Prevalence of sarcopenia and its association with activities of daily living and dysphagia in convalescent rehabilitation ward inpatients

Low phase angle is associated with swallowing outcomes in patients with acute stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Stroke-induced dysphagia is a critical complication that can lead to severe secondary worldwide health issues. This retrospective cohort study investigated the association between phase angle (PhA) and swallowing function in the acute phase of stroke. We aim to establish whether nutritional and muscular interventions associated with PhA could enhance swallowing recovery and reduce related risks post-stroke.

METHODS

Stroke patients requiring rehabilitation were assessed for the association between low PhA-with cutoff values for low PhA defined as less than 5.28 for men and 4.32 for women-and swallowing function using a functional oral intake scale (FOIS) on Day 7 after admission and after the completion of acute stroke treatment.

RESULTS

In this study of 140 acute stroke patients (median age 74[69-81], and 85 men and 55 women), 76 patients with low PhA significantly exhibited older age, lower body mass index, more decline in skeletal muscle mass index, and lower premorbid modified Rankin Scale scores compared to 64 patients with high PhA. Multivariate linear regression revealed that low PhA was independently associated with FOIS scores on Day 7 after admission (β=-0.143 and p=0.036) and after the completion of acute stroke treatment (β=-0.513 and p=0.024), even when adjusting for confounding factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Low PhA is associated with swallowing function in patients with acute stroke. Nutritional and physical interventions improving PhA may lead to a reduction of the risk associated with stroke sequelae.

Improvement of oral function and its impact on oral food intake in subacute stroke patients: A prospective study with dental intervention

BACKGROUND

The association between oral food intake and oral function during the subacute stage of stroke is not well known.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate (1) oral function changes in subacute stroke patients and (2) association between oral function and oral intake status at several time points.

METHODS

In a prospective study involving 324 stroke patients at a convalescent rehabilitation unit, four oral function parameters (maximum tongue pressure, MTP; lip-tongue motor function, LTMF; maximum occlusal force, MOF and oral health assessment tool, OHAT) were quantitatively measured upon admission (T0), at 1 month (T1) and 2 months (T2). Oral feeding status was assessed using the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) and divided based on the FOIS score into the dysphagic and regular diet groups. The changes in oral functions at the three time points were tested using generalized estimating equation analysis. The association between FOIS groups and oral functions at T1 and T2 was analysed by means of logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

All oral function parameters improved significantly over time during the hospital stay (mean differences: 4.9 for MTP, 0.6 for LTMF, 1.1 for MOF and -1.8 for OHAT). The FOIS groups were significantly associated with MTP (p < .05) and OHAT (p < .05) at both T1 and T2.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that oral function significantly improves in patients during subacute stroke rehabilitation and better oral health can be associated with better oral intake. Improved oral function through dental intervention and oral rehabilitation may contribute to gains in oral food intake.

Malnutrition suppresses improvements in depression symptoms in older adult patients with stroke undergoing convalescent rehabilitation

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Depression symptoms are both prevalent and associated with poor prognosis in patients with convalescent stroke. Therefore, the improvement of depression symptoms is important for patients with convalescent stroke. This study aimed to examine whether malnutrition diagnosed using the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria and its components are associated with improvements in depression symptoms in patients with stroke undergoing rehabilitation.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of older adult patients with convalescent stroke. Inclusion criteria comprised patients aged ≥65 years experiencing their first occurrence of stroke and admitted for rehabilitation therapy. Patients were classified into either the malnutrition or normal nutrition groups based on the diagnosis of malnutrition using the GLIM criteria. The Geriatric Depression Screening Scale (GDS)-15 was used to evaluate depression symptoms. The primary outcome of the study was the change in depression symptoms, indicating a change in GDS score from admission to discharge. The association between malnutrition diagnosed using the GLIM criteria and change in depression symptoms was assessed using multiple regression analysis. Additionally, associations with the constructs of the GLIM criteria were investigated.

RESULTS

The malnutrition group comprised 64 (45%) patients, with a mean age of 78.2 years; 77 (54%) and 66 (46%) were males and females, respectively. Multiple regression analysis showed that malnutrition, diagnosed using the GLIM criteria (β: -0.306, p < 0.001), was independently associated with changes in depression symptoms. Moreover, the GLIM criterion component of reduced muscle mass (β: -0.235, p < 0.001) demonstrated a negative association with a change in depression symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Malnutrition and reduced muscle mass, diagnosed using the GLIM criteria in patients with stroke undergoing convalescent rehabilitation, were found to suppress the improvement of depression symptoms.

The Optimal Cut-off Value of Upper Arm Circumference and Calf Circumference for Assessing Sarcopenia Among Chinese Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Objective

To explore the cut-off values and health evaluations of upper arm circumference (AC) and calf circumference (CC) on sarcopenia in Chinese community-dwelling older people.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, AC, CC, handgrip strength, muscle mass and gait speed were measured in 1537 Chinese community-dwelling older people in Sub-study 1. Correlation analysis, receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC curve) analysis, and consistency analysis were used for determination of AC and CC cut-off values for sarcopenia diagnosis (sarcopenia-AC and CC). Thereafter, 269 participants accepted additional assessments on physical function, body composition and muscle strength in Sub-study 2. T-test or Mann-Whitney U-test was used to explore the differential effects of sarcopenia-AC and CC on health indicators between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic participants.

Results

In Sub-study 1, the Area Under ROC (AUC) of AC and CC for sarcopenia screening were greater than 0.700 (P<0.05). The cut-off values, sensitivity and specificity of AC and CC on sarcopenia in males were 25.9 cm (86.0%, 83.6%) and 33.7 cm (90.7%, 81.4%) whereas in females were 26.5 cm (70.8%, 69.7%) and 33.0 cm (86.5%, 69.4%), respectively. In Sub-study 2, the participants with sarcopenia-AC or sarcopenia-CC showed lower muscle strength and lower fat and muscle mass than the ones without (P<0.05). Additionally, males instead of females with sarcopenia-AC or sarcopenia-CC showed worse performance in time-up and go test and 6-Minute Walk Test (P<0.05). However, the 30-second chair stand test was not different between participants with and without sarcopenia-AC or sarcopenia-CC in both sexes.

Conclusion

We found accurate and Chinese population targeted cut-off values of AC and CC on sarcopenia diagnosis (25.9 cm and 33.7 cm in males; 26.5 cm and 33.0 cm in females) and a good evaluation effect of AC and CC on fat and muscle mass, muscle strength and physical functions in males, not females.

Possible sarcopenia and its association with hospital-associated dysphagia and decline in physical function: Findings from a heart failure patients prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

There is limited evidence regarding the association of sarcopenia with dysphagia and physical function in patients with heart failure. This study examined the association between possible sarcopenia and both swallowing and physical function in individuals with acute heart failure (AHF).

METHODS

This prospective cohort study included hospitalized patients with AHF. Possible sarcopenia was assessed on admission using calf circumference and grip strength according to an international diagnostic criteria. The primary outcome was dysphagia at discharge using the Food Intake Level Scale (FILS), and the secondary outcome was physical function at discharge using the Barthel Index (BI). Multiple regression analysis and logistic regression, adjusted for potential confounders, were used to examine the association between possible sarcopenia at admission and FILS and BI at discharge.

RESULTS

A total of 320 patients (mean age 81.5 years; 170 women) were included in the analysis; 199 (59.4%) were diagnosed with possible sarcopenia. Multivariate analysis showed that possible sarcopenia at admission was significantly associated with FILS at discharge (β = -0.1204; p = 0.039). Possible sarcopenia at admission was not significantly associated with BI at discharge (OR = 2.066; 95% CI, 0.910-4.692, p = 0.083).

CONCLUSIONS

Possible sarcopenia was associated with decline in swallowing function during hospitalization in patients with AHF. These findings highlight the need for early detection and treatment of possible sarcopenia in this setting.

Factors associated with an improvement in extracellular water-to-total body water ratio in older adults with hip fractures: A decision tree analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The extracellular water-to-total body water ratio (ECW/TBW) increases with age and after fractures. A high ECW/TBW may hinder improvements in physical function and skeletal muscle mass. However, the effects of ECW/TBW improvement have not been properly investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors associated with ECW/TBW improvement in older adults with hip fractures.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 203 patients with hip fractures who were admitted to a convalescent rehabilitation ward. ECW/TBW and skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) were measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis. The patients were classified into two groups: those with an improvement in ECW/TBW (n = 123) and those without an improvement (n = 80). Decision tree analysis was performed to examine the factors associated with ECW/TBW improvement. As a secondary objective, a multiple regression analysis was performed to identify the factors associated with SMI gain.

