Could sarcopenia-related mortality in end-stage renal disease be underpinned by the number of hospitalizations and cardiovascular diseases?

PURPOSE: To investigate the association between sarcopenia with the number of all-cause mortality, hospitalizations, and cardiovascular diseases in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). METHODS: 247 patients with ESRD (women, n = 97) (66.6 ± 3.53 years) participated in this study. At baseline, all participants were measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and handgrip dynamometer and were prospectively followed up for 5 years. The European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People guidelines were utilized for Sarcopenia determination. Cox proportional hazard analysis adjusted for established risk factors was used to quantify the risk between Sarcopenia and all-cause mortality. RESULTS: Sixty-five participants (26%) were determined to have Sarcopenia at baseline and 38 (15%) have died during the follow-up. At baseline, Participants with Sarcopenia had lower body mass index and fat-free mass index. Moreover, through the 5-year follow-up, sarcopenic patients had higher number of cardiovascular disease (56.9% vs. 12.6%) and hospitalizations (93.8% vs. 49.5%) (all P < 0.0001). Sarcopenia was associated with significantly higher risk of mortality, [Hazard ratio = 3.3, (95% CI: 1.6-6.9), P = 0.001]. CONCLUSION: Sarcopenia may be a risk factor for hospitalizations, cardiovascular diseases, and all-cause mortality in patients with ESRD. These results provide support of the relevance in assessing sarcopenia in the clinical practice of chronic kidney disease and how muscle mass and strength may negatively impact the daily life of ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis. Greater efforts at preventing muscle wasting and malfunctioning are needed through the worldwide healthcare system.

The beginning of success: Performance trends and cut-off values for junior and the U23 triathlon categories.

BACKGROUND: This study sought to determine cut-off values for each triathlon discipline to achieve podium in Junior (short distance; 750 m swim, 20 km cycle and 5 km run) and U23 (standard/Olympic distance; 1.5 km swim, 40 km cycle and 10 km run) triathlon events. Additionally, we aimed to investigate which discipline has the largest relationship with overall Junior and U23 triathlon performance, and the effect of sex and time in performance trends. METHODS: We included all data from Junior and U23 official races (International Triathlon Federation; ITU) of Junior (n = 3,314 finishes) and U23 (n = 5,092 finishes) categories held from 1999 to 2018. RESULTS: Men were significantly faster than women in both Junior (11.13%) and U23 (12.28%) categories. Swimming and cycling times were faster in 2009-2018 than in the 1999-2008 decade for men (3.36%; 6.49%), women junior (6.50%; 7.09%), men (0.15%; 3.46%) and women U23 (1.61%; 3.31%) respectively. Cycling was the discipline with the greatest influence on overall triathlon performance in Junior and U23 categories, regardless of sex or rank position. The cut-off values for the Junior category were (men/women): swimming, 9.2/9.4 min; cycling, 31.9/38.2 min; running, 16.8/18.9 min. U23's cut-off values were (men/women): swim, 18.0/19.4 min, cycling: 63.4/70.1 min; run, 33.9/38.7 min. CONCLUSION: Cycling was the discipline with the greatest influence on overall performance for both men and women in Junior and U23 categories. Moreover, swimming and cycling performances increased over the years for both sexes.

Cardiac autonomic modulation response and functional capacity in older women / Respuesta de la modulación autonómica cardíaca y capacidad funcional en mujeres mayores / Resposta da modulação autonômica cardíaca e capacidade funcional em mulheres idosas

