Effectiveness of a sensorimotor exercise program on proprioception, balance, muscle strength, functional mobility and risk of falls in older people.

Introduction: Sensory systems provide the necessary information for a motor response to be provided. In this sense, the objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a sensorimotor exercise program on proprioceptive acuity, balance, muscle strength, functional mobility and risk of falls in institutionalized elderly. Methodology: 56 participants (84.6 ± 8.4 years) were randomly distributed between the control (CG, n = 28) and intervention groups (IG, n = 28). The CG performed a protocol based on warm-up, muscle strengthening and warm down and the IG performed the same intervention, with the addition of sensorimotor exercises. Joint Position Sensation (JPS) was evaluated in both limbs at angles of 20° and 45°, balance, functional mobility, fear of falling in the elderly and muscle strength of quadriceps, hamstrings, adductors and abductors in both limbs, before and after the 12 weeks of intervention. Results: Both groups showed gains in muscle strength. When analyzing functionality through Timed Up and Go (TUG), before and after for each group separately, both showed a significant difference (CG p = 0.002; IG p < 0.001). For the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) variable, there were significant differences in IG in balance (p < 0.001), gait speed time (s) (p = 0.004) and sit-to-stand (p = 0.002). In JPS, significant differences were recorded for Absolute Error 45° Non-Dominant (p = 0.045) and Relative Error 45° Non-Dominant (p = 0.045) in the CG and Relative Error 45° Non-Dominant for IG (p = 0.018). In the Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I) variable there were significant improvements in the CG (p = 0.006) and in the GI (p = 0.002). However, only IG showed significant improvements (p = 0.013) for Activities-Specific Balance Confident (ABC) in a comparison between before and after the 12-week research period. When comparing the differences verified with the intervention between CG and IG, only balance SPPB (p < 0.001) and sit-to-stand SPPB (p = 0.022) showed significant values. Conclusion: He effectiveness of sensorimotor exercises provides balance gain in the elderly (p < 0.001) and positively impacts their confidence (p = 0.013) when performing their duties. It is concluded that the protocol presented in its different levels of difficulty is effective and important for the quality of life of the institutionalized sedentary elderly.

Whole-Body Vibration to Improve Physical Function Parameters in Nursing Home Residents Older than 80 Years: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Loss of functional independence is more likely in older adults who reside in an institution as a consequence of a decline in muscle mass and a loss of force production capacity. The aim of this review was to assess the effect of whole-body vibration (WBV) interventions on the strength, balance, and mobility of nursing home residents older than 80 years. METHODS: An electronic search in MEDLINE, Scopus, and CINAHL databases was conducted. Randomized controlled trials that involved nursing home residents older than 80 years, that investigated WBV interventions compared with nonintervention, usual care, or placebo, and that measured physical function outcomes including strength, balance, gait, and mobility were included. Risk of bias was assessed by 2 reviewers using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. The standardized mean difference (SMD) between the experimental and control groups were calculated with a random-effects model for each outcome and subgroup analysis was conducted for different outcomes. RESULTS: In total, 2864 articles were identified; of these, 14 randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis revealed that WBV significantly increased the lower limb muscle strength (SMD = 0.59; 95% CI = 0.16 to 1.03), mobility (SMD = 0.45; 95% CI = 0.10 to 0.81), gait score (SMD = 0.26; 95% CI = 0.01 to 0.51), balance (SMD = 0.41; 95% CI = 0.01 to 0.81), and physical performance (SMD = 1.33; 95% CI = 0.33 to 2.33). CONCLUSION: WBV may be an effective intervention to improve the strength, balance, mobility, walking ability, and physical performance of older nursing home residents. IMPACT: WBV presents a safe, accessible alternative for improving health in this vulnerable population, warranting further research and integration into health care practices.

