Muscular Strength Research Articles

Long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation and neuromuscular function in older adults.

This review aims to explore the latest research investigating the effects of marine-derived long-chain n -3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC n -3 PUFA) supplementation on neuromuscular function in older adults. Ageing results in a decline in skeletal muscle strength and mass. There is growing evidence that LC n -3 PUFA supplementation increases muscle strength and mass in healthy older adults, yet the mechanisms underlying these effects remain elusive. Recent studies investigating LC n -3 PUFA supplementation have demonstrated effects on neuromuscular function such as increases in the compound muscle action potential (M-wave) amplitude and surface electromyography alongside increases in muscular strength. Therefore, evidence suggests that LC n -3 PUFA may elicit a beneficial effect at the neuromuscular junction and possess neuroprotective properties in older adults. LC n -3 PUFA supplementation may increase or maintain neuromuscular function throughout the ageing process. Further research is warranted to investigate the long-term effects LC n -3 PUFA supplementation on neuromuscular outcomes such as single motor unit properties and cortical/supraspinal networks, utilizing state-of-the-art techniques in neuromuscular physiology.

Ação Imunomoduladora da Estimulação Parassimpática promovida pelo Exercício Físico

Introduction: Physical exercise promotes the stimulation of the vagal nerve and different neural networks, contributing to a more effective anti-inflammatory response in order to contribute to cardiovascular, metabolic and immunological benefits. Objective: To associate the role of physical exercise with parasympathetic stimulation and its possible implications in immunomodulation Methods: This is a qualitative, explanatory and descriptive study on the immunomodulatory action of parasympathetic activation through physical exercise through a bibliographic review. The databases used were: PubMed, Scopus, Scielo and Web of Science involving all original articles from January 2015 and June 2024. Results: The main findings are related to differences in physical exercise intensity, which can contribute to the modulation of the innate immune system and the expression of neutrophil and lymphocyte cell populations, which can contribute to a more specific immune response. Aerobic training and strength training had similar responses in reducing BMI and glycated hemoglobin, reducing sympathetic tone, increasing parasympathetic tone, and improving the sympatho/vagal balance for controlling heart rate variability. There was a negative association between vagal neuroimmunomodulation (NIM) and mortality, since the lower the NIM index, the shorter the survival time in the population sample. Conclusion: Aerobic physical exercise and strength training can contribute to the activation of the parasympathetic system and immune system and provide better adjustments in the innate and adaptive immune response dependent on the intensity and volume of training.

Remote physical activity intervention to promote physical activity and health in adolescent girls (the HERizon project): a multi-arm, pilot randomised trial

BackgroundEngaging in physical activity (PA) during adolescence is beneficial for health and positive development. However, most adolescent girls have low PA levels, and there is a need for interventions outside of school hours. This pilot randomised controlled trial aimed to explore the preliminary effectiveness of three different remote PA interventions in increasing adolescent girls’ moderate-to- vigorous PA (MVPA), fitness and psychosocial outcomes.MethodsGirls living in the UK or Ireland, aged between 13 and 16 years old, who wished to increase their activity levels, were eligible for the study. Using a random number generator, participants (n = 153; 14.8y ± 1.4) were randomised into one of three 12-week intervention groups (i) PA programme, (ii) Behaviour change support, or (iii) Combined PA programme and Behaviour change support, or (iv) a Comparison group. Outcome measures included accelerometer and self-reported PA, physical fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness; 20 m shuttle run, muscular endurance; push up, muscular strength; long jump), and psychosocial assessments (perceived competence; body appreciation; self-esteem; behavioural regulation). Linear mixed models were used to analyse differences between each intervention arm and the comparison group immediately postintervention (12 weeks) and at follow up (3-months post-intervention), while adjusting for potential confounders.ResultsParticipation in the PA programme group was associated with higher perceived competence (0.6, 95% CI 0.1 to 1.2), identified regulation (0.7, 95% CI 0.2 to 1.1) and intrinsic motivation (0.9, 95% CI 0.2 to 1.6) at post-intervention. Participation in the Behaviour change group was associated with higher perceived competence at post-intervention (0.6, 95% CI 0.1 to 1.2), and higher push-up scores at the 3-month follow-up (4.0, 95% CI 0.0 to 7.0). Participation in the Combined group was also associated with higher perceived competence at post-intervention (0.8, 95% CI 0.2 to 1.4), and higher push-up scores at the 3-month follow-up (5.0, 95% CI 1.0 to 8.0). No other significant differences were found between the intervention arms and the comparison group.ConclusionResults suggest perceived competence increased across all intervention arms, while the PA programme group enhanced autonomous motivation in the short term. Intervention arms with behaviour change support appear most promising in improving muscular endurance. However, a larger scale trial is needed for a better understanding of between-group differences and the impact of intervention arms on MVPA and fitness, given the small sample size and short-term follow-up.