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze cardiac autonomic modulation response and functional capacity in physically active older women. Methods: Seventy-five older women (60-70 years) from the community were divided into the following groups: sedentary (n=19), hydro-gymnastics (n=18), pilates (n=19), and dance (n=19). Blood pressure, body composition, heart rate variability, and functional capacity were assessed for the characterization of the groups at rest and 48 hours after the last physical exercise session. Results: The sedentary group presented higher waist-to-hip ratio, diastolic blood pressure, and resting heart rate compared to the other groups (p<0.05). It was also observed that the dance group presented better functional capacity and VO2peak scores (all p<0.05). Regarding cardiac autonomic modulation, both dance and pilates groups demonstrated better RMSSD (26.71 ± 9.07 and 29.82 ± 7.16, respectively; p<0.05), LF (45.79 ± 14.81 and 45.95 ± 15.16 n.u., respectively; p<0.05), and LF/HF (0.92 ± 0.56 and 0.58 ± 0.26, respectively; p<0.05) scores. In the symbolic analysis, the dance group had a greater predominance of parasympathetic autonomic modulation than the other groups (p<0.05). Conclusion: These results conclude that physically active elderly women, practicing hydro-gymnastics, pilates or dance, presented physiological benefits, such as better functional capacity and improvements in hemodynamic variables and autonomic cardiac modulation. In addition, the group that practiced dance presented greater parasympathetic modulation, as well as greater functional capacity, when compared to the other modalities. Level of evidence: I; STARD: studies of diagnostic accuracy.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar la respuesta de la modulación autonómica cardíaca y la capacidad funcional en mujeres mayores físicamente activas. Métodos: Setenta y cinco mujeres mayores (60 a 70 años) de la comunidad fueron divididas en los siguientes grupos: sedentaria (n = 19), hidrogimnasia (n = 18), pilates (n = 19) y danza (n = 19). La presión arterial, la composición corporal, la variabilidad de la frecuencia cardíaca y la capacidad funcional fueron evaluadas para la caracterización de los grupos en reposo y 48 horas después de la última sesión de ejercicio físico. Resultados: El grupo sedentario presentó mayor relación cintura-cadera, presión arterial diastólica y frecuencia cardíaca en reposo cuando comparado a los otros grupos (p <0,05). Se observó que el grupo de danza presentó mejores puntajes de capacidad funcional y VO2Pico (todos p <0,05). Con relación a la modulación autonómica cardíaca, los grupos de danza y pilates demostraron mejores puntajes para RMSSD (26,71 ± 9,07 y 29,82 ± 7,16, respectivamente; p <0,05), LF (45,79 ± 14,81 y 45,95 ± 15,16 nu, respectivamente; p <0,05), y LF/HF (0,92 ± 0,56 y 0,58 ± 0,26, respectivamente; p <0,05). En el análisis simbólico, el grupo de danza presentó mayor predominancia de la modulación autonómica parasimpática que los demás grupos (p <0,05). Conclusión: Esos resultados concluyen que las mujeres mayores físicamente activas, practicantes de hidrogimnasia, pilates o danza, tienen beneficios fisiológicos, como mejor capacidad funcional y mejora de las variables hemodinámicas y de la modulación cardíaca autonómica. Además, el grupo que practicaba danza tuvo mayor modulación parasimpática y mayor capacidad funcional cuando comparado con las otras modalidades. Nivel de evidencia: I; STARD: estudios de precisión diagnóstica.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a resposta da modulação autonômica cardíaca e a capacidade funcional em idosas fisicamente ativas. Métodos: Setenta e cinco mulheres idosas (60 a 70 anos) da comunidade foram divididas nos seguintes grupos: sedentária (n = 19), hidroginástica (n = 18), pilates (n = 19) e dança (n = 19). A pressão arterial, a composição corporal, a variabilidade da frequência cardíaca e a capacidade funcional foram avaliadas para a caracterização dos grupos em repouso e 48 horas depois da última sessão de exercício físico. Resultados: O grupo sedentário apresentou maior relação cintura-quadril, pressão arterial diastólica e frequência cardíaca em repouso quando comparado aos outros grupos (p <0,05). Observou-se também que o grupo da dança apresentou melhores escores de capacidade funcional e VO2pico (todos p < 0,05). Com relação à modulação autonômica cardíaca, os grupos de dança e pilates demonstraram melhores escores para RMSSD (26,71 ± 9,07 e 29,82 ± 7,16, respectivamente; p < 0,05), LF (45,79 ± 14,81 e 45,95 ± 15,16 nu, respectivamente; p<0,05) e LF/HF (0,92 ± 0,56 e 0,58 ± 0,26, respectivamente; p < 0,05). Na análise simbólica, o grupo da dança apresentou maior predominância da modulação autonômica parassimpática do que os demais grupos (p < 0,05). Conclusão: Esses resultados concluem que idosas fisicamente ativas praticantes de hidroginástica, pilates ou dança, têm benefícios fisiológicos, como melhor capacidade funcional e melhora das variáveis hemodinâmicas e da modulação cardíaca autonômica. Além disso, o grupo que praticava dança teve maior modulação parassimpática e maior capacidade funcional quando comparado com outras modalidades. Nível de evidência: I; STARD: estudos de precisão diagnóstica.

Effects of dynamic and isometric resistance training protocols on metabolic profile in hemodialysis patients: a randomized controlled trial.

