Sarcopenia: European consensus on definition and diagnosis: Report of the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People

Current status and development trends in CKD with frailty research from 2000 to 2021: a bibliometric analysis

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is gradually increasing in the elderly population. At the same time, frailty has become one of the research hotspots in the field of geriatrics. Bibliometric analyses help to understand the direction of a field. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the status and emerging trends of frailty in CKD patients.

DATA AND METHODS

The Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database was screened for relevant literature published between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2021. Next, publications were analyzed for information including authors, journals, cited references, citing journals, institutions, countries and regions, high-frequency keywords and co-citations using VOSviewer, Microsoft Excel, and R software.

RESULTS

A total of 2223 articles were obtained, from which 613 relevant articles were selected based on title and abstract screening. There was an upward trend in the number of annual publications and Johansen KL was considered the most contributing author in the field. The Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology was the most productive research journal. Johns Hopkins University is the most published organization. The United States is the global leader in the field and contributes the most to research. Research hotspots focus on epidemiological studies of frailty and frailty intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of CKD and frailty research. Key findings highlight the current focus on early screening and assessment of frailty in CKD patients, as well as physical function interventions in frail patients.

Proposal and validation of an equation to identify sarcopenia using bioelectrical impedance analysis-derived parameters

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to develop a simpler approach for diagnosing sarcopenia by using only bioelectrical impedance vector analysis parameters.

METHODS

The study design was a cross-sectional study. The research was conducted based on the Itabashi Longitudinal Study on Aging, a community-based cohort study, with data collected from the 2022 and 2023 surveys in Itabashi Ward, Tokyo, Japan. The development cohort consisted of 1146 participants from the 2022 survey, and the validation cohort included 656 participants from the 2023 survey. Both cohorts were comprised of community-dwelling older adults with similar inclusion criteria. Sarcopenia was defined according to the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 criteria. The logistic model utilized height divided by impedance at 50 kHz and phase angle to establish a new regression equation to identify sarcopenia. Regression equations were generated for the development cohort and validated for the validation cohort. Discriminatory ability was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for men and women.

RESULTS

The prevalence of sarcopenia was 20.7% and 14.8% in the development and validation cohort, respectively. The AUC (95% confidence interval) of the logistic model in discriminating sarcopenia was 0.92 (0.88, 0.95) for men and 0.82 (0.78, 0.86) for women in the development cohort and 0.85 (0.78, 0.91) for men and 0.90 (0.86, 0.95) for women in the validation cohort.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrated that a simple formula using bioelectrical parameters at 50 kHz proved useful in identifying sarcopenia in the older adult population.

Prevalence of Frailty and Its Impact on Mortality and Hospitalization in Patients With Cirrhosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background & aims

Frailty in patients with cirrhosis is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of frailty and its impact on mortality and hospitalization in patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

An elaborate search was undertaken in the databases "PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane, and preprint servers", and an assessment of all published articles till 17 February 2023 was done. Studies that provided data on prevalence, mortality and hospitalization among frail patients with cirrhosis were included. The study characteristics and data on the prevalence, mortality, and hospitalization were extracted from included studies. The primary outcome was to estimate the pooled prevalence of frailty and determine its impact on mortality and hospitalization in patients with cirrhosis.

Results

Overall, 12 studies were included. Data on prevalence of frailty and mortality were available in 11 studies, while seven studies reported data on hospitalization. The analysis conducted among 6126 patients with cirrhosis revealed pooled prevalence of frailty to be 32% (95% confidence interval [CI], 24-41). A total of 540 events of death revealed a pooled mortality rate of 29% (95% CI, 19-41). Six-month and twelve-month pooled estimates of mortality were found to be 24% (95% CI, 17-33) and 33% (95% CI, 23-45), respectively. The pooled hospitalization rate among the seven studies was 43% (95% CI, 21-68).

Conclusion

The prevalence of frailty in patients with cirrhosis is high, leading to poor outcomes. Frailty assessment should become an integral part of cirrhosis evaluation.

Registry and registration number of study

PROSPERO 2022 CRD42022377507.

Shining a spotlight on sarcopenia and myosteatosis in liver disease and liver transplantation: Potentially modifiable risk factors with major clinical impact

Muscle-wasting and disease-related malnutrition are highly prevalent in patients with chronic liver diseases (CLD) as well as in liver transplant (LT) candidates. Alterations of body composition (BC) such as sarcopenia, myosteatosis and sarcopenic obesity and associated clinical frailty were tied to inferior clinical outcomes including hospital admissions, length of stay, complications, mortality and healthcare costs in various patient cohorts and clinical scenarios. In contrast to other inherent detrimental individual characteristics often observed in these complex patients, such as comorbidities or genetic risk, alterations of the skeletal muscle and malnutrition are considered as potentially modifiable risk factors with a major clinical impact. Even so, there is only limited high-level evidence to show how these pathologies should be addressed in the clinical setting. This review discusses the current state-of-the-art on the role of BC assessment in clinical outcomes in the setting of CLD and LT focusing mainly on sarcopenia and myosteatosis. We focus on the disease-related pathophysiology of BC alterations. Based on these, we address potential therapeutic interventions including nutritional regimens, physical activity, hormone and targeted therapies. In addition to summarizing existing knowledge, this review highlights novel trends, and future perspectives and identifies persisting challenges in addressing BC pathologies in a holistic way, aiming to improve outcomes and quality of life of patients with CLD awaiting or undergoing LT.

Urban-rural differences in the prevalence and associated factors of sarcopenia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Loss of muscle mass, muscle strength, and/or physical performance due to aging is known as sarcopenia. Regardless of how serious this illness is, no single diagnostic criteria have been established. Much research conducted recently has demonstrated differences between built environment characteristics (i.e., urban and rural) and the occurrence of sarcopenia; however, variations in sarcopenia prevalence in urban-rural areas around the world have been reported by fewer studies. This work sought to determine how sarcopenia prevalence varied between urban and rural areas and to explore the associated influencing factors.

METHODS

Using the pertinent MESH phrases and free words, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and China national knowledge infrastructure databases were scanned for core sarcopenia literature up to February 26, 2023. Observational studies involving urban-rural patients with sarcopenia published in Chinese and English, and assessing muscle mass via computed tomography, bioelectrical impedance, or dual-energy X-ray absorption techniques were considered as inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis involved analysis of the urban-rural prevalence in subgroups by diagnostic criteria, tools for assessing muscle mass and study type, as well as the factors related to urban-rural differences in the occurrence of sarcopenia. STATA version 11.0 was used to perform the statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Sixty-six articles involving 433,091 participants were included for analysis: of which 27 were analyzed for both prevalence and related factors whereas 39 were for only prevalence. The meta-analysis revealed the prevalence of sarcopenia to be 0.18 (95 % CI 0.14-0.22), with significant heterogeneity (P < 0.001; I2 = 99.9 %). Moreover, the prevalence of sarcopenia in urban group [0.16 (I2 = 99.9 %, 95 % CI 0.1-0.22)] was lower than in rural group [0.2 (I2 = 99.6 %, 95 % CI 0.16-0.25)] and urban-rural group [0.21 (I2 = 97.5 %, 95 % CI 0.16-0.25)]. Besides, the factors significantly associated with sarcopenia in urban-rural areas were age, gender, BMI, malnutrition, physical activity, and polypharmacy. There was significant heterogeneity between these factors and the association of sarcopenia.

CONCLUSIONS

Sarcopenia is associated with aspects of the built environment, and studies have revealed that sarcopenia is more common in rural than in urban populations with influencing factors including age, gender, BMI, poor nutrition, insufficient physical activity, and polypharmacy. The lack of uniform diagnostic criteria makes a robust and comprehensive assessment difficult. Therefore, the formation of certain universal and standardized diagnostic criteria will help future research on sarcopenia.

Association between the sarcopenia-related traits and Parkinson's disease: A bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study

OBJECTIVE

To explore the causal association between sarcopenia-related traits and Parkinson's disease by Mendelian randomization (MR) approach.

METHODS

A genome-wide association study (GWAS) of sarcopenia-related traits was done at the UK Biobank (UKB). The traits were appendicular lean mass, low hand grip strength (including the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) and the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) criteria and usual walking pace. The International Parkinson's Disease Genomics Consortium (IPDGC) gave us GWAS data for Parkinson's disease (PD). We used three different types of MR analyses: including Inverse-variance weighted (IVW), Mendelian randomized Egger regression (MR-Egger), and weighted median methods (both weighted and simple modes).

RESULTS

The MR analysis showed that low hand grip strength was negatively associated with the risk of developing Parkinson's disease, including EWGSOP criterion (odds ratio (OR) = 0.734; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.575-0.937, P = 0.013) and FNIH criterion (OR = 0.619; 95% CI = 0.419-0.914, P = 0.016), and usual walking pace was also a risk factor for Parkinson's disease (OR = 3.307, 95% CI = 1.277-8.565, P = 0.014).

CONCLUSIONS

In European population, low hand grip strength is negatively associated with the risk of developing Parkinson's disease, and usual walking pace is also a risk factor for Parkinson's disease. Further exploration of the potential genetic mechanisms underlying hand grip strength and Parkinson's disease and the potential relationship between walking pace, balance, and falls in Parkinson's patients may help to reduce the burden of sarcopenia and Parkinson's disease.

