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Isometric Exercise for Blood Pressure and Endothelial Function in Metabolic Syndrome: A Review

Context: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized by a cluster of metabolic disorders, including hypertension, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia, which collectively heighten the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The global prevalence of MetS is steadily increasing, paralleling the rise in obesity and sedentary lifestyles. Pharmacological treatments for MetS often face challenges such as inadequate blood pressure (BP) control and limited improvements in cardiovascular outcomes. Consequently, there is a growing emphasis on non-pharmacological interventions, particularly exercise. Among various exercise modalities, isometric resistance training (IRT), which involves static muscle contractions without joint movement, has emerged as a promising strategy for effectively lowering BP and enhancing endothelial function, both of which are critical for cardiovascular health. Evidence Acquisition: This comprehensive literature review synthesizes existing research on the effects of isometric exercise on BP regulation and endothelial function in individuals diagnosed with MetS. The review examines studies sourced from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and observational studies published in peer-reviewed journals. Key discussion areas include the underlying physiological mechanisms of IRT, comparisons with other exercise modalities, clinical implications, and recommendations for future research. Articles were selected based on qualitative and descriptive reviews. Results: Evidence indicates that isometric resistance training effectively reduces both systolic and diastolic BP, achieving results comparable to other exercise forms like aerobic and dynamic resistance training. Furthermore, IRT has significantly improved endothelial function, particularly among populations with MetS. These physiological benefits are attributed to mechanisms such as enhanced nitric oxide bioavailability, reduced oxidative stress, and improved autonomic regulation. Conclusions: The review supports the integration of isometric exercise into hypertension management protocols, especially for individuals with MetS. Isometric resistance training offers a viable non-pharmacological alternative or adjunct to traditional treatments, with the added advantages of accessibility and adaptability for diverse populations. However, further research is necessary to optimize exercise protocols, determine long-term outcomes, and fully elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the cardiovascular benefits of IRT.

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Effects of TABATA Exercise Volume and Royal Jelly Supplementation on NLRP3 Inflammasome and lncRNA-H19 Expression in Obese Men

Background: Both coding and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as vital regulators in almost every cellular process, and their expression can be modulated by external stimuli, such as physical exercise. Objectives: The current research aimed to investigate the effects of different volumes of TABATA-high-intensity interval training (HIIT) exercises combined with royal jelly (RJ) supplementation on the NLRP3 inflammasome and lncRNA-H19 expression in obese males. Methods: Forty-two healthy men [Body Mass Index (BMI) = 30 kg/m², waist-to-hip ratio = 0.95, age range: 40 - 60 years] volunteered to participate in the study. The individuals were randomly divided into five experimental groups (N = 35) and one control + placebo group (N = 7). The high-volume (HV) or low-volume (LV) TABATA exercise programs were performed twice a week for 8 weeks. Participants in the RJ supplementation groups received a 1000 mg capsule once a day for 8 weeks. The expression of NLRP3 and lncRNA-H19 genes was evaluated using the real-time PCR method. Results: The NLRP3 gene expression in the Bruce test, measured before and after the 8-week exercise interventions and RJ supplementation, showed insignificant changes across the different groups. However, the H19 gene expression in the Bruce test showed a significant reduction in the HV-TABATA HIIT intervention groups, which was more pronounced than in the LV groups after 8 weeks: HV group (P = 0.004), RJ group (P = 0.001), HV + RJ group (P = 0.007), and LV + RJ group (P = 0.002). After 8 weeks of non-pharmacological interventions involving exercise training and supplementation, a significant decrease in NLRP3 and a significant increase in H19 gene expression were detected in the HV group compared to the LV group (P = 0.05 and P = 0.010). Significant improvement was also found in the resting H19 levels between the RJ and LV groups (P = 0.011) and the LV + RJ group (P = 0.44). Moreover, a significant reduction in resting NLRP3 gene expression was observed between the RJ + LV and LV groups (P = 0.038). Conclusions: Chronic HV TABATA HIIT exercise, when combined with RJ supplementation, is effective in attenuating inflammatory responses to acute stress.

