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Medicine and Science in Sports and... Jul 2024To analyze the shared genetic background of physical fitness tests in children.
PURPOSE
To analyze the shared genetic background of physical fitness tests in children.
METHODS
Physical fitness was assessed in 198 Portuguese twin pairs (6-18 years old, 40% monozygotic) through 15 tests from the Eurofit and Fitnessgram test batteries. Genetic twin modeling was used to estimate the heritability of each test and the genetic correlations between them.
RESULTS
Girls performed better than boys in flexibility, while boys performed better than girls in cardiorespiratory endurance and muscular strength. No sex differences were found in the influence of genetic factors on the physical fitness tests or their mutual correlations. Genetic factors explained 52% (standing long jump) to 79% (sit and reach) of the individual variation in motor performance, whereas individual-specific environmental factors explained the remaining variation. Most of the tests showed modest to moderate genetic correlations. Out of all 105 genetic correlations, 65% ranged from 0.2 to 0.6 indicating that they shared from 4% to 36% of genetic variation. The correlations between individual-specific environmental factors were mostly negligible.
CONCLUSIONS
Tests measuring the strength of different muscle groups showed only modest correlations, but moderate correlations were found between tests measuring explosive strength, running speed/agility, and cardiorespiratory endurance. Genetic factors explained a major portion of the variation in tests included in the Eurofit and Fitnessgram test batteries and explained the correlations between them. The modest to moderate genetic correlations indicated that there is little redundancy of tests in either Eurofit or Fitnessgram test batteries.
PubMed: 38949118
DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000003496 -
Annals of Human Genetics Jul 2024The phenotypic consequences of the p.Arg577Ter variant in the α-actinin-3 (ACTN3) gene are suggestive of a trade-off between performance traits for speed and endurance...
INTRODUCTION
The phenotypic consequences of the p.Arg577Ter variant in the α-actinin-3 (ACTN3) gene are suggestive of a trade-off between performance traits for speed and endurance sports. Although there is a consistent association of the c.1729C allele (aka R allele) with strength/power traits, there is still a debate on whether the null allele (c.1729T allele; aka X allele) influences endurance performance. The present study aimed to test the association of the ACTN3 p.Arg577Ter variant with long-distance endurance athlete status, using previously published data with the Brazilian population.
METHODS
Genotypic data from 203 long-distance athletes and 1724 controls were analysed in a case-control approach.
RESULTS
The frequency of the X allele was significantly higher in long-distance athletes than in the control group (51.5% vs. 41.4%; p = 0.000095). The R/X and X/X genotypes were overrepresented in the athlete group. Individuals with the R/X genotype instead of the R/R genotype had a 1.6 increase in the odds of being a long-distance athlete (p = 0.012), whereas individuals with the X/X genotype instead of the R/R genotype had a 2.2 increase in the odds of being a long-distance athlete (p = 0.00017).
CONCLUSION
The X allele, mainly the X/X genotype, was associated with long-distance athlete status in Brazilians.
PubMed: 38949054
DOI: 10.1111/ahg.12571 -
Journal of Family Medicine and Primary... May 2024Osteoarthritis (OA) is a noninflammatory joint disease. If OA of the knee causes pain, decreased muscle strength and joint stiffness, exercise therapy is one of the most...
INTRODUCTION AND AIM
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a noninflammatory joint disease. If OA of the knee causes pain, decreased muscle strength and joint stiffness, exercise therapy is one of the most effective treatments for the disease. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of aquatherapy on pain intensity and performance in women with OA with the assumption that it causes weightlessness.
METHODS
This is a quasiexperimental study. The sample size included 60 people who were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. The visual analogue scale was used to assess pain and timed up and go test (TUG), 30 Second Sit to Stand Test (30-S-CS), and 40-meter fast-paced walk test (40 MW) were used to assess performance. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS ver. 22.
RESULTS
The results of the present study showed a decrease in pain intensity from moderate to mild intensity. Also, physical performance dimensions in patients with OA were improved, so that the average TUG increased from 14.06 to 8.8 s. The average S-CS frequency increased from 4.86 to 8.4 s and 90 MW decreased from the average 93.43 to 72.66 s.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
Lower limb muscle strength, and physical performance can be improved and pain intensity can be reduced in patients with OA by performing aquatherapy three times a week for 8 weeks.
PubMed: 38948627
DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1088_23 -
PeerJ 2024Abnormal gait is prevalent among the elderly population, leading to reduced physical activity, increased risk of falls, and the potential development of dementia and...