Sarcopenia and metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease: Time to address both

Sarcopenia and metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) are closely intertwined. Sarcopenia, traditionally a disease of the older adult and chronic disease population, has been closely studied as one of the pathophysiologic conditions at play in the development of MASLD. They share similar risk factors of insulin resistance and physical inactivity. Given similar pathophysiology along the liver-muscle axis, sarcopenia has been studied as a risk factor for MASLD, and vice versa. Current research suggests a bidirectional relationship. Given the chronicity of MASLD as a chronic inflammatory liver disease, it can break down muscle mass and lead to sarcopenia, while sarcopenia promotes intramuscular lipid accumulation that releases cytokines that can aggravate inflammation in the liver. However, for the longest time, a lack of consensus definition for MASLD and sarcopenia made it difficult to study their relationship and outcomes. A recent nomenclature update to diagnosing MASLD has made it easier for researchers to identify cohorts for study. However, no gold standard technique to measure muscle mass or consensus sarcopenia definition has been identified yet. Future studies are needed to reach a consensus and reduce diagnostic variation. With similar pathophysiology and shared risk factors between the two diseases, future research may also identify potential therapeutic targets along the liver-muscle axis that would benefit both sarcopenia and MASLD in order to maximize their outcomes.

Association of magnetic resonance imaging-derived sarcopenia with outcomes of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after hepatectomy

PURPOSE

To evaluate whether sarcopenia, diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol, constitutes a prognosis-associated risk factor in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after hepatectomy.

METHODS

One hundred and ninety-three patients who underwent hepatectomy for HCC were retrospectively enrolled. The areas of the total skeletal muscle (SM) and psoas muscle (PM) were evaluated at the third lumbar vertebra in the preoperative MR images, and divided by the square of height in order to obtain the skeletal muscle index (SMI) and psoas muscle mass index (PMI). Sarcopenia was diagnosed respectively on the definitions based on the SMI or PMI. The potential of muscle-defined sarcopenia as a prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) was investigated in these patients.

RESULTS

The areas of SM and PM, and SMI and PMI were significantly higher in the men than in the women (all p < 0.05). Notably, SMI-defined sarcopenia displayed a significant sex difference (p = 0.003), while PMI-defined sarcopenia did not (p = 0.370). Through univariate and multivariate analyses, PMI-defined sarcopenia remained an independent predictor for OS and RFS (HR = 3.486, 95% CI: 1.700-7.145, p = 0.001 and HR = 1.993, 95% CI: 1.246-3.186, p = 0.004), even after adjusting for other clinical variables. Moreover, Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated significantly poorer OS and RFS for patients with sarcopenia defined by using PMI, but not SMI, compared to those without sarcopenia (p < 0.001 and p = 0.006, respectively).

CONCLUSION

MRI-derived, sarcopenia defined by using PMI, not SMI, may serve as a significant risk factor for RFS and OS in patients with HCC after hepatectomy.

Remotely monitored physical activity from older people with cardiac devices associates with physical functioning

INTRODUCTION

Accelerometer-derived physical activity (PA) from cardiac devices are available via remote monitoring platforms yet rarely reviewed in clinical practice. We aimed to investigate the association between PA and clinical measures of frailty and physical functioning.

METHODS

The PATTErn study (A study of Physical Activity paTTerns and major health Events in older people with implantable cardiac devices) enrolled participants aged 60 + undergoing remote cardiac monitoring. Frailty was measured using the Fried criteria and gait speed (m/s), and physical functioning by NYHA class and SF-36 physical functioning score. Activity was reported as mean time active/day across 30-days prior to enrolment (30-day PA). Multivariable regression methods were utilised to estimate associations between PA and frailty/functioning (OR = odds ratio, β = beta coefficient, CI = confidence intervals).

RESULTS

Data were available for 140 participants (median age 73, 70.7% male). Median 30-day PA across the analysis cohort was 134.9 min/day (IQR 60.8-195.9). PA was not significantly associated with Fried frailty status on multivariate analysis, however was associated with gait speed (β = 0.04, 95% CI 0.01-0.07, p = 0.01) and measures of physical functioning (NYHA class: OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.57-0.92, p = 0.01, SF-36 physical functioning: β = 4.60, 95% CI 1.38-7.83, p = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

PA from cardiac devices was associated with physical functioning and gait speed. This highlights the importance of reviewing remote monitoring PA data to identify patients who could benefit from existing interventions. Further research should investigate how to embed this into clinical pathways.

Effects of cigarette smoking associated with sarcopenia in persons 60 years and older: a cross-sectional study in Zhejiang province

PURPOSE

Smoking is a risk factor for sarcopenia. Nevertheless, few studies analyzed the independent effects of various smoking dimensions (duration, intensity, cumulative dose) on sarcopenia risk. This is a cross-sectional study based on an older population in Zhejiang Province to determine which smoking dimensions are mainly important for sarcopenia risk and to explore the dose-response relationship between them.

METHODS

Our study included 783 patients with sarcopenia and 4918 non-sarcopenic individuals. Logistic regression and restricted cubic with logistic regression (for nonlinear dose effects) were used to obtain odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals as well as restricted cubic splines (RCS) curves.

RESULTS

Compared with never-smokers, current smokers had an increased risk of sarcopenia (OR = 1.786; 95% CI 1.387-2.301) after adjusting for confounders such as age, sex, education, alcohol consumption, disease history, etc. There was no significant association between smoking intensity and sarcopenia after more than 20 cigarettes per day (OR = 1.484; 95% CI 0.886-2.487), whereas the risk of sarcopenia increased significantly with increasing duration of smoking after more than 40 years (OR = 1.733; 95% CI 1.214-2.473). Meanwhile, there was a significant non-linear dose-response relationship between smoking duration or intensity and the risk of sarcopenia. However, the risk of sarcopenia increased linearly with the number of pack-years of smoking, which is not a significant nonlinear dose-response relationship.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated the association between smoking and sarcopenia. Both smoking duration and cumulative dose were significantly and positively associated with sarcopenia. These findings reflect the important role of the number of years of smoking in increasing the risk of sarcopenia and provide scientific evidence that different smoking dimensions may influence the risk of the sarcopenia.

Lower psoas mass indicates worse prognosis in percutaneous vertebroplasty-treated osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture

The correlation between lower psoas mass and the prognosis of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF) is still unclear. This study aims to investigate the impact of lower psoas mass on the prognosis of patients undergoing percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP). One hundred and sixty-three elderly patients who underwent single-segment PVP from January 2018 to December 2021 were included. The psoas to L4 vertebral index (PLVI) via MRI were measured to assess psoas mass. Patients were divided into high PLVI (> 0.79) and low PLVI (≤ 0.79) groups based on the median PLVI in the cohort. The basic information (age, gender, body mass index (BMI) and bone mineral density (BMD)), surgical intervention-related elements (duration of operation, latency to ambulation, period of hospital stay, and surgical site), postoperative clinical outcomes (Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores, Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores), and incidence of secondary fractures) were compared. Patients showed no statistically significant differences in terms of age, gender, surgical sute, BMI, BMD and preoperative VAS, ODI, JOA scores (P > 0.05) between the two groups. However, there were significant differences in terms of latency to ambulation, period of hospital stay (P < 0.05). VAS, ODI, and JOA scores at 1, 6, and 12 months after surgery showed that the high PLVI group had significantly better outcomes than the low PLVI group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the low PLVI group had a significantly higher incidence of recurrent fracture (P < 0.05). Lower psoas mass can reduce the clinical effect of PVP in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures, and is a risk factor for recurrent vertebral fracture.

Higher dietary methyl donor micronutrient consumption is associated with higher muscle strength in adults: a cross-sectional study

Methyl donor micronutrients might affect muscle strength via DNA methylation. We aimed to evaluate the combined relationship of dietary methyl donor micronutrients containing betaine, choline, methionine, vitamin B12, vitamin B6 and folate on muscle strength. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 267 subjects including 113 men and 154 women. Dietary intake of micronutrients was assessed utilising a validated 168-item semi-quantitative FFQ, and methyl donor micronutrient score (MDMS) was calculated. The muscle strength of the participants was measured using a digital handgrip dynamometer. The association was determined using linear regression analysis. The mean age of participants was 36·8 ± 13·2 years. After taking into account potential confounding variables, there was no significant association between dietary methyl donor micronutrient score (MDMS) and the mean left-hand muscle strength (β: 0·07, se: 0·05, P = 0·07); however, the changes were significant in the mean right-hand muscle strength (β: 0·09, se: 0·04, P = 0·03). There was also a significant positive relationship between mean muscle strength and methyl donors' intake after fully adjusting for potential confounders (β: 0·08, se: 0·04, P = 0·04). In conclusion, our findings revealed that higher dietary methyl donor micronutrient consumption is associated with enhanced muscle strength. As a result, advice on a higher intake of methyl donor-rich foods including grains, nuts, dairy products and seafood might be recommended by dietitians as a general guideline to adhere to. Additional prospective studies are needed to confirm the findings.

