Search Results (206)

Introduction: Postmenopausal aging is accompanied by declines in functional fitness, changes in body composition, and increased osteoporosis risk, which may affect quality of life. Understanding how these factors interrelate is important for supporting healthy aging. Objective: To examine the associations between accelerometer-measured physical activity, functional fitness, DEXA-derived body composition and bone parameters, and quality of life in postmenopausal women. Methods: Forty community-dwelling postmenopausal women (68.7 ± 5.7 years) participated in this cross-sectional study. Physical activity was assessed using a wrist-worn accelerometer for seven days. Body composition and bone health were measured by DEXA, functional fitness by the Senior Fitness Test, and quality of life by the WHOQOL-BREF. Spearman correlations were applied. Results: Associations were predominantly weak to moderate. Higher-intensity physical activity showed the strongest association with the Physical Health domain of quality of life (ρ ≈ 0.29). Total bone mineral density was also positively associated with perceived physical health (ρ ≈ 0.36). Adiposity was inversely related to light and lifestyle activity. Conclusion: Physical activity, functional fitness, body composition, and perceived physical health co-occur in postmenopausal women, supporting the relevance of promoting active lifestyles in this population. Full article

This study explored possible associations between adoption discounts, length-of-stay (LOS), and adoption rates for dogs at a municipal (council) shelter in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, over a one-year period (4 April 2023–3 April 2024). Data from 479 rehomed dogs and eight temporary promotional campaigns were analysed, considering the following factors: discount levels applied, breed group, body size, age group, coat colour, intake method (stray, privately surrendered, or seized), and return-to-shelter history after adoption. Dogs with ≥75% discount and 0–50% discount had a longer LOS compared to those without a discount (p < 0.001), likely because many discounted dogs already had a prolonged LOS prior to the campaign’s commencement. Other important LOS predictors included breed group (p < 0.001), body size (p < 0.001), age group (p = 0.004), and intake method (p < 0.001). Gundogs/hounds/terriers (purebred), and toy/non-sporting groups (both purebred and crossbred), small-sized dogs, seniors, puppies, and privately surrendered dogs had significantly lower LOS compared to their counterparts. However, when daily adoption rates were examined, temporary price-discounting campaigns resulted in substantially increased rehoming rates. In particular, Flash Sales (≤48 h) increased daily adoptions by 204% compared to non-campaign periods. One Flash Sale event resulted in higher daily adoption rates, but also significantly higher return rates compared to other temporary campaigns, highlighting a possible risk of impulse adoptions and necessitating future work with adopters to identify potentially problematic decision-making. Shelters should be aware that, on an individual level, factors other than price can be more important for potential adopters. On a broader level, temporary campaigns involving a reduced adoption price can increase overall adoption rates and therefore should be considered as part of any marketing exposure strategy for animal shelters. Full article

Background: Studies on the association between cognitive and physical fitness in older adults from particularly vulnerable settings are scarce. This study aims to analyse the relationship between different protocols for assessing physical fitness and the cognitive function of low-income older adults. Methods: A total of 312 adults aged 60–96 years (M age = 72.63, SD= 7.81) living in the urban area of Amazonas, Brazil, participated in the study. The following measures of physical fitness were assessed: body composition, handgrip strength, the Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test and Senior Fitness Tests. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Linear regression models were used to analyse the relationship between physical function measures and cognitive function. Results: For men, only the 30-chair stand test power (β = 0.33, p < 0.001) presented favourable association with cognitive function. For women, significant associations between MMSE score were observed for every fitness test, except for the chair sit-and-reach test. Conclusions: Physical fitness is differently associated with cognitive function among low-income older men and women from Amazonas. Muscular fitness particularly seems to be an important indicator of cognitive function. It should be considered for monitoring, promoting, and managing health-ageing of low-income elderly populations of both sexes. Full article