RESULTS

Decision tree analysis identified rehabilitation volume and protein intake as the first and second factors most significantly associated with an improvement in ECW/TBW, respectively. Multiple regression analysis showed that improved ECW/TBW (β: 0.400, p < 0.001) was significantly associated with SMI gain.

CONCLUSIONS

Rehabilitation volume and protein intake are clinically important for improving ECW/TBW in older adults with hip fractures.

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; 24: 715-721.

The extracellular-to-total body water ratio reflects improvement in the activities of daily living in patients who experienced acute stroke

OBJECTIVES

To determine the relationship between bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) parameters, including the extracellular water-to-total body water ratio (ECW/TBW), and the activities of daily living (ADL) improvement, in patients who experienced acute stroke.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 307 patients (mean age, 72 years; 39 % female) who experienced acute stroke and were admitted to the stroke unit of the Nippon Medical School Hospital (Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan) between April 2021 and March 2022. The Functional Independence Measure (FIM) was assessed at initial rehabilitation and discharge, and FIM effectiveness was calculated as ADL improvement in the participating acute care hospitals. BIA markers included the skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), phase angle (PhA), and ECW/TBW. Multiple linear regression models were used to estimate the relationship between the FIM effectiveness and each BIA marker.

RESULTS

The mean (±SD) FIM effectiveness was 0.45 ± 0.36. The proportions of low SMI (male, <7.0 kg/m2; female, <5.7 kg/m2) and low PhA (male <5.36 degrees, female <3.85 degrees), were 48.9 % and 43.3 %, respectively. In addition, the proportions of of low (<0.36), normal (0.36-0.40), and high (>0.4) ECW/TBW ratios were 1.3 %, 78.5 %, and 20.2 %, respectively. After adjustments for demographic and clinical variables, low PhA, low ECW/TBW, and high ECW/TBW were all significantly associated with FIM effectiveness (P < 0.05), with β coefficients of -0.126, -0.089, and -0.117, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Low and High ECW/TBW and low PhA levels were negatively correlated with improvements in ADL. The ECW/TBW ratio may be an additional indicator of rehabilitation trainability in patients who experience acute stroke.

Prevalence and risk factors of sarcopenia in patients on maintenance hemodialysis: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to explore the prevalence and related risk factors of sarcopenia in patients on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD).

METHODS

This cohort study enrolled 165 patients on MHD. The patients were divided into sarcopenia and non-sarcopenia groups based on the presence of sarcopenia or not. Sarcopenia was diagnosed according to the consensus of the Asian Sarcopenia Working Group that considers reduced muscle mass and decreased muscle strength (19). The muscle mass was measured using the multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance (Inbody260) and skeletal muscle index (SMI) was used: <7.0 kg/m2 (male); <5.7 kg/m2 (female) - with muscle mass reduction. The electronic grip dynamometer was used for measuring dominant handgrip strength (HGS) to reflect muscle strength. Male patients with HGS < 28 kg and female patients with HGS < 18 kg were considered with a decrease in muscle strength. The demographic characteristics, laboratory indexes, anthropometrical measurements, body compositions, and InBody score were compared between groups. The multivariate logistic regression was used to explore the risk factors for sarcopenia.

RESULTS

Of the 165 patients on MHD, 36 had sarcopenia, and the prevalence was 21.82%. Patients in the sarcopenia group had higher ages and lower body mass index, serum albumin level, circumference of waist, hip, and biceps, handgrip strength, total water content, protein inorganic salt concentrations, skeletal muscle mass, basal metabolic rate, obesity degree, SMI, and body fat content. The multivariate logistic regression showed that age, waist circumference, handgrip strength, and InBody score were influencing factors for sarcopenia in patients on hemodialysis.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of sarcopenia was high in patients on MHD. Higher age, lower waist circumference, lower handgrip strength, and lower InBody score were independent risk factors for sarcopenia in such patients.

Association between Sarcopenia and Balance in Patients Undergoing Inpatient Rehabilitation after Hip Fractures: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background and Objectives: Sarcopenia is characterized by a decline in skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function and is associated with advancing age. This condition has been suggested as a factor that negatively influences the functional outcomes of patients with hip fractures. However, the association between sarcopenia and balance impairment in patients undergoing inpatient rehabilitation after hip fractures remains unclear. In this retrospective cohort study, we aimed to investigate the impact of sarcopenia on balance outcomes in patients undergoing inpatient rehabilitation following hip fractures. Materials and Methods: Baseline sarcopenia was diagnosed using skeletal muscle mass index and handgrip strength, with cut-off values recommended by the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia. The primary outcome was balance, which was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) at the time of discharge. A multiple linear regression model analyzed the association between sarcopenia and balance. The model was adjusted for age, sex, comorbidities, and cognitive function. Results: Among the 62 patients (mean age: 78.2; sex: 75.8% women), 24.2% had sarcopenia. Patients with sarcopenia had significantly lower BBS scores than did those without sarcopenia (41 vs. 49 points, p = 0.004). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that baseline sarcopenia was independently associated with BBS scores at discharge (β = -0.282, p = 0.038). Conclusions: Following inpatient rehabilitation, patients with baseline sarcopenia had inferior balance outcomes than did those without sarcopenia at discharge. Sarcopenia should be assessed on admission to consider and provide additional care for those with a higher risk of poor functional outcomes. More studies are needed to investigate the association between sarcopenia and functional outcomes, examine the impact of sarcopenia treatment on these outcomes, and reduce the risk of recurrent falls and fractures in patients with hip fractures.

Transsynaptic degeneration of ventral horn motor neurons exists but plays a minor role in lower motor system dysfunction in acute ischemic rats

BACKGROUND

As a leading cause of mortality and long-term disability, acute ischemic stroke can produce far-reaching pathophysiological consequences. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated abnormalities in the lower motor system following stroke, while the existence of Transsynaptic degeneration of contralateral spinal cord ventral horn (VH) neurons is still debated.

METHODS

Using a rat model of acute ischemic stroke, we analyzed spinal cord VH neuron counts contralaterally and ipsilaterally after stroke with immunofluorescence staining. Furthermore, we estimated the overall lower motor unit abnormalities after stroke by simultaneously measuring the modified neurological severity score (mNSS), compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude, repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS), spinal cord VH neuron counts, and the corresponding muscle fiber morphology. The activation status of microglia and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK 1/2) in the spinal cord VH was also assessed.

RESULTS

At 7 days after stroke, the contralateral CMAP amplitudes declined to a nadir indicating lower motor function damage, and significant muscle disuse atrophy was observed on the same side; meanwhile, the VH neurons remained intact. At 14 days after focal stroke, lower motor function recovered with alleviated muscle disuse atrophy, while transsynaptic degeneration occurred on the contralateral side with elevated activation of ERK 1/2, along with the occurrence of neurogenic muscle atrophy. No apparent decrement of CMAP amplitude was observed with RNS during the whole experimental process.

CONCLUSIONS

This study offered an overview of changes in the lower motor system in experimental ischemic rats. We demonstrated that transsynaptic degeneration of contralateral VH neurons occurred when lower motor function significantly recovered, which indicated the minor role of transsynaptic degeneration in lower motor dysfunction during the acute and subacute phases of focal ischemic stroke.

Impact of possible sarcopenia on functional prognosis in patients with acute stroke with premorbid disability

AIM

How possible sarcopenia affects functional prognosis in patients with premorbid disability remains unclear. This study aimed to compare and investigate the impact of possible sarcopenia at admission on functional outcomes at discharge in patients with acute stroke with and without premorbid disability.

METHODS

This cohort study enrolled patients who were consecutively admitted to a single center for acute stroke. Calf circumference and grip strength were measured within 7 days of admission, and possible sarcopenia was determined using the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 criteria. The Functional Independence Measure (FIM) score at discharge during the acute phase was the primary outcome. To examine the impact of possible sarcopenia on FIM scores at discharge, patients were divided into two groups according to being with or without premorbid disability according to the modified Rankin Scale, and multiple linear regression analysis was performed in each group.