BACKGROUND
Abnormal gait is prevalent among the elderly population, leading to reduced physical activity, increased risk of falls, and the potential development of dementia and disabilities, thus degrading the quality of life in later years. Numerous studies have highlighted the crucial roles of lower limb muscle strength asymmetry and static postural control in gait, and the reciprocal influence of lower limb muscle strength asymmetry on static postural control. However, research exploring the interrelationship between lower limb muscle strength asymmetry, static postural control, and gait performance has been limited.
METHODS
A total of 55 elderly participants aged 60 to 75 years were recruited. Isokinetic muscle strength testing was used to assess bilateral knee extension strength, and asymmetry values were calculated. Participants with asymmetry greater than 15% were categorized as the Asymmetry Group (AG), while those with asymmetry less than 15% were classified in the Symmetry Group (SG). Gait parameters were measured using a plantar pressure gait analysis system to evaluate gait performance, and static postural control was assessed through comfortable and narrow stance tests.
RESULTS
First, participants in the AG demonstrated inferior gait performance, characterized by slower gait speed, longer stance time and percentage of stance time in gait, and smaller swing time and percentage of swing time in gait. Spatial-temporal gait parameters of the weaker limb tended to be abnormal. Second, static postural control indices were higher in AG compared to SG in all aspects except for the area of ellipse during the comfortable stance with eyes open test. Third, abnormal gait parameters were associated with static postural control.
CONCLUSION
Firstly, elderly individuals with lower limb muscle strength asymmetry are prone to abnormal gait, with the weaker limb exhibiting poorer gait performance. Secondly, lower limb muscle strength asymmetry contributes to diminished static postural control in the elderly. Thirdly, the mechanism underlying abnormal gait in the elderly due to lower limb muscle strength asymmetry may be linked to a decline in static postural control.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Muscle Strength; Male; Female; Postural Balance; Lower Extremity; Gait; Middle Aged
PubMed: 38948226
DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17626 -
PeerJ 2024The methods previously proposed in the literature to assess patients with rotator cuff related shoulder pain, based on special orthopedic tests to precisely identify the... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
The methods previously proposed in the literature to assess patients with rotator cuff related shoulder pain, based on special orthopedic tests to precisely identify the structure causing the shoulder symptoms have been recently challenged. This opens the possibility of a different way of physical examination.
OBJECTIVE
To analyze the differences in shoulder range of motion, strength and thoracic kyphosis between rotator cuff related shoulder pain patients and an asymptomatic group.
METHOD
The protocol of the present research was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Review (PROSPERO) (registration number CRD42021258924). Database search of observational studies was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, WOS and CINHAL until July 2023, which assessed shoulder or neck neuro-musculoskeletal non-invasive physical examination compared to an asymptomatic group. Two investigators assessed eligibility and study quality. The Newcastle Ottawa Scale was used to evaluate the methodology quality.
RESULTS
Eight studies ( = 604) were selected for the quantitative analysis. Meta-analysis showed statistical differences with large effect for shoulder flexion (I2 = 91.7%, < 0.01, HG = -1.30), external rotation (I2 = 83.2%, < 0.01, HG = -1.16) and internal rotation range of motion (I2 = 0%, < 0.01, HG = -1.32). Regarding to shoulder strength; only internal rotation strength showed statistical differences with small effect (I2 = 42.8%, < 0.05, HG = -0.3).
CONCLUSIONS
There is moderate to strong evidence that patients with rotator cuff related shoulder pain present less shoulder flexion, internal and external rotation range of motion and less internal rotation strength than asymptomatic individuals.
Topics: Humans; Range of Motion, Articular; Shoulder Pain; Rotator Cuff; Muscle Strength; Rotator Cuff Injuries; Shoulder Joint; Kyphosis
PubMed: 38948223
DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17604 -
PeerJ 2024Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent metabolic disorder with systemic implications, potentially affecting musculoskeletal health. This study aimed to assess...
BACKGROUND
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent metabolic disorder with systemic implications, potentially affecting musculoskeletal health. This study aimed to assess shoulder muscle strength and joint repositioning accuracy in individuals with T2DM, exploring potential correlations and shedding light on the musculoskeletal consequences of the condition. The objectives were two-fold: (1) to assess and compare shoulder strength and joint repositioning accuracy between individuals with T2DM and asymptomatic counterparts, and (2) to examine the correlation between shoulder strength and joint repositioning accuracy in individuals with T2DM.