Balance is referred to as a state of equilibrium where forces of agonist and antagonistic muscles are equal. This is particularly relevant in the practice of Goju-Ryu Karate-Do, a martial art style with combinations of hard and soft techniques. Particularly, karate stances not only depend on technical aspects but also on the ability to achieve a centered posture. In this narrative review, we aim to integrate the existing knowledge about alignment parameters of the spine to various stances in Goju-Ryu Karate-Do to improve biomechanical understanding, allow technical modifications, and consequently enhance positive training experience. Balance is constantly challenged during the interplay of accelerated movements and subsequent controlled postures (Japanese: “Kamae”). This requires continuous neuromuscular coordination to maintain the body’s equilibrium. In particular, the body’s center of gravity, which is located around the second sacral vertebra in a standing position, needs to be kept within Dubousset’s “efficiency cone” for low energy consumption and minimal fatigue. This state is primarily maintained by aligning the spine, the pelvis, and the lower extremities, which is a result of complex biomechanical interactions of various spinopelvic parameters. Applying these concepts of Dubousset to stances in Goju-Ryu Karate-Do helps to explain why during the aging process or natural degeneration, technical modifications are needed to guarantee an optimal training experience in senior or disabled practitioners of Karate-Do. Biomechanical parameters of the spinopelvic axis are crucial in mastering the art of Goju-Ryu Karate-Do. Only with a balanced stance and an optimally situated center of gravity, a block or attack may be successful and movement strategies effective. However, technical modifications of stances must be considered in aged or disabled karateka to allow a sustained training experience. Full article

This study aims to examine the antecedents influencing corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices in Malaysian oil and gas companies, addressing the limited empirical research in this sector. Data were collected through a survey of 65 managerial-level representatives, including CEOs and senior management, from Malaysian oil and gas companies. IBM SPSS (Version 28) and SmartPLS (Version 3.3) were used to analyse the data and test the proposed relationships using PLS-SEM. The results reveal that stakeholder pressure has a positive and significant relationship with CSR practices in the oil and gas industry. This indicates that legitimacy-driven motivations play a key role in CSR adoption. Furthermore, CSR practices are found to enhance corporate reputation and competitive advantage. The findings highlight the importance for managers to recognize stakeholder expectations as a major driver of CSR adoption and to leverage CSR initiatives to strengthen organizational reputation and competitiveness. This study contributes to the limited body of knowledge on CSR practices within Malaysia’s oil and gas industry by providing empirical evidence of the factors influencing CSR implementation and its organizational outcomes. Full article

Background/Objectives: Hypertension is a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, particularly in older adults, pharmacological therapy is effective, but side effects and limited adherence highlight the need for non-pharmacological alternatives. This study investigated the effects of a structured Bodypump (BoP) programme, a choreographed group-based resistance training intervention, on blood pressure (BP) and functional fitness in sedentary older adults with hypertension. Methods: Thirty-two participants (65.4 ± 7.7 years) diagnosed with hypertension were randomly allocated to a BoP group (n = 16) or a control group (CG) (n = 16). The intervention lasted 8-week and consisted of 3 supervised sessions per week. Resting systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) were measured using a validated automated device (Omron M3 Intellisense, HEM-7051-E), functional capacity was assessed with the Senior Fitness Test (SFT) battery. Results: After the intervention, BoP exhibited significant reductions in SBP (−24.4 ± 4.7 mmHg; p < 0.001) and DBP (−6.4 ± 2.7 mmHg; p = 0.025) compared to CG. BoP improved functional fitness, lower- and upper-body strength, aerobic endurance and agility (p < 0.05), with no changes in the CG. Conclusions: 8-week of BoP programme reduced BP and enhanced physical function in sedentary hypertensive older adults. Given its accessible, motivating and socially engaging format, BoP represents a promising non-pharmacological strategy for hypertension management and functional fitness of healthy ageing. Full article