Effectiveness of Using the FreeStyle Libre® System for Monitoring Blood Glucose during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Diabetic Individuals: Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an area of computer science/engineering that is aiming to spread technological systems. The COVID-19 pandemic caused economic and public health turbulence around the world. Among the many possibilities for using AI in the medical field is FreeStyle Libre® (FSL), which uses a disposable sensor inserted into the user's arm, and a touchscreen device/reader is used to scan and retrieve other continuous monitoring of glucose (CMG) readings. The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the effectiveness of FSL blood glucose monitoring during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: This systematic review was carried out in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and was registered in the international prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO: CRD42022340562). The inclusion criteria considered studies involving the use of the FSL device during the COVID-19 pandemic and published in English. No publication date restrictions were set. The exclusion criteria were abstracts, systematic reviews, studies with patients with other diseases, monitoring with other equipment, patients with COVID-19, and bariatrics patients. Seven databases were searched (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Scielo, PEDro and Cochrane Library). The ACROBAT-NRSI tool (A Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Non-Randomized Studies) was used to evaluate the risk of bias in the selected articles. RESULTS: A total of 113 articles were found. Sixty-four were excluded because they were duplicates, 39 were excluded after reading the titles and abstracts, and twenty articles were considered for full reading. Of the 10 articles analyzed, four articles were excluded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. Thus, six articles were included in the current systematic review. It was observed that among the selected articles, only two were classified as having serious risk of bias. It was shown that FSL had a positive impact on glycemic control and on reducing the number of individuals with hypoglycemia. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that the implementation of FSL during COVID-19 confinement in this population can be confidently stated to have been effective in diabetes mellitus patients.

Effects of whole-body vibration exercise on sleep disorders, body composition and clinical parameters in down syndrome children: A study protocol for a randomized cross-over trial.

Down-syndrome (DS) the most common genetic disorder worldwide. Whole-body-vibration-exercise (WBVE) has been recommended for individuals with DS. To verify the efficacy of WBVE on sleep disorders, body-composition (BC) and clinical parameters of children with DS. It is a randomized cross-over-trial. Children with DS, 5-12 years, both-genders will be selected. The sleep disorders will be evaluated by the "Infant sleep questionnaire Reimão and Lefevre" and by the "Sleep disturbance scale in children". The BC will be measure by bioimpedance and the skin temperature using infrared-thermography. WBVE will be performed seating in an ancillary-chair or sitting on the base of the vibrating platform, with 2.5 mm, 5Hz. Each session (5 series, 30-seconds on vibration, 1-minute of rest). It is expected improvement responses on sleep, BC and some clinical parameters. It is expected that this WBVE protocol will bring important clinical contributions for children with DS.

Effects of Whole-Body Vibration Exercise on Athletes with Ankle Instability: A Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE: Chronic Ankle Instability (CAI) or Functional Ankle Instability (FAI) is a condition characterized by laxity and mechanical instability in the ankle joint. This instability interferes with the activities and physical-functional parameters of athletes, which leads to repetitive ankle sprains. The current systematic review was carried out to identify the effects of whole-body vibration exercise (WBVE) in athletes with CAI. METHODS: We conducted electronic searches in Pubmed, the Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and Academic Search Premier (ASP) (EBSCO) databases on 26 February 2022. Registers were identified, and studies were selected for inclusion according to the eligibility criteria. The methodological quality was assessed by the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. RESULTS: Seven studies were included with a mean methodological quality score of 5.85, considered 'regular' quality on the PEDro scale. WBVE interventions in athletes with CAI showed that this exercise contributes to a better response on parameters of neuromuscular performance, muscle strength and consequently in balance and postural control, variables that are for the management of CAI. CONCLUSION: WBVE interventions in sports modalities promote physiological responses that may lead to positive effects in several parameters. The protocols proposed in each modality can be carried out in practice and are considered effective additional exercise and training methods beyond traditional types of training for athletes. However, more studies are needed on athletes with this condition, with specific protocols, to highlight the possible physiological and physical-functional responses. Protocol study registration: PROSPERO (CRD42020204434).

