Improvement In Physical Performance Research Articles

Nordic Walking training in BungyPump form improves cognitive functions and physical performance and induces changes in amino acids and kynurenine profiles in older adults.

Although impacts of physical activity on cognitive functions have been intensively investigated, they are still far from being completely understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 12 weeks of the Nordic Walking training with BungyPump resistance poles (NW-RSA) on the amino acid and kynurenine profiles as well as selected myokine/exerkine concentrations, which may modify the interface between physical and cognitive functions. A group of 32 older adults participated in the study. Before and after the intervention, body composition, cognitive functions, and physical performance were assessed. Blood samples were taken before and 1 h after the first and last sessions of the NW-RSA training, to determine circulating levels of exercise-induced proteins, i.e., brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), irisin, kynurenine (KYN), metabolites, and amino acids. The NW-RSA training induced a significant improvement in cognitive functions and physical performance as well as a reduction in fat mass (p = 0.05). Changes were accompanied by a decline in resting serum BDNF (p = 0.02) and a slight reduction in irisin concentration (p = 0.08). Still, changes in irisin concentration immediately after the NW-RSA intervention depended on shifts in kynurenine-irisin dropped as kynurenine increased. The kynurenine-to-tryptophan and phenylalanine-to-tyrosine ratios decreased significantly, suggesting their possible involvement in the amelioration of cognitive functions. No changes of glucose homeostasis or lipid profile were found. Shifts in the concentrations of selected amino acids might have covered the increased energy demand in response to the NW-RSA training and contributed to an improvement of physical performance. Regular Nordic Walking training with additional resistance (BungyPump) improved cognitive functions and physical performance. These positive effects were associated with a reduced BDNF concentration and kynurenine-to-tryptophan ratio as well as changes in the amino acid profile.

Features of rational nutrition of athletes: analysis of university teams

Proper nutrition plays a key role in achieving successful results in physical activity. It not only provides the body with the necessary nutrients, but also helps maintain energy and restore muscles after training. One common nutritional strategy is to distribute nutrients over time. This means it's important to consume a combination of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats regardless of the time of day or workout. However, the proportions of intake of these components can affect the intensity and duration of training. Particular attention should be paid to the post-workout period, as it is considered the most important for nutrient intake and recovery of the body. At this point, the body needs nutrients to repair damaged muscles and energy stores. The correct ratio of nutrients at this time contributes to the improvement of body composition and physical performance. The article provides tips and advice on choosing the right products, taking into account the characteristics of training and individual needs of the body. Advice on nutrient and fluid intake is also provided. It is important to consume enough protein for muscle maintenance and repair, as well as carbohydrates for energy. Proper nutrition is the basis for achieving high results in physical activity, increasing efficiency and effective recovery after training. The purpose of the work is to understand the importance of nutrition in sports and the ability to correctly distribute nutrients, which is an important step towards achieving sports and physical goals.

Sustained improvement of intrinsic capacity in community-dwelling older adults: The +AGIL Barcelona multidomain program.

Different programs promote healthy ageing through the optimization of intrinsic capacity. However, a major challenge is to assess their sustained effects over time. +AGIL Barcelona, a consolidated multidomain program, aims to optimize older adults' intrinsic capacity through a coordinated approach among primary care, geriatrics and community resources, in agreement with the integrated care for older people (ICOPE) guidelines. We aimed to evaluate the +AGIL Barcelona longitudinal effect on older adults' physical performance. All +AGIL Barcelona consecutive participants since 2016 were enrolled. After a comprehensive geriatric assessment, a tailored, multidisciplinary intervention aligned with the ICOPE guidelines is offered. It includes a 10-week boost multicomponent exercise program, nutritional and sleep-hygiene counselling, revision and optimization of pharmacological treatments and screening for cognitive impairment, depression and loneliness. Changes in physical performance after 3 and 6 months were assessed using mixed models including baseline frailty degree, time and all potential significant confounders. We included 194 participants in the analysis (mean age=81.6 [standard deviation=5.8], 68% women). An independent, clinically and statistically significant improvement in physical performance (Short Physical Performance Battery [SPPB] test, combining gait speed, strength and balance) was found at 3 months (SPPB mean change: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1-1.6) and 6 months (SPPB mean change: 1.1; 95% CI 0.8-1.5). Equivalent results were observed for all the SPPB sub-tests. A coordinated, multidisciplinary and integrated program can benefit older adults' intrinsic capacity. The participants' empowerment and the connection with the available community resources are critical points for a successful intervention.