Background: The Body Roundness Index (BRI) is an emerging anthropometric measure that reflects central adiposity, particularly relevant in ageing populations where body composition and nutritional status undergo significant changes. This study aims to explore patterns linking BRI values, age, energy intake, and micronutrient adequacy using cluster analysis, with a focus on implications for older adults. Methods: Data from 1504 community-dwelling older adults (mean age 74.4 ± 10.8 years) in Poland participating in the PolSenior project were analyzed. K-means cluster analysis was applied to standardized variables (BRI, age, energy intake, and micronutrient adequacy) to identify major participant profiles. Results: The data indicate that older adults, particularly those over 75 years old, are at an elevated risk of inadequate micronutrient intake, especially for essential nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, folate and vitamin D. Three distinct clusters were identified: Cluster 1 (n = 495, 33%): oldest participants, lowest BRI, and insufficient energy and micronutrient intake, indicating a high risk of undernutrition; Cluster 2 (n = 557, 37%): average age, moderate BRI, and highest energy and micronutrient intake, suggesting a potentially excessive energy balance. Cluster 3 (n = 452, 30%): the youngest group with the highest BRI and the lowest energy and micronutrient intake, indicating early-onset central adiposity and poor dietary quality. Conclusions: Three clusters were identified that differed significantly in BRI, age, and adequacy of energy and micronutrient intake. BRI combined with dietary indicators effectively distinguishes nutritional risk profiles among older adults. A low BRI may indicate a risk of undernutrition in advanced age, whereas a higher BRI with low nutrient adequacy suggests poor diet quality, even within the older population. Age-specific and nutrition-sensitive interventions are needed to support healthy ageing. Full article

Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of eight weeks of in-season training with wearable resistance attached to the forearm on spike velocity in female volleyball players. Methods: A total of 13 senior female volleyball players belonging to the same team (age 23.5 ± 3.2 years, body mass 66.8 ± 6.9 kg, and height 174.7 ± 5.8 cm) participated and were divided into an experimental group (n = 7) or a control group (n = 6). Both groups participated in the same training sessions, but the experimental group trained with wearable resistance attached to the forearm, while the control group wore wearable resistance on the calf during the training sessions. Before and after an eight-week training period, spike velocity was tested. Results: The main findings were that spike velocity did not increase in either group, which was contrary to our hypothesis. In fact, neither the forearm-loaded experimental group nor the calf-loaded control group showed any performance improvement; instead, both groups demonstrated small, non-significant declines in spike velocity over the 8-week period (on average, about 2.1% in both groups). These outcomes occurred with high individual variability, with no significant difference between the groups (time × group: F(1, 11) = 0.008, p = 0.929). The between-group contrast was trivial, reinforcing that the forearm-loading intervention offered no clear benefit over normal training in practical terms. Conclusions: Taken at face value, this protocol does not support using wearable resistance during the competitive season to enhance spike velocity. It may be that off-season or individualized-load protocols could elicit more positive effects when overall training and fatigue levels are better controlled. Full article

Objective: Assess potential associations between the health behaviors, resilience, and body mass index (BMI) of first-year students and compare these metrics between students at a small military college and a representative national sample. Methods: Cross-sectional data were collected via an online survey administered by the American College Health Association (ACHA) during the fall of 2022 from first-year students at a senior military college (n = 77) and first-year college students who completed the NCHA-III (n = 7644). Results: Military college students had significantly higher levels of weekly vigorous physical activity and strength training than the national sample. Vigorous physical activity, strength training, and better sleep significantly predicted improved psychological resilience and BMI values in the national sample. No behaviors predicted psychological resilience or BMI in the military college sample. Conclusions: Health behaviors like physical activity and sleep may improve resilience and body weight in civilian college students. However, combining military training with college life appears to have less impact on the relationship between health behaviors and resilience. Full article