RESULTS

This study included 456 patients with acute stroke (median age, 80 years). In the premorbid-disability group (n = 166), possible sarcopenia was present in 140 patients (84%). Patients without possible sarcopenia had significantly higher FIM scores at discharge compared with those with possible sarcopenia (P < 0.001). However, multiple linear regression analysis showed that possible sarcopenia was not associated with FIM scores at discharge in the premorbid-disability group (β = -0.054, P = 0.346).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study demonstrated that a high rate of possible sarcopenia was observed in patients with stroke with premorbid disability; however, this did not affect functional prognosis. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 359-363.

Four-Step Co-Designing of the Reablement Strategies Targeting Sarcopenia (ReStart-S): An Exercise-Based Multicomponent Program for Older Adults Residing in Long-Term Care Settings

Background

The prevalence of sarcopenia is concerningly high in long-term care settings (LTCS); yet, no exercise programs specifically targeting older adults living in residential care are available.

Objective

The goal of the present study was to co-design and validate a program named Reablement Strategies targeting Sarcopenia (ReStart-S) for older long-term care residents.

Design

Cross-sectional study with an exploratory phase.

Settings

LTCS in Udupi, Karnataka, India.

Participants

Sarcopenic older adults diagnosed using Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 criteria.

Material and Methods

The program was designed using a four-step intervention mapping technique involving systematic progression after completing each step. The steps included 1) identifying the appropriate exercise-based intervention for sarcopenia, 2) determining objectives and expected outcomes, 3) seeking expert views through a Delphi consensus approach, and 4) assessing the feasibility of ReStart-S program among older adults living in LTCS.

Results

A comprehensive literature review appraised existing exercise programs for managing sarcopenia. A workshop held with six older adults and one caretaker, decided on morning exercise sessions, recommended 2-7 days/week. The results of the review and workshop were compiled for the Delphi process that had seven experts from 5 countries, achieving a 71% response rate after four rounds. In the last step, a pilot study on eight LTCS residents, two males and six females with a mean age of 78.3 ± 8.3 years, was conducted and the program was found to be feasible.

Conclusion

The ReStart-S program for managing sarcopenia among older adults residing in LTCS incorporates evidence from the literature and the engagement of older adults, caregivers, and experts, making it a contextually appropriate intervention. Our study also provides researchers and healthcare professionals insight into co-designing an intervention program for vulnerable older adults. Finally, the program evaluation indicates that a full-scale trial testing the efficacy of the ReStart-S program is feasible.

Low hemoglobin levels are associated with compromised muscle health: Insights from a post-stroke rehabilitation cohort

AIM

There is limited evidence concerning the association between anemia and alterations in muscle health among hospitalized older patients. We aimed to evaluate the associations between baseline hemoglobin (Hb) levels and changes in muscle function in patients undergoing rehabilitation after stroke.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included consecutive hospitalized post-stroke patients. Data on serum Hb level were extracted from medical records on tests performed within 24 h of admission. The main outcomes were discharge score for the skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) obtained through bioimpedance analysis and the corresponding change in SMI during hospitalization. Other outcomes were handgrip strength (HGS) at discharge and the alteration in HGS during hospitalization. Multivariate linear regression analyses were used to determine the association between Hb levels at admission and outcomes of interest, adjusted for potential confounders.

RESULTS

Data from 955 patients (mean age 73.2 years; 53.6% men) were included in the analysis. The median Hb level at admission was 13.3 [11.9, 14.5] g/dL. After fully adjusting for confounding factors, the baseline Hb level was significantly and positively associated with SMI at discharge (β = 0.046, P = 0.039) and with SMI gain (β = 0.010, P = 0.039). Further, the baseline Hb level was independently and positively associated with HGS at discharge (β = 0.058, P = 0.014) and with its change from baseline (β = 0.100, P = 0.014).

CONCLUSION

Diminished baseline Hb levels were demonstrated be correlated with compromised muscle health in patients after stroke. Evaluating anemia at the outset serves as a crucial prognostic indicator. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 305-311.

Prevalence and factors associated with sarcopenia among older adults in a post-acute hospital in Singapore

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia is common in older adults worldwide, but its prevalence varies widely owing to differences in diagnostic criteria, population sampled, and care setting. We aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with sarcopenia in patients aged 65 and above admitted to a post-acute hospital in Singapore.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of 400 patients recruited from a community hospital in Singapore. Data including socio-demographics, physical activity, nutritional status, cognition, clinical and functional status, as well as anthropometric measurements were collected. Sarcopenia was defined using the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 criteria [AWGS2019].

RESULTS

Of the 383 patients with complete datasets, overall prevalence of sarcopenia was 54% while prevalence of severe sarcopenia was 38.9%. Participants with increased age, male gender and a low physical activity level were more likely to be sarcopenic, while those with higher hip circumference and higher BMI of ≥27.5m/kg2 were less likely to be sarcopenic. Other than the above-mentioned variables, cognitive impairment was also associated with severe sarcopenia.

CONCLUSIONS

More than 1 in 2 older adults admitted to a post-acute hospital in Singapore are sarcopenic. There is an urgent need to address this important clinical syndrome burden and to identify patients at risk of sarcopenia in post-acute settings in Singapore for early intervention.

Impact of rehabilitation dose on body mass index change in older acute patients with stroke: a retrospective observational study

Background

It is established that a low body mass index (BMI) correlates with a diminished home discharge rate and a decline in activities of daily living (ADL) capacity among elderly stroke patients. Nevertheless, there exists a paucity of knowledge regarding strategies to mitigate BMI reduction during the acute phase. This investigation seeks to elucidate the impact of rehabilitation dose, as determined by both physical and occupational therapy, on BMI alterations, positing that a heightened rehabilitation dose could thwart BMI decline.

Methods

This retrospective, observational study was conducted in the stroke unit of a university hospital. Enrollees comprised individuals aged ≥65 years, hospitalized for stroke, and subsequently relocated to rehabilitation facilities between January 2019 and November 2020. The percentage change in BMI (%ΔBMI) was calculated based on BMI values at admission and discharge. Multivariate multiple regression analysis was employed to ascertain the influence of rehabilitation dose on %ΔBMI.

Results

A total of 187 patients were included in the analysis, of whom 94% experienced a reduction in BMI during acute hospitalization. Following adjustment for sociodemographic and clinical factors, multivariable analyzes revealed a positive association between rehabilitation dose and %ΔBMI (β = 0.338, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that, in the context of acute stroke treatment, an augmented rehabilitation dose is associated with a diminished decrease in BMI.

Minimal Detectable Changes in the Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test in Older Japanese Adults with Sarcopenia Requiring Long-Term Care

Background and Objectives: Although the importance of sarcopenia control has been suggested, there are no minimal detectable change (MDC) studies of older adults with sarcopenia, to our knowledge, and the criteria for determining the effectiveness of interventions are unknown. The purpose of this study was to calculate the MDC in the five times sit-to-stand test (FTSST) in older Japanese adults with sarcopenia and use it as an index to determine the effectiveness of future interventions. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in January and February 2023. The participants of this study were older Japanese adults using daycare rehabilitation. Thirty-eight participants performed the FTSST twice a week. Grip strength, walking speed, and skeletal muscle mass were measured to determine the presence of sarcopenia. The diagnosis of sarcopenia was defined as low skeletal muscle mass and low muscle strength and/or low physical function, based on the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 diagnostic criteria. Participants were further classified as sarcopenic or non-sarcopenic. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and MDCs were calculated for the overall, sarcopenia, and non-sarcopenia groups using the two FTSST measures. The average and difference of the two variables were used to calculate the MDC. Results: Overall, the ICC (1,1) was 0.94, MDC was 2.87 s, and MDC% was 23.3%. The sarcopenia group had an ICC (1,1) of 0.93, MDC of 3.12 s, and MDC% of 24.0%. The non-sarcopenia group had an ICC (1,1) of 0.95, MDC of 2.25 s, and MDC% of 19.2%. Conclusions: Despite the limitation of the data being only from this study population, we found that a change of ≥3.12 s or ≥24.0% in the FTSST of older adults with sarcopenia was clinically meaningful and may help to determine the effectiveness of sarcopenia treatment. The improvement or decline in older Japanese adults with sarcopenia should be determined by changes in the FTSST over a longer period of time than that for other conditions.