Association of osteoporosis with sarcopenia and its components among community-dwelling older Chinese adults with different obesity levels: A cross-sectional study

We aimed to investigate whether sarcopenia and its components are associated with osteoporosis in community-dwelling older Chinese adults with different obesity levels. This cross-sectional study included 1938 participants (42.1% male) with a mean age of 72.1 ± 5.9 years. The categorization of individuals into various weight categories was based on the Working Group on Obesity in China's criteria, utilizing the body mass index (BMI) as follows: underweight, BMI < 18.5 kg/m2; normal weight, 18.5 ≤ BMI < 24 kg/m2; overweight, 24 ≤ BMI < 28 kg/m2; and obesity, BMI ≥ 28 kg/m2. In this research, the osteoporosis definition put forth by the World Health Organization (bone mineral density T-score less than or equal to -2.5 as assessed by Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)). Sarcopenia was defined according to the diagnostic criteria of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia. The prevalence of osteoporosis was highest in the underweight group and gradually decreased with increasing BMI (Underweight: 55.81% vs Normal weight: 45.33% vs Overweight: 33.69% vs Obesity: 22.39). Sarcopenia was associated with elevated odds of osteoporosis in normal-weight subjects independent of potential covariates (OR = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.22-2.35, P = .002). In normal-weight participants, a higher appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) was associated with a reduced risk of osteoporosis (OR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.42-0.74, P < .001). In this study, we found that the prevalence of osteoporosis was highest in the underweight group and gradually decreased with increasing BMI. Sarcopenia, body fat percentage, and ASMI were associated with elevated odds of osteoporosis in normal-weight subjects independent of potential covariates, and higher percent body fat (PBF) was associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis in overweight people, and no such association was found in other weight groups. Different amounts of adipose tissue and muscle mass may alter bone biology. Further longitudinal follow-up studies are required to more accurately assess the risk of osteoporosis and sarcopenia in different weight populations. This cross-sectional study found that the prevalence of osteoporosis was highest in the underweight group and gradually decreased with increasing BMI. Sarcopenia was associated with elevated odds of osteoporosis in normal-weight subjects independent of potential covariates.

Association of myosteatosis with short-term outcomes in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure

Sarcopenia (low muscle mass, i.e., quantity) is associated with poor clinical outcomes in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). In this study, we aimed to illustrate the clinical prognostic value of myosteatosis (muscle fat infiltration) for short-term mortality in patients with ACLF. We retrospectively enrolled consecutive patients with ACLF between January 2019 and January 2022. Computed tomography-based body composition analysis was performed at the third lumbar vertebral level to determine skeletal muscle radiation attenuation. Fine and Gray's competing risk regression model, with liver transplantation as a competing risk, was used to assess the factors associated with 90-day mortality. A total of 431 patients with ACLF were included. Myosteatosis and sarcopenia were observed in 261 (60.6%) and 87 (20.2%) patients, respectively. Competitive risk regression showed that age (HR 1.021, 95% CI 1.000-1.043, P = 0.042), APASL ACLF Research Consortium (AARC) score (HR 1.498, 95% CI 1.312-1.710, P < 0.001), and sarcopenia (HR 1.802, 95% CI 1.062-3.060, P = 0.029) were independently associated with increased 90-day mortality. Subgroup analysis of male patients with HBV-ACLF revealed that myosteatosis (HR 2.119, 95% CI 1.101-4.078, P = 0.025) was promising prognostic factors for 90-day mortality after being adjusted for ascites, acute kidney injury, AARC score, and sarcopenia. Myosteatosis is predictive of short-term outcomes in male patients with HBV-ACLF. Our results emphasise the importance of focusing on muscle fat infiltration in patients with HBV-ACLF. Further studies are warranted to investigate the underlying mechanisms and potential therapies for myosteatosis.

Association between sarcopenia at discharge and functional outcomes 1 month and 6 months after discharge in patients in convalescent rehabilitation wards

AIM

This retrospective cohort study investigated the relationship between sarcopenia and Activities of Daily Living capacity after discharge from convalescent rehabilitation wards.

METHODS

We included consecutive patients discharged from three convalescent rehabilitation wards in a hospital in Japan between December 2018 and October 2020. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on the criteria of the 2019 Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia, utilizing skeletal muscle mass index and handgrip strength. Statistical analyses were carried out separately for men and women. The primary outcome was a higher motor domain (motor Functional Independence Measure [mFIM]) and a higher cognitive domain (cognitive Functional Independence Measure [cFIM]) of the FIM score 1 month after discharge. The secondary outcomes were higher mFIM and cFIM scores 6 months after discharge, analyzed using binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

Among 305 participants (mean age 70.0 years, 148 men), 93 were identified as having sarcopenia. The prevalence of sarcopenia was 16% for outpatient rehabilitation services, 59% for home-visit rehabilitation services and 50% for older adult day care. Logistic regression analyses showed that sarcopenia at discharge was not an independent variable for mFIM at 1 month (odds ratio [OR] 20, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.31-1300 for men, OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.11-2.4 for women) and cFIM (OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.10-3.8 for men, OR 5.3, 95% CI 0.81-34 for women). At 6 months, sarcopenia at discharge was not an independent variable for mFIM (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.02-3.6 for men, OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.06-2.5 for women) and cFIM (OR 0.16, 95% CI 0.01-2.4 for men, OR 0.00, 95% CI 0.00-1.1 for women).

CONCLUSIONS

Sarcopenia at the time of discharge from convalescent rehabilitation wards does not independently predict FIM 1 month or 6 months after discharge. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; ••: ••-••.

Follistatin-respiratory connection predicting all-cause mortality among community-dwelling middle-to-old age individuals: Results from the I-Lan Longitudinal Study

OBJECTIVES

The link between aging and pulmonary function decline is well-established, but the underlying mechanisms have yet to be fully revealed. Serum follistatin, a myokine implicated in muscle degeneration, may play a role in age-related pulmonary changes. This study aims to investigate the relationship between serum follistatin levels and pulmonary function decline in community-dwelling older adults, and evaluate their combined association with all-cause mortality.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This longitudinal cohort study utilized data from 751 participants aged ≥50 years in the I-Lan Longitudinal Aging Study between 2018-2019. Serum follistatin levels, spirometry results, demographic and clinical data were retrieved. Participants were stratified based on their follistatin levels. Survival curves and group comparisons based on follistatin levels and decline in peak expiratory flow (PEF) using Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank tests. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were further used to identify independent predictors of all-cause mortality during the 52-month follow-up.

RESULTS

Elevated follistatin levels significantly correlated with worse pulmonary function, particularly decreased PEF (p = 0.030). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed the combination of elevated follistatin levels and decreased PEF was associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality (Log-rank p = 0.023). Cox proportional hazards models further identified that concurrent presence of higher follistatin levels and decreased PEF predicted higher risk of all-cause mortality (adjusted HR 3.58, 95% CI: 1.22-10.53, p = 0.020).

CONCLUSION

Higher serum follistatin levels correlate with decreased pulmonary function, specifically PEF decline, in community-dwelling older adults. Furthermore, the coexistence of elevated follistatin levels and decreased PEF was associated with risk of all-cause mortality. Follistatin may serve as a biomarker for pulmonary aging and related adverse outcomes.

Association between depressive symptoms and sarcopenia among middle-aged and elderly individuals in China: the mediation effect of activities of daily living (ADL) disability

BACKGROUND

Depressive symptoms and sarcopenia, often observed among middle-aged and elderly individuals, are significant health concerns in China, particularly given the country's rapidly aging population. Depressive symptoms, characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest, can significantly impact quality of life. Little is known about the underlying pathway connecting these two conditions.

METHODS

The data for this study were derived from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression (CSED) scale. Logistic regression analyses were employed to investigate the association between depressive symptoms, activities of daily living (ADL) disability, and sarcopenia, while adjusting for potential confounding factors. The selection of predictor variables, including social activity, chronic diseases, demographic factors, and lifestyle habits, was based on their known associations with mental health, physical functioning and sarcopenia. These variables were included to ensure a comprehensive adjustment for potential confounding factors and to provide a more accurate estimation of the relationship between depressive symptoms and sarcopenia. Additionally, mediation analysis was conducted to assess the mediating role of ADL disability in the relationship between depressive symptoms and sarcopenia.

RESULTS

A comprehensive study was conducted on a total of 8,238 participants aged 45 years and older, comprising 3,358 men and 4,880 women. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify significant associations between depressive symptoms (OR = 1.30, P = 0.0269,95%CI = 1.03-1.63), ADL disability (OR = 1.94, P < 0.001,95%CI = 1.37-2.75) and sarcopenia. The results revealed significant relationships among these variables. Furthermore, mediation effect analyses demonstrated that ADL disability partially mediated the association between depressive symptoms and sarcopenia (estimated indirect effect: 0.006, 95% CI: 0.003, 0.008, proportion of mediation effect: 20.00%).

CONCLUSIONS

The study underscores a significant association between depressive symptoms and sarcopenia among middle-aged and elderly individuals in China, with ADL disability acting as a mediator. These findings offer novel insights for targeted health interventions. Future interventions should effectively combat sarcopenia by integrating psychological support with muscle-strengthening exercise programs. By addressing both depressive symptoms and ADL disability, clinicians and public health professionals can enhance outcomes for this demographic. Collaborative efforts across disciplines are essential for providing comprehensive health management tailored to the needs of middle-aged and elderly individuals. Future research should longitudinally assess the impact of such integrated interventions on sarcopenia prevention and depressive symptom alleviation. Additionally, investigating the role of social and environmental factors in mediating this relationship is crucial for developing more effective health strategies for this vulnerable population.

Body composition of adults with chronic intestinal failure receiving home parenteral nutrition: A descriptive cohort study

BACKGROUND

Chronic intestinal failure (CIF) refers to the long-lasting reduction of gut function below the minimum necessary to absorb macronutrients, water, and/or electrolytes. Patients with CIF likely develop various forms of malnutrition and dehydration, yet studies that focus primarily on body composition are lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the body composition of adult patients with CIF.