Quality of outcome (QoO) in oral cancer patients: prospective perioperative analysis of patients’ resilience and satisfaction during inpatient stay at a University Medical Centre in Germany

Abstract Objectives Quality assurance strategies for head and neck surgery can improve patient outcomes. This study aims a perioperative analysis of indicators in the quality of outcome in oral cancer patients with special focus on patient`s resilience and satisfaction before and after surgery. Methods Patients with oral cancer (OCP) and indication for surgical resection were included in a prospective study. General and disease-related data as well as parameters of patient-specific resilience (RS-11 questionnaire) and physical strength (ECOG-Score) were collected. Importance and satisfaction using the nine items family/friends, sports activities/physiotherapy, participation in culture, professional perspectives, sexuality, enjoyable food, external appearance, social recognition and independence were analysed. The data collection took place pre- and postoperatively (mean: 10th postop day) during the inpatient stay. Results Twenty-eight patients with oral cancer (OCP) were analysed (male: n=23, female n=5). The rate of R0 resections was 92.6 %. The average length of stay was 21 days. n=16 of all patients was tracheotomised postop (preop: n=0). n=0 patients confirmed psycho(onco)logical support preop (postop: n=19). Sports activities/physiotherapy was provided to n=3 patients preop (postop: n=21). The mean pre and postop pain perception was 3/10. The RS-11 score decreased significantly postoperatively (p=0.01). A significant loss of satisfaction was seen in the areas of enjoyable food (p<0.001), social recognition (p=0.01), external appearance (p=0.01) and independence (p<0.001). Conclusions Supportive therapy measures to promote mental and physical fitness of oral cancer patients are part of inpatient care at our clinic. However, there is no standardised monitoring of these therapies. Digitally supported and standardised programmes to increase mental and physical fitness in both prehospital and inpatient care might lead to an improvement in the quality of outcome despite shortage of resources in terms of time, costs and personnel. A minimally invasive approach to tracheal cannula management and lymph node management in the treatment of OCP can help to reduce the length of stay in the intensive care unit.

The Relationship Between Physical Activity Profiles and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors: Results of a Cross-Sectional Survey of Active Duty U.S. Service Members.

This study aimed to identify subgroups of active duty U.S. service members (ADSMs) based on physical activity levels and their association with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. Our secondary aim was to assess how these profiles vary across sociodemographic factors. A cross-sectional survey of ADSMs, yielding a 9.6% response rate and 17,166 usable surveys, was conducted by the DoD and RAND Corporation in 2018 using stratified random sampling. In this secondary analysis, latent subgroups of ADSMs were determined based on physical activity levels and a weighted multinomial logistic regression was used to examine associations. Three latent subgroups were identified as "High Activity" (17.1%), "Moderate Activity" (45.3%), and "Low Active" (37.6%). Older age, female, White (as compared to Hispanic), cohabiting, Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard were associated with increased odds of "Low Active" membership. Compared to the "Low Active" class, the "High Active" class showed lower odds of hyperlipidemia (aOR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.38, 0.99), hypertension (aOR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.48, 0.98), and multimorbidity (aOR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.38, 0.80). Compared to the "Low Active" class, the "Moderate Active" class showed lower odds of hyperlipidemia (aOR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.47, 0.81) and multimorbidity (aOR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.53, 0.83). Similar patterns of associations were seen in ADSMs who met the objectives for Healthy People 2030 (HP2030) standards. The study emphasizes the importance of combining physical activity and strength training to reduce CVD risk factors, supporting the implementation of tailored physical activity programs within the military to align fitness standards.