Concurrent Negative Impact of Undernutrition and Heart Failure on Functional and Cognitive Recovery in Hip Fracture Patients

Evidence on the effects of frailty, undernutrition, and heart failure (HF) on patients with hip fractures is scarce. This retrospective cohort study aimed to examine the effects of undernutrition and HF on outcomes in patients who underwent convalescent rehabilitation after hip fracture. Undernutrition was defined as body mass index (BMI) < 20.0 (Low BMI). Heart failure (HF) was defined as a B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) > 100 (High BNP). The study outcomes included the Functional Independence Measure motor domain (FIM-motor) and cognitive domain (FIM-cognition) at discharge. To consider the effects of low BMI, high BNP, and the simultaneous presence of both ("low BMI and high BNP"), we used multivariate linear regression analyses to examine whether these were associated with the outcomes. A total of 110 (mean age 87.4 years, 24.8% male) were analyzed. As a result, low BMI (β = -0.088, p = 0.027) and high BNP (β = -0.053, p = 0.015), each alone, were significantly associated with the FIM motor at discharge, whereas the simultaneous presence of "low BMI and high BNP" was significantly associated with the FIM motor at discharge, while the strength of the association was greater than each association alone (β = -0.152, p = 0.010). Further, the simultaneous presence of "low BMI and high BNP" was significantly associated with FIM cognition at discharge (β = -0.109, p = 0.014). Comprehensive multidisciplinary management is needed, including preoperative or early postoperative nutritional support and rehabilitation, followed by rehabilitation nutrition care management, in patients with hip fracture.

Substantial Loss of Skeletal Muscle Mass Occurs After Femoral Fragility Fracture

BACKGROUND

Femoral fragility fractures in older adults can result in devastating loss of physical function and independence. Skeletal muscle atrophy likely contributes to disability. The purpose of this study was to characterize the change in skeletal muscle mass, investigate the relationship with malnutrition and physical function, and identify risk factors for skeletal muscle loss.

METHODS

Adults ≥65 years of age who were treated with operative fixation of an isolated femoral fragility fracture were enrolled in this multicenter, prospective observational study. Skeletal muscle mass was assessed within 72 hours of admission using multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis, which was repeated at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. Sarcopenia was defined by sex-specific cutoffs for the appendicular skeletal muscle mass index. The Mini Nutritional Assessment was used to measure nutritional status at the time of injury. Physical function was measured using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function domain. Linear mixed models were used to evaluate changes in skeletal muscle mass and PROMIS Physical Function scores over time and to evaluate factors associated with skeletal muscle mass changes.

RESULTS

Ninety participants (74% female) with a mean age of 77.6 ± 9.0 years were enrolled. At the time of injury, 30 (33%) were sarcopenic and 44 (49%) were at risk for malnutrition or had malnutrition. Older age was associated with lower skeletal muscle mass (age of ≥75 versus <75 years: least squares mean [and standard error], -3.3 ± 1.6 kg; p = 0.042). From the time of injury to 6 weeks, participants lost an average of 2.4 kg (9%) of skeletal muscle mass (95% confidence interval [CI] = ‒3.0 to ‒1.8 kg; p < 0.001). This early loss did not recover by 6 months (1.8 kg persistent loss compared with baseline [95% CI = ‒2.5 to ‒1.1 kg]; p < 0.001). Participants with normal nutritional status lost more skeletal muscle mass from baseline to 6 weeks after injury compared with those with malnutrition (1.3 kg more loss [standard error, 0.6 kg]; p = 0.036). A 1-kg decrease in skeletal muscle mass was associated with an 8-point decrease in the PROMIS Physical Function (model parameter estimate, 0.12 [standard error, 0.04]; p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that older adults with femoral fragility fractures lost substantial skeletal muscle mass and physical function. Participants with adequate baseline nutrition actually lost more muscle mass than those who were malnourished, indicating that future investigations of interventions to prevent muscle loss should focus on older adults regardless of nutritional status.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

The Influence of Hemoglobin and Swallowing Ability on Daily Living Activities After Hospital Discharge in Taiwanese Stroke Patients: A Longitudinal Study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the mediating effect of swallowing ability on hemoglobin levels and activities of daily living (ADL).

DESIGN

Prospective longitudinal study.

SETTING

Two rehabilitation wards in a national referral center for Northern Taiwan, followed by discharge.

PARTICIPANTS

101 participants were admitted for first or recurrent infarction or hemorrhagic stroke and transferred to the rehabilitation ward of a medical center (N=101).

INTERVENTIONS

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Hemoglobin data were collected from medical records. Swallowing ability and ADL were measured using the Functional Oral Intake Scale and Barthel Index, respectively, with higher scores indicating better functioning.

RESULTS

Mediation analysis performed using path analysis illustrated that hemoglobin at the time of transfer to the rehabilitation ward had a direct and positive effect on swallowing ability at 1-3 days before discharge (path coefficient=0.21, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.04-0.35, P=.018), and swallowing ability at 1-3 days before discharge had a direct and positive effect on ADL at 1 month after discharge (path coefficient=0.36, 95% CI: 0.13-0.57, P=.002). Hemoglobin level at the time of transfer to the rehabilitation ward did not directly influence ADL 1 month after discharge (path coefficient=0.12, 95% CI: -0.05-0.28, P=.166). These results indicate that swallowing ability substantially mediates the relation between previous hemoglobin levels and subsequent ADL.

CONCLUSION

Low hemoglobin levels and poor swallowing ability should be concurrently addressed to improve ADL performance.

Sarcopenia in patients following stroke: Prevalence and associated factors

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of sarcopenia in patients following stroke during acute hospitalisation.

METHODS

This single-centre prospective observational cohort study assessed skeletal muscle mass using bioelectrical impedance analysis and muscle strength of patients with acute stroke at hospital discharge. Sarcopenia was diagnosed according to the AWGS-2019 criteria. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to identify associated factors of post stroke sarcopenia.

RESULTS

A total of 286 participants (32% female; median age, 72 years) were included in this study. The prevalence of post-stroke sarcopenia was 32.5% (n = 93). In multiple logistic regression analysis, age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.10; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05-1.05), National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (aOR: 1.15; 95% CI: 1.04-1.27), body mass index (BMI) (aOR: 0.73; 95% CI: 0.64-0.84) and Functional Oral Intake Scale (aOR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.51-0.89) were independently associated with post-stroke sarcopenia during acute hospitalisation.

CONCLUSION

Approximately one-third of acute stroke patients were diagnosed with sarcopenia at hospital discharge, and older age, severe stroke, low BMI, and poor swallowing function are associated with sarcopenia following stroke during acute hospitalisation.

Assessing Stroke-Related Sarcopenia in Chronic Stroke: Identification of Clinical Assessment Tools-A Pilot Study

Stroke-related sarcopenia has recently been defined as the muscle atrophy consequent to stroke and assessing it following the guidelines with simple clinical tools is crucial in chronic stroke survivors. The aim of this study was to determine the characteristics of patient-friendly instruments sarcopenia in a chronic stroke sample (SG) compared to non-stroke counterparts (CG). Each participant underwent a single assessment which consisted of: SARC-F questionnaire, assessment of muscle strength (hand grip and five-times sit-to-stand test, 5STS), the calf circumference (CC) of both legs, the short physical performance battery (SPPB), and the 10 m walk test. A total of 68 participants were included (SG, n = 34 and CG, n = 34). All variables showed statistical differences (p < 0.05) between the SG and the CG, except handgrip although it showed lower values for SG. The values of the 5STS (16.26 s) and the SPPB (7 points) were below to the cutoff values for the SG. The five-times sit-to-stand test, SPPB, and gait speed can lead clinicians to detect stroke-related sarcopenia. Maximum handgrip shows a trend of low values for men and women in the SG, however, CC did not detect sarcopenia in our sample.

Statin use impairs muscle strength recovery in post-stroke patients with sarcopenia

AIM

The effects of statins on muscle health are not well established. Therefore, this study investigated the impact of statin use on muscle strength and mass recovery in patients with sarcopenia after stroke.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included stroke patients with sarcopenia hospitalized between 2015 and 2021 at a post-acute rehabilitation hospital. Sarcopenia was diagnosed using handgrip strength and skeletal muscle mass index measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis according to the 2019 criteria of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia. The study outcomes included handgrip strength and skeletal muscle mass index at hospital discharge. We used multivariate analyses to examine whether statin use was independently associated with the outcomes. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

RESULTS

Of the 586 patients enrolled, 241 (mean age 79.3 years, 44.4% men) presented with sarcopenia and were included in the analysis. Statin use was observed in 61 (25.3%) patients. Statin use was independently negatively associated with handgrip strength at discharge (β = -0.095, P = 0.032), but not with skeletal muscle mass index at discharge (β = 0.019, P = 0.692).