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Open Access
Effectiveness of Facial Massage and Exercise in Alleviating Visual Fatigue: A Systematic Review

Background: With the widespread use of electronic devices, visual fatigue has become a prevalent issue in modern society. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as facial massage and exercise, have been proposed as effective methods for alleviating visual fatigue. However, the specific effects and mechanisms behind these interventions require further exploration. Objectives: This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of facial massage and exercise in reducing visual fatigue and to explore the underlying mechanisms of these interventions. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Randomized controlled trials and crossover experiments were included for both quantitative and qualitative analyses of relevant studies. Results: The findings suggest that both facial massage and exercise can reduce visual fatigue. Facial massage alleviates eye strain by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety, relaxing muscles, and improving blood circulation. Exercise alleviates visual fatigue through two mechanisms: (1) enhancing overall blood circulation, reducing stress, improving sleep quality, and overall health; (2) directly exercising eye muscles through eye yoga, which helps relieve visual fatigue. Conclusions: Preliminary research indicates that facial massage, full-body exercise, and eye yoga hold potential as non-pharmacological interventions for visual fatigue. Eye yoga has experimental support for its ability to strengthen eye muscles and improve focus. Massage stimulates parasympathetic activity and boosts blood circulation, while full-body exercise enhances systemic circulation to relieve eye fatigue. Future research should focus on investigating the mechanisms of these interventions in more detail and comparing the effects of various types, intensities, and durations to provide more precise clinical recommendations.

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Open Access
Physical Activity Regulates and Mediates the Signaling Pathway and Pathophysiological Mechanisms of the Neuroinflammation and Neurodegenerative

Context: The correlation between neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative disorders has been extensively documented. Elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines in the bloodstream have been demonstrated to impair memory function and heighten susceptibility to neurodegenerative disorders. Furthermore, elevated quantities of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body, known as oxidative stress, exacerbate neurodegenerative illnesses and negatively affect learning and memory. Neuroprotection prevents neuronal cell death by intervening and blocking the pathogenetic process that leads to cellular malfunction and death. Methods: We evaluated several studies in the WEB of SCIENCE, SCOPUS, and PubMed. Furthermore, we identified the central genes and signaling pathways associated with neurogenesis, the neural system, and neuroplasticity through data mining, a literature review of artificial intelligence, and an in-silico study. Results: Physical exercise (PE) benefits various physiological systems, including the central nervous system. The beneficial impacts of physical activity on cognitive performance, neural well-being, and safeguarding neurons against different brain injuries are extensively documented. Furthermore, research has demonstrated that PE is a powerful non-pharmacological intervention that enhances cognitive function, including learning and memory, while decreasing the likelihood of developing neurodegenerative disorders. Additionally, engaging in moderate physical activity that does not result in extreme fatigue has a beneficial impact on reducing inflammation and promoting antioxidant effects. According to the hormesis theory, physical inactivity and extreme overtraining can decrease physiological function. Conclusions: In summary, a combination of moderate aerobic exercise, HIIT, and resistance training, performed at appropriate intensities, is most beneficial for neuroprotection and cognitive health. Regular engagement in these activities can help mitigate the risk of neurodegenerative diseases and enhance overall brain function.

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Open Access
The Effect of Seven Mental Training Sessions on Developing Roundoff and Back Handspring Skills on Men's Artistic Gymnastics