METHODS
A cross-sectional study enrolled 172 participants using the convenience sampling method, including 86 individuals with T2DM and an age-matched asymptomatic group ( = 86). Shoulder strength was assessed using a handheld dynamometer, while joint repositioning accuracy was evaluated with an electronic digital inclinometer.
RESULTS
Individuals with T2DM exhibited reduced shoulder muscle strength compared to asymptomatic individuals ( < 0.001). Additionally, joint repositioning accuracy was significantly lower in the T2DM group ( < 0.001). Negative correlations were observed between shoulder strength and joint repositioning accuracy in various directions (ranging from -0.29 to -0.46, < 0.001), indicating that higher muscle strength was associated with improved joint repositioning accuracy in individuals with T2DM.
CONCLUSION
This study highlights the significant impact of T2DM on shoulder muscle strength and joint repositioning accuracy. Reduced strength and impaired accuracy are evident in individuals with T2DM, emphasizing the importance of addressing musculoskeletal aspects in diabetes management. The negative correlations suggest that enhancing shoulder muscle strength may lead to improved joint repositioning accuracy, potentially contributing to enhanced physical functioning in this population.
Topics: Humans; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Male; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Middle Aged; Muscle Weakness; Muscle Strength; Shoulder; Proprioception; Shoulder Joint; Aged; Adult; Range of Motion, Articular
PubMed: 38948217
DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17630 -
Regenerative Therapy Jun 2024Skeletal muscle injury (SMI) is often treated conservatively, although it can lead to scar tissue formation, which impedes muscle function and increases muscle re-injury...
BACKGROUND
Skeletal muscle injury (SMI) is often treated conservatively, although it can lead to scar tissue formation, which impedes muscle function and increases muscle re-injury risk. However, effective interventions for SMIs are yet to be established.
HYPOTHESIS
The administration of Silk Elastin® (SE), a novel artificial protein, to the SMI site can suppress scar formation and promote tissue repair.
STUDY DESIGN
A controlled laboratory study.
METHODS
: Fibroblast migration ability was assessed using a scratch assay. SE solution was added to the culture medium, and the fibroblast migration ability was compared across different concentrations. : An SMI model was established with Sprague-Dawley rats, which were assigned to three groups based on the material injected to the SMI site: SE gel (SE group; n = 8), atelocollagen gel (Atelo group; n = 8), and phosphate buffer saline (PBS group; n = 8). Histological evaluations were performed at weeks 1 and 4 following the SMI induction. In the 1-week model, we detected the expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in the stroma using immunohistological evaluation and real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. In the 4-week model, we measured tibialis anterior muscle strength upon peroneal nerve stimulation as a functional assessment.
RESULTS
: The fibroblast migration ability was suppressed by SE added at a concentration of 10⁴ μg/mL in the culture medium. : In the 1-week model, the SE group exhibited significantly lower TGFβ -1 expression than the PBS group. In the 4-week model, the SE group had a significantly larger regenerated muscle fiber diameter and smaller scar formation area ratio than the other two groups. Moreover, the SE group was superior to the other two groups in terms of regenerative muscle strength.
CONCLUSION
Injection of SE gel to the SMI site may inhibit tissue scarring by reducing excessive fibroblast migration, thereby enhancing tissue repair.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE
The findings of this study may contribute to the development of an early intervention method for SMIs.
PubMed: 38948131
DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2024.05.012 -
World Journal of Stem Cells Jun 2024Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is characterized by a disruption in the normal function of the brain due to an injury following a trauma, which can potentially cause severe... (Clinical Trial)
Clinical Trial
BACKGROUND
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is characterized by a disruption in the normal function of the brain due to an injury following a trauma, which can potentially cause severe physical, cognitive, and emotional impairment. Stem cell transplantation has evolved as a novel treatment modality in the management of TBI, as it has the potential to arrest the degeneration and promote regeneration of new cells in the brain. Wharton's Jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) have recently shown beneficial effects in the functional recovery of neurological deficits.
AIM
To evaluate the safety and efficiency of MSC therapy in TBI.
METHODS
We present 6 patients, 4 male and 2 female aged between 21 and 27 years who suffered a TBI. These 6 patients underwent 6 doses of intrathecal, intramuscular (i.m.) and intravenous transplantation of WJ-MSCs at a target dose of 1 × 10/kg for each application route. Spasticity was assessed using the Modified Ashworth scale (MAS), motor function according to the Medical Research Council Muscle Strength Scale, quality of life was assessed by the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scale and Karnofsky Performance Status scale.