Background/Objectives: Despite the growing popularity of fresh food for dogs, there is an extremely small amount of literature evaluating the potential health benefits of fresh food and reduced processing compared to traditionally processed shelf stable cans, extruded kibble, or other food formats. Additionally, aging dogs have been previously documented to have altered metabolism and nutritional needs compared to a healthy adult dog population, but these differences are not well defined. The objective of the study was to compare the effects of feeding a fresh, human-grade food versus a standard extruded kibble diet in a year-long longitudinal study on serum metabolomic profiles in senior dogs. Methods: Twenty-two healthy mixed-breed geriatric Alaskan sled dogs were age- and sex matched into two feeding groups. All dogs were fed the extruded diet (control) for a 4-month washout period prior to being transitioned into their respective treatment group. Group 1 continued to be fed the control diet, while Group 2 was transitioned to a fresh, human-grade food (treatment). Body weight and body condition were assessed monthly, and calorie intake was adjusted to maintain body weight. Individual serum samples were collected at day 0 and months 1, 3, 6, and 12. Metabolomic profiling of serum samples was performed by Metabolon, Inc. (Durham, NC, USA). Data was analyzed using two-way analysis of variance with repeated measures to determine treatment differences. Results: Dogs fed the treatment food had an increase in branched-chain amino acid metabolism, creatine, carnosine, anserine, fatty acid metabolism, long-chain n-3 fatty acids, lipolysis, and ketogenesis. The treatment group had decreased advanced glycation end products, fatty acid synthesis, and creatinine. Conclusions: This study is the first long-term feeding study evaluating serum metabolomics in dogs that demonstrates the dramatic and sustained impact that diet can have on canine metabolism. Full article

Background/Objectives: Each year, the number of kidney transplants (KT) performed in older recipients continues to rise. The process of aging may impact early post-transplant outcomes. The aim of this study was to analyze one-year outcomes, clinical and surgical complications, as well as patient and graft survival in senior recipients. Methods: This retrospective, observational study included a total of 270 participants who underwent KT during the period between January 2021 and April 2024. Recipients were divided into two groups: the older group (≥60 years; n = 75) and the younger group (<60 years; n = 195) and then analyzed during a one-year follow-up period. Results: Older recipients were characterized by a higher body mass index (MD = 1.77, CI95 [0.63; 2.91], p = 0.002), suffered more often from diabetes mellitus (RR = 2.94, CI95 [1.79; 4.82], p < 0.001), cardiovascular diseases (RR = 5.20, CI95 [2.90; 9.32], p < 0.001) and were more likely to receive a kidney from older (MD = 12.37, CI95 [8.94; 15.80], p < 0.001) deceased (p < 0.001) donors. Senior patients had more infections (p = 0.019) and surgical complications (RR = 1.81, CI95 [1.14; 2.87], p = 0.020), more cardiac events (RR = 2.28, CI95 [1.17; 4.43], p = 0.025), and a higher incidence of delayed graft function (p < 0.001) compared to younger patients. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was significantly lower in the older group both at initial hospital discharge (MD = −6.50, CI95 [−13.00; −3.00], p = 0.004) and at one-year follow-up (MD = −11.79, CI95 [−17.32; −6.25], p < 0.001). No differences were observed in the incidence of biopsy-proven acute rejection, cytomegalovirus replication, and polyomavirus replication. One-year patient and graft survival was 97.3% and 94.7% in the older group, and 98.5% and 96.9% in the younger group, respectively. Conclusions: Kidney transplantation in older recipients is safe in the short term. Although eGFR was lower in the older group, it remained within an acceptable range. Full article