METHODS

This retrospective descriptive cohort study was performed at the Radboud University Medical Center, a tertiary referral center for CIF treatment in the form of home parenteral nutrition. We collected available bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) data from routine care between 2019 and 2023. The primary outcome was body composition, which was evaluated by assessing body mass index (BMI), fat-free mass index (FFMI), and fat percentage (fat%).

RESULTS

Overall, 147 adult patients with CIF were included with a median (interquartile range) age of 58 (25-68) years; 69% were female. The mean (SD) BMI was 22.1 (4.3) kg/m2, FFMI was 14.2 (1.9) kg/m2 in females and 17.0 (2.0) kg/m2 in males, and fat% was 33.7% (6.8%) in females and 24.6% (6.4%) in males. 63% had an FFMI below references, and 48% had a high fat%.

CONCLUSION

This study found that most adult patients with CIF have an unfavorable body composition characterized by a high fat% and low FFMI despite having a normal mean BMI. These results highlight the necessity for in-depth nutrition assessment, including BIA measurement. Moreover, future studies should focus on exercise interventions to increase FFMI and improve body composition and function.

The Impact of Sarcopenia on the Clinical Outcomes of Percutaneous Kyphoplasty in Patients With Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fracture: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Objective: This study aimed to explore the impact of sarcopenia on clinical outcomes after percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) for osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF). Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients with single-segment OVCF who underwent percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) between September 2021 and August 2022. Patients were categorized into a sarcopenia group (43 patients) and a non-sarcopenia group (125 patients) based on their Advanced Skeletal Muscle Index (ASMI). Clinical and radiological data were collected and analyzed. Results: There were no significant differences between the sarcopenia and non-sarcopenia groups in age, sex, bone mineral density (BMD), body mass index (BMI), fractured segment, fracture type, surgical approach, bone cement volume, bone cement distribution, comorbidities, preoperative and immediate postoperative VAS and ODI scores (P > .05). However, the time to ambulation, hospital stays, VAS and ODI scores at follow-up, excellent/good rate, and the incidence of residual pain and re-fractures in the non-sarcopenia group were significantly better than those in the sarcopenia group (P < .05). Meanwhile, radiological outcomes, including regional kyphosis and vertebral height loss rate, were significantly better in the non-sarcopenia group than in the sarcopenia group at 6 and 12 month follow-ups (P < .05). Conclusion: Clinical outcomes after PKP in patients with OVCF could be negatively affected by sarcopenia. Therefore, prevention and treatment of sarcopenia should be actively considered in the management of patients with OVCF.

Radiographic Thigh Muscle Measurements Are a Reliable Predictor of Psoas Area and Sarcopenia

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia is associated with falls, fractures, postoperative complications such as periprosthetic joint infections and dislocations, and early mortality. Although cross-sectional imaging is currently used to diagnose sarcopenia, inexpensive and widely available screening tests are needed. The goal of this study was to investigate whether measurements of thigh muscles made on radiographs can predict psoas muscle area and the presence of sarcopenia as determined on computed tomography (CT) scans.

METHODS

A retrospective radiographic review was performed to measure thigh muscle area in the coronal and sagittal planes using the differential in soft-tissue attenuation. Psoas muscle area on CT at L3 and L4 served as the gold standard for the diagnosis of sarcopenia. The correlation between thigh muscle and psoas muscle areas was determined, and multivariable models were developed to identify predictors of psoas muscle area and sarcopenia.

RESULTS

Four hundred and fourteen patients (252 male, 162 female) were identified. Seventy-six (18.4%) of the patients had an L4 psoas muscle area below the sex-specific cutoff value for sarcopenia. Patients with sarcopenia on abdominal CT had significantly smaller thigh muscle measurements on all radiographic views. The mean and standard deviation of the thigh muscle measurements were determined for the entire cohort and for patients with sarcopenia, as well as for adults aged 18 to 40 years without sarcopenia to provide normative reference values. The intraclass correlation coefficients were >0.8 for all radiographic measurements. The anteroposterior-view measurement of thigh muscle width and lateral-view measurement of quadriceps height were identified as independent predictors of both psoas muscle area and sarcopenia.

CONCLUSIONS

Measurements of thigh muscle size made on radiographs can predict both psoas muscle area and sarcopenia. These measurements are a reliable and readily available screening tool to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of sarcopenia in the orthopaedic population.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level III . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Identification of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase as a promising therapeutic target for sarcopenia

Sarcopenia is a significant geriatric syndrome that involves the loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. Due to its substantial endocrine role, the metabolic microenvironment of skeletal muscle undergoes changes with age. Examining the pathogenesis of sarcopenia through focusing on metabolic dysregulation could offer insights for developing more effective intervention strategies. In this study, we analyzed the transcriptomics data to identify specific genes involved in the regulation of metabolism in skeletal muscle during the development of sarcopenia. Three machine learning algorithms were employed to screen key target genes exhibiting strong correlations with metabolism, which were further validated using RNA-sequencing data and publicly accessible datasets. Among them, the metabolic enzyme nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) was elevated in sarcopenia, and predicted sarcopenia with an area under the curve exceeding 0.7, suggesting it as a potential therapeutic target for sarcopenia. As expected, inhibition of NNMT improved the grip strength in aging mice and alleviated age-related decline in the mass index of the quadriceps femoris muscles and whole-body lean mass index. Additionally, the NNMTi treatment increased the levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) content, as well as PGC1α and p-AMPK expression in the muscles of both the D-galactose-treated mouse model and naturally aging mouse model. Overall, this work demonstrates NNMT as a promising target for preventing age-related decline in muscle mass and strength.

Assessing the Risk of Normal Weight Obesity in Korean Women across Generations: A Study on Body Composition and Physical Fitness

Normal weight obesity (NWO) refers to a condition in which the body mass index falls within the normal range, but the percent of body fat is excessive. Although there are reports of a high prevalence of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases in NWO, analyses regarding physical fitness have been lacking. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyze the age-related prevalence of NWO and to examine physical fitness across generations. Our study utilized a dataset comprising 119,835 participants for analysis. The prevalence of NWO across ages was examined using cross-tabulation analysis. For body composition and physical fitness, medians and group differences were assessed by generation through Kruskal-Wallis and Bonferroni post hoc tests. Additionally, univariate logistic regression was adopted to analyze the odds ratio. The prevalence of NWO in Korean women was 18.3%. The fat-free mass of the NWO group was consistently lower than that of both the group with normal body mass indexes (Normal) and obese body mass indexes (Obesity) across all generations. Additionally, the waist circumference and blood pressure were greater in the now group than in the Normal group. When considering maximal strength, muscle endurance, power, balance, and coordination, the NWO group exhibited lower levels compared to the Normal group. The NWO group showed lower muscle mass than both the Normal and Obesity groups, resulting in significantly reduced physical fitness compared to that of the Normal group, similar to the Obesity group. This condition may increase not only the risk of posing a potentially more serious health concern than obesity but also the risk of falls in elderly people. Therefore, based on this study, it is crucial to not only define obesity using BMI criteria but also to diagnose NWO. Public health policies and preventive measures must be implemented accordingly.

Association of the oxidative balance score with sarcopenia among young and middle-aged adults: findings from NHANES 2011-2018

Background

Sarcopenia is associated with oxidative stress. The Oxidative Balance Score (OBS) is commonly used to assess dietary and lifestyle exposure to oxidative stress. However, few studies in the literature have assessed the correlation between sarcopenia and OBS.

Aim

This study aimed to assess the association between OBS and sarcopenia among young and middle-aged adults in the United States using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

Method

Weighted logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the association between OBS and sarcopenia based on data from NHANES 2011-2018. Subgroup analyses were performed to observe the consistency of the outcomes, and the stability of the results was tested using sensitivity analyses.

Result

The final sample included 5,525 young and middle-aged American adults. A higher OBS was associated with a lower risk of sarcopenia. In the fully adjusted model, the second (odds ratio [OR]: 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.41, 0.94; p = 0.023), third (OR: 0.50; 95% CI: 0.34, 0.74; p < 0.001), and highest quartiles (OR: 0.18; 95% CI: 0.11, 0.28; p < 0.001) of the OBS were associated with higher risks of sarcopenia when compared to the lowest quartile. This association was consistent across both dietary and lifestyle OBS scores. Our subgroup analysis revealed no significant differences between the subgroups of variables included in the interaction analysis. Sensitivity analyses revealed similar results.

Conclusion

Our study showed that higher antioxidant and lower antioxidant exposure may decrease the risk of developing sarcopenia. Higher OBS scores may indicate greater protection against sarcopenia; however, further clinical studies are warranted to confirm these findings.

[The role of the musculoadipose status in the assessment of the risk profile before liver transplantation]

Sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity worsen the prognosis after liver transplantation; however, the assessment of body composition is not yet considered in the evaluation prior to liver transplantation to estimate the risk profile of the recipient. Prehabilitation, which includes the nutritional supplementation and physiotherapy, represents a recent focus of interest in clinical transplantation research. This article gives an overview of the recent knowledge about the role of the musculoadipose status and the available methods for the estimation in the assessment of the recipient's risk profile.

