Biomarkers of Inflammation and Longitudinal Evaluation of Lung Function, Physical Activity, and Grip Strength: A Secondary Analysis in the CASCADE Study.

Rationale: Physical activity, lung function, and grip strength are associated with exacerbations, hospitalizations, and mortality in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We tested whether baseline inflammatory biomarkers were associated with longitudinal outcomes of these physiologic measurements. Methods: The COPD Activity: Serotonin Transporter, Cytokines, and Depression (CASCADE) study was a prospective observational study of individuals with COPD. Fourteen inflammatory biomarkers were measured at baseline. Participants were followed for 2 years. We analyzed associations between baseline biomarkers and FEV1, physical activity, and grip strength. We used a hierarchical hypothesis testing procedure to reduce type I error. We used Pearson correlations to test associations between baseline biomarkers and longitudinal changes in the outcomes of interest. We used Fisher's linear discriminant analysis to test if linear combinations of baseline biomarkers predict rapid FEV1 decline. Finally, we used linear mixed modeling to test associations between baseline biomarkers and outcomes of interest at baseline, year 1, and year 2; models were adjusted for age, smoking status, baseline biomarkers, and FEV1. Results: 302 participants (age 67.5 ± 8.5 years, 19.5% female, 28.5% currently smoking) were included. Baseline biomarkers were not associated with longitudinal changes in grip strength, physical activity, or rapid FEV1 decline. Higher IL-6 and CRP were associated with lower physical activity at baseline and these relationships persisted at year 1 and year 2. Conclusion: Baseline inflammatory biomarkers did not predict changes in lung function or physical activity, but higher inflammatory biomarkers were associated with persistently low levels of physical activity.

Comparison of Absolute and Relative Grip Strength to Predict Incidence of Diabetes Mellitus in Korea: A Prospective Cohort Study.

Background: This study aimed to investigate the association between absolute grip strength (AGS), relative grip strength (RGS) levels, and the risk of developing diabetes in middle-aged adults, utilizing longitudinal data. Methods: A total of 1935 participants, 51-81 years of age, were engaged in surveys both in 2017-2018 and during the subsequent follow-up survey in 2019-2020. Diabetes diagnosis and treatment were the criteria for categorizing individuals as "diabetic." Grip strength was measured using the JAMA-5030J1 equipment (SAEHAN, Korea), and AGS and RGS were also categorized into tertiles by gender. A proportional hazards Cox regression model was used to evaluate the relationship among AGS, RGS, and the risk of developing diabetes. Subsequently, we computed the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for the risk of developing diabetes. Results: After adjusting for various confounding variables, a significant reduction in diabetes risk was observed in the high grip strength group, adjusted for body mass index (RGS1) and body weight (RGS2), compared with the low RGS1 and RGS2 groups (RGS1 HR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.36-0.80; RGS2 HR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.34-0.73). However, there were no significant associations between AGS and diabetes risk. Furthermore, significant differences in the relationship among AGS, RGS levels, and the risk of developing diabetes were found across gender and insulin resistance levels. Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of RGS levels in predicting the incidence of diabetes, with AGS, RGS1, and RGS2 emerging as significant predictive indicators for assessing diabetes risk.

Asociación de fuerza prensil y extensores de rodilla con estado nutricional de adultos mayores pertenecientes a la comunidad / Association of grip strength and knee extensors with nutritional status of community-dwelling older adults

Antecedentes y objetivo: Determinar la asociación de fuerza prensil de mano y extensores de rodilla con el estado nutricional de adultos mayores de la comunidad. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional transversal. Se analizó peso y talla de 847 adultos mayores según índice de masa corporal y se clasificaron en cuatro categorías nutricionales según el Ministerio de Salud de Chile. Se evaluó la fuerza prensil de mano y extensores de rodilla para ambas extremidades. La fuerza fue normalizada por masa corporal y se utilizó la correlación de Spearman entre índice de masa corporal y fuerza muscular. Resultados: La muestra fue de 582 mujeres y 265 hombres con edad promedio de 71,72±7,09. Las mujeres presentaron un índice de masa corporal de 30,03±5,48 y los hombres 27,64±4,05, la categoría más numerosa fue normopeso (n = 288) y la menor bajo peso (n = 74). La fuerza prensil de mano presentó mayor correlación que extensores de rodilla, específicamente, fuerza prensil de mano derecha (r: -0,40). La mayor correlación y significancia la presentó la categoría obesa para todas las mediciones de fuerza, resultando la fuerza prensil de mano derecha como la más alta (r: -0,29). Conclusiones: El aumento del estado nutricional de los adultos mayores influye negativamente sobre la fuerza muscular. La mejor asociación entre índice de masa corporal y fuerza muscular fue la prensión de mano derecha. Resalta el hallazgo del aumento de la esperanza de vida a medida que disminuye el IMC de la muestra. Futuros estudios deberían generar percentiles y valores normalizados en población chilena.(AU)