Favourable mid-term isokinetic strength after primary THA combined with a modified enhanced recovery after surgery concept (ERAS) in a single blinded randomized controlled trial

PurposeMuscular deficits as part of severe osteoarthritis of the hip may persist for up to two years following total hip arthroplasty (THA). No study has evaluated the mid-term benefit of a modified enhanced-recovery-after-surgery (ERAS) concept on muscular strength of the hip in detail thus far. We (1) investigated if a modified ERAS-concept for primary THA improves the mid-term rehabilitation of muscular strength and (2) compared the clinical outcome using validated clinical scores.MethodsIn a prospective, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial we compared patients receiving primary THA with a modified ERAS concept (n = 12, ERAS-group) and such receiving conventional THA (n = 12, non-ERAS) at three months and one year postoperatively. For assessment of isokinetic muscular strength, a Biodex-Dynamometer was used (peak-torque, total-work, power). The clinical outcome was evaluated by using clinical scores (Patient-Related-Outcome-Measures (PROMs), WOMAC-index (Western-Ontario-and-McMaster-Universities-Osteoarthritis-Index), HHS (Harris-Hip-Score) and EQ-5D-3L-score.ResultsThree-months postoperatively, isokinetic strength (peak-torque, total-work, power) and active range of motion was significantly better in the modified ERAS group. One year postoperatively, the total work for flexion was significantly higher than in the Non-ERAS group, whilst peak-torque and power did not show significant differences. Evaluation of clinical scores revealed excellent results at both time points in both groups. However, we could not detect any significant differences between both groups in respect of the clinical outcome.ConclusionWith regard to muscular strength, this study supports the implementation of an ERAS concept for primary THA. The combination with a modified ERAS concept lead to faster rehabilitation for up to one-year postoperatively, reflected by significant higher muscular strength (peak-torque, total-work, power). Possibly, because common scores are not sensitive enough, the results are not reflected in the clinical outcome. Further larger randomized controlled trials are necessary for long-term evaluation.

The effect of low-intensity suspension training with blood flow restriction on GH, IGF-1, and their association with physical fitness in young women.

Blood flow restriction (BFR) has been incorporated in resistance training for over 20 years. We aimed to investigate the impact of low-intensity suspension training with BFR (LIST+BFR) on GH, IGF-1, and their association with physical fitness in young women. Thirty-six active women participated and were randomly assigned to either the high-intensity suspension training (HIST), LIST+BFR, or control (CON) groups. Training groups exercised three sessions weekly for 8 weeks. The CON only engaged in regular physical activity. Fasting serum hormones and physical fitness were assessed 48 h before and after the training intervention. GH and IGF-1 levels significantly higher in the LIST+BFR compared to the HIST and CON. These hormones were significantly higher by HIST, compared to CON. LIST+BFR led to significant enhancements in muscular strength and endurance compared to HIST and CON. Additionally, HIST significantly higher than compared to CON. Sprinting and agility time lower in both suspension training groups rather than the CON. No significant between-groups differences were found in weight. There was a large or moderate correlation between GH and IGF-1 and muscular strength, endurance, sprint, and agility performance. LIST+BFR could more enhanced GH, IGF-1, and muscular strength and endurance in females than HIST.

Online-delivered resistance exercise intervention among racially diverse breast cancer survivors: Feasibility, acceptability, and exploratory outcomes of B-REP.