Inflammatory Biomarker Responses to Whole-Body Vibration in Subjects with Different Clinical Status: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Inflammation is considered to be a vital defense mechanism for health, acting as a protective response of the immune system through a satisfactory inflammatory biomarker response (IBR). IBR, as well as being beneficial to the organism, can be also responsible for a variety of chronic inflammatory diseases. Whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise is a type of physical exercise that can act on inflammation responses due its capacity for stimulating the sensory components that promote systemic responses. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of WBV on IBR in different clinical status. METHODS: This is a systematic review that includes randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effects of WBV exercise on IBR. The methodological quality, risk of bias, and level of evidence were rated. RESULTS: Four RCTs met the selection criteria. The studies showed benefits associated with IBR (e.g., cytokines, adipokines, and C-reactive protein) in various clinical conditions, including healthy populations and some chronic diseases (such as obesity, aging disorders, and knee osteoarthritis), using several WBV protocols. CONCLUSIONS: WBV might be useful in the management of inflammatory conditions.

Effects of Physical Exercises Alone on the Functional Capacity of Individuals with Obesity and Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review.

The association between obesity and knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is reported in the literature. The inflammatory factors described in obesity associated with mechanical overload on the knee joint lead to KOA development and reduced functional capacity in these individuals. Most physical exercise (PE) protocols associate a diet program to improve the functional capacity of individuals with concomitant KOA and obesity. There is a lack of published protocols performing PE alone, which would be without an associated diet program in individuals with both clinical conditions. In this systematic review, the authors summarize the effects of the application of PE alone, describing each protocol and reporting the improvement in the function of people with these clinical conditions. This investigation was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO. Five databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, PEDro, Scopus, CINAHL and Web of Science) were used up to July 2022 and ten studies, including 534 participants, met the inclusion criteria. The PEDro scale, Cochrane collaborations and ROBINS-I tools were used to evaluate the methodological quality and risk of bias. It was concluded that PE performed alone seems to provide an improvement in the functional capacity of these individuals even without an associated diet plan in the condition of obesity.

The effectiveness of Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glide on Flexion Rotation Test, pain intensity, and functionality in subjects with Cervicogenic Headache: A Systematic Review of Randomized Trials.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of sustained natural apophyseal glide (SNAG) on Flexion Rotation Test, pain intensity, and functionality in subjects with Cervicogenic Headache (CH). METHODS: The research was conducted on five computerized databases PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, PEDro, Lilacs, and Cochrane Library (CENTRAL), using the keywords combination: (sustained natural apophyseal glide OR SNAG OR joint mobilization OR Mulligan) AND (cervicogenic headache) according to PRISMA guidelines. The methodological quality of the included studies was analyzed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. RESULTS: Eight articles fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. The selected studies had a methodological quality of 6.6/10 on the PEDro scale and included a total of 357 participants. The SNAG significantly improved pain, Flexion Rotation Test and reduced functional symptoms. CONCLUSION: The available evidence suggests that SNAG may be a relevant intervention for CH.

Effects of Resistance Training on Skin Temperature and Its Relationship with Central Nervous System (CNS) Activation.

The aim of this work was to relate the activation of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems with the skin temperature (Tsk) of the lower limbs after a resistance training exercise. Under controlled conditions, the average Tsk in the areas of the anterior and posterior thighs, knees and legs was obtained with a thermal imager and the parasympathetic and sympathetic activation was registered with an Omegawave® device on 20 healthy and trained male volunteers (25.39 ± 8.21 years) before exercise, immediately after standard resistance training (3 exercises (2 quadriceps + 1 hamstrings) × 4 sets × 10 repetitions (70% 1RM), 90-sec recovery) and after 20 min of recovery. The results showed a significant effect of exercise and recovery on Tsk in all regions of interest (ROIs) considered (p < 0.05) and strong inverse relationships between sympathetic and parasympathetic activation values. Significant results were found for the total variation of Tsk (p < 0.05) with highly positive values for subjects with lower sympathetic activation and almost null or even negative values for those with higher sympathetic activation. Sympathetic activity was a significant predictor of total Tsk variation in the anterior thigh, posterior thigh and anterior knee but not in the posterior knee, anterior leg, and posterior leg. Baseline Tsk was a significant predictor of total Tsk variation the all ROIs except in the posterior knee. Tsk measured by thermography could be used to estimate the level of participation of muscle areas in exercise and registering the level of sympathetic activation before exercise could be interesting in predicting the athlete's physiological response to strength training.