A Study of the Relationship Between the Triglyceride-Glucose Index and Skeletal Muscle Mass in a General Chinese Population

Objective

There is no study on the relationship between triglyceride-glucose index (TyG index) and skeletal muscle mass in middle-aged and elderly C population. Therefore, the aim of the study is to investigate the relationship between the TyG index and weight-adjusted relative skeletal muscle index (RSMI) in middle-aged and elderly C population.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 947 aged ⩾40 years subjects who got a routine medical examination in the Department of Geriatrics of R Hospital from May 2021 to March 2023. The RSMI was designed to evaluate skeletal muscle mass and calculated based on lean mass of the limbs(kg)/body weight(kg) × 100%. Skeletal muscle mass reduction was defined as a RSMI of 1-2 standard deviations (SD) below of healthy adults aged 30-49 years old. Considering the quartile groups of the TyG index, the subjects were assigned to 4 groups: Q1 (less than or equal to 8.171), Q2 (from 8.172 to 8.569), Q3 (from 8.570 to 8.992), and Q4 (greater than or equal to 8.993).

Results

With TyG index increased, RSMI levels significantly reduced(P < .001). Spearman's correlation analysis showed that the TyG index was negatively correlated with RSMI in males (r = -0.320) and females (r = -0.240). The TyG index was positively correlated with body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (P < .05). Besides, binary logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of developing reduced skeletal muscle mass in the group Q4 was 2.131 (95%CI:1.118-4.064) in males; and was 2.472 (95%CI:1.581-3.867) in females compared to the Q1 group.

Conclusion

TyG index was negatively correlated with relative skeletal muscle index, and a higher TyG index was associated with the development of reduced skeletal muscle mass independently of other influencing factors. Therefore, the TyG index promises to be a predictor of skeletal muscle mass loss.

Sarcopenia impacts perioperative and survival outcomes after esophagectomy for cancer: a multicenter study

BACKGROUND

The impact of sarcopenia on outcomes after esophagectomy is controversial. Most data are currently derived from Asian populations. This study aimed to correlate sarcopenia to short-term perioperative complication rates and long-term survival and recurrence outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed of patients undergoing esophagectomy for cancer from 3 tertiary referral centers in Australia. Sarcopenia was defined using cutoffs for skeletal muscle index (SMI), assessed on preoperative computed tomography images. Outcomes measured included complications, overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS).

RESULTS

Of 462 patients (78.4% male; median age, 67 years), sarcopenia was evident in 276 (59.7%). Patients with sarcopenia had a higher rate of major (Clavien-Dindo ≥ 3b) complications (27.9% vs 14.5%; P < .001), including higher rates of postoperative cardiac arrythmia (16.3% vs 9.7%; P = .042), pneumonia requiring antibiotics (14.5% vs 9.1%; P = .008), and 30-day mortality (5.1% vs 0%; P = .002). In the sarcopenic group, the median OS was lower (37 months [95% CI, 27.1-46.9] vs 114 months [95% CI, 75.8-152.2]; P < .001), as was the median DFS (27 months [95% CI, 18.9-35.1] vs 77 months [95% CI, 36.4-117.6]; P < .001). Sarcopenia was an independent risk factor for lower survival on multivariate analysis (hazard ratio, 1.688; 95% CI, 1.223-2.329; P = .001).

CONCLUSION

Patients with preoperative sarcopenia based on analysis of SMI are at a higher risk of major complications and have inferior survival and oncologic outcomes after esophagectomy for esophageal cancer.

Loss of psoas muscle during neoadjuvant treatment for rectal cancer is associated with poor oncological and surgical outcomes

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia has been associated with poor outcomes in rectal cancer patients. This study aims to assess the degree of muscle loss during neoadjuvant therapy in patients with rectal cancer, and its relationship with tumour response, post-operative complications and long-term disease recurrence.

METHODS

The change in the psoas muscle area was determined by measuring the psoas muscle area at L4 on initial staging PET CT scans and comparing this with the restaging scan 8-10 weeks after radiation treatment had been completed. The average change in the psoas muscle area was compared between patients who had residual disease versus complete clinical/pathological response, anastomotic leak vs. no leak, and distant recurrence vs. no recurrence on follow-up imaging.

RESULTS

Ninety-two patients were included in the study. The mean loss of psoas muscle area was 5%. Patients who had a complete response to chemoradiotherapy showed a statistically significant difference in muscle mass loss (2.8%) compared to those with residual tumour present after therapy (6.2%), P = 0.02 on multivariable analysis. There was a statistically significant greater loss of muscle in patients who had an anastomotic leak versus those that did not (10.2% vs. 4.1%) and in those who developed metastatic disease versus those that did not (10.7% vs. 4.1%) (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our study adds to the growing body of evidence that sarcopenia is a predictor of poor surgical and oncological outcomes in rectal cancer patients. We postulate that the loss of muscle is an indication of disease burden and worse tumour biology.

CT-assessed sarcopenia and prognostic nutritional index are associated with poor prognosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

Recently, it has been reported that sarcopenia and nutritional evaluation are associated with the prognosis of patients with cancer; however, there are only a few detailed reports on oral cancer. This single-center retrospective study aimed to analyze the relationship between computed tomography (CT)-assessed sarcopenia (CT-SP), immunocompetence, nutritional status, and the prognosis of patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

METHODS

This retrospective study included patients who underwent radical therapy with surgery for OSCC between January 2014 and January 2021. Skeletal muscle in the third cervical vertebra (C3) was measured using preoperative cervical CT, and the skeletal muscle index (SMI) was calculated. Nutritional status were investigated using blood tests. The correlation between each parameter and prognosis was analyzed. The primary predictor variables were SMI, ECOG performance status, BMI, and nutritional status. The primary outcome variable was the 5-year overall survival rate (OS) and the secondary outcome variable was 5-year disease-specific survival rate (DSS).

RESULTS

One hundred sixty-three patients were registered retrospectively. The number of patients with CT-SP was 76 (52%). In the univariate analysis, CT-SP, prognostic nutritional index (PNI), and lymphocyte-monocyte ratio (LMR) were associated with poor prognosis, with statistically significant differences in OS and DSS. In the multivariate analysis, only CT-SP was identified as an independent prognostic factor for DSS. CT-SP was significantly correlated with the PNI.

CONCLUSION

CT-SP was associated with a significant decrease in survival rate in patients with OSCC. Furthermore, CT-SP was correlated with the PNI.

Low skeletal muscle mass and treatment outcomes among adults with haematologic malignancies: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Low skeletal muscle mass (LSMM) and/or, function associated with an increased risk of treatment-related toxicities and inferior overall survival (OS) among adults with solid malignancies. However, the association between LSMM and treatment-related toxicities among adults with haematologic malignancies remains unclear.

METHODS

Using a pre-published protocol (CRD42020197814), we searched seven bibliographic databases from inception to 08/2021 for studies reporting the impact of LSMM among adults ≥18 years with a known haematologic malignancy. The primary outcome of interest was OS, and secondary outcomes included progression free survival (PFS) and non-relapse mortality (NRM). These effect sizes were quantified in terms of hazards ratio (HR) along with 95% confidence interval (CI) and pooled across studies using a DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochran's Q and the I2 statistic. All hypothesis testing was two-sided with an alpha of 0.05.

RESULTS

Of 3791 studies screened, we identified 20 studies involving 3468 patients with a mean age of 60 years; 44% were female and the most common malignancy was diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (42%). Most studies measured muscle mass using single slice computed tomography imaging at the L3 level. The presence of LSMM was associated with worse OS (pooled HR = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.48-2.22, P < 0.001) with moderate heterogeneity (Cochran's Q, I2 = 60.4%), PFS (pooled HR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.28-2.02, P < 0.001) with moderate heterogeneity (Cochran's Q, I2 = 66.0%). Similarly, LSMM was associated with worse NRM (HR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.34-2.22, P < 0.001) with little evidence of heterogeneity (Cochran's Q, I2 = 0.0%).

CONCLUSIONS

LSMM is associated with worse survival outcomes among adults with haematologic malignancies. Further research into understanding the underlying mechanism of this association and mitigating the negative effects of LSMM among adults with haematologic malignancies is needed.

Association of physical performance with cognitive impairment in middle-aged to older haemodialysis patients: a multicentre cross-sectional observational study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of cognitive impairment (CI) among middle-aged to older patients receiving maintenance haemodialysis (MHD) and to investigate the potential association between CI and physical performance.

METHODS

This cross-sectional observational study enrolled participants aged 55-85 years who received MHD. Cognitive status was assessed using the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). Physical performance was measured by hand grip strength, the Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT) and the 4-m walking speed. Sociodemographic, clinical and laboratory parameters were recorded for each patient.

RESULTS

The study included 592 patients (363 males); and of these, 126 (21.3%) were diagnosed with CI. Compared with patients with normal cognitive function, those with CI were significantly older and had significantly longer dialysis duration, lower educational level, higher Malnutrition Inflammation Score, higher depression and higher Charlson Comorbidity Index score. After adjustment for covariates, multiple regression analysis suggested that grip strength (odds ratio [OR] = 0.959, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.924, 0.996) and 4-m walking speed (OR = 0.161, 95% CI = 0.070, 0.368) were protective factors. TUGT (OR = 1.037, 95%CI = 1.003, 1.071) was a risk factor.

CONCLUSION

Physical performance was correlated with CI and might be a significant indicator for the early identification of CI in middle-aged to older MHD patients.

