Physical activity (PA) can improve functional abilities, well-being, and independence in older adults with insomnia. Studies have shown that PA may be linked to changes in the gut microbiota composition and its metabolites’ concentrations. This association among older adults with insomnia, however, is yet to be determined. We explored the relationships between physical activity (PA) levels, gut microbiota composition, and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels in this population. Forty-nine community-dwelling adults with insomnia symptoms, aged 65 and older, participated in this study. Their average daily step-count and sleep continuity measures over a two-week period were calculated based on Actigraphic recordings. Each participant provided fecal samples for the microbiome and SCFA analyses, anthropometric measures, and information via questionnaires on medical history and food consumption. The gut microbiota composition and SCFA concentrations were determined by next-generation sequencing and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, respectively. Participants were divided into two groups (more and less active) according to their median step/day count. We compared the microbiota abundance and SCFA concentrations between groups and performed correlation analysis between gut microbiota abundances and study variables. Different microbiota taxa in each PA group and increased SCFAs in feces of less active individuals were found. Changes in step counts were positively or negatively associated with the relative abundance of 19 ASVs, 3 microorganisms at the family level, and 11 microorganisms at the genus level. Furthermore, significant associations were discovered among physical activity, gut microbiota, SCFAs, and sleep parameters. Our findings provide new insights on the relationship between PA, gut microbiota composition, and primary metabolites in older adults with insomnia.

These preliminary results indicate that this newly developed virtual reality system is safe and feasible. Future randomized controlled studies are required to assess whether this system has beneficial effects in terms of enhancing upper limb function and quality of life in poststroke patients.

Aims and objectives To describe high‐functioning older adults' experiences of participation in daily activities and perceived barriers and facilitators to participation one‐ and 3‐months post‐acute hospitalization. Background Older adults discharged after acute illness hospitalization are at risk for functional decline and adverse health outcomes. Yet, little is known about the subjective experience of resuming participation in meaningful activities beyond the immediate post‐discharge period among high‐functioning older adults, a mostly overlooked sub‐sample. Design Qualitative descriptive longitudinal study adhering to the COREQ guidelines. Methods Forty two participants ages ≥65 years (mean age 75, SD ± 7.9) were recruited from internal medicine wards. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted at participants' homes one‐month post‐discharge, followed by a telephone interview 3‐months after. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Participants perceived the hospitalization as a disruption of healthy and meaningful routines. This first key theme had unique expressions over time and included two sub‐themes. At one month: (1) reduced life spaces and sedentary routines. At 3 months: (2) a matter of quality not quantity – giving up even one meaningful activity can make a difference. The second key theme was described as a combination of physical and psychological barriers to participation over time. These themes demonstrated the profound impact of the hospitalization on behavior (participation) and feelings (e.g., symptoms). The third key theme was described as a dyad of intrinsic and extrinsic facilitators to participation. Conclusions Acute illness hospitalization may lead to subtle decreases in participation in meaningful health‐promoting activities, even among high‐functioning older adults. These changes may impact overall well‐being and possibly mark the beginning of functional decline. Relevance to clinical practice This study highlights the need for a more comprehensive assessment of participation, relevant for high‐functioning older adults, to enable person‐centered care. Intervention programs should address the modifiable barriers and facilitators identified in this study.

Oxygen and carbon dioxide pressures were measured in subcutaneous gas pockets of 4 chromosomal species of the Spalax ehrenbergi complex. Oxygen pressures of 11.8, 13.6, 16.9, and 17.2 torr and CO2 pressures of 84.2, 82.9, 80.1, and 64.1 torr were measured for the chromosomal species 2n = 52, 54, 58, and 60, respectively. The differences between the 4 chromosomal species in their subcutaneous gas tension appear to reflect adaptive respiratory variation associated with geographic variation in climate. It underlies an important respiratory physiological correlate of ecological speciation in the extremely hypoxic and hypercapnic subterranean environment.