The aims are to determine the feasibility of an online-delivered resistance exercise program among racially diverse breast cancer survivors and to conduct an exploratory analysis of the intervention on muscular strength, physical activity levels, health-related quality of life, and self-efficacy. A 2-arm randomized controlled trial study design with assessments at pre- and post-intervention was used. Participants (n = 52) were recruited from clinics at the host institution and randomized to either intervention (n = 28) or minimal contact control (MCC) conditions (n = 24). All participants received a 12-week individualized resistance exercise prescription based on their baseline functional strength assessment. Intervention participants exercised one-on-one once per week over Zoom with an exercise trainer. MCC participants received no supervision. Descriptive statistics were used to determine feasibility and acceptability (primary outcomes). Repeated measures ANOVAs were used to examine exploratory outcomes. The intervention demonstrated high rates for feasibility outcomes of enrollment (80.0%) and post-intervention assessment completion (92.9%). Acceptability outcomes were high for session attendance (98.0%) and satisfaction (Mscore = 4.87 out of 5, SD = .18). The intervention group increased upper- (p < .01) and lower- (p < .02) body strength compared to MCC condition. The intervention was feasible, acceptable, and demonstrated increases in muscular strength. Limitations include a small sample recruited from one cancer center. Future research is needed to determine longitudinal impacts of resistance exercise on survivorship outcomes. Online-delivered resistance exercise shows promising efficacy among racially diverse breast cancer survivors. gov registration: NCT04562233 on September 18, 2020.

Effects of two types of resistance training modalities (hypertrophy vs. contrast training) on bone parameters in a group of healthy elderly women

The aim of the present study was to explore the effects of two types of resistance training modalities (hypertrophy training vs. contrast training) on bone health parameters in a group of healthy elderly women. Forty-nine healthy elderly women whose ages range between 60 and 70 years were included in this study. The study population was randomly divided into three groups: hypertrophy training group (HTG; n=16), contrast training group (CTG; n=16) and control group (CG; n=17). Bone mineral density (BMD) values at the whole body (WB), lumbar spine (L1-L4), total hip (TH) and femoral neck (FN) were measured by DXA before and after 12 months of resistance training. Composite indices of femoral neck strength were calculated. WB BMD, L1-L4 BMD, TH BMD and FN BMD increased in the contrast training group. WB BMD and L1-L4 BMD increased in the hypertrophy training group, while TH BMD and FN BMD remained unchanged. Significant decreases in WB BMD, L1-L4 BMD, TH BMD and FN BMD were observed in the control group. The contrast training group showed the highest improvements in BMD values compared to the two other groups. Both experimental groups (HTG and CTG) showed similar significant improvements in composite indices of femoral neck strength and muscular strength. In conclusion, contrast training and hypertrophy training can stimulate bone gain at clinically important sites of osteoporotic fractures in elderly women.

Role of fimbriae variations in Porphyromonas gulae biofilm formation

ObjectivesPorphyromonas gulae is a major causative agent of periodontal disease in companion animals that possesses various virulence factors, including fimbriae, lipopolysaccharides, and proteases. P. gulae fimbriae are classified into three genotypes (A, B, and C) based on their nucleotide sequences. Type C fimbrial isolates have been reported to be more virulent than other fimA types, suggesting that different fimA types may aid in the regulation of periodontal pathogenesis. Detailed findings regarding the ability of P. gulae to form biofilms have yet to be reported. Here, we investigated the contributions of fimbrial genotypes in P. gulae biofilm formation. MethodsP. gulae and P. gingivalis biofilms were generated on plates and analyzed using confocal laser microscopy. Additionally, the biofilms formed were assessed by staining with crystal violet. Furthermore, the physical strength of P. gulae biofilms was examined by ultrasonication. ResultsBiofilms formed by P. gulae type C were denser than those formed by types A and B. Moreover, the amount of biofilm formed by type C strains was significantly greater than that formed by type A and B strains, which was similar to the biofilms formed by P. gingivalis with type II fimbriae. Additionally, the physical strength of the type C biofilm was significantly greater than that of the other strains. ConclusionsThese results suggest that FimA variation may coordinate for biofilm formation. This is the first report on the observation and characterization of P. gulae biofilm formation.

Relationship between Gross Motor Coordination and Health-Related Fitness in Serbian Preschool Children.

