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at -80 °C. Complement functional analysis was performed using Wieslab and Hycult Biotech pathway-specific assays. Complement activation was determined by quantifying specific activation markers: C1s/C1-INH, MASP-1/C1-INH, C3bc, C3bBbP, and sC5b-9. All serum samples exhibited increased complement activation compared to EDTA and lepirudin plasma, with serum tubes containing thrombin and gel separators showing the highest levels of complement activation. However, normal complement function was observed in all serum preparations, indicating that the complement activation and consumption that occurred did not affect complement functional analysis. While all tested serum tubes provided accurate functional activity, the type of tube and the presence of additives like thrombin and gel separators significantly influenced the degree of complement activation. We recommend preparing functionally active serum either in glass tubes or in silica clot activator tubes, and avoiding gel separators. For complement activation studies, lepirudin plasma is preferable over serum due to its complement functional capacity, low level of complement activation, and lack of excessive hemostatic activation.

Abstract 22: Implementation of increased physical therapy intensity for improving walking across inpatient stroke rehabilitation units: Primary results of the Walk ‘n Watch multi-site stepped-wedge cluster randomized controlled trial

Introduction: Though clinical practice guidelines support high repetitions of walking after stroke, practice is slow to change with low levels of walking activity in stroke rehabilitation units. We undertook an implementation trial to change practice; we enabled entire stroke units to use the Walk ‘n Watch protocol and determined the effect of implementation on the 6 Minute Walk Test (6MWT) at hospital discharge. Methods: This 12-site clinical trial across 7 Canadian provinces used a stepped-wedge cluster design to randomize when each site switched from Usual Care to the Walk ‘n Watch protocol. At the start of the Walk ‘n Watch phase, we trained all front-line physical therapists on the unit with training workshops, manuals, hands-on practice, and videos. Each site was provided onboarding materials to address staff changes so therapists who did not attend the initial training could adopt the protocol. Each site also identified a ‘protocol champion’ to facilitate initial weekly huddles with therapists to discuss barriers to implementation. Therapists were trained to complete safety screening and to determine eligibility. The Walk ‘n Watch protocol focused on completing a minimum of 30-minutes of daily weight-bearing, walking-related activities that progressively increased in intensity informed by activity trackers measuring heart rate and step number. Blinded assessors completed the outcomes at baseline and 4-weeks later (near discharge). Primary analysis used a linear mixed-effects model adjusted for stratum, date of enrollment, age, sex and baseline 6MWT. Results: The total number of participants was 306 (162 Usual Care, 144 Walk ‘n Watch, 188 males/118 females) with a mean(SD) age of 68(13), 29(17) days since stroke, and a baseline 6MWT of 152(106) m. The improvement on the 6MWT was 43.6m (95%CI 12.7, 76.1) greater in the Walk ‘n Watch group compared to the Usual Care group. Further, the Walk ‘n Watch group improved quality of life (EQ5D), balance and mobility (Short Physical Performance Battery) and gait speed. Conclusions: The implementation trial design enabled the protocol to be tested under real-world conditions, involving all therapists on each unit to deliver the protocol. The trial had a deliberate aim to facilitate changes in practice that resulted in clinically meaningful improvements in walking and quality of life.

Abstract TP347: Sex differences of immunosuppression and phagocytosis after stroke as a correlative measure for post-stroke functional recovery

Background: Stroke remains a leading cause of death globally, with significant sex differences in post-stroke outcomes. Additionally, post-stroke infections and sepsis are linked to differences in innate immune responses. The glycosidase, Chitotriosidase 1 (CHIT1), has emerged as an important regulator of innate immunity and lower levels of CHIT1 and chitinases-like proteins are associated with disease severity and progression including multiple sclerosis. However, whether CHIT1 plays a role in the response to acute ischemic stroke is unknown. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that sex-specific alterations in pro-inflammatory factors, including CHIT1, contribute to differential patterns of phagocytosis and post-stroke outcomes. Methods: We examined the effects of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in older men and women, specifically circulatory cytokine production, circulatory phagocytosis assessment utilizing fluorescent bead engulfment assay, and if these correlated with post-stroke complications in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). We examined relationships with stroke severity, as measured by the NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) in patients with a NIHSS&gt;6. Results: Our findings reveal that older women exhibit lower levels of CHIT1 activity correlating with poorer survival outcomes in AIS (p&lt;0.05, n=7-11/grp) compared to men (ns, n=21-22/grp). Female presented a robust phagocytic capability and CHIT1 depression on peripheral monocytes (p&lt;0.05, n=7-11/grp). This effect is not observed in men, who exhibit greater phagocytic capacity after 1 day after stroke (p&lt;0.01, n=21-22/grp) measured by bead uptake assay using flow cytometry. Variations in CHIT1 levels in PBMCs correlated with stroke severity and infection risk, underscoring its potential role in sex-dependent outcomes. Conclusion: Our data suggests that peripheral reduction of CHIT1 levels impairs phagocytosis and increases susceptibility to infections as a risk factor for poorer stroke outcomes. CHIT1 appears to be a novel mediator of sex differences in post-stroke immune suppression. Targeting the anti-fungal response protein CHIT1 could help normalize phagocytic responses in older women, potentially reducing infection rates and improving post-stroke outcomes. Further research into CHIT1's interaction with pathogen-associated molecular patterns could provide new therapeutic strategies for stroke management.