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of dynamic (DRT) and isometric (IRT) resistance training on glycemic homeostasis, lipid profile, and nitric oxide (NO) in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Patients were randomly distributed into 3 groups: control (n = 65), DRT (n = 65), and IRT (n = 67). Patients assessed before and after the intervention period were tested for fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, oral glucose tolerance test, insulin resistance, lipid profile, leptin, insulin, adiponectin, C-reactive protein, and NO . Patients underwent to strength and body composition assessments. Subjects allocated in both DRT and IRT groups took part in a 24-week resistance training program, 3 times per week. Each training session was approximately 1 hour before dialysis and consisted of 3 sets of 8-12 repetitions at low intensity. Total workload was higher in the DRT as compared with the IRT. This heightened workload related to better glycemic homeostasis in HD patients as measured by regulation of insulin, adiponectin, and leptin, while improveing triglycerides, free-fat mass, and muscle strength. Additionally, NO levels were increased in the DRT group. NO was significantly correlated with glucose intolerance (r = -0.42, p = 0.0155) and workload (r = 0.46, p = 0.0022). The IRT group only improved strength (p < 0.05). Twenty-four weeks of DRT improved glycemic homeostasis, lipid profile, and NO in HD patients. Although IRT seems to play an important role in increasing strength, DRT might be a better choice to promote metabolic adjustments in HD patients. Clinical trial: http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-3gpg5w. Novelty: DRT might be a better choice for metabolic improvements in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Exercise-training might treat metabolic imbalance in CKD patients.

Effects of pre-dialysis resistance training on sarcopenia, inflammatory profile, and anemia biomarkers in older community-dwelling patients with chronic kidney disease: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia and chronic kidney disease (CKD) have been associated with negative outcomes in older people, including inflammatory profile and anemia biomarkers. AIMS: To investigate the effects of pre-dialysis resistance training (RT) on sarcopenia, inflammatory profile, and anemia biomarkers in older patients with CKD. METHODS: A total of 107 patients with CKD (65.4 ± 3.7 years) were randomly allocated into four groups: sarcopenic RT (n = 37), non-sarcopenic RT (n = 20), sarcopenic control (n = 28), and non-sarcopenic control (n = 22). DXA and handgrip strength were used to classify sarcopenia according to EWGSOP-2. Treatment groups underwent a 24-week intervention with RT before each dialysis session, three times per week. Blood sample analysis for ferritin, hepcidin, iron availability, and inflammatory profile (TNFα, IL-6, and IL-10) was conducted. All-cause mortality was recorded over 5 years. RESULTS: Sarcopenic RT group increased iron availability after the intervention, while their counterparts decreased. Ferritin and hepcidin significantly decreased in sarcopenic RT group. RT elicited a reduction in both TNFα and IL-6, while increasing IL-10 in both intervention groups. The rate of sarcopenic subjects substantially decreased after the intervention period (from 37 to 17 in the RT group; p = 0.01). The proportion of deaths was higher (P = 0.033) for sarcopenic subjects (Controls 35.7% vs RT 29.7%) when compared to non-sarcopenic subjects (Controls 18% vs RT 10%). The proportion of deaths decreased according to the randomization group (X2 = 8.704; P < 0.1). CONCLUSIONS: The 24-week RT intervention elicited a better sarcopenia status, better inflammatory profile, and improved anemia biomarkers. Sarcopenia was associated with higher mortality rate in older patients with CKD.

Association between dynapenic abdominal obesity and inflammatory profile in diabetic older community-dwelling patients with end-stage renal disease.

BACKGROUND: Obesity and poor strength impose higher risk factor for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. It is expected that the combination of both conditions might be critically associated with the inflammatory profile in this population, especially in community-dwelling elderly. So, diagnosis of dynapenic obesity and inflammation is an important tool in the management of chronic kidney disease patients at imminent risk of hospitalization. PURPOSE: To investigate the association between dynapenic abdominal obesity and inflammatory markers in community-swelling elderly with ESRD. METHODS: Two hundred and forty-seven community-dwelling older patients (66.74 ± 3.20 years; n = 150, 60.73%, males) undergoing maintenance phase hemodialysis volunteered for this study. The study sample was categorized into four groups according to handgrip strength and waist circumference as follows: control, dynapenia (low strength alone), abdominal obesity (high waist circumference alone), and dynapenic obesity (D/AO) (the combination of low strength and high waist circumference). Blood samples were collected for tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)- 6 and IL- 10. Results were considered significant at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Proportions for control, abdominal obesity, dynapenic, and D/AO were 38.5%, 15.8%, 25.9%, and 19.8%, respectively. Higher concentrations of TNF-α were found in the D/AO group (P < 0.0001). This group also displayed lower levels of IL-10 (P < 0.0001). Further, the D/AO traits were strongly associated with TNF-α and IL-10 (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: The closely relation between D/AO and inflammatory profile provides evidence that the pooled information of low muscle strength and abdominal obesity may be clinically relevant for the management of ESRD patients.