The relationship between motor coordination and physical fitness in preschool children is of significant interest due to its implications for overall health and development. This study aims to investigate the correlation between gross motor coordination, as assessed by the Körperkoordinationstest für Kinder (KTK), and health-related physical fitness components. A cross-sectional study, involving 139 preschool-aged children, was conducted. Physical fitness was assessed using the PREFIT fitness test battery, which includes measures of flexibility, muscular strength, speed/agility, and cardiorespiratory fitness. Motor coordination was evaluated using the KTK test, comprising four subtests. Pearson correlation analysis revealed weak to strong positive and negative correlations between motor coordination and various physical fitness measures, including flexibility (r = 0.402; p = 0.01), muscular strength (r = 0.178; r = 0.487; r = 0.601; p < 0.05), speed/agility (r = -0.742; p = 0.01), and endurance (r = 0.539; p = 0.01). Additionally, hierarchical regression analysis demonstrated significant influence of motor coordination on physical fitness, explaining a notable percentage of the variance across different fitness components (3.2-55%). The findings underscore the importance of motor coordination in shaping physical fitness levels in preschool children. Promoting motor coordination skills early in childhood may have long-term benefits for overall health and fitness.

Boost Your Brainpower: 24 Daily Sleep Hacks for Active Lifestyles

Sleep is a fundamental biological process that plays a pivotal role in the health and performance of physically active individuals (PAI). Sleep deprivation or poor sleep quality can negatively impact recovery capacity, concentration, coordination, and muscular strength, thereby compromising physical performance and increasing the risk of injuries. Objectives: This narrative literature review aims to examine the scientific evidence on the importance of sleep hygiene for the health and performance of PAI. A search was conducted for studies published on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies that investigated the effect of sleep hygiene on health and performance variables in athletes were included. The literature analysis highlighted that good sleep hygiene, adequate sleep duration (7–9 h per night), high sleep quality, and a regular sleep routine are associated with a range of benefits for the health and performance of PAI, including: (1) improved post-training recovery; (2) reduced risk of injuries; (3) enhanced concentration and attention; (4) improved coordination and muscle strength; (5) better mood and mental well-being; (6) reduced risk of chronic diseases. Sleep hygiene is a key factor for the health and performance of PAI. Implementing a comprehensive and personalized sleep hygiene routine can lead to significant improvements in the quality and quantity of sleep, with positive effects on physical and mental health, and overall well-being of PAI.

Correlation between tooth decay and insulin resistance in normal weight males prompts a role for myo-inositol as a regenerative factor in dentistry and oral surgery: a feasibility study.

In an era of precision and stratified medicine, homogeneity in population-based cohorts, stringent causative entry, and pattern analysis of datasets are key elements to investigate medical treatments. Adhering to these principles, we collected in vivo and in vitro data pointing to an insulin-sensitizing/insulin-mimetic effect of myo-inositol (MYO) relevant to cell regeneration in dentistry and oral surgery. Confirmation of this possibility was obtained by in silico analysis of the relation between in vivo and in vitro results (the so-called bed-to-benchside reverse translational approach). Fourteen subjects over the 266 screened were young adult, normal weight, euglycemic, sedentary males having normal appetite, free diet, with a regular three-times-a-day eating schedule, standard dental hygiene, and negligible malocclusion/enamel defects. Occlusal caries were detected by fluorescence videoscanning, whereas body composition and energy balance were estimated with plicometry, predictive equations, and handgrip. Statistically significant correlations (Pearson r coefficient) were found between the number of occlusal caries and anthropometric indexes predicting insulin resistance (IR) in relation to the abdominal/visceral fat mass, fat-free mass, muscular strength, and energy expenditure adjusted to the fat and muscle stores. This indicated a role for IR in affecting dentin reparative processes. Consistently, in vitro administration of MYO to HUVEC and Swiss NIH3T3 cells in concentrations corresponding to those administered in vivo to reduce IR resulted in statistically significant cell replication (ANOVA/Turkey tests), suggesting that MYO has the potential to counteract inhibitory effects of IR on dental vascular and stromal cells turnover. Finally, in in silico experiments, quantitative evaluation (WOE and information value) of a bioinformatic Clinical Outcome Pathway confirmed that in vitro trophic effects of MYO could be transferred in vivo with high predictability, providing robust credence of its efficacy for oral health. Our reverse bed-to-benchside data indicate that MYO might antagonize the detrimental effects of IR on tooth decay. This provides feasibility for clinical studies on MYO as a regenerative factor in dentistry and oral surgery, including dysmetabolic/aging conditions, bone reconstruction in oral destructive/necrotic disorders, dental implants, and for empowering the efficacy of a number of tissue engineering methodologies in dentistry and oral surgery.