Aim: To determine the association of hand grip strength and knee extensor strength with the nutritional status of community-dwelling older adults. Material and methods: Observational cross-sectional study. Weight and height of 847 older adults were analyzed according to body mass index and classified into four nutritional categories according to the Chilean Ministry of Health. Hand grip and knee extensors strength for both extremities were evaluated. Strength was normalized by body mass. Spearman's correlation between body mass index and muscle strength was used. Results: The sample was 582 women, 265 men and an average age of 71.72±7.09. The women had a BMI of 30.03±5.48 and the men of 27.64 ± 4.05, the most numerous category was normal weight (n = 288) and the lowest low weight (n = 74). Hand grip strength presented a higher correlation than knee extensors, specifically, right hand grip strength (r: −0.40). The highest correlation and significance were presented by the obese category for all strength measurements, with right hand grip strength being the highest (r: −0.29). Conclusions: The increase in the nutritional status of older adults has a negative influence on muscle strength. The best association between body mass index and muscle strength was the right hand grip. The finding of the increase in life expectancy as the nutritional status of the sample decreases stands out. Future studies are needed to generate percentiles and normalized values in the Chilean population.(AU)

Reduced calf muscle pump function is not explained by handgrip strength measurements.

OBJECTIVE: Reduced calf muscle pump function (CPF) is an independent risk factor for venous thromboembolism and mortality. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between handgrip strength (HGS) and CPF. METHODS: Patients referred to the Gonda Vascular Laboratory for noninvasive venous studies were identified and consented. Patients underwent standard venous air plethysmography protocol. CPF (ejection fraction) was measured in each lower extremity of ambulatory patients by comparing refill volume after ankle flexes and passive refill volumes. The cutoff for reduced CPF (rCPF) was defined as an ejection fraction of <45%. Maximum HGS bilaterally was obtained (three trials per hand) using a dynamometer. HGS and CPF were compared (right hand to calf, left hand to calf) and the correlation between the measures was evaluated. RESULTS: 115 patients (mean age, 59.2 ± 17.4 years; 67 females, mean body mass index, 30.83 ± 6.46) were consented and assessed for HGS and CPF. rCPF was observed in 53 right legs (46%) and 67 left legs (58%). CPF was reduced bilaterally in 45 (39%) and unilaterally in 30 (26%) patients. HGS was reduced bilaterally in 74 (64.3%), unilaterally in 23 (20%), and normal in 18 (15.7%) patients. Comparing each hand/calf pair, no significant correlations were seen between HGS and CPF. The Spearman's rank correlation coefficients test yielded values of 0.16 for the right side and 0.10 for the left side. CONCLUSIONS: There is no significant correlation between HGS and CPF, demonstrating that HGS measurements are not an acceptable surrogate for rCPF, indicating different pathophysiological mechanisms for each process.

Evaluation of factors influencing handgrip strength asymmetry in elderly Peruvians.

Background: Sarcopenia is a musculoskeletal disease involving the reduction of muscle mass, strength, and performance. Handgrip strength (HGS) measurements included in frailty assessments are great biomarkers of aging and are related to functional deficits. We assessed the association between potential influencing factors and HGS asymmetry in older Peruvian adults. Methods: We used a database of the Peruvian Naval Medical Center "Cirujano Santiago Távara" located in Callao, Peru. All the patients included were ≥60 years old and had an HGS measurement in the dominant and non-dominant hand. Results: From a total of 1468 patients, 74.66% had HGS asymmetry. After adjustment, calf circumference weakness (aPR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.01 - 1.15), falls risk (aPR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.02 - 1.16), and an altered Lawton index (aPR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.84 - 0.99) were associated with HGS asymmetry. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that HGS asymmetry should be measured along with other geriatric assessments used to evaluate health outcomes in the elderly to enhance health promotion and prevention aimed at preserving muscle strength to curb functional limitations in the elderly.

Association Between Dietary Fiber Intake and Low Muscle Strength Among Korean Adults.