CONCLUSIONS

Statin use was negatively associated with muscle strength recovery, but not with muscle mass in patients with sarcopenia who underwent rehabilitation after stroke. To maximize outcomes, sufficient consideration is needed for statin use in these patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 676-683.

Polyamines and Physical Activity in Musculoskeletal Diseases: A Potential Therapeutic Challenge

Autophagy dysregulation is commonplace in the pathogenesis of several invalidating diseases, such as musculoskeletal diseases. Polyamines, as spermidine and spermine, are small aliphatic cations essential for cell growth and differentiation, with multiple antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. Remarkably, they are emerging as natural autophagy regulators with strong anti-aging effects. Polyamine levels were significantly altered in the skeletal muscles of aged animals. Therefore, supplementation of spermine and spermidine may be important to prevent or treat muscle atrophy. Recent in vitro and in vivo experimental studies indicate that spermidine reverses dysfunctional autophagy and stimulates mitophagy in muscles and heart, preventing senescence. Physical exercise, as polyamines, regulates skeletal muscle mass inducing proper autophagy and mitophagy. This narrative review focuses on the latest evidence regarding the efficacy of polyamines and exercise as autophagy inducers, alone or coupled, in alleviating sarcopenia and aging-dependent musculoskeletal diseases. A comprehensive description of overall autophagic steps in muscle, polyamine metabolic pathways, and effects of the role of autophagy inducers played by both polyamines and exercise has been presented. Although literature shows few data in regard to this controversial topic, interesting effects on muscle atrophy in murine models have emerged when the two "autophagy-inducers" were combined. We hope these findings, with caution, can encourage researchers to continue investigating in this direction. In particular, if these novel insights could be confirmed in further in vivo and clinical studies, and the two synergic treatments could be optimized in terms of dose and duration, then polyamine supplementation and physical exercise might have a clinical potential in sarcopenia, and more importantly, implications for a healthy lifestyle in the elderly population.

Association of resting energy expenditure-based energy intake sufficiency with functional recovery, dysphagia, and 1-year mortality following heart failure: A prospective observational study

AIM

Evidence for the influence of resting energy expenditure (REE)-based energy intake on the outcomes of patients with heart failure (HF) is scarce. This study evaluates the relationship between REE-based energy intake sufficiency and clinical outcomes in hospitalized HF patients.

METHODS

This prospective observational study included newly admitted patients with acute HF. REE was measured using indirect calorimetry at baseline and total energy consumption (TEE) was calculated by multiplying REE with activity index. Energy intake (EI) was recorded, and the patients were classified into two groups, namely, the energy intake sufficiency (i.e., EI/TEE ≥1) and energy intake deficiency groups (i.e., EI/TEE <1). The primary outcome was the performance of activities of daily living, assessed using the Barthel Index, at discharge. Other outcomes included dysphagia at discharge and all-cause 1-year mortality following discharge. Dysphagia was defined as a Food Intake Level Scale (FILS) score of <7. Multivariable analyses and Kaplan-Meier estimates were used to determine the association of energy sufficiency both at baseline and at discharge with the outcomes of interest.

RESULTS

The analysis included 152 patients (mean age, 79.7 years; 51.3% women); of them, 40.1% and 42.8% had inadequate energy intake both at baseline and at discharge, respectively. In multivariable analyses, energy intake sufficiency at discharge was significantly associated with the BI (β = 0.136, p = 0.002) and FILS score (odds ratio = 0.027, p < 0.001) at discharge. Moreover, energy intake sufficiency at discharge was associated with 1-year mortality after discharge (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Adequate energy intake during hospitalization was associated with improved physical and swallowing functions and 1-year survival in HF patients. Adequate nutritional management is essential for hospitalized HF patients, suggesting that adequate energy intake may lead to optimal outcomes.

Cut-off values for severe low muscle strength and skeletal muscle mass in post-acute patients with sarcopenia

AIM

This study aimed to calculate the cut-off values for severe decline in muscle strength and skeletal muscle mass in post-acute patients with sarcopenia and to determine their effect on activities of daily living.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included patients with sarcopenia consecutively admitted to a Japanese rehabilitation hospital between 2014 and 2016. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on handgrip strength and skeletal muscle mass index. The outcome was the functional independence measure of motor function at discharge. Cut-off values for predicting severe decline in handgrip strength and skeletal muscle mass index were calculated separately by sex. Values below the cut-off were used to define severely low handgrip strength and severely low skeletal muscle mass index.

RESULTS

Overall, 451 patients (median age, 83 years; 61.4% women) were evaluated. The median functional independence measure of motor function score at discharge was 57. The optimal cut-off values for severely low handgrip strength were 9.0 kg for women and 14.6 kg for men, and those for severely low skeletal muscle mass index were 4.6 kg/m² for women and 5.6 kg/m² for men. Severely low handgrip strength and skeletal muscle mass index were independently associated with the functional independence measure of motor function score at discharge (β = -0.178, P = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

In post-acute patients with sarcopenia, a severe decline in muscle strength and skeletal muscle mass is further negatively associated with an improvement in activities of daily living. The cut-off values herein can serve as indicators to assess sarcopenia severity. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; ••: ••-••.

Accurate diagnosis of sarcopenia without using a body composition analyzer in a convalescent rehabilitation ward

Hishikawa N, Sawada K, Shono S, Sakurai M, Yokozeki M, Maeda H, Ohashi S, Ueshima K, Mikami Y. Accurate diagnosis of sarcopenia without using a body composition analyzer in a convalescent rehabilitation ward. Jpn J Compr Rehabil Sci 2023; 14: 26-32.

Objective

The Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 recommends diagnosing sarcopenia without using a body composition analyzer and initiating treatment early. The present study aimed to investigate the accuracy of diagnosing sarcopenia without a body composition analyzer in a convalescent rehabilitation ward.

Methods

Eighty-five patients admitted to a convalescent rehabilitation ward were included, and sarcopenia diagnoses were performed with and without a body composition analyzer. To assess the accuracy of diagnosing sarcopenia without using a body composition analyzer, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated relative to sarcopenia diagnoses made using a body composition analyzer.

Results

The sensitivity of the technique for diagnosing sarcopenia was 0.94, specificity was 0.77, positive predictive value was 0.86, and negative predictive value was 0.90.

Conclusion

The accuracy of diagnosing sarcopenia without using a body composition analyzer was high. However, this technique may miss sarcopenia cases in patients with increased calf circumference due to adipose tissue and/or edema.

Association between deprescribing from polypharmacy and functional recovery and home discharge among older patients with sarcopenia after stroke

OBJECTIVE

Evidence regarding the association between deprescribing from polypharmacy and outcomes in the convalescent rehabilitation setting is rare. The aim of this study was to assess the association between deprescribing from polypharmacy and functional recovery and home discharge in older patients with sarcopenia after stroke.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a convalescent rehabilitation hospital from January 2015 to December 2021. Among newly admitted patients in the convalescent rehabilitation ward who had experienced a stroke, patients aged ≥65 y with sarcopenia at admission and who were using at least five medications were included. Sarcopenia was diagnosed according to hand-grip strength and skeletal muscle mass index following the criteria of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019. The primary outcome measures were functional independence-measured motor activity (FIM-motor) at discharge and home discharge. Multiple regression analysis was used to determine whether deprescribing from polypharmacy at admission was independently associated with rehabilitation outcomes.

RESULTS

Among the 264 patients with polypharmacy, 153 patients (mean age, 81.1 y; 46.4% males) were diagnosed with sarcopenia and included in the analysis. Of them, 56 (36.6%) were deprescribed from polypharmacy. Deprescribing from polypharmacy was independently associated with FIM-motor at discharge (β, 0.137; P = 0.017) and home discharge (odds ratio, 1.393; P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Because no effective pharmacotherapy for sarcopenia has been established, the novel findings of this study may be useful in the pharmacotherapy for older patients with sarcopenia after stroke. Deprescribing from polypharmacy on admission was positively associated with functional status at discharge and home discharge in older patients with sarcopenia after stroke.