Cross-Training and Resistance Training in Adults with Type B Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia during the Induction Phase: A Randomized Blind Pilot Study.

Patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) undergoing induction decrease their physical capacity, lose muscle mass, and decrease their quality of life (QOL). The safety, feasibility, and benefits of exercise during chemotherapy have been proven, but the effects of cross-training activities have yet to be analyzed. To measure the effects of cross-training on body composition, physical performance, and QOL, a blind randomized clinical trial was carried out. A total of 33 patients were included and randomized into a cross-training exercise group (CEG), a resistance exercise group (REG), and a control group (CG). During induction, patients received an exercise routine three to five days a week for 30 to 50 min each. Body composition, QOL, and physical performance were measured at baseline, up to discharge, and at a follow-up of two months. Body composition improved in the REG and CEG. In the CG, muscle mass decreased and fat mass increased (p = 0.020 and 0.020, respectively). The REG and CEG had significant positive improvements in physical performance compared to the CG. QOL showed no differences in any group (p = 0.340). Cross-training and resistance exercise are essential to improve body composition and physical performance during induction. Considering the prognostic value of physical performance, we propose integrated training exercises as adjuvant therapy in adult patients with ALL.

In-Season Longitudinal Hydration/Body Cell Mass Ratio Changes in Elite Rugby Players.

Hydration status has a direct role in sports performance. Bioelectrical Impedance Vector Analysis (BIVA) and Urine Specific Gravity (USG) are commonly used to assess hydration. The study aims to identify the sensitivity and relationship between BIVA and USG in a field sports setting. BIVA and USG measurements were conducted five times throughout one rugby season. 34 elite male rugby players (25.1 ± 4.4 years; 184.0 ± 7.8 cm; 99.9 ± 13.4 kg) were enrolled. Differences over time were tested using one-way repeated measures ANOVA, and Bonferroni's post-hoc test was applied in pairwise comparisons. Resistance-reactance graphs and Hotelling's T2 test were used to characterize the sample and to identify bioelectrical changes. A repeated measures correlation test was conducted for BIVA-USG associations. Two clear trends were seen: (1) from July to September, there was a vector shortening and an increase of the phase angle (p < 0.001); and (2) from December to April, there was a vector lengthening and a decrease of the phase angle (p < 0.001). USG reported neither changes nor correlation with BIVA longitudinally (p > 0.05). Vector variations indicated a body fluid gain (especially in the intracellular compartment) and a body cell mass increase during the preseason, suggesting a physical condition and performance improvement. During the last months of the season, the kinetic was the opposite (fluid loss and decreased body cell mass). Results suggested that BIVA is sensitive to physiological changes and a better option than USG for assessing hydration changes during a rugby sports season.

Cathepsin B knockout confers significant brain protection in the mouse model of stroke

BackgroundSignificant advances have been made in our understanding of the endolysosomal cycle. Disruption of this cycle leads to cell death. The objective of this study aims to investigate the role of disrupted endolysosomal cycle in brain ischemia-reperfusion injury. MethodsA total of 57 mice were randomly assigned into four experimental groups: (i) wildtype (wt) sham control; (ii) wt middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO); (iii) cathepsin B (CTSB) knockout (KO) sham control; and (iv) CTSB KO MCAO. Mice were subjected either to 0 min (sham) or 40 min of MCAO, followed by reperfusion for 1 or 7 days. Physical and behavioral examinations were conducted in the 7-day reperfusion group for 7 consecutive days after MCAO. Confocal microscopy was used to assess the levels, redistributions, and co-localizations of key endolysosomal cycle-related proteins. Histopathology was examined by light microscopy. ResultsConfocal microscopy revealed a significant accumulation of CTSB in post-ischemic penumbral neurons relative to those in the sham group. In addition, N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor ATPase (NSF) was irreversibly depleted in these neurons. Furthermore, CTSB-immunostained structures were enlarged and diffusely distributed in both the cytoplasm and extracellular space, indicating the release of CTSB from post-ischemic neurons. Compared to wt mice, CTSB KO mice showed a significant decrease in hippocampal injury area, a significant increase in the number of survival neurons in the striatal core area, and a significant improvement in physical and functional performance in post-MCAO mice. ConclusionBrain ischemia leads to a cascade of events leading to inactivation of NSF, disruption of the endolysosomal cycle, endolysosomal structural buildup and damage, and the release of CTSB, eventually resulting in brain ischemia reperfusion injury. CTSB KO in mice protected the brain from ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Play and dance therapy: a review of theories, techniques and didactic methodologies for the motor recovery of children with disabilities