The health benefits of dietary fiber are widely recognized, but its impact on muscle health remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate the relationship between dietary fiber intake and muscle strength through a cross-sectional analysis of data from the Korea National Health and Examination Survey (KNHANES). Data from a single 24-h dietary recall and handgrip strength tests of 10,883 younger adults aged 19 to 64 years and 3,961 older adults aged ≥ 65 years were analyzed. Low muscle strength was defined as handgrip strength < 28 kg for men and < 18 kg for women. Multivariable linear and logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the association of dietary fiber intake with muscle strength. Approximately 43% of Korean adults met the recommended intake of dietary fiber, and those with higher dietary fiber consumption also had higher total energy and protein intake. After adjusting for confounding variables, dietary fiber intake was found to be positively associated with maximal handgrip strength in younger women aged 19 to 64 years (ß = 0.015; standard error [SE] = 0.006) and older men aged ≥ 65 years (ß = 0.035; SE = 0.014). For older women aged ≥ 65 years, those in the lowest quartile of dietary fiber intake had a higher risk of low muscle strength than those in the highest quartile after adjustment of confounders (odds ratio 1.709; 95% confidence interval 1.130-2.585). These results suggest that adequate dietary fiber intake may reduce the risk of sarcopenia in older Korean women.

Addressing the functional needs of left ventricular assist device candidates: Development and feasibility of an occupational therapy pre-operative evaluation.

BACKGROUND: Everyday living with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is complex, particularly for people with physical or cognitive impairments or limited social supports. There is a need for standardized pre-operative functional evaluations. OBJECTIVES: Our objectives were to describe a pre-operative occupational therapy (OT) evaluation for LVAD candidates, assess its feasibility in routine care, and characterize functional needs. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed electronic medical records of pre-operative OT consultations for LVAD candidates over four years (n = 209). Occupational profile, vision, and sensation were operationalized from documentation narratives. Daily functioning was measured with Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care, grip strength with dynamometer, cognition with Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Allen Cognitive Level Screen-5, and LVAD self-management with a performance-based ordinal scale. RESULTS: 89.5 % of consultations were completed, averaging 61.2 min (n = 187): 79.1 % (148/187) inpatient and 20.9 % (39/187) outpatient. Patients completed 87.7 % (164/187) to 100.0 % (187/187) of evaluation components. 21.9 % (41/187) of candidates lived alone. 6.4 % (12/187) and 7.0 % (13/185) had visual and sensory dysfunction. 57.4 % were independent with daily activities (104/181). 17.7 % (32/181) had impaired grip strength. 69.3 % (124/179) had impaired cognition, 29.7 % (51/172) with impaired functional cognition for everyday activities. 88.4 % (145/164) required physical or cueing assistance while practicing LVAD batteries management. OTs interpreted that 20.9 % (39/187) would likely require 24/7 post-operative support with LVAD self-care. CONCLUSION: Pre-operative OT evaluations were feasible and emphasized complex functional needs. Assessing LVAD self-care abilities may inform candidacy and facilitate early interventions to optimize functioning. OT should be consulted within interprofessional teams for all LVAD candidates.

Comparison of Absolute and Relative Grip Strength to Predict Incidence of Metabolic Syndrome: Eight-Year Follow-Up Study in Korea.

Background: This study aimed to conduct an analysis of longitudinal study to investigate the association of absolute grip strength, and relative grip strength with incidence of metabolic syndrome. Materials and Methods: Participants who participated in the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study, a chronic screening program conducted in Ahnseong-si, Gyeonggi-do, a primary survey conducted from 2013 to 2014 were selected. The presence of metabolic syndrome was classified using the standards of the International Diabetes Foundation following previous studies. Grip strength was measured using a JAMA 5030J1 (Saehan, Korea) and calculated the absolute grip strength and relative grip strength. To evaluate the relationship between the absolute grip strength, relative grip strength, and incidence of metabolic syndrome, independent hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for metabolic syndrome were calculated according to absolute and relative grip strength levels using a multivariate extended Cox regression model. Results: The incidence of metabolic syndrome was reduced by 38% (HR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.43-0.88) for the high absolute grip strength group, compared to the low absolute grip strength group. Also, this study confirmed that the incidence of metabolic syndrome for mid relative grip strength and high relative grip strength groups were reduced by 27% (HR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.55-0.98) and 55% (HR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.32-0.64) respectively. Moreover, the incidence of metabolic syndrome was reduced by 45% (HR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.37-0.82) and 57% (HR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.29-0.65) for the low-level body mass index (BMI) group with high or low absolute grip strength, respectively. Finally, this study confirmed the association of sex, absolute grip strength, and relative grip strength according to age with incidence of metabolic syndrome was different. Conclusion: We observed that relative grip strength has a higher association with incidence of metabolic syndrome than absolute grip strength. Also, BMI has a higher association with metabolic syndrome than the absolute grip strength.

Hand Grip Strength Assessment Based on Sarcopenia Diagnostic Criteria Predicts Swallowing Function.