Intermittent versus Continuous Catheterization and Differences in the Evolution of Labor: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the differences between bladder emptying options (permanent catheterization and intermittent bladder emptying/spontaneous urination) regarding the effects on labor length, need of operative vaginal deliveries, and cesarean section rate. DATA SOURCES: The search was conducted in MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. SELECTION OF STUDIES: The survey returned 964 studies. A total of 719 studies were evaluated by title and abstract, of which 4 were selected for inclusion. DATA COLLECTION: All references were inserted in the Rayyan QCRI tool (Rayyan Systems Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA). The full text of the selected articles was obtained so we could later decide whether or not to include them in this systematic review. DATA SYNTHESIS: No differences were found in the number of instrumented deliveries or in cesarean section rate between groups. CONCLUSIONS: After evaluating the studies performed on the topic, we concluded that there is no clear advantage to either method, although continuous catheterization was associated with a greater occurrence of eutocic births. In the remaining outcomes, there were no differences between catheterization types.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar as diferenças entre as opções de esvaziamento vesical (cateterismo permanente e esvaziamento vesical intermitente/micção espontânea) em relação aos efeitos na duração do trabalho de parto, necessidade de partos vaginais operatórios e taxa de cesárea. FONTES DE DADOS: A pesquisa foi realizada nas bases de dados MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, e The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. SELEçãO DE ESTUDOS: A pesquisa retornou 964 estudos. Um total de 719 estudos foram avaliados por título e resumo, dos quais 4 foram selecionados para inclusão. COLETA DE DADOS: Todas as referências foram inseridas na ferramenta Rayyan QCRI (Rayyan Systems Inc., Cambridge, MA, EUA). O texto completo dos artigos selecionados foi obtido para posterior decisão de incluí-los nesta revisão sistemática. SíNTESE DOS DADOS: Não foram encontradas diferenças no número de partos instrumentados ou na taxa de cesariana entre os grupos. CONCLUSõES: Após avaliação dos estudos realizados sobre o tema, concluímos que não há vantagem clara de qualquer um dos métodos, embora o cateterismo contínuo tenha sido associado à maior ocorrência de partos eutócicos. Nos demais desfechos, não houve diferenças entre os tipos de cateterismo.

Intermittent versus Continuous Catheterization and Differences in the Evolution of Labor: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis / Cateterismo intermitente versus contínuo e diferenças na evolução do trabalho de parto: Revisão sistemática e meta-análise

Abstract Objective To evaluate the differences between bladder emptying options (permanent catheterization and intermittent bladder emptying/spontaneous urination) regarding the effects on labor length, need of operative vaginal deliveries, and cesarean section rate. Data Sources The search was conducted in MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. Selection of Studies The survey returned 964 studies. A total of 719 studies were evaluated by title and abstract, of which 4 were selected for inclusion. Data Collection All references were inserted in the Rayyan QCRI tool (Rayyan Systems Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA). The full text of the selected articles was obtained so we could later decide whether or not to include them in this systematic review. Data Synthesis No differences were found in the number of instrumented deliveries or in cesarean section rate between groups. Conclusions After evaluating the studies performed on the topic, we concluded that there is no clear advantage to either method, although continuous catheterization was associated with a greater occurrence of eutocic births. In the remaining outcomes, there were no differences between catheterization types.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar as diferenças entre as opções de esvaziamento vesical (cateterismo permanente e esvaziamento vesical intermitente/micção espontânea) em relação aos efeitos na duração do trabalho de parto, necessidade de partos vaginais operatórios e taxa de cesárea. Fontes de Dados A pesquisa foi realizada nas bases de dados MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, e The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Seleção de Estudos A pesquisa retornou 964 estudos. Um total de 719 estudos foram avaliados por título e resumo, dos quais 4 foram selecionados para inclusão. Coleta de Dados Todas as referências foram inseridas na ferramenta Rayyan QCRI (Rayyan Systems Inc., Cambridge, MA, EUA). O texto completo dos artigos selecionados foi obtido para posterior decisão de incluí-los nesta revisão sistemática. Síntese dos Dados Não foram encontradas diferenças no número de partos instrumentados ou na taxa de cesariana entre os grupos. Conclusões Após avaliação dos estudos realizados sobre o tema, concluímos que não hávantagem clara de qualquer um dos métodos, embora o cateterismo contínuo tenha sido associado à maior ocorrência de partos eutócicos. Nos demais desfechos, não houve diferenças entre os tipos de cateterismo.