Impact of french contrast training on field hockey players’ biomotor and physiological parameters: a pretest-posttest study

Field hockey requires a diverse skill set that includes strength, speed, anaerobic power, and endurance due to current advancements in sports science, plyometric and strength activities for enhancing players' performance. As a result, field hockey players and coaches are in constant need of new training interventions which could be most effective for improving the required parameters. Therefore, the current study investigates the influence of French contrast training (FCT) on selected biomotor and physiological variables in field hockey players. A total of thirty (N=30) male field hockey players were purposively selected from Union Christian College, Aluva, India. They were randomized into two groups: a treatment group (TG) that underwent twelve weeks of FCT and a control group (CG) that performed their daily usual activities. The selected biomotor outcome parameters were muscular strength (MS) and speed (S), while the physiological parameters were anaerobic power (AP), resting heart rate (RHR), and vital capacity (VC). The pre and post-test mean differences were analysed using paired-sample t-test and the level significance was fixed at 0.05 across all cases. The results revealed that there were significant enhancements in MS (p&lt;0.01), S (p&lt;0.01), AP (p&lt;0.01), and VC (p&lt;0.01) in the TG after twelve weeks of FCT, while the CG did not show any significant differences. Exceptionally, RHR did not show any significant difference in both TG and CG. Conclusion: The study suggests that FCT can be an effective method to improve selected biomotor and physiological parameters, except RHR in male college-level hockey players. Keywords: French contrast training, muscular strength, speed, anaerobic power, resting heart rate, vital capacity.

Ameliorative Effect of Bambara Nut on Cognito-motor Functions of Konzo-induced Wistar Rats Model

Introduction: Konzo is a neurological disease characterized by a sudden onset of symmetrical and spastic paraparesis due to selective upper motoneuron damage. Aim: To determine the Cognito-motor modulatory functions of Bambara nut (Vigna subterranea) extract in improperly processed bitter cassava (Manihot esculenta) flour Konzo-induced male Wistar rats. Methodology: Twenty-five (25) Adult Male Wistar rats weighing between 180–200g were randomly divided into five (5) groups of five rats per group. The rats were allowed to acclimatize for 2 weeks. Konzo was induced following unprocessed bitter cassava flour feeding for a period of three weeks and fed with Bambara nut (BN). Feeding was as follows for 28 days: Group 1: Control group - rats in this group were fed with water and rat feed; Group 2 rats were fed with improperly processed bitter cassava flour to induce Konzo: Groups 3-5 rats were fed with different doses of Bambara nut extract 100mg/kg, 200mg/kg and 300mg/kg respectively. Neurobehavioral assessments were conducted weekly using barnes maze and hand grip tasks to assess cognition, perception, motor functions and muscular strength. The data was analyzed using Graphpad Prism and Microsoft Excel 2019. Results: In weeks 1, 2, 3 and 4 trials, konzo-induced rats (Group 2) displayed significantly increased trial times for both cognitive and motor functions compared to Group 1 rats (p &lt; 0.05). Administration of graded doses of BN extract amongst Groups 3, 4, and 5 rats resulted in significant reduction in trial times compared to Group 2 rats (p &lt; 0.05), suggesting a possible modulatory function of the extract of Bambara nut in bitter cassava induced neurotoxicity. Conclusion: Bambara nut extract improved cognito-motor functions in a dose dependent manner, resulting in a possible prevention of Konzo in male Wistar rats.

Associations between Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Timed Up and Go Test for Elderly Participants in Public Physical Activity Programs.