The purpose of this study is to clarify whether swallowing function can be inferred from grip strength. Based on the diagnostic criteria of sarcopenia, patients were divided into two groups according to grip strength, and it was analyzed whether there was a difference in the evaluation index for swallowing function between the two groups. Among the cases requesting evaluation of swallowing function from June 10, 2020 to October 28, 2020, 83 cases (mean age: 71.7 years, 59 males and 24 females) who received assessment tests and swallowing endoscopy were included. According to the diagnostic criteria for grip strength in the Asian working group in Sarcopenia, less than 28 kgf and 18 kgf were defined as the weak group for men and women, respectively. Hyodo scores, repeated salivary swallowing tests (RSST), maximum vocalization time (MPT), and dysphagia severity classification (DSS) were compared between the two groups. Of the 83 patients, 29 and 54 were in the normal group and weak group, respectively. In all indicators, the normal group showed significantly better results than the weak group: Hyodo score (2.4 vs. 4.0, p < 0.01), RSST (4.1 times vs. 2.4 times, p < 0.01), MPT (12.1 s vs. 5.9 s, p < 0.001), DSS (4.5 vs. 5.9, p < 0.001), respectively. In multiple regression analysis with DSS as the dependent variable, grip strength was a significant independent variable of DSS even after adjusting for age, gender, and body mass index. Grip strength assessment based on sarcopenia criteria can be a useful tool for estimating swallowing function.

Handgrip strength and upper limb functional performance measures in people over 18 years old: Analysis of relationships and influencing factors.

BACKGROUND: Handgrip strength is a common, simple, and inexpensive method to measure muscle strength. On the other hand, the functional performance measurement involves a usual task which implies repeating elements between the individuals' interaction and the environment. This is fundamental for projecting their results to daily life situation. PURPOSE: To explore the relationship between grip strength and measures of functional performance of the upper limbs (ULs) in people over 18 years of age, and to determine the influence of sociodemographic and anthropometric variables on the relationship. STUDY DESIGN: A cross-sectional study was conducted under the analytical empirical approach, using linear associations between handgrip strength and functional performance measurement tests (correspondence analysis). METHODS: Three hundred sixty-two male and female individuals between 18 and 91 years of age from 4 Colombian cities participated. The grip strength of both ULs measured with a digital dynamometry was associated with the Box and Block Test (BBT, manual dexterity), Nine-Hole Peg Test (NHPT, daily living tasks), and Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JJT, ability to grasp, pick up, and place). Multiple linear regression analyzes were performed to assess possible explanatory factors of a sociodemographic and anthropometric order. RESULTS: A significant association was found between the grip strength of dominant and non-dominant ULs with all functional performance tests (ρ > 0.27 and p < .001), except for the writing and simulated feeding subtests of the JJT (ρ ≤ 0.16). An interactive effect of age was found in the relationship between grip strength and the 3 functional performance tests. CONCLUSIONS: These results support the association between grip strength with the NHPT, JJT, and BBT measures and the interactive effect of age on the performance of all tests.

Biomechanical and aesthetic outcomes following radial forearm free flap transfer: comparison of ipsilateral full-thickness skin graft and traditional split-thickness skin graft.

The radial forearm free flap (RFFF) is associated with donor site morbidity. This study aimed to quantify the functional and aesthetic outcomes after closure of the RFFF donor site using triangular full-thickness skin grafts (FTSGs) harvested adjacent to the flap or traditional split-thickness skin grafts (STSGs). The study included patients who underwent oral cavity reconstruction with an RFFF between March 2017 and August 2021. The patients were divided into two groups based on the donor site closure method: FTSG or STSG. The primary outcomes were biomechanical grip strength, pinch strength, and range of wrist movements. Subjective donor site morbidity, aesthetic and functional results were also analysed. The study included 75 patients (FTSG n = 35; STSG n = 40). Postoperatively, there was a statistically significant difference in grip strength (P = 0.049) and wrist extension (P = 0.047) between the FTSG and STSG groups, in favour of the STSG. Differences between the groups in pinch strength and other wrist motions were not statistically significant. The harvesting time was significantly shorter for the FTSG (P = 0.041) and the appearance of the donor site was better (P = 0.026) when compared to the STSG. Cold intolerance was more frequent in the STSG group (32.5% STSG vs 6.7% FTSG; P = 0.017). Subjective function, numbness, pain, hypertrophic scar, itching, and social stigma did not differ significantly between the groups. Compared with the STSG, the FTSG showed better cosmesis and avoided additional donor sites, with clinically negligible differences in hand biomechanics.

Muscle Strength Indexes and Its Association With Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Adolescents: An Allometric Approach.