Background: This research is aimed at analysing the effectiveness of play activities and dance-therapy programmes in improving the psycho-physical condition and increasing the well-being of individuals with disabilities. Methods: Online search engines (e.g., EBSCOhost, PubMed, the American Journal of Dance) were consulted using parameters such as "physical disabilities" or "dance with music" or "childhood" and excluding protocols published before 2010. Eleven intervention protocols were analysed. These concerned play and dance-therapy courses targeted at disabled subjects under 14 years of age. Results: It was found that at the end of the play sessions, higher muscular activation and improvement of quality of communication exchanges with the family members was found. With regard to the dance-therapy protocols, improvement was reported in general coordination, balance ability and a decrease in maladaptive behaviour in children with disabilities. Conclusions: With the improvement in physical performance, an increase in the subjects' state of well-being is also noted, underlining a strong body-mind connection. For future studies, it is recommended that the number of participants in individual studies should be larger and to include a control group to make the results generalisable on a large scale.

Improving physical performance reduces dysphagia via improvement of tongue strength in patients with acute heart failure: a two-wave cross-lagged mediation model analysis.

Physical performance improvement through whole-body exercise may have a positive impact on dysphagia via improvement of maximum tongue pressure (MTP). The present study aimed to quantitatively analyze whether improvement in physical performance reduces dysphagia by improving MTP in patients with acute heart failure (AHF). A total of 146 patients with AHF and dysphagia were included. Dysphagia was defined as a functional oral intake scale (FOIS) score < 6. The short physical performance battery (SPPB) indexed physical performance. A two-wave cross-lagged mediation model was used to examine whether an improvement in SPPB results improves the FOIS score via an improvement in MTP. The SPPB, MTP, and FOIS scores (T1: baseline, T2: hospital discharge) were included in the model. A total of 146 patients were included in the final analysis. The SPPB result at T1 positively affected MTP (β = 0.150, P = 0.030) and the FOIS score (β = 0.249, P = 0.002) at T2. MTP at T1 also positively affected the FOIS score at T2 (β = 0.189, P = 0.026). Furthermore, the SPPB result indirectly affected the FOIS score by affecting the MTP (indirect effect = 0.028; 95% CI = 0.010, 0.078). This study contributes to the knowledge base regarding the potential of exercise therapy as a new treatment strategy for dysphagia in patients with AHF. An improvement in SPPB results improved the FOIS score by improving the MTP in patients with AHF.

ENERGY CONSUMPTION ANALYSIS FOR AN EV POWERTRAIN USING THREE BLDC IDENTICAL MOTORS

Using more than one motor in an EV (Electric Vehicle) powertrain enhances the vehicle’s torque, acceleration, and speed capabilities. A more tractive force produced by the electric powertrain requires more electric current from the battery. In modern EVs, mechanical power production can be approached to the wheels reducing the mechanical losses in the transmissions. It is the case with multiple-motor powertrains. Several advantages regarding vehicle control, physical performance, and energy efficiency improvement are obtained. In the current study, a BLDC (brushless dc) motor is investigated from the efficiency point of view to build a multiple-motor powertrain. A new methodology uses analytic calculations, simulations, and physical measurements. A powertrain with three identical motors results in a new vehicle configuration. Each motor's energy consumption improvements are analyzed following a normalized testing procedure. The results are compared with those of a single-motor powertrain.