RESULTS
Our patients showed only early, transient complications, such as subfebrile fever, mild headache, and muscle pain due to i.m. injection, which resolved within 24 h. During the one year follow-up, no other safety issues or adverse events were reported. These 6 patients showed improvements in their cognitive abilities, muscle spasticity, muscle strength, performance scores and fine motor skills when compared before and after the intervention. MAS values, which we used to assess spasticity, were observed to statistically significantly decrease for both left and right sides ( < 0.001). The FIM scale includes both motor scores ( < 0.05) and cognitive scores ( < 0.001) and showed a significant increase in pretest posttest analyses. The difference observed in the participants' Karnofsky Performance Scale values pre and post the intervention was statistically significant ( < 0.001).
CONCLUSION
This study showed that cell transplantation has a safe, effective and promising future in the management of TBI.
PubMed: 38948099
DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v16.i6.641 -
Frontiers in Physiology 2024The purpose of this study was to compare acute responses between manual and automated blood flow restriction (BFR) systems.
UNLABELLED
The purpose of this study was to compare acute responses between manual and automated blood flow restriction (BFR) systems.
METHODS
A total of 33 individuals completed this study. On visit 1, arterial occlusion pressure (AOP, mm Hg), cardiovascular responses, and discomfort (RPE-D) were measured with each BFR system at rest. On visit 2, unilateral bicep curls were completed [30% one-repetition maximum; 50% AOP] with one system per arm. Muscle thickness (MT, cm) and maximal force (N) were assessed before (pre), immediately (post-0), 5 min (post-5), and 10 min (post-10) post-exercise. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE-E) and ratings of perceived discomfort (RPE-D) were assessed throughout the exercise. AOP and repetitions were compared with Bayesian paired t-tests. Other outcomes were compared with Bayesian RMANOVAs. BF represents the likelihood of the best model vs. the null. The results are presented as mean ± SD.
RESULTS
Supine cardiovascular responses and RPE-D were similar for manual and automated (all BF ≤ 0.2). Supine AOP for manual (157 ± 20) was higher than that of automated (142 ± 17; BF = 44496.0), but similar while standing (manual: 141 ± 17; automated: 141 ± 22; BF = 0.2). MT (time, BF = 6.047e + 40) increased from Pre (3.9 ± 0.7) to Post-0 (4.4 ± 0.8; BF = 2.969e + 28), with Post-0 higher than Post-5 (4.3 ± 0.8) and Post-10 (4.3 ± 0.8; both BF ≥ 275.2). Force (time, BF = 1.246e + 29) decreased from Pre (234.5 ± 79.2) to Post-0 (149.8 ± 52.3; BF = 2.720e + 22) and increased from Post-0 to Post-5 (193.3 ± 72.7; BF = 1.744e + 13), with Post-5 to Post-10 (194.0 ± 70.6; BF = 0.2) being similar. RPE-E increased over sets. RPE-D was lower for manual than automated. Repetitions per set were higher for manual (Set 1: 37 ± 18; Set 4: 9 ± 5) than automated (Set 1: 30 ± 7; Set 4: 7 ± 3; all BF ≥ 9.7).
CONCLUSION
Under the same relative pressure, responses are mostly similar between BFR systems, although a manual system led to lower exercise discomfort and more repetitions.
PubMed: 38948082
DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1409702 -
Cureus May 2024Multiple fractures are frequently encountered in adults following road traffic accidents. A 32-year-old male presented with multiple fractures in his right lower...
Multiple fractures are frequently encountered in adults following road traffic accidents. A 32-year-old male presented with multiple fractures in his right lower extremity, including a femoral shaft fracture, distal third fractures of the tibia and fibula, as well as a calcaneal fracture. The patient provided a history indicative of a road traffic accident. X-rays were performed on both hip joints, both knee joints, and the ankle joints. Treatment involved open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with interlocking nailing for the femur, tibia, and fibula, alongside ORIF with plating using a screw-out set (SOS) and cannulated cancellous (CC) screw fixation for the calcaneal fracture. Additionally, the Ilizarov procedure was conducted following debridement over the right foot. Post-surgery, the patient experienced primary symptoms of hip joint pain and restricted hip joint movement. Physiotherapy was initiated to address these issues. Evaluation of outcome measures indicated a reduction in joint pain, significant enhancement in joint mobility, and an increase in muscle strength.
PubMed: 38947633
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61427