Background and aims: Muscle strength (MS) has been associated with better cardiometabolic health prognosis. However, the result for the beneficial relationship seems to be dependent on the influence of body size in determining MS levels. We investigate the association between allometric MS indexes and its association with cardiometabolic risk factors in adolescents. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study comprising 351 adolescents (male: 44.4%; age range 14-19 years) from Southern Brazil. MS was assessed by handgrip strength and three different allometric approaches were adopted: 1) MS index based on theoretical allometric exponent; 2) MS index including body mass and height; 3) MS index including fat-free mass and height. Obesity, high blood pressure, dyslipidemia, glucose imbalance and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein were investigated as individual factors or as combinations (either as combinations of components - presence of two adverse conditions, or number of components present in an individual - 0, 1, 2, 3+ cardiometabolic risk factors). Logistic and multinomial logistic regression analyses adjusted for confounding factors were used. The statistical significance adopted was 5%. Results: MS index based on theoretical allometric exponent was associated with lower likelihood (OR: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.28 - 0.89) for the presence of three or more cardiometabolic risk factors in the same individual. Conclusion: This study suggests that MS index based on the theoretical allometric exponent can be superior to allometric MS indexes that included body mass and height, or fat-free mass and height in representing the presence of high number of cardiometabolic risk factors in adolescents.

Natural History of Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay: a 4-Year Longitudinal Study.

Autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS) is a neurologic disorder with generally well-known clinical manifestations. However, few studies assessed their progression rate using a longitudinal design. This study aimed to document the natural history of ARSACS over a 4-year period in terms of upper and lower limb functions, balance, walking capacity, performance in daily living activities, and disease severity. Forty participants were assessed on three occasions over 4 years. Participant performance was reported in raw data as well as in percentage from reference values to consider the normal aging process. Severe balance and walking capacity impairments were found, with a significant performance decrease over the 4 years. Balance reached a floor score of around 6 points on the Berg Balance Scale for participants aged >40 years, while other participants lost about 1.5 points per year. The mean loss in walking speed was 0.044 m/s per year and the mean decrease in the distance walked in 6 min was 20.8 m per year for the whole cohort. Pinch strength, balance, walking speed, and walking distance decreased over time even when reported in percentage from reference values. Major impairments and rapid progression rates were documented in the present study for upper limb coordination, pinch strength, balance, and walking capacity in the ARSACS population. A progression rate beyond the normal aging process was observed. These results provide fundamental insights regarding the disease prognosis that will help to better inform patients, develop specific rehabilitation programs, and improve trial readiness.

[Association of grip strength and knee extensors with nutritional status of community-dwelling older adults]. / Asociación de fuerza prensil y extensores de rodilla con estado nutricional de adultos mayores pertenecientes a la comunidad.

AIM: To determine the association of hand grip strength and knee extensor strength with the nutritional status of community-dwelling older adults. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Observational cross-sectional study. Weight and height of 847 older adults were analyzed according to body mass index and classified into four nutritional categories according to the Chilean Ministry of Health. Hand grip and knee extensors strength for both extremities were evaluated. Strength was normalized by body mass. Spearman's correlation between body mass index and muscle strength was used. RESULTS: The sample was 582 women, 265 men and an average age of 71.72±7.09. The women had a BMI of 30.03±5.48 and the men of 27.64 ± 4.05, the most numerous category was normal weight (n = 288) and the lowest low weight (n = 74). Hand grip strength presented a higher correlation than knee extensors, specifically, right hand grip strength (r: -0.40). The highest correlation and significance were presented by the obese category for all strength measurements, with right hand grip strength being the highest (r: -0.29). CONCLUSIONS: The increase in the nutritional status of older adults has a negative influence on muscle strength. The best association between body mass index and muscle strength was the right hand grip. The finding of the increase in life expectancy as the nutritional status of the sample decreases stands out. Future studies are needed to generate percentiles and normalized values in the Chilean population.

In people with type 2 diabetes, sarcopenia is associated with the incidence of cardiovascular disease: A prospective cohort study from the UK Biobank.

AIM: To investigate the association of sarcopenia with cardiovascular disease (CVD) incidence in people with type 2 diabetes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective cohort study with 11 974 White European UK Biobank participants with type 2 diabetes, aged 40-70 years, included. Sarcopenia was defined based on the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People as either non-sarcopenic or sarcopenic. Outcomes included CVD, stroke, heart failure (HF) and myocardial infarction (MI). The association between sarcopenia and the incidence of outcomes was investigated using Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. The rate advancement period was used to estimate the time period by which CVD is advanced because of sarcopenia. RESULTS: Over a median follow-up of 10.7 years, 1957 participants developed CVDs: 373 had a stroke, 307 had an MI and 742 developed HF. Compared with non-sarcopenia, those with sarcopenia had higher risks of CVD (HR 1.89 [95% CI 1.61; 2.21]), HF (HR 2.59 [95% CI 2.12; 3.18]), stroke (HR 1.90 [95% CI 1.38; 2.63]), and MI (HR 1.56 [95% CI 1.04; 2.33]) after adjustment for all covariates. Those with sarcopenia had CVD incidence rates equivalent to those without sarcopenia who were 14.5 years older. Similar results were found for stroke, HF and MI. CONCLUSIONS: In people with type 2 diabetes, sarcopenia increased the risk of developing CVD, which might occur earlier than in those without sarcopenia. Therefore, sarcopenia screening and prevention in patients with type 2 diabetes may be useful to prevent the complications of CVD.