High-Intensity Functional Training Induces Superior Training Adaptations Compared With Traditional Military Physical Training.

Helén, J, Kyröläinen, H, Ojanen, T, Pihlainen, K, Santtila, M, Heikkinen, R, and Vaara, JP. High-intensity functional training induces superior training adaptations compared with traditional military physical training. J Strength Cond Res 37(12): 2477-2483, 2023-This study examined the effectiveness of concurrent strength and endurance training with an emphasis on high-intensity functional training (HIFT) during military service. Voluntary male conscripts (aged 18-28 years) were placed in either an experimental (EXP: n = 50-66) or a control (CON: n = 50-67) group. The training for the EXP group included HIFT using body mass, sandbags, and kettlebells. The CON group trained according to the current practice. Physical performance and body composition were assessed at baseline (PRE), at week 10 (MID), and after (POST) the 19-week training period. Significance was set at p < 0.05. The total distance covered in a 12-minute running test increased in both groups, but the change in EXP was superior to the change in CON (11.6%, ES: 0.79 vs. 5.7%, ES: 0.33; p = 0.027). Maximal strength and power characteristics increased in EXP (3.1-5.0%), whereas no improvements were observed in CON. Conscripts with the highest initial fitness showed no improvements in physical performance in either group. Body mass and waist circumference decreased in EXP, whereas CON showed an increase in muscle mass. These findings suggest that HIFT is an effective and time-efficient approach to improve soldiers' aerobic fitness during military service. For the optimal development of strength, the training equipment used may not have provided sufficient and progressive loading to yield considerable strength adaptations. More focus should be placed on sufficient intensity and volume in both strength and endurance training, especially for the most fit soldiers.

Experiences of participants of a volunteer-supported walking intervention to improve physical function of nursing home residents – a mixed methods sub-study of the POWER-project

BackgroundRegular physical activity improves physical health and mental well-being and reduces the risk of falling in older adults. The randomized controlled “Prevention by lay-assisted Outdoor-Walking in the Elderly at Risk” POWER-study investigates whether volunteer-supported outdoor-walking improves physical function and quality of life in older people living independently or in nursing homes. This sub-study explores the experiences of older participants and volunteers in relation to their physical and psychosocial well-being as well as the challenges faced by both groups. A further aim was to explore volunteers’ experience with people living in nursing homes during the first pandemic lockdown (spring 2020).MethodsThe sub-study was designed as mixed-methods approach consisting of 11 individual semi-structured guide-based interviews (nursing home residents), two focus group interviews (volunteers), and a cross-sectional questionnaire survey (volunteers). The interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed by content analysis as described by Kuckartz. Topics addressed in the interviews were triangulated by means of a questionnaire. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.ResultsParticipants’ evaluation of the intervention was generally positive. Nursing home residents appreciated the social interaction associated with the assisted walking, which motivated them to take part regularly, provided a sense of safety, and caused pleasure on both sides. The impact on physical health status of the nursing home residents of this sub-study varied to a large degree as reported in interviews: in some cases, an improvement in physical performance, a decrease in physical complaints, and an improvement in gait or independence was reported. If not, reference was made to previous or sudden illnesses and the advanced age of the participants. Despite the COVID-19-lockdown and the associated restrictions, about 60% of contacts were still possible and participants planned to continue the assisted walks after the lockdown.ConclusionVolunteers have a positive effect on the quality of life, mobility, and general health of nursing home residents. Even more than the improvement of physical performance, social interaction was seen as helpful. Despite their advanced age, the nursing home residents were curious and open to new contacts. When removing the identified barriers, it might be possible to integrate this program into the long-term everyday life of nursing homes.Trial registrationDRKS-ID: DRKS00015188, date of registration: 31.08.2018.