Improvement in sarcopenia is positively associated with recovery of independence in urination and defecation in patients undergoing rehabilitation after a stroke

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to examine the association between improvement in sarcopenia and the recovery of urinary and defecatory independence in patients undergoing convalescent rehabilitation.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted of 849 older inpatients after a stroke. Of these, patients with sarcopenia and dependent voiding movements were targeted. Sarcopenia was assessed according to the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019, and diagnosed using handgrip strength (HGS) and skeletal muscle-mass index. Outcomes were sphincter control items of the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) at the time of discharge: urinary (FIM-Bladder) and defecation (FIM-Bowel). A score of six or higher was considered independent. A logistic regression analysis was used to determine whether sarcopenia improvement was associated with outcomes.

RESULTS

Of the patients recruited, 151 were diagnosed with sarcopenia at baseline, of whom patients dependent in urination (109 patients) and defecation (102 patients) were included in the analysis. The multivariate analysis showed that improvement in sarcopenia (odds ratio [OR]: 3.28; 95% confidence interval [CI],1.01-10.70; P = 0.048) and HGS (OR: 6.25; 95% CI, 1.45-26.90; P = 0.014) were independently associated with FIM-Bladder at the time of discharge. Improvement in HGS (OR: 4.33; 95% CI, 0.99-18.90; P = 0.048) was independently associated with FIM-Bowel at the time of discharge CONCLUSIONS: Improvement in sarcopenia and muscle strength during hospitalization may have a positive effect on urinary independence in stroke patients undergoing convalescent rehabilitation, and improvement in muscle strength may have a positive effect on defecation independence. Multidisciplinary sarcopenia treatment should be implemented in addition to conventional rehabilitation for these patients.

Validity of sarcopenia diagnosis defined by calf circumference for muscle mass to predict functional outcome in patients with acute stroke

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the association between sarcopenia diagnosed by defining muscle mass with calf circumference and physical function at hospital discharge in patients with acute stroke and to perform a comparison with sarcopenia diagnosis according to the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia.

RESEARCH METHODS & PROCEDURES

This retrospective cohort study included patients with acute stroke. We calculated the calf circumference cut-off value defining low skeletal muscle index for the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia diagnostic criteria and used a combination of low calf circumference and low grip strength to define sarcopenia-calf circumference. A combination of low skeletal muscle index and low grip strength defined sarcopenia-Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia. Associations between sarcopenia-calf circumference, sarcopenia-Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia, and Functional Independence Measure motor score were evaluated using multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS

The study included 308 patients (198 men; mean age, 73.2 years). Sarcopenia-calf circumference prevalence was 24.7% in men and 46.4% in women. In men, sarcopenia-calf circumference (β=-0.178; 95% CI: -0.284, -0.073; p=0.001) and sarcopenia-Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (β=-0.228; 95% CI: -0.330, -0.127; p<0.001) were significantly associated with Functional Independence Measure motor score at discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

Sarcopenia diagnosed by defining muscle mass with calf circumference was negatively associated with physical function at discharge in male patients with acute stroke. Sarcopenia diagnosed using Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia criteria was superior to sarcopenia-calf circumference for predicting physical function at discharge. Our findings suggest that the use of CC enables assessment of sarcopenia even at facilities where muscle mass measurements may be difficult.

Effects of muscle mass and muscle quality estimated by phase angle on functional outcomes in older patients undergoing rehabilitation: A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Both skeletal muscle mass and muscle quality are important predictors of poor prognosis in older patients. However, the effects of muscle mass and muscle quality estimated by the phase angle (PhA) on functional outcomes in older patients undergoing rehabilitation have yet to be reported. This study aimed to investigate whether appendicular skeletal muscle index (SMI) and muscle quality estimated by PhA were independently associated with activities of daily living (ADL) and physical function in older patients undergoing rehabilitation.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study included older patients in a subacute rehabilitation hospital (n = 443). Baseline SMI and PhA were measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis, and low SMI or low PhA were determined using each cutoff value. The primary outcomes were ADL abilities measured using the functional independence measure for motor function (FIM-M) score and physical function measured using the short physical performance battery (SPPB) score at hospital discharge. Association between low SMI and low PhA and FIM-M or SPPB scores at discharge were determined using multiple regression analysis adjusted for confounding factors.

RESULTS

There were significant differences between the normal- and low-PhA groups in the FIM-M and SPPB scores at discharge (P < 0.001). In multiple regression analysis, low PhA was independently associated with FIM-M (β = -0.109, P = 0.013) and SPPB scores (β = 0.535, P < 0.001) at discharge; however, low SMI was not independently associated with these functional outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Decreased muscle quality estimated by the PhA was independently associated with poor ADL abilities and poor physical function in older patients undergoing rehabilitation.

Associations of Trunk Muscle Mass and Muscle Quality Indicators with Self-Reported Dysphagia in Older Inpatients

Recent studies have correlated dysphagia with ultrasound-measured quadriceps muscle mass and quality. Computed tomography (CT) is more precise than ultrasound for estimating muscle mass and quality. We aimed to investigate the possible associations of chest CT-determined trunk muscle mass and quality with dysphagia. A cross-sectional study. Older inpatients in a geriatric department of a university hospital. Self-reported dysphagia was determined by the Dysphagia Handicap Index. Unenhanced chest CT images were segmented to calculate skeletal muscle area (SMA) and intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT). Skeletal muscle index (SMI) was calculated via SMA/ height squared. The percentage of IMAT (IMAT%) was calculated by IMAT% = IMAT/ (SMA + IMAT) × 100%. Mimics software was applied to calculate the mean skeletal muscle radio density (SMD).The semiquantitative food frequency method, the Barthel Index (BI), and the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short-Form (MNA-SF) were used to evaluate energy intake, activities of daily living, and nutrition status, respectively. Among the 212 participants (mean age: 84 years), 89 (42%) had self-reported dysphagia. After adjustment for age, nutrition status, energy intake, and other confounders, the SMI (adjusted OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.86, 0.96) was negatively associated with dysphagia, whereas the IMAT (adjusted OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.01, 1.16) and the IMAT% (adjusted OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.04,1.17) were positively associated with dysphagia. However, the SMD (adjusted OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.94, 1.05) was not significantly associated with dysphagia. The subgroup analyses indicated that only the SMI (adjusted OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.86, 0.97) and the IMAT% (adjusted OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.01, 1.17) were significantly associated with dysphagia in men. None of these indicators was significantly associated with dysphagia in women. Trunk muscle mass and quality (estimated by chest CT-derived SMI and IMAT%, respectively) were significantly associated with self-reported dysphagia in older inpatients, especially in men. IMAT% might be a more sensitive muscle quality indicator than IMAT (or SMD). These results merit further investigation in prospective studies.

Effect of Postoperative Oral Intake Status on Sarcopenia Six Months After Esophageal Cancer Surgery

PURPOSE

In patients with esophageal cancer, skeletal muscle mass has been reported to decrease progressively after surgery and be independently associated with a poor prognosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate perioperative changes in dysphagia, oral intake status, and nutritional status and identify factors related to sarcopenia 6 months after esophagectomy.

METHODS

A total of 134 patients who underwent radical resection for thoracic esophageal cancer between March 2016 and July 2019 were analyzed retrospectively. The diagnosis of sarcopenia was made by CT taken 6 months postoperatively using the cut-off criteria of skeletal muscle index (SMI) < 52.4 cm²/m² for male and SMI < 38.5 cm²/m² for female patients. As factors related to postoperative sarcopenia, dysphagia, oral intake status, nutritional status, and physical function were extracted from the medical records. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify perioperative risk factors related to sarcopenia 6 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Of the 134 patients, 34.3% were judged to be unable to start oral intake on swallowing assessment. At discharge, 30.6% received tube feeding with or without oral intake. In the non-oral intake group on swallowing assessment, a significantly higher proportion of patients received tube feeding at discharge (p = 0.014). Preoperative BMI, postoperative handgrip strength, and tube feeding at discharge were independent risk factors for sarcopenia 6 months after esophagectomy in male patients.

CONCLUSION

Tube feeding at discharge is significantly related to postoperative sarcopenia in patients with esophageal cancer. Identifying high-risk groups might allow early detection of malnutrition and provision of appropriate care.