Evaluation of the Relationships between Simple Anthropometric Measures and Bioelectrical Impedance Assessment Variables with Multivariate Linear Regression Models to Estimate Body Composition and Fat Distribution in Adults: Preliminary Results.

BACKGROUND: Overweight and obesity are conditions associated with sedentary lifestyle and accumulation of abdominal fat, determining increased mortality, favoring chronic diseases, and increasing cardiovascular risk. Although the evaluation of body composition and fat distribution are highly relevant, the high cost of the gold standard techniques limits their wide utilization. Therefore, the aim of this work was to explore the relationships between simple anthropometric measures and BIA variables using multivariate linear regression models to estimate body composition and fat distribution in adults. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, sixty-eight adult individuals (20 males and 48 females) were subjected to bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), anthropometric measurements (waist circumference (WC), neck circumference (NC), mid-arm circumference (MAC)), allowing the calculation of conicity index (C-index), fat mass/fat-free mass (FM/FFM) ratios, body mass index (BMI) and body shape index (ABSI). Statistical analyzes were performed with the R program. Nonparametric Statistical tests were applied to compare the characteristics of participants of the groups (normal weight, overweight and obese). For qualitative variables, the Fisher's exact test was applied, and for quantitative variables, the paired Wilcoxon signed-rank test. To evaluate the linear association between each pair of variables, the Pearson correlation coefficient was calculated, and Multivariate linear regression models were adjusted using the stepwise variable selection method, with Akaike Information Criterion (p ≤ 0.05). RESULTS: BIA variables with the highest correlations with anthropometric measures were total body water (TBW), body fat percentage (BFP), FM, FFM and FM/FFM. The multiple linear regression analysis showed, in general, that the same variables can be estimated through simple anthropometric measures. CONCLUSIONS: The assessment of fat distribution in the body is desirable for the diagnosis and definition of obesity severity. However, the high cost of the instruments (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, hydrostatic weighing, air displacement plethysmography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance) to assess it, favors the use of BMI in the clinical practice. Nevertheless, BMI does not represent a real fat distribution and body fat percentage. This highlights the relevance of the findings of the current study, since simple anthropometric variables can be used to estimate important BIA variables that are related to fat distribution and body composition.

Reporting Guidelines for Whole-Body Vibration Studies in Humans, Animals and Cell Cultures: A Consensus Statement from an International Group of Experts.

Whole-body vibration (WBV) is an exercise modality or treatment/prophylaxis method in which subjects (humans, animals, or cells) are exposed to mechanical vibrations through a vibrating platform or device. The vibrations are defined by their direction, frequency, magnitude, duration, and the number of daily bouts. Subjects can be exposed while performing exercises, hold postures, sitting, or lying down. Worldwide, WBV has attracted significant attention, and the number of studies is rising. To interpret, compare, and aggregate studies, the correct, complete, and consistent reporting of WBV-specific data (WBV parameters) is critical. Specific reporting guidelines aid in accomplishing this goal. There was a need to expand existing guidelines because of continuous developments in the field of WBV research, including but not limited to new outcome measures regarding brain function and cognition, modified designs of WBV platforms and attachments (e.g., mounting a chair on a platform), and comparisons of animal and cell culture studies with human studies. Based on Delphi studies among experts and using EQUATOR recommendations, we have developed extended reporting guidelines with checklists for human and animal/cell culture research, including information on devices, vibrations, administration, general protocol, and subjects. In addition, we provide explanations and examples of how to report. These new reporting guidelines are specific to WBV variables and do not target research designs in general. Researchers are encouraged to use the new WBV guidelines in addition to general design-specific guidelines.