Observational, cross-sectional study, CAAE: 27116319.1.0000.8044. Active elderly participants in a public physical exercise program "Project 60 Up", promoted by the Municipal Secretariat for the Elderly of the City of Niterói, RJ, Brazil, were evaluated. Elderly people of both sexes, with independent locomotion and preserved cognitive status, were included and those with visual, hearing, severe mobility difficulties or neurological sequelae and imbalances were excluded. Anthropometric data were collected: BMI, WC, WHtR, and the TTUG test was performed. In the sample composed of 55 elderly people of both sexes, with an average age of 68 years, the means of the variables were: body weight (67.8 ± 12.7 kg), height (157.2 ± 8.4 cm), TTUG (10.3 ± 2 s), WC (93.3 ± 10.9 cm), WHtR (0.59), and BMI (27.4 ± 4.4). The correlations were between TTUG and age (r = -0.24, p = 0.69), TTUG and BMI (r = 0.111, p = 0.426), and WC and WHtR (r = 0.885, p < 0.000). Weak correlations were observed between TTUG and BMI and WC and WHtR, indicating that factors other than BMI and abdominal fat accumulation may have a greater influence on performance on the TTUG test. In this specific context of elderly people participating in a physical activity program, the results found may have been shaped by the very nature of the interventions carried out in the program, with factors such as muscular strength, flexibility and balance preserved and acquired through the practice of regular physical exercise. Despite the benefits of physical activity, managing weight and abdominal fat remains challenging for elderly individuals with high anthropometric measurements. Although many elderly people have anthropometric measurements above average levels, the results indicate that no negative influence on their performance on the TTUG was observed. However, the limitation of the sample size and the underrepresentation of elderly people ≥ 80 years and of men highlight the need for future studies with larger and more balanced samples to confirm these results.

Beneficial Effects on Exercise Capacity Associated with a Combination of Lactoferrin, Lysozyme, Lactobacillus, Resveratrol, Vitamins, and Oligoelements in Patients with Post-COVID-19 Syndrome: A Single-Center Retrospective Study.

Background/Objectives: Although long-term COVID-19 symptoms are common, little is known about the management of post-COVID-19 condition. The aim of the current report is to evaluate the effects of a combination of lactoferrin, lysozyme, lactobacillus, resveratrol, vitamins, and oligoelements (PIRV-F20®) on the exercise capacity of post-COVID-19 patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis of consecutive patients referred to a specific outpatient clinic dedicated to post-COVID-19 condition from April 2022 to April 2023 was conducted. Subjects of both sexes, aged ≥18 years, with previous COVID-19 in the preceding 12 months, persistent symptoms consistent with post-COVID syndrome, and initial exercise impairment were included. Exclusion criteria were as follows: active cancer, end-stage conditions, severe musculoskeletal conditions, or patients with a history of limited functional capacity, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Patients who reported having taken PIRV-F20® for at least 6 weeks were compared to patients who refused this treatment. Six-minute walking distance was the primary endpoint. Results: Forty-four patients (56.8% women, aged 49.1 ± 18.1 years) were included in the study. The group of patients who reported having taken PIRV-F20® exhibited a significant improvement of 6MWD (median: +40 m; IQR: 10-65 m, p vs. baseline: 0.02), which was significantly superior (p: 0.01) when compared to the controls (median: +10 m; IQR: -5-30 m). No differences were found with regard to muscular strength, echocardiographic parameters, and perception of symptoms. Conclusions: Post-COVID-19 individuals who reported having taken PIRV-F20® for at least six weeks showed a significant improvement in exercise capacity. This finding should be confirmed in larger, prospective, randomized controlled trials.