Conceptual development of an intensive exercise program for glioma patients (ActiNO): summary of clinical experience

PurposeExercise proved to reduce cancer-related symptoms and prolong survival in some cancer types. However, brain tumor patients are often advised against strenuous exercise. Here, we summarize our experience with a submaximal exercise program for glioma patients: ActiNO (Active in Neuro-Oncology).MethodsGlioma patients were invited to participate in the program. Since 2011, a sports scientist individualized two one-hour sessions per week adapted to the patients’ symptoms. One session consisted of bicycle ergometry (average workload: 75% of maximum heart rate), the other of whole-body resistance training. Both sessions were further complimented by coordinative elements. Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed using the ”Physical Work Capacity” procedure. Patients were followed up regularly to assess adherence to the program and disease activity.ResultsUntil December 2019, 45 glioma patients, median-aged 49 years (IQR 42–59), were included in the analysis. Most patients suffered from glioblastoma (58%), followed by diffuse lower-grade astrocytoma (29%). In overall 1828 training sessions, two minor epileptic events occurred (1 speech arrest; 1 focal seizure). During fitness assessment, all patients achieved at least 75% of their age-adjusted maximum heart rate. Peak workload averaged 172 W (95% CI 156–187). Median survival of participating glioblastoma patients was 24.1 months (95% CI 8.6–39.5).ConclusionThis supervised training program with submaximal exertion was feasible and safe in glioma regardless of WHO grading. Based on these experiences, we initiated a prospective multicenter study to objectify improvements in physical performance and quality of life in patients with glioblastoma.

Changes in selected exerkines concentration post folk-dance training are accompanied by glucose homeostasis and physical performance improvement in older adults

The study aimed to evaluate the impact of selected exerkines concentration induced by folk-dance and balance training on physical performance, insulin resistance, and blood pressure in older adults. Participants (n = 41, age 71.3 ± 5.5 years) were randomly assigned to folk-dance (DG), balance training (BG), or control group (CG). The training was performed 3 times a week for 12 weeks. Physical performance tests—time up and go (TUG) and 6-min walk test (6MWT), blood pressure, insulin resistance, and selected proteins induced by exercise (exerkines) were assessed at baseline and post-exercise intervention. Significant improvement in TUG (p = 0.006 for BG and 0.039 for DG) and 6MWT tests (in BG and DG p = 0.001), reduction of systolic blood pressure (p = 0.001 for BG and 0.003 for DG), and diastolic blood pressure (for BG; p = 0.001) were registered post-intervention. These positive changes were accompanied by the drop in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (p = 0.002 for BG and 0.002 for DG), the increase of irisin concentration (p = 0.029 for BG and 0.022 for DG) in both groups, and DG the amelioration of insulin resistance indicators (HOMA-IR p = 0.023 and QUICKI p = 0.035). Folk-dance training significantly reduced the c-terminal agrin fragment (CAF; p = 0.024). Obtained data indicated that both training programs effectively improved physical performance and blood pressure, accompanied by changes in selected exerkines. Still, folk-dance had enhanced insulin sensitivity.

Decline of physical performance in patients with transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy assessed by cardiopulmonary exercise testing