Attitudes, beliefs and preferences surrounding home-based exercise programs in endometrial cancer patients receiving treatment.

Despite recommendations, exercise participation among endometrial cancer survivors remains low. Previous interventions focused on weight loss or in-person programs with limited reach. Regular exercise, regardless of weight change, reduces mortality risk and improves functionality. Home-based programs could address participation barriers. We conducted a qualitative study with inactive survivors to identify key factors for future home-based exercise programs. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten on-treatment endometrial cancer survivors who reported low physical activity levels. Interviews, conducted via Zoom or telephone, were recorded with consent. Transcripts were coded using MAXQDA to identify attitudes, knowledge, barriers, interests, and preferences regarding home-based exercise programs. The interviews yielded four major themes, the first being the understanding survivors have of what exercise is and the perceived benefits of exercise. Second, participants were acutely aware of the barriers to exercise which included: health issues, treatment-related concerns, access to resources, limited strength, lack of support, and past negative experiences. The third theme focused on motivational factors to exercise including guidance, support systems, access to resources including technology, and a desire to be healthy as motivators towards changing exercise behaviors. Finally, participants expressed interest in exercise that incorporated fun with low impact and accessibility. Interestingly, all the participants preferred home-based exercise programs. The role of the provider/oncologist was often identified as central to the discussion or suggestion of exercise in our sample. Understanding patient needs and preferences is crucial for creating accessible and sustainable exercise programs for endometrial cancer survivors. Our study guides the development of future home-based exercise programs for this population.

Do biopsychosocial factors predict the level of physical activity in individuals with persistent shoulder pain?

The objective of this cross-sectional study was to compare the physical activity level between individuals with and without rotator cuff related shoulder pain (RCRSP), and, in individuals with RCRSP, investigate whether biopsychosocial factors are associated with the physical activity level. Seventy-four participants with and 84 participants without RCRSP wore a fitness tracking watch for seven consecutive days to assess physical activity (step count, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA)-minutes). Additionally, participants with RCRSP completed questionnaires on their level of pain, disability, and physical activity (short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire [IPAQ]), as well as on biopsychosocial factors, including resilience, stress, catastrophizing, anxiety and depressive symptoms, self-efficacy, and social support. Statistical analysis included Mann-Whitney U tests and General Linear Models for group comparisons, as well as multiple regression analyses to explore predictors of physical activity. No significant between-group difference was found concerning step count and MVPA-minutes. Age and depressive symptoms explained 14% of the variance in step count, while age and resilience explained 15% of MVPA-minutes variance. Additionally, resilience was associated with IPAQ (P<0.05), indicating that higher resilience correlates with greater reported physical activity (odds ratio: 2.32 [1.27, 4.22]). While individuals with RCRSP did not show lower physical activity levels compared to their healthy counterparts, greater physical activity was associated with younger age, lower depressive symptoms, and higher resilience in individuals with RCRSP. Future research should explore whether resilience and physical activity interventions can prevent the transition to persistent RCRSP.

Low-to-Moderate Daytime Physical Activities Predicted Higher-Quality Sleep Among Habitually Active Agropastoralists.

The positive effects of physical activity (PA) on sleep are widely promoted by public health organizations and supported by abundant empirical evidence. Nonetheless, there remains a dearth of studies investigating the association between daytime PA and nighttime sleep among non-urban and nonindustrial populations that habitually engage in PA as part of their subsistence strategy. Here, we examined the bidirectional relationship between PA and sleep. We also looked at age, gender, and occupation-level differences in moderate-to-vigorous-intensity PA (MVPA), low-intensity PA (LPA), and sedentary activity durations among Basotho and Xhoxa agropastoralists residing in rural villages in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. We analyzed activity and sleep data collected from 113 individuals using MotionWatch actigraphy wristwatches across three field seasons (7111 individual days). Percentage daily total MVPA decreased with age, though older participants maintained low activity levels and did not suffer from poorer sleep compared to younger participants. Herders spent more percentage of their day in higher-intensity activity than non-herders. Overall, women had greater daily percentage MVPA and lower percentage sedentary activity than men. Durations of total MVPA and LPA decreased total sleep time (TST) and improved sleep quality (increased sleep efficiency (SE), decreased fragmentation, and decreased percentage wake after sleep onset). Daytime PA measures were not affected by sleep duration or quality from the previous night. Among this group of habitually active agropastoralists, low-to-moderate-intensity PA durations consistently predicted higher sleep quality. Our findings showed that sleep quality was more strongly affected by PA than sleep duration.

