Hand grip strength as a physical biomarker of aging from the perspective of a Fibonacci mathematical modeling

Abstract

BackgroundThe Golden Ratio (GR) and the Fibonacci sequence have wide applications in biodiversity research, and recent studies indicate that the GR can be highlighted in the organization and physiological functioning of many body systems. The aim of this cross-sectional descriptive study is to determine the applicability of a mathematical model derived from the Fibonacci sequence to investigate the changes in hand grip strength (HGS) induced by the aging process.MethodsWe assessed the HGS for both hands, using a Saehan hydraulic hand dynamometer in a group of autonomous elderly subjects. One hundred twenty 55-year-old subjects (58 males and 62 females) and seventy 89-year-old subjects (31 men and 39 women) were included in the study group. All subjects were completely independent or independent with minimal assistance in activities of daily living (ADL), as determined after applying the Barthel index of ADL. The data series were statistically processed using descriptive statistics (univariate analysis) and inferential statistical methods (the t test for unpaired groups, with effect size measure – Cohen’s d and the ratio of the means method).ResultsThe decline of the relative HGS between the two age groups can be expressed by values close to the GR value (p < 0.001), both in relation to body symmetry (left hand/right hand evaluation) and laterality (dominant hand/non-dominant hand evaluation), for both sexes. For the whole group of men and women, the rhythm of HGS decline may be expressed by a value (1.61) notably close to the GR, regardless of body symmetry or laterality.ConclusionsThe common pattern of the relative HGS reduction between 55 and 89 years, as expressed by a value notably close to GR, can be considered to be an expression of a specific and predictable manifestation of the aging process, in the absence of disability.

<p>Grip Strength: An Indispensable Biomarker For Older Adults</p>

“…Several authors have recommended grip strength as a "useful indicator for overall health," 16 a vital sign 4,5 and as a biomarker of health status. 3,138,139 The purpose of this literature review was to provide an up-to-date, thorough and balanced synopsis of evidence for using grip strength as a biomarker of current and future health status. Based on the review it appears that there is adequate evidence to support the use of grip strength as an explanatory or predictive biomarker of specific outcomes such as generalized strength and function, bone mineral density, fractures, and falls, nutritional status, disease status and comorbidity load, cognition, depression, and sleep, hospital-related variables, and mortality.…”

Hand grip strength variability during serial testing as an entropic biomarker of aging: a Poincaré plot analysis

“…In practice, hand grip strength (HGS) has wide usefulness for the standardized determination of the individual's health and level of functionality, the impact of morbidity/disability, or the appreciation of the dynamics of the aging process [30]. In a recent study, we also demonstrated the applicability of HGS as a parameter for mathematical modeling for the study of the process of aging [31].…”

Researches on mechanical vibrations used in assistive devices manufacturing

“…Recent researches have been reports that the transmission of vibratory stimuli throughout responses which depend on the proprieties of these stimuli. Vibration generated by a platform and transmitted to the body, activates a series of sensory receptors, from cutaneous to muscular [11].…”