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): This work was supported by the Medical Scientific Fund of the Mayor of the City of Vienna. Introduction The Transthyretin Amyloid Cardiomyopathy [ATTR-CM] is a progressive disease. Tafamidis is the only approved treatment for ATTR-CM. Nevertheless, extensional evidence above short follow up periods for improvement in physical performance [PP] still lacks. Purpose The purpose of this prospective analysis was to assess the PP in patients with ATTR-CM at baseline compared to follow-up visits over a long-term follow-up period. Methods Patients underwent Cardiopulmonary exercise testing [CPET] and blood testing at baseline, first follow-up [1st FUP] (9 ± 3 months after initiating Tafamidis therapy) and second FUP [2nd FUP] (19 ± 12 months after initiating Tafamidis therapy). We analysed CPET parameters during rest, exercise and recovery and laboratory values prior to CPET. The baseline data was compared with data from 1st FUP and 2nd FUP. Concerning cohorts, patients at baseline were Tafamidis naïve, while patients at 1st FUP and 2nd FUP received Tafamidis 61mg once daily during entire study duration of 26 (± 11) months. An improvement in VO2 at maximum level of exercise [VO2 max] was defined as an increase in ∆max VO2 ≥ 1 mL/kg/min, compared to baseline. A decline was defined as a negative ∆max VO2 mL/kg/min compared to baseline. Results We analysed 11 male patients, with a median age at study entry of 75 (± 9) years and a median Body Mass Index of 26 kg/m2 (± 6 kg/m2). Use of Betablockers was higher at 2nd FUP compared to baseline (54.5% vs 27.3%). Further, Diuretics and/or mineralocorticoid antagonist use was higher at 2nd FUP compared to baseline (63.6% vs. 54.5%). We analysed 33 CPET measurements, evenly divided into baseline, 1st FUP and 2nd FUP. Maximal physical performance was increased at 1st FUP compared to baseline (104.27 Watt vs. 91.45 Watt), but reduced at 2nd FUP compared to 1st FUP (99.36 Watt vs. 104.27 Watt) as illustrated in Figure 1. An increase in VO2 max was evaluated in the 1st FUP compared to baseline (18.75 mL/kg/min vs. 17.70 mL/kg/min). Further, we observed a reduction of VO2 max at 2nd FUP compared to the baseline values (15.80 mL/kg/min vs. 17.10 mL/kg/min). Minute ventilation and exhaled CO2 [VE/VCO2] slope was higher in 1st FUP compared to baseline (35.96 vs. 35.38) and higher compared to 1st FUP (30.31 vs. 35.96). Long term assessment of laboratory values, such as high sensitivity Troponin-T showed an increase at 2nd FUP compared to baseline by 19.30% (51.00 ng/L vs. 42.75 ng/L), further assessment showed a worsening in N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide value by 12.14% by comparing 2nd FUP versus baseline (2194.56 ng/L vs. 1956.93 ng/L) as illustrated in Figure 2. Conclusion ATTR-CM is a progressive disease, a decline of physical performance under Tafamidis and optimal background therapy is common in ATTR-CM patients. Future studies are needed to evaluate the benefit of specific interventions such as rehabilitation to maintain and improve physical performance in ATTR-CM patients.

Home-based exercise in patients on maintenance dialysis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

The impact of home-based exercise on physical performance and quality of life (QoL) in patients on maintenance dialysis has not yet been fully established. We searched four large electronic databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting the impact of home-based exercise interventions vs. usual care or intradialytic exercise interventions, on physical performance and QoL in patients on dialysis. The meta-analysis was performed using fixed effects modeling. We included 12 unique RCTs involving 791 patients of various ages on maintenance dialysis. Home-based exercise interventions were associated with an improvement of walking speed at the 6 Minutes Walking Test [6MWT; nine RCTs; pooled weighted mean differences (WMD): 33.7 m, 95% confidence interval (CI) 22.8-44.5; P<0.001; I2=0%) and in aerobic capacity as assessed by the peak oxygen consumption (VO2 peak; 3 RCTs; pooled WMD: 2.04ml/kg/min, 95% CI 0.25-3.83; P=0.03; I2=0%). They were also associated with improved QoL, as assessed by the Short Form (36) Health (SF-36) score. Stratifying the RCTs by control groups, no significant difference was found between home-based exercise and intradialytic exercise interventions. Funnel plots did not reveal any significant publication bias. Our systematic review and meta-analysis showed that home-based exercise interventions for 3-6 months were associated with significant improvements in physical performance in patients on maintenance dialysis. However, further RCTs with a longer follow-up should be conducted to assess the safety, adherence, feasibility, and effects on QoL of home-based exercise programs in dialysis patients.

Effects of moderate- vs. high-intensity interval training on physical fitness, enjoyment, and affective valence in overweight/obese female adolescents: a pre-/post-test study.