Corticosteroid-triggered acute skeletal muscle loss in lipodystrophy: A case report

The potential liability to hypercatabolism in lipodystrophy remains to be fully elucidated. Here we report a 28-year-old Japanese woman with acquired generalized lipodystrophy, who presented with recurrence of panniculitis and anemia. After corticosteroid treatment was started, she showed rapid reductions in body weight and lean mass by 15% at maximum, accompanied by an elevated urea nitrogen/creatinine ratio, which recovered almost fully as the corticosteroid treatment was tapered and discontinued. She had multiple risk factors for hypercatabolism: lack of metabolic reserves, insulin resistance, and hyperglycemia due to lipodystrophy, lowered daily activity due to anemia, persistent inflammation, and wasting associated with panniculitis, and relatively insufficient energy and protein intake during hospitalization. More attention should be paid to the potential liability to hypercatabolism in patients with lipodystrophy, and to skeletal muscle loss as an adverse effect of corticosteroid treatment in patients at high risk, such as those with diabetes or decreased metabolic reserves.

Adult Children's Migration and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Older Nepali Adults

Traditionally, adult children have served as primary caretakers and providers for older Nepali adults. However, out-migration of adult children for employment and other opportunities is increasing. Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in older Nepali adults in general and in the context of adult children's migration is poorly understood. This study aims to assess HRQOL of older Nepali adults and its relationship with adult children's migration. We used existing cross-sectional survey data on 260 older adults from Krishnapur municipality, which has witnessed a high rate of adult migration. HRQOL, quantified using the SF-12 scale, is expressed in terms of a physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) health component. A higher PCS and MCS score, each ranging from 0 to 100, indicates better physical and mental health, respectively. The correlates of HRQOL were assessed in simple and multiple linear regression. Participants had suboptimal HRQOL [mean (± SD): PCS = 40.4 ± 9.2 and MCS = 45.2 ± 7.7]. After adjusting for covariates, adult children's migration was associated with lower MCS scores (β: -2.33, 95%CI: -4.21, -0.44). Individuals with more than one child had higher MCS scores (β: 2.14, 95%CI: 0.19, 4.09). Females (β: -3.64, 95%CI: -7.21, -0.06) and those with a history of unemployment (β: -6.36, 95%CI: -10.57, -2.15) had lower PCS scores than their respective counterparts. The presence of chronic conditions was associated with significantly lower PCS and MCS scores. Our findings suggest that adult children's migration may negatively affect HRQOL among older Nepali adults, specifically their psychological well-being. Further research investigating potential moderating factors that may serve as important buffers is needed.

Establishing Normative Values for Performance-Based Tests in Older Thai Adults: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study

OBJECTIVE

To determine normative values and identify contributing factors for physical performance tests in older, Thai, community-dwelling adults.

DESIGN

Nationwide cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Thai older community-dwelling adults.

PARTICIPANTS

Thai older community-dwelling adults aged ≥60 years who had no major health problems (N=1430) between March 2021 and August 2022.

INTERVENTIONS

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Normative values for the timed Up and Go (TUG) test, gait speed test, and 5-times sit-to-stand (5TSTS) test were determined for sex and age groups. Multivariable quantile regression analysis was employed to evaluate the participants, considering factors that may influence physical performance, such as height, and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI).

RESULTS

The study included 1430 eligible participants. Their mean age was 68.4±5.8 years, and 58.5% were women. Men demonstrated superior physical performance in the medians (p50) of the TUG (10.0 s vs 11.0 s), gait speed (0.98 m/s vs 0.91 m/s), and 5TSTS (14.0 s vs 16.1 s) tests compared with women. These differences were consistently observed across age groups. Moreover, age, sex, and height were significantly associated with poor physical performance.

CONCLUSION

This study observed variations in the normative values of TUG, gait speed, and 5TSTS tests among different age groups of older, Thai, community-dwelling adults. Additionally, our findings identified age, sex, and height as significant contributing factors to physical performance in this population.

Mapping Knowledge Landscapes and Emerging Trends of Sarcopenic Obesity in Older Adults: A Bibliometric Analysis From 2004 to 2023

Background The prevalence of obesity in combination with sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength or physical function, is on the rise among adults aged 65 years and older. A significant portion of this demographic now falls under the classification of sarcopenic obesity, a high-risk geriatric syndrome predominantly seen in an aging population vulnerable to compounded complications from both sarcopenia and obesity. It is essential to promptly evaluate the impact of academic research in this field, taking into account factors such as geographical regions, authors, journals, and institutions. Furthermore, exploring current topics and identifying potential areas that could inspire future researchers to conduct additional studies is crucial for advancing overall health in this population. Methodology A search was conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection database to identify English language articles and reviews focusing on sarcopenic obesity in older adults, published between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2023. Bibliometric analysis was performed using VOSviewer (v.1.6.18) and CiteSpace (v.6.1.R2). Results A total of 985 original English-language articles were collected, consisting of 783 articles and 202 reviews. The volume of research publications in this field has shown significant growth since 2012. The United States leads in contributions, with 239 articles (24.3% of the total) and the highest number of citations at 18,403, along with the highest total link strength. The University of Melbourne in Australia stands out with 25 published articles (2.5% of the total). University of Verona in Italy has the most citations at 9,405, and Monash University in Australia has the highest total link strength at 53. Among prolific authors, John A. Batsis from Duke University is the most productive with 24 articles (2.4% of the total). The journal "Nutrients" has the most articles on sarcopenic obesity in older adults, publishing 54 articles (5.5% of the total). Key topics in this area include sarcopenia, obesity, sarcopenic obesity, and elderly. Recent interventions focus on "nutrition" and "exercise" for sarcopenic obesity in older adults. Conclusions Research on sarcopenic obesity in older adults has seen significant growth on a global scale from 2004 to 2023, indicating a promising area for further study with potential benefits from current advancements. Although academic inquiries have shed light on various aspects of sarcopenic obesity in older adults, there remains a noticeable dearth of clinical research and evidence-based medicine on the effective management of this condition in elderly individuals. Future studies could focus on developing tailored interventions for older adults with sarcopenic obesity.

Start with muscle mass or muscle strength in diagnosis and management of sarcopenia? A systematic review of guidance documents

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Sarcopenia has garnered extensive attention in clinical practice since its high prevalence and significant impact on clinical outcomes. Multiple organizations have published guidance documents on sarcopenia, offering evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice and/or research. We aimed to appraise the methodological quality of the included documents and synthesize available recommendations for the screening, diagnosis, and intervention of sarcopenia.

METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a search on PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, guideline database, and guideline organizations and professional societies websites for clinical practices, consensus statements and position papers in terms of sarcopenia, muscle atrophy or muscle loss published before April 17, 2023. The AGREE II instrument was used by three independent reviewers to assess the methodological quality of these documents.

RESULTS

Thirty-six guidance documents published between 2010 and 2023 were included. Seven documents fulfilled ≥ 50% of all the AGREE II domains. Seven underwent a Delphi process and six graded the strength of the recommendations. The process of screening (n=21), early diagnosis of sarcopenia (n=12), diagnosis of sarcopenia and severe sarcopenia (n=10), and management (n=21) were increasingly recommended. SARC-F (n=14) was the most recommended screening tool, and the assessment of muscle function was considered the first step in diagnosing sarcopenia. The management strategy for both age-related and disease-related sarcopenia mainly focused on exercise and nutrition intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

The guidance documents have provided referential recommendations that have great guiding significance. But the inconsistency in recommendations and variation in methodological rigour suggests that high-quality evidence is lacking yet.

Cutoff values for appendicular skeletal muscle mass using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry in a reference group of Turkish adults

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to determine cutoff values for different appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) methods measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in a reference group of the Turkish population.

METHODS

Body composition analyses were performed with DXA, and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) was adjusted to body size as ASMI using height squared (ASM/ht2), weight (ASM/wt), and body mass index (BMI) (ASM/BMI). Sex-specific cutoff values were obtained as 1 and 2 standard deviations (SDs) below the mean values of ASM/ht2, ASM/wt, and ASM/BMI.

RESULTS

A total of 207 (106 women and 101 men) healthy adults were enrolled. Sex-specific cutoff values based on 1 SD below the mean values of ASM, ASM/ht2, ASM/BMI, and ASM/wt were 14.44, 5.45, 0.61, and 24.07 in women and 22.63, 7.22, 0.90, and 29.04 in men, respectively; 2 SDs below the mean values of ASM, ASM/ht2, ASM/BMI, and ASM/wt were 11.96, 4.65, 0.51, and 21.75 in women and 19.26, 6.40, 0.78, and 26.55 in men, respectively. ASM, ASM/BMI, ASM/ht2, and ASM/wt were statistically significant positively correlated with handgrip strength (r = 0.81, r = 0.78, r = 0.73, and r = 0.67, respectively; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In this study, ASM/BMI was found to be the most suitable ASM adjustment method to predict muscle strength.

Agreement and diagnostic differences among three definitions of sarcopenia in patients with chronic hepatitis C

BACKGROUND

There is neither a gold standard definition nor a universal consensus to diagnose sarcopenia in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Thus, we aimed to compare the prevalence of sarcopenia and the agreement and discrepancies between European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP1), EWGSOP2, and Foundation for the National Institutes of Health Biomarkers Consortium Sarcopenia Project (FNIH) definitions in chronic hepatitis C.