Respiratory sarcopenia: A position paper by four professional organizations

We defined respiratory sarcopenia as a coexistence of respiratory muscle weakness and decreased respiratory muscle mass. Although respiratory muscle function is indispensable for life support, its evaluation has not been included in the regular assessment of respiratory function or adequately evaluated in clinical practice. Considering this situation, we prepared a position paper outlining basic knowledge, diagnostic and assessment methods, mechanisms, involvement in respiratory diseases, intervention and treatment methods, and future perspectives on respiratory sarcopenia, and summarized the current consensus on respiratory sarcopenia. Respiratory sarcopenia is diagnosed when respiratory muscle weakness and decreased respiratory muscle mass are observed. If respiratory muscle mass is difficult to measure, we can use appendicular skeletal muscle mass as a surrogate. Probable respiratory sarcopenia is defined when respiratory muscle weakness and decreased appendicular skeletal muscle mass are observed. If only respiratory muscle strength is decreased without a decrease in respiratory function, the patient is diagnosed with possible respiratory sarcopenia. Respiratory muscle strength is assessed using maximum inspiratory pressure and maximum expiratory pressure. Ultrasonography and computed tomography are commonly used to assess respiratory muscle mass; however, there are insufficient data to propose the cutoff values for defining decreased respiratory muscle mass. It was jointly prepared by the representative authors and authorized by the Japanese Society for Respiratory Care and Rehabilitation, Japanese Association on Sarcopenia and Frailty, Japanese Society of Respiratory Physical Therapy and Japanese Association of Rehabilitation Nutrition. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 5-15.

Association between board-certified physiatrist involvement and functional outcomes in sarcopenic dysphagia patients: a retrospective cohort study of the Japanese Sarcopenic Dysphagia Database

Objective: Dysphagia rehabilitation is an important area in geriatric nutrition due to the commonality of sarcopenic dysphagia in older adults. However, there have been no reports on the efficacy of treatment by board-certified physiatrists (BCP) in patients with sarcopenic dysphagia. This study therefore aimed to investigate whether intervention by board-certified physiatrists affects the functional prognosis of patients with sarcopenic dysphagia. Materials and Methods: Of 467 patients enrolled in the Japanese Sarcopenic Dysphagia database between November 2019 and March 2021, 433 met the study eligibility criteria. The patients were divided into two groups based on whether or not they received intervention by a BCP. The clinical characteristics and outcomes of the two groups were compared. Statistical analyses were performed by inverse probability weighting (IPW). Results: BCPs were involved in the management of 57.0% of patients with sarcopenic dysphagia. These patients had a significantly higher increase in the Barthel index both before and after IPW correction than those not managed by a BCP (P=0.001 and P=0.016, respectively). However, sarcopenic dysphagia significantly improved in the non-BCP group before IPW correction (P<0.001), although there was no significant difference after IPW correction (P=0.301). Conclusion: BCP management was significantly associated with higher activities of daily living (ADL), but not with an improvement in sarcopenic dysphagia. To provide and manage effective rehabilitation, it is necessary to familiarize patients with the management and training of sarcopenic dysphagia rehabilitation for BCP in order to cope in regions with few rehabilitation units.

The association between sarcopenia and functional outcomes in patients undergoing convalescent rehabilitation

Sarcopenia is widely believed to be linked to poorer outcomes in inpatient rehabilitation. This study aimed to assess the impact of sarcopenia on functional outcomes and dietary intake during hospitalization in adults undergoing convalescent rehabilitation. We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis at a single rehabilitation institution. The Asian Working Group Consensus Criteria for Sarcopenia was used to diagnose. The Functional Independence Measure (FIM) score was used at hospital discharge to measure the primary functional outcome. Energy and protein intakes during hospitalization were calculated as part of the nutritional assessment. There were 126 patients in the research (median age, 73 yr;54% women). Stroke (n = 73;53.4% sarcopenia) and musculoskeletal disorders (n = 53;56.6% sarcopenia) were among the admission diagnoses. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that the FIM total score at discharge was modestly associated with sarcopenia only in stroke patients (? = 0.1872, P = 0.09), as well as significantly and independently associated with protein intake during admission only in stroke patients (? = 0.3217, P < 0.05). In hospitalized stroke patients undergoing convalescent therapy, sarcopenia is related to lower functional results. Early identification of sarcopenia and treatment with rehabilitation nutrition should be implemented in this population. J. Med. Invest. 70 : 457-463, August, 2023.

Trajectories of the Prevalence of Sarcopenia in the Pre- and Post-Stroke Periods: A Systematic Review

Interventions for stroke-related sarcopenia in patients with stroke are needed, but the details of the target population are unclear. This systematic review aimed to identify trajectories of the prevalence of sarcopenia in the pre- and post-stroke periods and to determine the diagnostic criteria used in patients with stroke. We searched for literature in six databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL, and Ichushi-web (in Japanese). We included 1627 studies in the primary screening, and 35 studies were finally included. Of the 35 studies, 32 (91.4%) included Asian patients, and the criteria of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia was mainly used as the diagnostic criteria. Nineteen studies used muscle strength and muscle mass to diagnose sarcopenia, whereas a full assessment, including physical performance, was performed in five studies. The estimated prevalences of sarcopenia in pre-stroke, within 10 days of stroke, and from 10 days to 1 month after stroke were 15.8%, 29.5%, and 51.6%, respectively. Sarcopenia increased by approximately 15% from pre-stroke to 10 days, and increased by approximately 20% from 10 days to 1 month. Healthcare providers should note that the prevalence of sarcopenia increases during the acute phase in patients with stroke.

Patterns of Changes in Respiratory Muscle Strength over 1 Year in Non-Sarcopenia, Sarcopenia, and Severe Sarcopenia

In this prospective longitudinal cohort study, we explored the characteristics of older people with lower respiratory muscle strength, according to sarcopenia severity, over the course of 1 year. The maximum expiratory pressure (MEP), grip strength, walking speed, and skeletal muscle mass index of 58 participants (28 men, 30 women; mean age, 76.9 ± 7.7 years) were measured at baseline and at the 1-year follow-up. Participants were classified into a decreased MEP group (n = 29; MEP decreased by ≥10% after 1 year) and a non-decreased MEP group (n = 29; MEP decreased by <10%). Sarcopenia status in the mild direction at baseline was significantly associated with MEP decline after one year. Repeated two-way analysis of variance showed significant main effects of measurement time (p < 0.001) and severity of sarcopenia (p = 0.026), as well as a significant interaction effect (p = 0.006). Surprisingly, MEP decreased significantly in the non-sarcopenia and sarcopenia groups, but not in the severe sarcopenia group. Thus, individuals without sarcopenia and those with moderate sarcopenia at baseline are predisposed to MEP decline and should be closely monitored for signs of such decline and associated adverse events.

Predictive Value of Temporal Muscle Thickness for Sarcopenia after Acute Stroke in Older Patients

The assessment of sarcopenia is part of the nutritional assessment index and is essential in stroke management. This study aimed to identify and validate cutoff values of temporal muscle thickness (TMT) measured using computed tomography to identify sarcopenia after acute stroke. The participants were patients with stroke aged ≥65 years who were admitted to rehabilitation units. The recruited patients were randomly divided into the calculation and validation cohort. In the calculation cohort, TMT cutoff values for identifying sarcopenia were calculated using receiver operating characteristic analysis. The obtained values were validated in the validation cohort using sensitivity and specificity. The calculation cohort included 230 patients (125 men, mean age, 77.2 ± 7.2 years), whereas the validation cohort included 235 patients (125 men, mean age, 76.4 ± 6.95 years). The TMT cutoff values for identifying sarcopenia and low skeletal muscle index were the same: 3.83 mm for men and 2.78 mm for women. The TMT cutoff value for identifying sarcopenia showed a sensitivity and specificity of 0.642 and 0.750, respectively, for men, and 0.660 and 0.567, respectively, for women. We identified a valid cutoff value of temporal muscle thickness for identifying sarcopenia after acute stroke. TMT is easy to measure and may be useful for the early detection of sarcopenia.