The relation between synovitis of individual finger joints and grip force over the first 5 years in early rheumatoid arthritis - a cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the relation between swelling and tenderness of individual finger joints and grip force in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS: In an inception cohort of patients with early RA (symptom duration < 12 months), all patients were examined by the same rheumatologist, and grip force was measured using the Grippit instrument at inclusion, 1 and 5 years. The average grip force values of each hand were evaluated and expressed as % of expected values, based on age- and sex-specific reference values. Linear regression analyses were used to assess the cross-sectional relation between the involvement of individual finger joints and grip force. In generalized estimating equations, the impact of time-varying synovitis/tenderness on grip force over time was estimated. Analyses were adjusted for wrist involvement, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and patient-reported pain. RESULTS: In 215 patients with early RA, grip force was 39% of expected at diagnosis, and increased to 56% after 5 years. Synovitis of the first metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint (60% and 69% at baseline in the right and left hand) was associated with reduced grip force at inclusion (adjusted ß - 9.2 percentage unit of expected grip force; 95% CI - 13.6 to - 4.8 for both hands combined) and at all follow-up evaluations. Synovitis of MCP I and MCP IV (12% at baseline) was significantly associated with reduced grip force over time in both hands. Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint swelling, and tenderness of MCP or PIP joints, had less impact on grip force. CONCLUSION: MCP I synovitis is the major contributor to reduced grip force in patients with early RA. This underlines the importance of the involvement of the thumb for impaired hand function in RA. MCP IV synovitis, but not PIP involvement or finger joint tenderness, also has a substantial impact on grip force.

Nivel de hemoglobina y fuerza de prensión manual en pacientes oncológicos adultos de un hospital público / Hemoglobin level and handgrip strength deficit in adult cancer patients from a public hospital

Introducción: La anemia en el adulto se caracteriza por ladebilidad y cansancio e influye en el aumento de tasa de mortalidad, discapacidad, disminución en el nivel de actividad física y calidad de vida. Condición que agrava el riesgo de mortalidad en pacientes oncológicos. Objetivo: Determinar la correlación entre el nivel de he-moglobina y la fuerza de prensión manual en pacientes oncológicos de un hospital público. Materiales y métodos: Investigación de enfoque cuanti ta-tivo, diseño no experimental, transversal de tipo correla cional-causal. La muestra final del estudio estuvo conformada por 90pacientes adultos con diagnóstico de enfermedad oncológica; hospitalizados durante el periodo noviembre a diciembre del2022, en el servicio de cirugía del Hospital Cayetano Heredia deLima-Perú. La fuerza de prensión manual se determinó utili-zando un dinamómetro hidráulico y los valores de hemoglobinase recabaron de la historia clínica del paciente al ingreso al hospital. Para evaluar la correlación de las variables, se utilizó laprueba estadística no paramé trica RHO de Spearman. Resultados: El 51,1% presentó anemia moderada, el16.7% anemia leve y el 31.1% presentó un valor de hemoglobina normal. Asimismo, el 53.3% presentó una fuerza deprensión manual disminuida. Al determinar la correlación entre el nivel de hemoglobina y el déficit de fuerza de prensiónmanual en pacientes oncológicos adultos se obtuvo un valorde Rho = 0.274 y p=0.009 (p<0.05). Conclusiones: Existe correlación directa entre nivel de hemoglobina y la fuerza de prensión manual. Los pacientes oncológicos adultos con mayor valor de hemoglobina presenta-ron mayor fuerza de prensión manual (AU)