Effects of cumulative school soccer matches separated by 24-h or 48-h intervals on physical recovery status of U-19 players / Efeitos de partidas consecutivas de futebol escolar com intervalos de 24 e 48 horas no estado de recuperação física de jogadores Sub-19

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effects of cumulative school soccer matches separated by 24-h or 48-h intervals on the recovery status of U-19 players. Thirty-four school athletes (17.6 ± 1.1 years) who played in an U-19 school soccer competition (composed of one group with four teams and another group with three teams, followed by semifinals and final) were examined before three matches, which lasted 70 min. Seventeen athletes had a 24-h rest interval between each match (GGG group), while 18 athletes had a 48-h rest interval between the second and third matches (GG48hG group). Total Quality Recovery, countermovement jump, 10-m sprint, and maximum lumbar isometric strength were measured. The internal load of each match was calculated by the product of the session Rating of Perceived Exertion and match time. There was a 22% reduction in Total Quality Recovery (p< 0.001) and 12% in 10-m sprint performance (p< 0.001) before the third match in the GGG group, while the GG48hG group showed no changes for the same variables (p> 0.05). The countermovement jump decreased before the second match in both groups (GGG= 12% and GG48hG= 10%; p< 0.001), with no difference between groups (p> 0.05). In addition, both groups showed no changes in the isometric strength or the internal load match over the games (p> 0.05). Despite not providing complete muscle recovery, a 48-h interval between the second and third matches seems to have minimized the reduction of muscle performance due to consecutive matches.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos de partidas consecutivas de futebol escolar com intervalos de 24 e 48 horas no estado de recuperação física de jogadores Sub-19. Foram avaliados 35 homens (17,6±1,1 anos) atletas escolares sub-19. Durante a competição, foram realizados três jogos de 70-min de duração. Dezessete atletas tiveram intervalo de 24h entre cada jogo (grupo GGG). Dezoito atletas tiveram intervalo de 48 h entre o 2º e o 3º jogo (grupo GG48hG). Antes de cada jogo foram medidas a Qualidade Total de Recuperação, altura do salto com contra movimento, velocidade no sprint de 10-m, e força máxima isométrica lombar máxima. A carga interna do jogo foi calculada pelo produto da percepção subjetiva do esforço da sessão e tempo de cada jogo. Houve uma redução de 22% na qualidade total de recuperação (p <0,001) e de 12% no desempenho de sprint de 10 m (p <0,001) antes da terceira partida no grupo GGG, enquanto o grupo GG48hG não apresentou alterações para as mesmas variáveis (p> 0,05). O salto com contra movimento diminuiu antes da segunda partida em ambos os grupos (GGG = 12% e GG48hG = 10%; p <0,001), sem diferença entre os grupos (p> 0,05). Em adição, ambos os grupos não apresentaram alterações na força isométrica e na carga interna ao longo dos jogos (p> 0,05). Apesar de não proporcionar uma completa recuperação muscular, 48 h de intervalo entre o segundo e o terceiro jogo parece ter minimizado o efeito de jogos consecutivos na redução do desempenho.

Cut-Off Values in the Prediction of Success in Olympic Distance Triathlon.

Cut-off points and performance-related tools are needed for the development of the Olympic distance triathlon. The purposes of the present study were (i) to determine cut-off values to reach the top three positions in an Olympic distance triathlon; (ii) to identify which discipline present the highest influence on overall race performance and if it has changed over the decades. Data from 1989 to 2019 (n = 52,027) from all who have competed in an official Olympic distance triathlon events (World Triathlon Series and Olympics) were included. The cut-off value to achieve a top three position was calculated. Linear regressions were applied for performance trends overall and for the top three positions of each race. Men had cut-off values of: swimming = 19.5 min; cycling = 60.7 min; running = 34.1 min. Women's cut-off values were: swimming = 20.7 min; cycling = 71.6 min; running = 38.1 min. The running split seemed to be the most influential in overall race time regardless of rank position or sex. In conclusion, cut-offs were established, which can increase the chances of achieving a successful rank position in an Olympic triathlon. Cycling is the discipline with the least influence on overall performance for both men and women in the Olympic distance triathlon. This influence pattern has not changed in the last three decades.

A composição corporal está associada com o risco de quedas e medo de cair em pacientes em hemodiálise / Body composition is associated with the risk of falls and fear of falling in hemodialysis patients