Flow electrolytic separation of radionuclides for interference suppression in γ-spectrometry.

The direct and accurate measurement of low-level γ-emitters in samples from nuclear facilities is a challenging task due to the presence of high activities of dominant radionuclides. In this case a complex chemical separation is required to remove interfering radionuclides prior to γ-spectrometric analysis. Several radionuclides such as, 110mAg, 124,125Sb, 113Sn and 123mTe are of relevance for radioanalytical analysis in nuclear facilities. These may be readily electrodeposited at controlled-potential using flow electrolysis in aqueous solution. Here, the development and use of flow electrolysis for the pre-analytical separation of different radionuclides to suppress interferences in γ-spectrometric measurements is presented. Model electrochemical systems containing inactive Ag, Sb, Sn, and Te were first characterized by voltammetry. Their separation by selective electrodeposition and stripping was evaluated with a custom-made, low-cost electrochemical flow-through cell. After optimization, the use of the flow-through cell yielded good separation procedures for stable elements at carefully chosen applied potentials. The developed electrochemical procedures were finally employed for the separation of model mixtures of radioactive tracers as well as for samples from nuclear facilities. The separation of, e.g., 110mAg or 123mTe by flow electrolysis afforded a substantial decrease of the uncertainty and the detection limits by one order of magnitude during γ-spectrometry. This allowed for a more accurate determination of low-level activity radionuclides in a sample from a nuclear facility (123mTe) as well as for the identification of others which were previously below the detection limit (103Ru, 110mAg). These results demonstrate the benefits of combining flow electrolysis with γ-spectrometry for analysis of low-level radionuclides in the presence of dominating radionuclides, and can be readily combined with other measurement techniques such as liquid scintillation counting or α-spectrometry. The presented approach not only provides a different chemical selectivity when compared to traditional separation methods, but can also be used in combination with other flow separation methods such as ion-exchange or extraction chromatography.

Investigation of the Relationship of Kinesiophobia and Physical Activity Level with Dyspnea, Muscle Strength, and Proprioception in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Retrospective Study

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the relationship of kinesiophobia (fear of movement) and physical activity level with dyspnea, peripheral muscle strength and proprioceptive acuity in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Metarial and Methods: A total of 36 COPD patients (mean age: 66.94 ± 10.40 years) were included in this retrospective cross-sectional study. Within the scope of the purpose of the current study, the patients’ demographics, respiratory symptoms, as well as clinical characteristics such as kinesiophobia level, physical activity level, dyspnea severity, peripheral muscle strength, and proprioceptive level were recorded from the patient file. Results: The majority of the patients (72.2%) were GOLD Stage 2. The patients had a high level of kinesiophobia (≥ 37 points), low physical activity level, prolonged sitting time, and high dyspnea severity (mMRC ≥ 2). In addition, the quadriceps, iliopsoas and tibialis anterior muscle strength of the patients were 7.47±2.40 kg, 7.34±2.06 kg and 8.93 (7.10/9.60) kg, respectively, and the patients’ knee proprioception (degree of deviation from the target angle) were 3.50 (1.33/4.16) degrees. Kinesiophobia level showed a significant relationship with physical activity level and sitting time (p

Medical Nutrition Therapy and Physical Exercise for Acute and Chronic Hyperglycemic Patients with Sarcopenia

A wide range of factors contribute to the overlap of hyperglycemia—acute or chronic—and sarcopenia, as well as their associated adverse consequences, which can lead to impaired physical function, reduced quality of life, and increased mortality risk. These factors include malnutrition (both overnutrition and undernutrition) and low levels of physical activity. Hyperglycemia and sarcopenia are interconnected through a vicious cycle of events that mutually reinforce and worsen each other. To explore this association, our review compiles evidence on: (i) the impact of hyperglycemia on motor and muscle function, with a focus on the mechanisms underlying biochemical changes in the muscles of individuals with or at risk of diabetes and sarcopenia; (ii) the importance of the clinical assessment and control of sarcopenia under hyperglycemic conditions; and (iii) the potential benefits of medical nutrition therapy and increased physical activity as muscle-targeted treatments for this population. Based on the reviewed evidence, we conclude that a regular intake of key functional nutrients, together with structured and supervised resistance and/or aerobic physical activity, can help maintain euglycemia and improve muscle status in all patients with hyperglycemia and sarcopenia.