Introduction: Anemia in adults is characterized by weakness and tiredness and influences the increase in the mortality rate, disability, decrease in the level of physical activity andquality of life, a condition that aggravates the risk of mortality in cancer patients. Objective: To determine the correlation between the he-moglobin level and the handgrip strength in cancer patients from a public hospital. Materials and methods: Research with a quantitative approach, non-experimental, cross-sectional design of a cor-relational-causal type. The final sample of the study consistedof 90 adult patients diagnosed with oncological disease, hospitalized from November to December 2022, in the surgery service of the Cayetano Heredia Hospital in Lima-Peru. Handgrip strength was determined using a hydraulic dynamometer, and hemoglobin values were collected from the patient’s medical history upon admission to the hospital. Forthe correlation of the variables, the non-parametric statisticaltest Spearman’s Rho was used. Results: 51.1% presented moderate anemia, 16.7% mild anemia and 31.1% presented a normal hemoglobin value. Likewise, 53.3% presented a decreased handgrip strength. When determining the correlation between the hemoglobin level and the handgrip strength deficit in adult cancer patients, a value of Rho = 0.274 and p=0.009 (p<0.05). Conclusions: There is a direct correlation between hemoglobin level and handgrip strength. Adult cancer patients with higher hemoglobin values presented greater handgrip strength (AU)

Relationship between handgrip strength and body composition and laboratory indicators in diabetic and hypertensive patients / Relação da força de preensão com a composição corporal e indicadores laboratoriais de diabéticos e hipertensos

Introduction: The change in handgrip strength (HGS) is an indicator of the emergence of some chronic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus (DM) and systemic arterial hypertension (SAH). Objective: Analyze the relationship between HGS and body composition and laboratory indicators of diabetic and hypertensive patients assisted in Primary Health Care. Methods: The sample consisted of 185 users of a Basic Health Unit in the city of Santarém, Pará, distributed into two groups: control (CTL) ­ users without a diagnosis of DM and/or SAH (n=66); and DM/SAH (n=119) ­ users with DM or SAH or both diseases. Data collection involved sociodemographic, clinical, anthropometric, biochemical, and HGS information. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, adopting p<0.05. Results: It was noted that low HGS in the DM/SAH group was associated with high values of body mass index, abdominal circumference, fat percentage, fat mass, total cholesterol, and triglycerides and with more factors for metabolic syndrome (p<0.05). The CTL group, in relation to DM/SAH for the same HGS classification, demonstrated significance for lower blood pressure values, body mass index, abdominal circumference, fat percentage, and fat mass, as well as a lower chance of developing metabolic syndrome (p<0.05). Conclusion: According to the study proposal, it is concluded that the evaluation and follow-up of HGS in individuals with chronic diseases, especially DM and SAH, is relevant to monitor body adiposity and dyslipidemia and avoid the aggravation of existing diseases or the emergence of new ones (AU).

Introdução: A alteração na força de preensão (FP) manual é indicador para surgimento de algumas doenças crônicas, como a diabetes mellitus (DM) e hipertensão arterial sistêmica (HAS). Objetivo: Analisar a relação da FP com a composição corporal e indicadores laboratoriais de diabéticos e hipertensos assistidos na Atenção Primária à Saúde. Métodos: A amostra foi composta por 185 usuários de uma Unidade Básica de Saúde na cidade de Santarém, Pará, sendo distribuídos em dois grupos: controle (CTL) ­ usuários sem o diagnóstico para DM e/ou HAS (n=66); e DM/HAS (n=119) ­ usuários com DM ou HAS ou as duas doenças. A coleta de dados envolveu informações sócio-demográficas, clínicas, antropométricas, bioquímicas e FP. Os dados foram analisados por estatística descritiva e inferencial, adotando-se p<0,05. Resultados: Notou-se que a FP baixa no grupo DM/HAS apresentou associação com valores elevados do índice de massa corporal, circunferência abdominal, percentual de gordura, massa gorda, colesterol total, triglicerídeos e com mais fatores para a síndrome metabólica (p<0,05). Já o grupo CTL, em rela-ção do DM/HAS para uma mesma classificação de FP, demonstrou significância para menores valores pressóricos, do índice de massa corporal, da circunferência abdominal, percentual de gordura, massa gorda, bem como menor chance para o desenvolvimento da síndrome metabólica (p<0,05). Conclusão: Conclui-se, conforme a proposta do estudo, que é relevante a avaliação e acompanhamento da FP em indivíduos com doenças crônicas, em especial a DM e a HAS, a fim de monitorar a adiposidade corporal e a dislipidemia, evitando o agravo das doenças instaladas ou o surgimento de novas (AU).