Pacientes com doença renal crônica (DRC) submetidos à hemodiálise (HD) apresentam alterações musculoesqueléticas e de composição corporal que podem levar à redução do equilíbrio, velocidade de caminhada e capacidade de realizar as atividades de vida diária, aumentando o risco de quedas. OBJETIVO: Investigar a associação da composição corporal com o risco de quedas e medo de cair em pacientes com DRC submetidos à HD. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com amostra de 40 pacientes em HD. Para o medo de cair e risco de quedas foram aplicados a Escala Internacional de Eficácia de Quedas e o QuickScreen Clinical Falls Risk Assessment. A amostra foi estratificada no percentil 50 para comparação da composição corporal de acordo com o risco de quedas e medo de cair. Para comparação entre os grupos, empregou-se o teste t de Student independente, e a correlação de Spearman para associar o risco de quedas e medo de cair com a composição corporal. O nível de significância adotado foi de p<0,05. RESULTADOS: Correlação moderada positiva entre a gordura corporal com o medo de cair (r=0,47) e risco de quedas (r=0,42) e correlação moderada negativa entre a massa magra com o medo de cair (r=- 0,51) e risco de quedas (r=-0,45). O grupo com maior risco de quedas apresentou maior gordura corporal (36,8±8,2 vs 30,9±6,9; p=0,043). O grupo com maior medo de cair obteve menor massa magra (41,6±9,2 vs 52,0±7,6; p=0,004). CONCLUSÃO: As variáveis de composição corporal associaram-se ao risco de quedas e ao medo de cair em pacientes com DRC submetidos à HD.

Pacientes com doença renal crônica (DRC) submetidos à hemodiálise (HD) apresentam alterações musculoesqueléticas e de composição corporal que podem levar à redução do equilíbrio, velocidade de caminhada e capacidade de realizar as atividades de vida diária, aumentando o risco de quedas. OBJETIVO: Investigar a associação da composição corporal com o risco de quedas e medo de cair em pacientes com DRC submetidos à HD. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com amostra de 40 pacientes em HD. Para o medo de cair e risco de quedas foram aplicados a Escala Internacional de Eficácia de Quedas e o QuickScreen Clinical Falls Risk Assessment. A amostra foi estratificada no percentil 50 para comparação da composição corporal de acordo com o risco de quedas e medo de cair. Para comparação entre os grupos, empregou-se o teste t de Student independente, e a correlação de Spearman para associar o risco de quedas e medo de cair com a composição corporal. O nível de significância adotado foi de p<0,05. RESULTADOS: Correlação moderada positiva entre a gordura corporal com o medo de cair (r=0,47) e risco de quedas (r=0,42) e correlação moderada negativa entre a massa magra com o medo de cair (r=- 0,51) e risco de quedas (r=-0,45). O grupo com maior risco de quedas apresentou maior gordura corporal (36,8±8,2 vs 30,9±6,9; p=0,043). O grupo com maior medo de cair obteve menor massa magra (41,6±9,2 vs 52,0±7,6; p=0,004). CONCLUSÃO: As variáveis de composição corporal associaram-se ao risco de quedas e ao medo de cair em pacientes com DRC submetidos à HD.

Effects of resistance training on hepcidin levels and iron bioavailability in older individuals with end-stage renal disease: A randomized controlled trial.

Anemia is an inherent complication of older individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) that is associated with inflammation which in turn is an important factor in the activation of hepcidin that contributes to the decrease in serum iron. Athough resistance training (RT) seems to reduce inflammation in ESRD, its influence on hepcidin and iron availability in hemodialysis patients is unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to exemine the effects of RT in on inflammatory profile, hepcidin, and iron status in older individuals with ESRD. End-stage renal disease patients (N: 157, age: 66.8 ± 3.6; body mass: 73 ± 15 body mass index:27 ± 3), were assigned to control (CTL n: 76) and exercise groups (RT n: 81). RT consisted of 24 weeks/3 days per week of a moderate intensity. There was an increase in the bioavailability of iron (ΔRT: 22.2; ΔCTL: -1 µg/dL, p < 0.0001), a decrease in hepcidin levels (ΔRT: -7.9; ΔCTL: 0.2 ng/mL, p < 0.0001),and an improvement of the inflammatory profile. These novel findings show that RT is a potential coadjuvant to reduce iron deficiency by decreasing the levels of hepcidin and pro-inflammatory markers in older patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Dynapenic abdominal obesity and the incidence of falls in older women: a prospective study.

BACKGROUND: Dynapenic abdominal obesity (D/AO) has been associated with negative outcomes in older people, including trait of falls. AIMS: To assess the association between D/AO and the incidence of falls over 18 months in older community-dwelling women. METHODS: A total of 201 older women (67.97 ± 6.02 years; 27.70 kg/m2) underwent waist circumference measurement, and had handgrip strength assessed using a hydraulic dynamometer. Dynapenia was classified using the lower tertile of handgrip strength, while abdominal obesity was considered as a waist circumference > 88 cm. D/AO was the combination of both aforementioned criteria. Volunteers were classified into four groups: normal, abdominal obesity, dynapenic, and D/AO. Participants were then tracked by phone calls for ascertainment of falls during a follow-up period of 18 months. Chi-square and multivariable Cox proportional regressions were conducted. RESULTS: The overall incidence of falls over the follow-up was 27.5%; and for normal, dynapenic, abdominal obesity, and D/AO were 14.7%, 17.2%, 27.5%, and 40.4% (X2 = 8.341; P = 0.039), respectively. D/AO was associated with a higher risk of falls (hazard ratio: 3.595 [95% CI: 1.317-9.815], even after adjustments for age, body mass index, physical activity level, regular use of medications, peripheral sensation, chronic diseases, and history of lower-limbs pain. CONCLUSIONS: D/AO is more closely related to falls than either dynapenia or abdominal obesity alone, and is independently associated with an increased incidence of falls in older women. These results provide support for the concept that the combined evaluation of muscle strength and central obesity may be clinically relevant in this population.