Burnout in Portuguese physiotherapists during COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: This study described the burnout experienced by physiotherapists during the COVID-19 pandemic and analysed the role of possible factors of this occupational phenomenon. METHODS: Cross-sectional study based on a web-based survey applied to physiotherapists living in Portugal. The survey included sociodemographic, health status and clinical practice questions. The Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (personal, work- and patient-related burnout), the Resilience Scale, the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scales and the Satisfaction with Life Scale were used. RESULTS: A total of 511 physiotherapists (median 33 years old, 82% females) completed the survey. The participants worked mainly in private practice (50%) and wards (35%). During COVID-19, 52% were working directly with patients, but only 18% were working with COVID-19 patients. Personal (42%), work- (42%) and patient-related burnout (25%) was observed. Three significant models explained personal- (R2  = 51%), work- (R2  = 31%) and patient-related burnout (R2  = 16%). Lower levels of resilience and higher levels of depression and stress were significantly associated with personal, work- and patient-related burnout. Being female and working directly with patients were additionally associated with both personal and work-related burnout. Having health problems and working with COVID-19 patients were only associated with personal burnout. CONCLUSIONS: More than 40% of physiotherapists experienced personal and work-related burnout and 25% patient-related burnout, with resilience, depression and stress having a relevant role in the three burnout dimensions. Early detection and management strategies need to be implemented to address physiotherapists' physical and psychological fatigue and exhaustion.

COVID-19 Lockdown and the Behavior Change on Physical Exercise, Pain and Psychological Well-Being: An International Multicentric Study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the following lockdown on physical exercise (PEx) practice, pain, and psychological well-being. METHODS: A cross-sectional multicentric study was performed using a nonrandom convenience sampling from the general population (≥18 years-old) of 6 countries (Brazil, Italy, France, Portugal, Germany, and Spain) adopting social isolation (SI). The validated self-administered online survey (PEF-COVID19) was used. The tests T-test and Chi-square with Bonferroni correction were used for statistical analysis and a multivariate logistic regression model (p ˂ 0.05). RESULTS: We included 3194 replies and ~80% of the respondents were in SI. Brazilian sample was highly influenced by the pandemic considering PEx practice and habits, pain, anxiety, and stress (p ˂ 0.05). Among the European countries, Italy presented the major changes. The model to predict the non-practice of PEx during SI showed that the variables countries, smoking, SI, and PEx level were significant predictors (p ˂ 0.001). CONCLUSION: The pandemic changed the PEx practice and habits, and the psychological well-being of populations in different manners. Countries, smoking, SI, and PEx level were predictors for the non-practice of PEx. Public health strategies are suggested to avoid sedentary lifestyles and quality of life decrease.

Predicting musculoskeletal symptoms in workers of a manufacturing company.

Background. Musculoskeletal symptoms are the leading factor responsible for sickness absence. Factors associated with the development of musculoskeletal symptoms must be identified and addressed. Objective. To investigate the 7-day prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms by body regions, and assess the contribution of individual, lifestyle and occupational risk factors to the development of musculoskeletal disorders. Methods. The sample comprised 202 white-collar and blue-collar workers. Musculoskeletal symptoms were assessed with the Nordic questionnaire, and physical activity level and sitting time with the international physical activity questionnaire. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess the associations between individual, lifestyle and occupational category factors and musculoskeletal symptoms. Results. The 7-day prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms was 41.6% (n = 84). The highest prevalence of symptoms was reported in the lower back (18.8%), followed by the wrists/hands (17.3%), neck (15.8%), shoulder (15.3%) and ankles/feet (11.4%). A significant association was found between reporting musculoskeletal symptoms and work category. In addition, musculoskeletal symptoms were reported more often by older workers. Work category was a significant predictor of pain in the lower back and shoulder regions, and gender was a significant predictor for neck pain. Conclusions. Our results emphasize the need for worksite interventions to prevent musculoskeletal symptoms in this population.