Relationship between handgrip strength and inspiratory muscles with the success of the spontaneous breathing trial

Introduction: In critically ill patients on mechanical ventilation, the loss of inspiratory and peripheral muscle strength is associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation and failed weaning. Objective: To determine the relationship between handgrip strength and inspiratory muscle strength with the success of the Spontaneous Breathing Trial in adults with ventilatory support greater than 48 hours. Methodology: Prospective observational cross-sectional study performed at a tertiary hospital in Colombia. Handgrip strength and Maximal Inspiratory Pressure were measured once a day before Spontaneous Breathing Trial testing. Pearson's test and Cohen's D test were used to analyze correlations. Results: A total of 51 patients were included, 57% male, with a mean age of 51.9±20 years. A positive correlation was identified between Maximal Inspiratory Pressure and grip strength; and a negative correlation between grip strength and Maximal Inspiratory Pressure with the days of stay in the intensive care unit, (r -0.40; p<0.05) and (r -0.45; p<0.05). Conclusions: Handgrip strength and Maximal Inspiratory Pressure were positively correlated with Spontaneous Breathing Trial success. The importance of these measures to guide ventilator disconnection processes is highlighted.

Introducción: En el paciente críticamente enfermo con ventilación mecánica, la pérdida de la fuerza de los músculos inspiratorios y periféricos se asocia con ventilación mecánica prolongada y destete fallido. Objetivo: Determinar la relación entre la fuerza de prensión manual y la fuerza de músculos inspiratorios con el éxito de la prueba de respiración espontánea en adultos con soporte ventilatorio mayor a 48 horas. Metodología: Estudio prospectivo observacional de corte transversal realizado en un hospital de tercer nivel en Colombia. La fuerza de prensión manual y la presión inspiratoria máxima se midieron una vez al día antes de la prueba de prueba de respiración espontánea. Se utilizaron la prueba de Pearson y la prueba D de Cohen para analizar las correlaciones. Resultados: Se incluyeron 51 pacientes, 57 % de sexo masculino, con una edad promedio de 51,9 ± 20 años. Se identificó una correlación positiva entre Presión Inspiratoria Máxima y fuerza de la mano; y una correlación negativa entre la fuerza de la mano y la Presión Inspiratoria Máxima con los días de estancia en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos, (r -0,40; p < 0,05) y (r -0,45;p < 0,05). Conclusiones: La fuerza de prensión manual y la Presión Inspiratoria Máxima se correlacionaron positivamente con el éxito de la Prueba de Respiración Espontánea. Se destaca la importancia de estas mediciones para guiar procesos de desconexión del ventilador.

Fuerza prensil y composición corporal en escolares colombianos. Estudio piloto

Introducción: Algunos estudios han encontrado relación entre exceso de peso y baja fuerza de prensión relativa. En países de ingresos socioeconómicos medianos y bajos hay pocas evidencias que evalúen la fuerza prensil y su relación con la composición corporal en población pediátrica. Objetivo: Evaluar la correlación entre la fuerza prensil y la composición corporal de escolares de Bucaramanga, Colombia. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio piloto de corte transversal, analítico, correlacional. Participaron niños en edad escolar de Bucaramanga, Colombia. Las principales variables dependientes fueron masa muscular, agua corporal total, proteínas (kg) y el porcentaje de grasa corporal. La variable independiente correspondió a la fuerza prensil. Se usó el coeficiente de correlación de Spearman para explorar la relación entre variables. Resultados: El promedio de la fuerza prensil en el total de la muestra fue de 13,8 ± 3,2 Newton. Se encontraron correlaciones positivas y estadísticamente significativas entre la fuerza prensil y la masa musculoesquelética (r = 0,73), agua corporal total (r = 0,73) y proteínas (r = 0,74). Discusión: Nuestros resultados son consistentes con evidencias previas que identifican a la fuerza prensil como un indicador de la composición corporal, específicamente en las variables de masa musculoesquelética y proteínas. Conclusión: Los niños en el tercil más alto de fuerza prensil presentan los terciles más altos de masa musculoesquelética, agua corporal total y proteínas.

Introduction: Some studies have found a relationship between excess weight and low relative grip strength. In countries with medium and low socioeconomic income, there is little evidence evaluating grip strength and its relationship with body composition in the pediatric population. Objective: To evaluate the correlation between grip strength and body composition of schoolchildren from Bucaramanga, Colombia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, analytical, correlational pilot study was conducted. Schoolchildren from Bucaramanga, Colombia participated. The main dependent variables were muscle mass, total body water, protein (kg), and percentage of body fat. The independent variable corresponded to the prehensile force. Spearman's Correlation Coefficient was used to explore the relationship between variables. Results: The average prehensile force in the total sample was 13.8±3.2 Newton. Positive and statistically significant correlations were found between grip strength and musculoskeletal mass (r=0.73), total body water (r=0.73), and protein (r=0.74). Discussion: Our results are consistent with previous evidence that identifies grip strength as an indicator of body composition, specifically in the variables of musculoskeletal mass and protein. Conclusion: Children in the highest tertile of prehensile strength present the highest tertiles of skeletal muscle mass, total body water, and protein.