Frailty syndrome in older adults from the community and long-term care institutions: an exploratory analysis / Síndrome da fragilidade em idosos da comunidade e de instituições de longa permanência: uma análise exploratória

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the association between Frailty syndrome, lipid profile, anthropometric variables, and the functional capacity of older adults; and to analyze an explanatory model of variables with higher predictive capacity for Frailty syndrome. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 36 and 86 older adults residing in long-term care facilities and in their households, respectively. Anamnesis was followed by evaluation of anthropometric data, risk of falls, functional tests, and biochemical tests. Frailty syndrome was determined according to the criteria suggested by Fried et al. RESULTS: Geriatric patients classified as frail were older; had higher medication consumption; and presented lower performance in handgrip strength, sit-to-stand, and gait speed tests as compared to pre- and non-frail older adults. CONCLUSION: Gait speed and sit-to-stand tests were significant predictors of Frailty syndrome. Specifically, a good performance in these tests represents a protection factor against Frailty syndrome. Furthermore, gait speed performance was explained by age, handgrip strength performance, and frailty status, while sit-to-stand performance was explained by risk of falls and muscular strength.

OBJETIVOS: Investigar a associação entre síndrome da fragilidade, perfil lipídico, variáveis antropométricas e capacidade funcional de idosos; e analisar um modelo explicativo de variáveis com maior capacidade preditiva para síndrome da fragilidade. MÉTODOS: Este estudo transversal incluiu 36 e 86 idosos residentes em instituições de longa permanência e em suas residências, respectivamente. A anamnese foi seguida pela avaliação dos dados antropométricos, risco de quedas, testes funcionais e testes bioquímicos. A síndrome da fragilidade foi determinada de acordo com os critérios sugeridos por Fried et al. RESULTADOS: Os idosos classificados como frágeis eram mais idosos; tiveram maior consumo de medicação; e apresentaram menor desempenho nos testes de força de preensão palmar, levantar e sentar e velocidade da marcha quando comparados aos idosos pré e não frágeis. CONCLUSÕES: Os testes velocidade da marcha e levantar e sentar foram preditores significativos de síndrome da fragilidade. Especificamente, um bom desempenho nesses testes representa um fator de proteção contra a síndrome da fragilidade. Além disso, o desempenho da velocidade da marcha foi explicado pela idade, desempenho da força de preensão palmar e estado de fragilidade, enquanto o desempenho do levantar e sentar foi explicado pelo risco de quedas e força muscular.

Stages of sarcopenia, bone mineral density, and the prevalence of osteoporosis in older women.

A better understanding of the relationship between osteoporosis and sarcopenia may help to develop effective preventive and therapeutic strategies. In the present study, the association between different stages of sarcopenia, BMD, and osteoporosis was examined. The salient findings indicate that a dose-response relationship exists between sarcopenia stages and bone-related phenotypes. PURPOSE: To assess the association between sarcopenia stages, bone mineral density (BMD), and the prevalence of osteoporosis in older women. METHODS: Two hundred thirty-four women (68.3 ± 6.3 years) underwent body composition and BMD measurements using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Quadriceps isokinetic torque was evaluated, and the timed up-and-go test was conducted as a measure of function. Sarcopenia stages were classified according to European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP): nonsarcopenia, presarcopenia, sarcopenia, and severe sarcopenia. Osteoporosis was defined as BMD value (hip or spine) 2.5 standard deviations below a young-adult reference population. Between-group differences were examined using ANOVA for continuous variables and chi-squared for categorical variables. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate the association between sarcopenia stages and osteoporosis. RESULTS: Rates of osteoporosis were 15.8%, 19.2%, 35.3%, and 46.2% for nonsarcopenia, presarcopenia, sarcopenia, and severe sarcopenia, respectively (P = 0.002). Whole-body and femoral neck BMD values were significantly lower among all sarcopenia stages when compared to nonsarcopenia (all P values < 0.05, η2p 0.113 to 0.109). The severe sarcopenia group also showed significantly lower lumbar spine BMD values and T-scores (both P values < 0.05; η2p 0.035 and 0.037, respectively). When clustered, sarcopenia and severe sarcopenia exhibited lower BMD values for all sites (all P values < 0.01), and presented a significantly higher risk for osteoporosis (odds ratio 3.445; 95% CI 1.521-7.844). CONCLUSION: The observed results provide support for the concept that a dose-response relationship exists between sarcopenia stages, BMD, and the presence of osteoporosis. These findings strengthen the clinical significance of the EWGSOP sarcopenia definition and indicate that severe sarcopenia should be viewed with attention by healthcare professionals.