METHODS

Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry was used to assess muscle mass by quantifying appendicular lean mass (ALM) adjusted for squared height (ALM/ht2) or for body mass index (ALMBMI). Muscle function was evaluated by handgrip strength. Subjective Global Assessment was used to assess the nutrition status.

RESULTS

This cross-sectional study included 103 outpatients (mean age, 50.6 ± 11.3 years; 33.0% with compensated cirrhosis). Sarcopenia prevalence was 8.7%, 9.7%, and 9.7%, according to EWGSOP1, EWGSOP2, and FNIH definitions, respectively. There was neither a sex- nor a liver disease severity-specific difference in the prevalence of sarcopenia between the criteria applied. Sixteen (15.5%) patients fulfilled at least one of these criteria, and 3 out of 16 (18.8%) simultaneously had sarcopenia by consensus of the three criteria. Sarcopenic obesity was identified in 9 out of 16 (56.3%) patients, and 6 out of 9 (66.7%) of these only met FNIH consensus.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients without cirrhosis or with compensated cirrhosis, and with chronic hepatitis C, the agreement between EWGSOP1 and EWGSOP2 classifications was substantial for sarcopenia diagnosis. Concerning EWGSOP and FNIH criteria, a fair agreement and limited overlap were found in these patients.

Senolytic treatment does not mitigate oxidative stress-induced muscle atrophy but improves muscle force generation in CuZn superoxide dismutase knockout mice

Oxidative stress is associated with tissue dysfunctions that can lead to reduced health. Prior work has shown that oxidative stress contributes to both muscle atrophy and cellular senescence, which is a hallmark of aging that may drive in muscle atrophy and muscle contractile dysfunction. The purpose of the study was to test the hypothesis that cellular senescence contributes to muscle atrophy or weakness. To increase potential senescence in skeletal muscle, we used a model of oxidative stress-induced muscle frailty, the CuZn superoxide dismutase knockout (Sod1KO) mouse. We treated 6-month-old wildtype (WT) and Sod1KO mice with either vehicle or a senolytic treatment of combined dasatinib (5 mg/kg) + quercetin (50 mg/kg) (D + Q) for 3 consecutive days every 15 days. We continued treatment for 7 months and sacrificed the mice at 13 months of age. Treatment with D + Q did not preserve muscle mass, reduce NMJ fragmentation, or alter muscle protein synthesis in Sod1KO mice when compared to the vehicle-treated group. However, we observed an improvement in muscle-specific force generation in Sod1KO mice treated with D + Q when compared to Sod1KO-vehicle mice. Overall, these data suggest that reducing cellular senescence via D + Q is not sufficient to mitigate loss of muscle mass in a mouse model of oxidative stress-induced muscle frailty but may mitigate some aspects of oxidative stress-induced muscle dysfunction.

Sarcopenia diagnosis in patients with colorectal cancer: a review of computed tomography-based assessments and emerging ways to enhance practicality

Traditionally, cancer treatment has focused on the stages of the disease; however, recent studies have highlighted the importance of considering the overall health status of patients in the prognosis of cancer. Loss of skeletal muscle, known as sarcopenia, has been found to significantly affect outcomes in many different types of cancers, including colorectal cancer. In this review, we discuss the guidelines for diagnosing sarcopenia, with a specific focus on CT-based assessments. Many groups worldwide, including those in Europe and Asia, have introduced their own diagnostic guidelines for sarcopenia. Seemingly similar yet subtle discrepancies, particularly in the cutoff values used, limit the use of these guidelines in the general population, warranting a more universal guideline. Although CT-based measurements, such as skeletal muscle index and radiodensity, have shown promise in predicting outcomes, the lack of standardized values in these measurements hinders their universal adoption. To overcome these limitations, innovative approaches are being developed to assess changes in muscle mass trajectories and introduce new indices, such as skeletal and appendicular muscle gauges. Additionally, machine learning models have shown superior performance in predicting sarcopenic status, providing an alternative to CT-based diagnosis, particularly after surgery. CT has tremendous benefits and a significant role in visually as well as quantitatively retrieving information on patient body composition. In order to compensate for the limitation of standard cutoff value, 3-dimensional analysis of the CT, artificial intelligence-based body composition analysis, as well as machine learning algorithms for data interpretation and analysis have been proposed and are being utilized. In conclusion, despite the varying definitions of sarcopenia, CT-based measurements coupled with machine-learning models are promising for evaluating patients with cancer. Standardization efforts can improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce the reliance on CT examinations, and make sarcopenia assessments more accessible in clinical settings.

Patient-reported difficulty in activities of daily living and corresponding muscle weakness in elderly patients undergoing haemodialysis

AIM

Patients undergoing haemodialysis have reduced muscle strength and impaired activities of daily living (ADL). We examined possible relationship between difficult ADL and corresponding muscle weakness in elderly haemodialysis patients.

METHODS

This was a single-centre, cross-sectional study. Patient-reported ADL difficulty was examined using a questionnaire in six ADL using upper limbs (eating, grooming and dressing) and lower limbs (bathing, toileting and locomotion). We measured six muscle strengths by dynamometers of shoulder flexion, shoulder abduction, elbow flexion, handgrip, hip abduction and knee extension. The muscle strength with the lowest Z-score was considered as the weakest muscle strength for the patient.

RESULTS

The six scores of ADL difficulty were all inversely associated with the six muscle strengths in the 81 total participants of whom 71 individuals (87.7%) had any ADL difficulty. Among the six measurements of muscle strength, handgrip strength showed the highest associations with all ADL difficulties. In 25 patients who perceived that the most difficult ADL was an activity using upper limbs, the common weakest muscle strengths were the hip abduction, handgrip and elbow flexion. In 44 patients who perceived that the most difficult ADL was an activity using lower limbs, knee extension was the most prevalent weakest muscle strength.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested preferential relationship between the most difficult ADL and corresponding muscle weakness in elderly haemodialysis patients. This finding may be useful in prevention and treatment.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with increased risk of early-onset sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity: Results from NHANES 2015-2018

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to estimate the prevalence of early-onset sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity in the United States and its relative risk due to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

METHODS

Data in this cross-sectional study were extracted from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) 2015-2018. Weighted multistage stratified probability sampling design was considered to estimate the prevalence of early-onset sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity. Weighted multivariable logistic regression analyses and weighted multivariable mediation models were performed to evaluate the association between OSA and early-onset sarcopenia.

RESULTS

The prevalence of early-onset sarcopenia and early-onset sarcopenic obesity was estimated to be 5.5% and 4.6%, respectively. A higher prevalence of sarcopenia (12% V.S. 5.5%, P < 0.01) and sarcopenic obesity (10.3% V.S. 4.0%, P < 0.01) was observed among participants with OSA than those without OSA. Multivariable logistic regression models suggested that participants with OSA had higher odds ratios of suffering from early-onset sarcopenia [Odds Ratio (OR): 1.5, 95% confidence interval (CI):1.1-2.7] and early-onset sarcopenic obesity [OR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.1-3.1] after adjusting for potential confounding variables. Mediation analyses suggested serum chronic reaction protein (CRP) mediated 23.7% (P < 0.01) & 26.2% (P < 0.01), homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) mediated 24.8% (P < 0.01) & 20.7% (P < 0.05), body mass index (BMI) mediated 46.4% (P < 0.05) & 49.9% (P < 0.01), HEI-2015 mediated 23.3% (P < 0.01) & 25.6% (P < 0.01), and Vitamin D mediated 7.5% (P < 0.01) & 8.5% (P < 0.01) of the potential effects of OSA on early-onset sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Early-onset sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity were prevalent among young adults in the US. OSA is a significant independent risk factor and may induce muscle loss by unhealthy diet habits, higher BMI, chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and Vitamin D. It was essential for clinicians to arrange appropriate screening and interventions for patients with OSA to prevent muscle loss as early as possible.

Associations of Preoperative Nutritional Status and Sarcopenia With Mortality in Patients With Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm After Open and Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair: A Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVE

The effect of preoperative malnutrition and sarcopenia on outcomes in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) after open surgical repair (OSR) and endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair is undefined. The authors conducted the study to address this issue in this population.

DESIGN

A retrospective observational study.

SETTING

A large tertiary hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients with AAA who underwent OSR and endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).

INTERVENTIONS

Evaluation of nutritional status (Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 [NRS 2002] and the Controlling Nutritional Status [CONUT] scores), muscle size (skeletal muscle index), and postoperative parameters.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

A total of 199 patients were reviewed from January 2020 to December 2022. Patients weew categorized into group A (CONUT <4) and group B (CONUT ≥4) based on whether their CONUT scores were less than 4. The mortality (p = 0.004) and the incidence of Clavien-Dindo class III complications (p = 0.007) in group B were higher than those in group A. CONUT score was an independent risk factor for midterm mortality (hazard ratio 1.329; 95% CI, 1.104-1.697; p = 0.002) and Clavien-Dindo class III complications (odds ratio 1.225; 95% CI, 1.012-1.482; p = 0.037) according to univariate and multivariate analyses, whereas NRS 2002 score and sarcopenia were not. Kaplan-Meier curves showed a lower midterm survival rate in group B (log-rank p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In patients with AAA undergoing OSR or EVAR, a CONUT score ≥4 was associated with increased Clavien-Dindo class III complications and mortality. Preoperative nutritional status should be evaluated and optimized in this high-risk population.