Background/Objectives: Spinal hydatid disease frequently poses significant surgical challenges and leads to severe neurological complications. Despite the development of various surgical techniques, recurrence remains a common issue. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impacts of radical vertebrectomy on recurrence and long-term follow-up outcomes by comparing total en-bloc spondylectomy with conventional laminectomy, decompression, and posterior stabilisation in patients treated at our centre. Methods: This study included 21 patients who underwent surgery for spinal hydatid cysts at our centre between 2001 and 2021. Twelve patients had cystectomy, laminectomy, decompression, and stabilisation, and nine patients had total en-bloc spondylectomy. A single senior surgeon carried out each procedure, selecting the surgical approach based on the presence of vertebral body involvement. All patients received albendazole treatment for six months following surgery. The surgeon who performed the operations followed up all patients clinically and radiologically for at least three years. Results: Seven out of twelve patients (58.3%) who had conventional surgery experienced recurrences, while total en-bloc spondylectomy produced no recurrences (p = 0.004). The recurrent cases had a mean of 2.8 surgical procedures and manifested within 14 months. Although total en-bloc spondylectomy was associated with a longer operative time and greater blood loss, neurological recovery and overall clinical outcomes were comparable between the two groups. The difference in the recurrence rate was statistically significant. Conclusions: Although technically demanding, radical vertebrectomy is shown to provide complete protection against recurrence in appropriately selected patients with spinal hydatid disease in this study. Furthermore, as conservative approaches often require multiple procedures, total en-bloc spondylectomy can be considered an effective treatment for patients with vertebral body involvement. Full article

The impact of climate change is posing substantial risks for contemporary businesses and individuals. In response, insurance companies are adapting old and adopting new strategies and practices. This study aims to identify operational and structural changes that insurance companies implement in response to risks posed by climate change. The overarching goal of this study is to understand the perceptions of industry experts about how climate change impacts the insurance industry, and identify corporate responses to the pressures stemming from climate change and the rising societal awareness of its impact. Using qualitative research methods, we gathered primary data from eight interviews with senior executives involved in sustainability initiatives within the insurance industry, along with secondary data on Singapore’s three largest insurance companies. Our findings indicate that industry experts view climate change as a significant external force influencing corporate strategies and operational frameworks. Further, insurance companies are investing in environmentally friendly businesses, changing product portfolios, and developing collaboration with administrative and regulatory bodies. Implications of these findings for managers and policymakers are discussed, along with directions for future research. Full article

The present investigation set out to examine potential categories regarding depressive symptoms in frail senior individuals in China and to identify the contributing variables associated with each category, with the goal of informing more targeted mental health interventions. Data were drawn from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey, commonly called CHARLS, which comprised an overall cohort of 1083 qualifying respondents. A latent profile analysis (LPA) revealed the following four distinct depression profiles: a Low Depression–High Loneliness Group (38.4%), a Moderately Low Depression–High Suicidal Ideation Group (7.5%), a Moderately High Depression–High Negative Emotion Group (33.4%), and a High Depression–High Suicidal Ideation Group (20.7%). Ordered multi-categorical logistic regression and restricted cubic spline analyses revealed that age, gender, body pain, pension insurance, sleep duration, and frailty index were significant predictors of depression classification. These findings suggest that depressive symptoms among frail older individuals in China are markedly heterogeneous, highlighting the need to develop differentiated intervention strategies for distinct depression risk groups to promote their mental health. Full article

Background: This pilot study aimed to investigate the experiences of participating in a brief walking football intervention among rural older adults and explore the functional health outcomes of participation. Methods: This multi-methods study saw 13 older adults (7 males/6 females, 63.2 ± 9.4 years) complete 1-h of walking football per week for six weeks. Pre- and post-intervention, participants underwent assessments of body composition, as well as functional assessments using the Senior Fitness Testing Battery. On completion of the walking football intervention, all participants joined in a semi-structured focus group interview to explore their experiences of participation. Results: Thematic analysis of focus group data identified three themes that captured participant’s experiences, including: (1) “Opportunity to jump back in with what we can physically do”, (2) Social connection and feeling “part of something bigger”, and (3) “It’s how our brain is engaged”. Trivial changes were observed in assessments of body composition (0.07–0.08) and flexibility (0.02–0.19). Furthermore, small-to-large magnitude changes were observed for several functional health outcomes suggestive of improved walking capacity (0.72–1.6), agility (−0.9) and upper and lower body muscular strength (0.49). Conclusions: Rural older adults reported experiencing perceived health and well-being improvements from participation in a brief walking football intervention, with functional health benefits also evident; however, further suitably powered evidence is highly warranted. Full article