The Association Between Body Adiposity Measures, Postural Balance, Fear of Falling, and Fall Risk in Older Community-Dwelling Women.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Recent investigations demonstrate an association between obesity and the propensity of older adults to fall. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between body adiposity measures, postural balance, fear of falling, and risk of falls in older women. METHODS: One hundred forty-seven volunteers took part in this cross-sectional study. Participants underwent body composition assessment using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and had body mass index, waist circumference (WC), and body adiposity index measured. Postural balance was assessed using a force platform, while fear of falling and risk of falls were, respectively, evaluated by the Falls Efficacy Scale-International and the QuickScreen Clinical Falls Risk Assessment. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: All adiposity measures were correlated to at least 1 postural stability parameter and to fear of falling (ρ= 0.163, P < .05 to r = 0.337, P < .001); however, WC was the index most strongly correlated to risk of falls (ρ= 0.325; P < .001). When obesity was classified using WC, it was observed that compared with nonobese individuals (n = 51), obese individuals (n = 96) exhibited greater center of pressure displacement in the anteroposterior and mediolateral axes, especially during conditions with feet apart (P < .05). The obese group also exhibited an increased fear of falling (28.04 vs 24.59; P = .002) and had a higher proportion of individuals with increased fall risk (72% vs 35%; P < .001). CONCLUSION: In summary, adiposity measures are associated with risk of falls in older women, which might be mediated by reduced postural balance and increased fear of falling. Among these indices, WC, an easy and low-cost assessment, demonstrated the strongest association with falls-related outcomes.

Normative Values of Knee Extensor Isokinetic Strength for Older Women and Implications for Physical Function.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Lower-limb strength is required for everyday activities and thus its evaluation has been especially emphasized in older adults. Isokinetic testing is a criterion standard method to assess muscle strength; however, lack of reference values limits its usefulness in geriatric evaluation and rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to develop reference values of knee extensor isokinetic strength for older women. As a secondary aim, functional tests were performed for clinical significance validation. METHODS: A total of 453 older women aged 60 to 84 years participated in this study. Knee extensor isokinetic strength was measured using the Biodex System dynamometer at 60° per second. The Timed Up and Go test and the 5 times Sit-to-Stand test were used for functional performance evaluation. Participants were categorized into age groups of 5 years range. The 20th, 40th, 60th, and 80th percentiles were used for stratification purposes. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: As expected, mean strength values significantly decreased with advancing age groups. Isokinetic percentile groups are presented according to age. Individuals in the lower percentile strata showed significantly reduced performance in both the Timed Up and Go and 5 times Sit-to-Stand tests (P < .05). CONCLUSION: This study provides normative values of isokinetic knee extensor strength in older women. The association between lower isokinetic knee extensor strength strata and reduced functional capacity supports the potential application of these reference values in clinical and research settings. Future studies should ascertain these findings in different female populations.

A reference equation for normal standards for knee extensor isokinetic strength in Brazilian older women.

BACKGROUND: Knee extensor strength assessment has been especially emphasized in older people, but lack of reference values limits its usefulness in geriatric evaluation. AIMS: The aim of this study was to develop a reference equation for knee extensor isokinetic strength standards in older women. METHODS: Knee extensor isokinetic tests at 60°/s were performed in 390 Brazilian older women aged 60-84 years (67.38 ± 5.56 years) and in a separate validation sample of 110 women (67.94 ± 6.13 years). A regression equation for peak torque (PT) was derived and compared to commonly used formulas: the equations of Neder and Gross. Age, weight and height were the only significant predictors (multiple R = 0.55; R2 = 0.30; p < 0.001). The proposed equation was examined in the independent sample. Percent from predicted values was calculated and Bland-Altman plots were constructed. RESULTS: Both the Neder and Gross equations significantly underestimated predicted PT values (both p < 0.001); mean bias were 6.79 and 6.75, respectively. The proposed equation [PT = 39.72 - (1.24 × age) + (0.44 × weight) + (69.70 × height)] was matched with the independent sample, with a percent predicted isokinetic strength of approximately 95%, a mean bias approximately 40% lower 4.23 than the other equations, and stable across all age groups. CONCLUSIONS: Available equations for knee extensor isokinetic strength are not adequate for older women. The equation developed in the present study provided considerably lower average error and thus with more suitable reference values.