Background: Beginner gymnasts face challenges when performing roundoff and back handspring skills, particularly in connecting the final stage of the roundoff with the initial stage of the back handspring. These difficulties arise when there is a lack of clarity in the mental image of the performance sequence, leading to inconsistent execution and, ultimately, failure. Objectives: This study investigates the effect of seven mental training sessions on beginner gymnasts learning the roundoff and back handspring skills. Methods: Sixty-two beginner gymnasts, aged 21 - 22 years, participated in the study. They were randomly assigned to two groups: Control and experimental. The mental training sessions were provided to the experimental group during the instructional sessions, with each session lasting 14 minutes and 30 seconds. The sessions consisted of three parts: Relaxation exercises, controllable control exercises, and mental imagery exercises for performance. These sessions were conducted over a period of seven weeks. The roundoff and back handspring skills were assessed using the Kinematic Coherence Scale for body parts. Results: The Kinematic Coherence Scale demonstrated a significant difference and greater improvement in the experimental group compared to the control group. Conclusions: We concluded that the seven mental training sessions improved the kinematic coherence of the experimental group in performing the roundoff and back handspring skills, enabling them to connect the two skills with a higher degree of movement coherence.

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Open Access
Cross Sectional Study About Intra-Individual and Inter-Individual Variability of Subjective Effort in Submaximal Sprint Running in Collegiate Male Sprinters

Background: Although subjective exercise intensity is widely used to monitor training load in athletes, the reliability of subjective effort (SE) during high-intensity sprint running has not yet been established. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the intra-individual and inter-individual variability in sprint running performance at different SE levels. Methods: Eighteen male collegiate sprinters participated in the study. We measured 60 m sprint running performance at four SE levels (60% SE, 80% SE, 90% SE, and 100% SE) every day for 5 days. The coefficient of variation (CV) of each participant’s 5-day performance (60 m sprint time (60T) and 40 - 50 m interval average speed (SP)) was calculated to assess the intra-individual variability of SE. A repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare 60 T, SP, and the CVs of 60 T and SP across the different SE levels. Results: The SP ratios of each submaximal sprint (60% SE, 80% SE, 90% SE) to the maximal sprint (100% SE) were 89.72 ± 1.62%, 95.50 ± 1.08%, and 98.11 ± 0.56%, respectively. The inter-individual variation at each SE level for 60T was inversely related to the SE level (60% SE: 3.25%, 80% SE: 2.31%, 90% SE: 2.06%, and 100% SE: 1.54%). Significant differences were found in the intra-individual variability (CV) of 60 T between 60% SE (2.22 ± 0.35%) and 90% SE (1.42 ± 0.22%), 60% SE and 100% SE (1.40 ± 0.30%), 80% SE (1.95 ± 0.32%) and 90% SE, and between 80% SE and 100% SE (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Intra- and inter-individual variation at all SE levels were below 5%, indicating that SE is a reliable indicator of sprint running intensity. However, the lower the SE, the greater the variability, suggesting SE is most suitable for higher-intensity sprint running.

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Open Access
Abdominal Drawing-In Maneuver is Less Effective for Core Stability During High Load Tasks: A Systematic Review

Context: The abdominal drawing-in maneuver (ADIM) is a technique commonly used to activate deep core muscles for the prevention and rehabilitation of low back pain. However, its benefits during high-load tasks (HLT) are unclear. Objectives: The primary objective of this article is to review the literature to determine whether the use of ADIM enhances core stabilization during HLT. Additionally, we will examine if other factors, beyond load, could influence the effectiveness of this activation maneuver. Methods: A search was conducted using PubMed databases for studies that compared interventions using ADIM to those without ADIM. The literature search spanned from January 1981 to March 2024. Only studies that included kinematic assessments were selected. Results: The search yielded 359 studies, of which 24 were included in the final analysis. Task load was analyzed based on Mottram and Comerford's criteria, alongside other approaches such as the source of the perturbation applied to the subject and body position. In conditions using ADIM, better performance was observed in only 16.66% of interventions with HLT, whereas other conditions (OC) without ADIM performed better in 83.33% of interventions using HLT. When core stability was tested against external perturbations, ADIM was less effective in all scenarios. In lying positions, ADIM performed better in 4 tasks, while OC performed better in 2. In upright positions, ADIM was more effective in 7 tasks, while OC performed better in 6. Conclusions: The findings suggest that ADIM should not be used if the goal is to train core stability and strength during HLT. Abdominal drawing-in maneuver was less effective for stabilizing the core during tasks involving external perturbations, and its use was also less decisive in upright positions.

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Open Access