Stroke-Related Sarcopenia among Two Different Developing Countries with Diverse Ethnic Backgrounds (Cross-National Study in Egypt and China)

The prevalence of stroke-related sarcopenia differs according to the diagnostic criteria, the cut-off point for assessment, and ethnicity. Egypt and China are developing countries with different races where no research concerning stroke-related sarcopenia has been performed yet. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of possible sarcopenia and confirmed sarcopenia among Egyptian and Chinese stroke survivors using the Asian Working Group of Sarcopenia (AWGS-2019) criteria and to assess the variables associated with the prevalence rate. A prospective cross-sectional study was carried out among 200 Egyptian and 195 Chinese stroke survivors from 2019 to 2021 using a structural health questionnaire. A hand-held dynamometer was used to measure grip strength. Anthropometric measures were used to estimate muscle mass. Data were analyzed using SPSS statistics version 20. p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The prevalence of possible sarcopenia ranged from 20.0% to 34.4% among Egyptian and Chinese groups, except for the Egyptian females where it was 52.0%. The prevalence of sarcopenia in both populations ranged from 13.6% to 18.6%. Pre-stroke independent variables that accelerated possible sarcopenia were age, history of dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and ischemic heart disease, but stroke severity was a post-stroke risk factor. Age was the only pre-stroke variable for sarcopenia, while quitting smoking and having good nutritional status were variables for the reduction of possible sarcopenia. Quitting smoking, having a good nutritional status, and early rehabilitation reduced sarcopenia development. Controlling vascular risk factors, enhancing rehabilitation, and nutritional therapy are protective measures against sarcopenia. Longitudinal studies are required to identify further risk factors.

Polypharmacy and Its Association with Dysphagia and Malnutrition among Stroke Patients with Sarcopenia

Evidence on polypharmacy in patients with sarcopenia is lacking. We aimed to examine the association of polypharmacy with swallowing function and nutritional risk in post-stroke patient with sarcopenia. This retrospective cohort study included hospitalized patients diagnosed with sarcopenia who needed convalescent rehabilitation following stroke onset. Study outcomes were the Food Intake Level Scale (FILS) as dysphagia assessment and geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) as nutritional status at hospital discharge, respectively. To examine the impact of admission polypharmacy, multivariate linear regression analyses were used to determine whether the number of drugs prescribed at hospital admission was associated with these outcomes. As a result, of the 586 patients enrolled, 257 (mean age 79.3 years, 44.0% male) were diagnosed with sarcopenia and were finally analyzed high admission drug prescription numbers were independently associated with FILS (β = −0.133, p = 0.017) and GNRI (β = −0.145, p = 0.003) at hospital discharge, respectively. Polypharmacy is associated with dysphagia and malnutrition in post-stroke patients with sarcopenia. In addition to the combination of nutritional and exercise therapies, review and optimization of prescription medications may be warranted to treat sarcopenia in order to maximize improvement in outcomes for these patients.

The Applicability of the ESPEN and EASO-Defined Diagnostic Criteria for Sarcopenic Obesity in Japanese Patients after Stroke: Prevalence and Association with Outcomes

Sarcopenic obesity is of growing research and clinical interest; however, validated diagnostic criteria are lacking. We therefore aimed to examine the prevalence of sarcopenic obesity as diagnosed by the criteria recently proposed by the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) and the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO), and its association with outcomes among patients after stroke. This study was based on a cohort of 760 Japanese patients after stroke admitted to a post-acute rehabilitation hospital. Sarcopenic obesity was diagnosed at admission according to the ESPEN and EASO criteria using reference values specific to Asians. Outcomes included the motor domain of the functional independence measure (FIM-motor) and the food intake level scale (FILS) at discharge. Multivariate linear regression models were used to assess the associations between sarcopenic obesity and outcomes. Among 760 patients (median age, 73 years; 352 women and 408 men), sarcopenic obesity was diagnosed in 34 patients (4.5%; 5.4% of women and 4.1% of men). In multivariate analyses, sarcopenic obesity was independently and negatively associated with FIM-motor (β = −0.048, p = 0.031) and FILS at discharge (β = −0.095, p = 0.046) in women. In contrast, in men, sarcopenic obesity showed an independent negative association with FIM-motor at discharge (β = −0.117, p < 0.001) but no statistically significant association with FILS at discharge (β = −0.004, p = 0.323). In conclusion, the prevalence of sarcopenic obesity diagnosed by the ESPEN and EASO-defined criteria was as low as 4.5% among Japanese patients after stroke. Furthermore, sarcopenic obesity was negatively associated with improvements in activities of daily living and dysphagia.

The association between nutritional intake one week after admission and outcome in acute ischemic stroke patients

OBJECTIVES

Although associations between malnutrition status at stroke admission and poor stroke outcomes have been established, the effect of nutritional intake during the acute phase remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the associations between nutritional intake one week after admission and the outcome at three months among acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Consecutive AIS patients were investigated. Nutritional status at admission was evaluated using the Controlling Nutritional Status score, calculated from the serum albumin, lymphocyte count, and total cholesterol. We retrospectively evaluated nutritional intake (energy and protein) one week after admission, and the cutoff value of each nutritional intake level for good outcome was defined as the modified Rankin Scale 0-2 at three months after stroke onset using the receiver operating characteristic curve.

RESULTS

Of the 205 patients, 146 patients had good outcomes. Mild initial neurological symptoms and good nutritional status at admission were associated with good outcome. The cutoff value of good outcome for protein intake was 0.812 g/kg/day (sensitivity: 0.884, specificity: 0.509) and that for energy intake was 19.0 kcal/kg/day (sensitivity: 0.918, specificity: 0.424). Those nutritional intake indicators were independently associated with good outcome after adjusting for baseline confounders, including stroke severity and nutritional status at admission (protein intake: odds ratio (OR), 4.04; 95% confidence intervals (CIs), 1.14-13.1, and energy intake: OR, 5.00; 95% CIs, 1.41-17.8, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Adequate nutritional intake at one week after admission was independently associated with good outcome regardless of the nutritional status at admission or stroke severity.

Association of polypharmacy at hospital discharge with nutritional intake, muscle strength, and activities of daily living among older patients undergoing convalescent rehabilitation after stroke

Matsumoto A, Yoshimura Y, Shimazu S, Nagano F, Bise T, Kido Y, Shiraishi A, Sunahara T. Association of polypharmacy at hospital discharge with nutritional intake, muscle strength, and activities of daily living among older patients undergoing convalescent rehabilitation after stroke. Jpn J Compr Rehabil Sci 2022; 13: 41-48.

Objective

To investigate the association between polypharmacy at discharge and nutritional intake, muscle strength, and activities of daily living (ADL) among older patients undergoing convalescent rehabilitation after stroke.

Methods

This cross-sectional study involved hospitalized patients aged 65 or older who underwent convalescent rehabilitation after stroke. Polypharmacy was defined as the use of six or more medications. Study outcomes included energy intake, protein intake, handgrip strength (HG), and motor subscore of Functional Independence Measure (FIM-motor) at hospital discharge. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to examine the association between polypharmacy at discharge and outcomes.

Results

Of 361 eligible patients (mean [±SD] age, 78.3 ± 7.7 years; 49.3% male), 62.9% had polypharmacy. Multiple regression analysis revealed that polypharmacy at discharge was negatively associated with energy intake (β = -0.122, p = 0.003), protein intake (β = -0.133, p = 0.013), HG (β = -0.070, p = 0.022), and FIM-motor score (β = -0.069, p = 0.031) at discharge.

Conclusion

The impact of polypharmacy should be considered when designing nutritional management strategies for rehabilitation patients to maximize rehabilitation outcomes.

Potentially inappropriate medications are negatively associated with functional recovery in patients with sarcopenia after stroke

BACKGROUND

Evidence is scarce for potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) in rehabilitation medicine.

AIM

To examine the effect of PIMs on functional recovery in older patients with sarcopenia after stroke.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study in a post-acute rehabilitation hospital. All patients diagnosed with sarcopenia aged ≥ 65 years among all post-stroke patients hospitalized from 2015 to 2020 were included. PIMs were defined based on the 2019 Beers criteria. Sarcopenia was diagnosed using handgrip strength (HG) and skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), according to the criteria of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019. The outcomes included functional independence measure motor (FIM-motor), HG, and SMI values at discharge. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to determine whether PIMs used at admission were independently associated with outcomes.

RESULTS

Of the eligible patients, 361 were 65 years or older, of whom 196 (mean age 81.0 years, 44.4% male) presented with sarcopenia and were included in the analysis. Of these, 131 (66.8%) were prescribed PIMs at admission. The most frequently prescribed PIMs were proton pump inhibitors, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The number of PIMs on admission was independently associated with FIM-motor (β = - 0.132, P = 0.001) and HG (β = - 0.091, P = 0.048) at discharge, but not with SMI (β = - 0.055, P = 0.256).

CONCLUSIONS

High admission PIMs prescription numbers are negatively associated with favorable discharge functional status and muscle strength in older patients with sarcopenia after stroke.