Stages of sarcopenia and the incidence of falls in older women: A prospective study.

The purpose of the present study was to assess the association between different stages of sarcopenia and the incidence of falls over 18 months in older community-dwelling women. 246 women (68.1 ±â€¯6.2 years) underwent body composition using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, knee extensors isokinetic peak torque, and Timed Up-and-Go assessments. The stages of sarcopenia were classified according to the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People. Volunteers were classified into four groups as follows: nonsarcopenia, presarcopenia, sarcopenia, and severe sarcopenia. Participants were tracked by phone calls for ascertainment of falls during a follow-up period of 18 months. Cox proportional regressions were conducted. A total of 195 women were followed over the 18-month period. Proportions of each sarcopenia stage were 6.7%, 13.8%, and 12.8% for presarcopenia, sarcopenia, and severe sarcopenia, respectively. The proportion of fallers progressively increased according to the severity of sarcopenia, with 15.4%, 40.7%, and 72% for presarcopenia, sarcopenia, and severe sarcopenia, respectively (X2 = 30.637; p < 0.001). Severe sarcopenia was consistently associated with a higher risk of falls (hazard ratio: 3.843; 95% CI: 1.816-8.131), even after adjustments for age, body mass index, physical activity level, regular use of four or more medications, reduced peripheral sensation, presence of two or more chronic diseases, and history of lower-limbs pain. It is concluded that severe sarcopenia is independently associated with higher incidence of falls in older women. These results provide support for the concept that sarcopenia staging has clinical implications and might be an useful supplement to other routine falls risk assessment tools.

The relationship between muscle quality and incidence of falls in older community-dwelling women: An 18-month follow-up study.

INTRODUCTION: Important components that might mediate the relationship between aging and falls are reduced muscle strength and mass. Although muscle-related phenotypes have been linked to falls in older people, the role of muscle quality has yet to be examined. AIM: To investigate the relationship between muscle quality and incidence of falls over an 18-month follow-up in older community-dwelling women. METHODS: A total of 167 women (68.1 ±â€¯6.2 years) underwent quadriceps isometric peak torque and thigh-muscle thickness assessments using isokinetic dynamometer and ultrasound, respectively. Muscle quality was considered as the ratio between maximal strength and muscle thickness. Participants were tracked by phone calls for ascertainment of falls during the follow-up period. Cox proportional regressions and X2 tests were performed, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 139 volunteers were successful tracked over the follow-up period. The overall incidence of fall was 23.4% (95% CI: 16.5-31.0). Rate of fallers among individuals with low-muscle quality (57.7%) was higher than in those with normal muscle quality (15.3%) (X2 = 21.132; P < 0.001). The proportion of multiple fallers was also significantly higher (X2 = 11.029; P < 0.001) among volunteers with low-muscle quality when compared to those with normal muscle quality (14.8% and 3.6%, respectively). The presence of low-muscle quality was associated with a significantly greater risk of falls over the follow-up (hazard ratio: 4.619; 95% CI: 2.302-9.269). CONCLUSION: Low-muscle quality is associated with a higher incidence of falls in older women. These findings provide support for the concept that muscle quality is a clinically meaningful assessment among older people.

Severity of sarcopenia is associated with postural balance and risk of falls in community-dwelling older women.

Background/Study context: Falls represent the leading cause of accidental deaths in the elderly. Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome defined as the loss of muscle mass and strength. However, the association between falls and sarcopenia is still unclear. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the association between different stages of sarcopenia and postural balance, risk of falls, and fear of falling in community-dwelling older women. METHODS: A total of 196 women (68.6 ± 6.5 years) underwent body composition (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry), muscle strength (isokinetic), and functional (Timed Up-and-Go) assessments. Sarcopenia was classified according to European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People. Center of pressure (CoP) sway, risk, and fear of falling were assessed through force platform, QuickScreen, and Falls Efficacy Scale, respectively. ANOVA models and chi-squared were used to compare groups. RESULTS: Severe sarcopenic subjects presented higher risk of falling when compared to the other stages (p < 0.01). Regarding CoP sway, both mean speed and mediolateral range were significantly higher in severe sarcopenia when compared to both nonsarcopenia and presarcopenia (p < 0.05). Fear of falling was higher in all sarcopenia stages when compared to nonsarcopenic individuals (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Sarcopenia negatively affects balance, and both risk and fear of falling in community-dwelling older women. Moreover, this study provides evidence that sarcopenia severity is further associated to reduced balance and imposes an even greater risk of falls in the elderly.