Frontiers in sarcopenia: Advancements in diagnostics, molecular mechanisms, and therapeutic strategies

The onset of sarcopenia is intimately linked with aging, posing significant implications not only for individual patient quality of life but also for the broader societal healthcare framework. Early and accurate identification of sarcopenia and a comprehensive understanding of its mechanistic underpinnings and therapeutic targets paramount to addressing this condition effectively. This review endeavors to present a cohesive overview of recent advancements in sarcopenia research and diagnosis. We initially delve into the contemporary diagnostic criteria, specifically referencing the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) 2 and Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia (AWGS) 2019 benchmarks. Additionally, we elucidate comprehensive assessment techniques for muscle strength, quantity, and physical performance, highlighting tools such as grip strength, chair stand test, dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA), bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), gait speed, and short physical performance battery (SPPB), while also discussing their inherent advantages and limitations. Such diagnostic advancements pave the way for early identification and unequivocal diagnosis of sarcopenia. Proceeding further, we provide a deep-dive into sarcopenia's pathogenesis, offering a thorough examination of associated signaling pathways like the Myostatin, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), insulin/IGF-1 Signaling (IIS), and the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) pathways. Each pathway's role in sarcopenia mediation is detailed, underscoring potential therapeutic target avenues. From a mechanistic perspective, the review also underscores the pivotal role of mitochondrial dysfunction in sarcopenia, emphasizing elements such as mitochondrial oxidative overload, mitochondrial biogenesis, and mitophagy, and highlighting their therapeutic significance. At last, we capture recent strides made in sarcopenia treatment, ranging from nutritional and exercise interventions to potential pharmacological and supplementation strategies. In sum, this review meticulously synthesizes the latest scientific developments in sarcopenia, aiming to enhance diagnostic precision in clinical practice and provide comprehensive insights into refined mechanistic targets and innovative therapeutic interventions, ultimately contributing to optimized patient care and advancements in the field.

Examining the presence of sarcopenia in women with rheumatoid arthritis: Case-control study

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to compare the frequency of sarcopenia, functional status, fear-avoidance behaviors, biopsychosocial status and quality of life in RA women with healthy controls.

METHODS

25 RA women and 25 healthy women were included in the study. Definition of sarcopenia was assessed using parameters recommended by the European Working Group on Sarcopenia (EWGSOP): Bioimpedance analysis for muscle mass (body fat ratio, skeletal muscle mass, skeletal muscle mass index); grip and knee extension strength for muscle strength and 4-m course gait speed test for physical performance was applied. Functional status was evaluated with the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), fear-avoidance behaviors with the Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale (TKS), biopsychosocial status with the Biopsychosocial Questionnaire (BETY-BQ), and quality of life with Short Form-36 (SF-36).

RESULTS

While none of the healthy women had sarcopenia, severe sarcopenia was detected in 7 (28%) of the women with RA. When RA and healthy groups were compared; skeletal muscle mass (p: 0,004); skeletal muscle mass index (p: 0,011); grip strength-right (p:0.001) and left (p:0.001); knee extension strength-right (p:0.001) and left (p:0.001), 4-m course gait speed test (p:0.001), HAQ (p:0.001), TKS (p:0.001), BETY-BQ (p:0.001), SF-36 physical (p:0.001) ve mental component (p:0.001) results were significant in favor of the healthy group while there was no difference in body fat ratio (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

In women with RA, the frequency of sarcopenia is higher, and functional status, fear-avoidance behaviors, biopsychosocial status and quality of life are worse than healthy.

Accuracy of a portable lower-limb muscle strength measuring device with a training function

[Purpose] Quadriceps muscle strength is essential for daily living activities. Therefore, we developed a compact and simple lower limb muscle strength measuring device (LocomoScan [LCS]). This study aimed to compare LCS with other instruments to analyze its simplicity, reproducibility, and accuracy. [Participants and Methods] One hundred and four healthy university students (56 males and 48 females) were included in the study. The knee extension force was measured using LCS, and the knee extension torque was measured using other devices (Cybex). In addition, lower leg muscle mass was measured using a body composition meter. The reproducibility of LCS and the correlation between the knee extension torque and lower leg muscle mass were evaluated. [Results] The measurement reproducibility of LCS was significantly higher. The knee extension force confirmed the proportional relative reliability of Cybex with knee extension torque. A relationship between knee extension force and lower limb muscle mass was also observed, indicating that muscle mass cannot be estimated as muscle strength. [Conclusion] The high reproducibility of the knee extension force measurement using LCS demonstrates its potential as a portable alternative instrument for muscle strength measurement in clinical practice. Therefore, LCS device is a simple and effective tool for assessing muscle strength.

Metals accumulation affects bone and muscle in osteoporotic patients: A pilot study

Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease, characterized by decreased bone mineral density (BMD) and often associated to decreased muscle mass and function. Metal exposure plays a role in the pathophysiology of osteoporosis and affects also muscle quality. The aim of this study was to assess the association between metal levels in bone and muscle samples and the degeneration of these tissues. A total of 58 subjects (30 male and 28 female) was enrolled and classified in osteoporotic (OP, n = 8), osteopenic (Ope, n = 30) and healthy (CTR, n = 20) subjects, according to BMD measures. Femoral head bone samples and vastus lateralis muscle samples were collected during hip arthroplasty surgeries. Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) analysis showed increased levels of Al, Cd and Pb in OP and Ope bone tissue compared to CTR subjects (p = 0.04, p = 0.005 and p = 0.01, respectively). Whereas, increased levels of Co, Cd and Pb were measured in OP and Ope muscle tissues, compared to CTRs (p < 0.001, p = 0.02 and p = 0.01, respectively). In addition, Al, Cd and Pb levels in bone and Cd and Co levels in muscle were negatively correlated with BMD. A negative association among Co, Cd, Cr and Hg levels and muscle fibers diameter was also observed in muscle tissues. This study assessed that metal exposure can affects bone and muscle tissue quality and may contribute to the onset and progression of musculoskeletal diseases such as osteoporosis. Therefore, it is important to implement metal exposure assessment and their impact on disease development, in order to manage and prevent metal accumulation effects on bone and muscle quality.

A perspective on muscle phenotyping in musculoskeletal research

Musculoskeletal research should synergistically investigate bone and muscle to inform approaches for maintaining mobility and to avoid bone fractures. The relationship between sarcopenia and osteoporosis, integrated in the term 'osteosarcopenia', is underscored by the close association shown between these two conditions in many studies, whereby one entity emerges as a predictor of the other. In a recent workshop of Working Group (WG) 2 of the EU Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) Action 'Genomics of MusculoSkeletal traits Translational Network' (GEMSTONE) consortium (CA18139), muscle characterization was highlighted as being important, but currently under-recognized in the musculoskeletal field. Here, we summarize the opinions of the Consortium and research questions around translational and clinical musculoskeletal research, discussing muscle phenotyping in human experimental research and in two animal models: zebrafish and mouse.

Clinical outcomes of multidimensional association of type 2 diabetes mellitus, COVID-19 and sarcopenia: an algorithm and scoping systematic evaluation

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to provide a scoping and comprehensive review for the clinical outcomes from the cross-link of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), COVID-19, and sarcopenia.

METHODS

By using PRISMA guidelines and searching through different databases that could provide findings of evidence on the association of T2DM, COVID-19, and sarcopenia.

RESULTS

Thirty-three studies reported a relationship between sarcopenia with T2DM, twenty-one studies reported the prognosis COVID-19 in patients with T2DM, ten studies reported the prognosis of COVID-19 in patients with sarcopenia, five studies discussed the outcomes of sarcopenia in patients with COVID-19, and one study reported sarcopenia outcomes in the presence of T2DM and COVID-19.

CONCLUSION

There is an obvious multidimensional relationship between T2DM, COVID-19 and sarcopenia which can cause prejudicial effects, poor prognosis, prolonged hospitalisation, lowered quality of life and a higher mortality rate during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Association of body composition and survival in patients with locally advanced breast cancer: a historical cohort study

BACKGROUND

Altered body composition has been attributed to major health problems globally, particularly in patients with cancer. To date, there have not been sufficient indices for body compositions in predicting the survival of locally advanced breast cancer (LABC).

PURPOSE

To assess the association between body composition and overall survival (OS) as well as disease-free survival (DFS) in patients with LABC.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted of patients with LABC diagnosed between 2010 and 2018. Body composition parameters, including skeletal muscle and adiposity parameters, were measured using computed tomography at the L3 vertebra using in-house software developed by MATLAB and freeware Python 3.6.13. The association between body composition and OS and DFS were analyzed using a log-rank test and multivariate Cox-proportional hazard regression.

RESULTS

Of 199 patients, 72 (36%) died during the follow-up period (range = 3.8-150.7 months). Median survival was 101 months. Low visceral-to-subcutaneous ratio ≤0.3 (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 2.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.51-4.37; aHR = 2.46, 95% CI = 1.33-4.56), and high composite fat (aHR = 3.26, 95% CI = 1.69-6.29; aHR = 2.19, 95% CI = 1.11-4.3) were associated with lower OS and DFS. Positive lymph nodes ≥3, progesterone receptor negative, and total radiation dose >5000 cGy significantly decreased both OS and DFS. A history of previous treatment before body composition assessment and surgery had a protective effect on OS and DFS. No association of sarcopenia, body mass index, and adiposity areas with survival outcomes was observed.

CONCLUSION

Low visceral-to-subcutaneous ratio and high composite fat were independent prognostic factors for OS and DFS in patients with LABC. However, other body composition parameters showed no effect on survival.