Potentiation with Overspeed for Jump Height Enhancement: An Analysis of Factors Distinguishing Responders from Non-Responders

(1) Background: This cross-over study aimed to assess the effectiveness of jump height (JH) enhancement after post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) protocol based on assisted band jumps and to determine factors distinguishing responders (RS) and non-responders (NRS) based on morphological and functional factors. (2) Methods: Ten males aged 20–23 years with relative strength in back squat 156 ± 14% body weight participated. The conditioning activity, based on three series of five repetitions of assisted jumps with a band (30% of body mass load reduction) with one minute rest between series, was introduced. (3) Results: The two-way repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant interaction between effects (F = 7.78; p-eta = 0.30; p &lt; 0.01). Comparison with the Bonferroni test showed that JH was higher than the baseline in the 3rd minute (p = 0.02; ES = 0.30) in the 6th (p &lt; 0.01; ES = 0.39), and in the (9th p &lt; 0.01; ES = 0.32) in an experimental condition. No factor statistically significantly distinguishes RS and NRS, but due to effect size (ES) relative strength (ES = −0.80), baseline jump ability (countermovement jump ES = −0.74; squat jump =−0.59), limb symmetry index (ES = −0.56) can be considered to contribute the most to positive effects. (4) Conclusions: The provided PAPE protocol is effective in enhancing JH but optimal rest should be established individually. Individuals characterized by greater muscular strength may benefit the most, but further consideration is needed.

Synergistic effect of cellulo-xylanolytic and laccase enzyme consortia for improved deinking of waste papers

This study reports the cellulo-xylanolytic cocktail production from Hypocrea lixii GGRK4 using multi-objective genetic algorithm-artificial neural network tool, resulting in 8.32 ± 1.07 IU/mL, 51.53 ± 3.78 IU/mL activity of CMCase and xylanase, respectively with more than 85 % residual activity at 60 °C and pH 6.0. Interestingly, metal ions viz. K+ and Ca2+ stimulated the enzyme activity, whereas Fe2+ and Cu2+ reduced the activity. Significant amounts of hydrophobic compounds, chromophores, and phenolics were released after wastepapers deinking. The deinking efficiency of 73.60 ± 2.45 % and 38.60 ± 1.34 % was obtained for photocopier paper and newspaper, respectively, whereas brightness of 89.90 ± 2.10 % ISO and 44.90 ± 1.63 % ISO was reported for both types of waste papers. The physical strength of deinked photocopier paper and newspapers, i.e., tensile index (3.10 and 0.50 %), tearing index (7.10 and 4.83 %), and burst factor (8.61) were enhanced whereas double fold property was decreased proving wastepaper reusability. This consortium showed effective and significant enzymatic deinking efficiency for recycled wastepapers.

Effects of 60 versus 30 Minutes of Pilates Exercise on Cervicothoracic Alignment, Muscle Strength, and Endurance in University Students with Upper Crossed Syndrome.

Background/Objectives: This study determined the effects of 60 min or 30 min Pilates program on cervicothoracic alignment, muscular strength, and endurance in university students with upper-crossed syndrome (UCS). Methods: Twenty-six university students with UCS were randomly allocated into 60 min Pilates (60 PG, n = 9), 30 min Pilates (30 PG, n = 9), and control (CG, n = 8) groups. The 60 and 30 PG students participated in the Pilates program, focusing on relaxation, stability, mobility, and strengthening of the cervical, thoracic, and scapular muscles for 60 or 30 min per session, twice a week, for 12 weeks. Cervicothoracic alignment was measured using BodyStyle to determine craniovertebral angle (CVA), forward shoulder angle (FSA), head position angle (HPA), head tilt angle (HTA), and kyphosis angle (KA). We measured the muscular strength and endurance of the shoulder on the dominant side. Results: After the intervention, CVA, HPA, HTA, and KA significantly improved in the 60 and 30 PG (all p < 0.01) but not in the CG (p > 0.05). There were no significant differences between the 60 and 30 PG at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Shoulder strength differed between shoulder flexion and horizontal abduction (p < 0.01). Shoulder endurance differed between extension, flexion, and horizontal abduction (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, and p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: This study confirmed the effectiveness of the Pilates program in improving cervicothoracic sagittal alignment and shoulder muscular function in university students with UCS. Additionally, the effects of participating in 60 and 30 min Pilates programs were found to be equivalent. Therefore, encouraging busy university students to participate in at least 30 min of the Pilates program is important.