Reported quality of life in countries with cases of COVID19: a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Considering the relevance of the quality of life (QoL) and the consequences of the 2019 new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) due to the social distancing, this systematic review aimed to summarize effects of the COVID-19 in the QoL of the studied populations. AREAS COVERED: Four databases, the methodological quality and the risk of bias in selected publications were investigated. Seven thousand and fifty-one individuals from Italy, Saudi Arabia, China, and Vietnam. Online system and printed questionnaires were used to assess the QoL, as patients affected by primary antibody deficiencies, residents, people from endemic and no endemic regions, and individuals with COVID-19. Different types of questionnaires are utilized to evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The methodological quality of three papers was good with low risk of bias and a decrease in the QoL. EXPERT OPINION: The QoL of studies populations where COVID-19 was reported, worsened. Nevertheless, considering some indicators (infant mortality, average income, life expectancy, health coverage, and average schooling years), the standard of life and subsequently the quality of life among the presented countries (China, Vietnam, Italy, and Saudi Arabia) are different. Therefore, the simple comparison of these populations and the conclusions from this comparison must be done carefully.

The influence of sports practice, dominance and gender on the knee joint position sense.

BACKGROUND: Physical activity, muscle fatigue or age have been suggested as factors that positively or negatively influence the knee joint position sense (KJPS). However, conflicting results about the influence of sports practice, limb dominance and gender are found in the literature. This study aimed to assess the influence of sports practice, limb dominance and gender on the KJPS of soccer players and untrained individuals. METHODOLOGY: Sixty subjects participated in this study: 29 soccer players (SPs) and 31 untrained participants (UPs). KJPS was tested in a seated position, for the target angles of 20° and 45° of knee flexion, through an open kinetic chain technique and active repositioning method. Intergroup analysis was performed to compare KJPS between SPs and UPs and between gender, and intragroup analysis was performed to compare proprioceptive acuity between dominant and non-dominant limbs. RESULTS: Knee repositioning errors were lower in SPs than in the UPs. Repositioning errors of the dominant and non-dominant limb were not significantly different in SPs (P > 0.05), but in UPs the dominant limb showed significantly lower repositioning errors, both for 20° (P = 0.046) and 45° target (P = 0.036). There were no gender differences in the KJPS in both groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Proprioceptive acuity is higher in trained than in untrained participants. Dominance seems not to influence KJPS of SPs, but in UPs the dominant limb showed a higher accuracy. There were no differences in KJPS related to gender. These results suggest that sports practice, but neither gender nor limb dominance, may positively influence proprioceptive acuity.

Towards reporting guidelines of research using whole-body vibration as training or treatment regimen in human subjects-A Delphi consensus study.

BACKGROUND: Whole-body vibration (WBV) is a method utilizing vibrating platforms to expose individuals to mechanical vibration. In its various applications, it has been linked to improved muscular, skeletal, metabolic, or cognitive functioning, quality of life, and physiological parameters such as blood pressure. Most evidence concerning WBV is inconclusive and meta-analytical reviews may not readily produce insights since the research has a risk of misunderstandings of vibration parameters and incomplete reporting occurs. This study aims at laying an empirical foundation for reporting guidelines for human WBV studies to improve the quality of reporting and the currently limited comparability between studies. METHOD: The Delphi methodology is employed to exploit the integrated knowledge of WBV experts to distil the specific aspects of WBV methodology that should be included in such guidelines. Over three rounds of completing online questionnaires, the expert panel (round 1/2/3: 51/40/37 experts respectively from 17 countries with an average of 19.4 years of WBV research experience) rated candidate items. RESULTS: A 40-item list was established based on the ratings of the individual items from the expert panel with a large final consensus (94.6%). CONCLUSION: The final consensus indicates comprehensiveness and valuableness of the list. The results are in line with previous guidelines but expand these extensively. The present results may therefore serve as a foundation for updated guidelines for reporting human WBV studies in order to improve the quality of reporting of WBV studies, improve comparability of studies and facilitate the development of WBV study designs.