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of 12-week moderate-intensity interval training (MIIT) vs. high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on body composition, physical fitness, and psychological valence in overweight/obese (OW/OB) female adolescents. Thirty-eight OW/OB female students were randomized into HIIT (n=13), MIIT (n=13) or control (n=12) groups. The participants underwent a 12-week interval-training program at 100% to 110% and 60% to 75% of maximal aerobic speed for HIIT and MIIT, respectively. The control group kept their usual physical activity without completing the training program. Pre- and post-training measurements were performed to assess body composition, aerobic capacity, and anaerobic performance (using selected tests evaluating speed, jumping ability, and strength). Ratings of perceived exertion and the feeling scale were evaluated every three weeks. Enjoyment was measured at the end of the program. A two-way analysis of variance with repeated measurements was applied to test for "group×time" interactions for body composition, physical fitness, and affective variables. Significant "group×time" interactions were detected for aerobic and anaerobic performance, body composition indices, and the feeling scale. HIIT resulted in more noticeable improvements in body composition and physical performance than MIIT, while no significant changes were found in the control group. Throughout the program, the feeling score has progressively increased in the MIIT group but decreased in the HIIT group. Ratings of the perceived exertion have increased in both groups, more noticeably in the HIIT group. At the end of the program, the MIIT group showed a higher enjoyment score. Despite offering better body composition improvement and physical fitness enhancement, HIIT offered lesser enjoyment and affective valence than MIIT in OW/OB female adolescents. MIIT might be an alternative time-efficient protocol for improving health in this population.

Influence of the physical and chemical characteristics of sediment fillers on the properties of mastic asphalt

This study aims to optimize the integration of dredged sediments as fillers in formulations of hydrocarbon materials such as “mastic asphalt” for sealing applications. River sediments were collected from the Hauts de France region are the following ones: Aire sur la Lys (ASL), Urban Community of Arras (ARS), European Metropolis of Lille (MEL), and Noyelles sous Lens (NSL) to identify the impact of integrating them in asphalt formulations. Pure asphalt mortars were formulated (AP1) according to the specifications. Asphalt based on limestone fillers have achieved mechanical performance set by the standards. It can be seen that MEL and NSL sediments have a limited use because of their high organic matter content and their high rate of Intergranular voids (RV), which leads to overconsumption of Bitumen. However the calcination of these sediments at 550 °C can remove the organic matter and give a better improvement in physical and mechanical performance than the quicklime treatment. Asphalt-based calcined sediment at 550 °C (NSLC) has been shown to deliver up to 80% improvements in the mechanical performance in comparison to the raw sediment mix. In addition, the use of a soft grade of Bitumen gave impressive benefits with the sediment fillers which can reach up to 23% substitution and reducing the quantity of Bitumen up to 19%.

The Effects of Online Physical Activity During Covid-19 Pandemic among Undergraduate Students in Thailand

Study purpose. The purpose of this study was to develop a physical activity program by using resistance band for students to improve physical activity and monitor improvements in physical performance. The university students’physical activity, which was still low before the pandemic, may be impacted by these. As a result, we want to incorporate physical activity into our course and assess the differences in physical performance before and after taking the course. Materials and methods. 95 undergraduate college students signed up to take the course. The online course, which included resistance band training for a total of 12 weeks, addressed the principles of resistance band training/exercise. The physical performance of the participants was assessed both before and after training. Results. According to our study findings, university students at Walailak University can increase their physical performance by using an online resistance band training. The physical fitness statistics for the wall sit test, sit up test, sit and reach test, and shuttle run test were significantly different before and after the online elastic band intervention (p=0.0463, p=0.0050, and p=0.0430, respectively), but not for the shuttle run or YMCA 3-minute step test. Conclusions. The results of this study provide proof that resistance band training improves strength and encourages physical activity. In order to reduce anxiety and depression, which the COVID-19 has severely touched, as well as to increase the population’s level of physical activity or exercise, we must continually promote physical activity or exercise at home.

Vitamin D Supplementation and Muscle Power, Strength and Physical Performance in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundLow 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) concentrations (<30 ng/mL [<50 nmol/L]) have been associated with muscle weakness and impaired physical performance in observational studies. However, the effect of vitamin D supplementation on changes in muscle strength and physical performance in randomized controlled trials has been mixed. ObjectivesTo determine the effect of daily vitamin D supplementation on leg power, strength, and physical performance in low-functioning older adults with 25(OH)D concentrations of 18 to <30 ng/mL. MethodsIn this double-blind, randomized controlled trial, 136 low-functioning [Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) scores ≤10] adults aged 65–89 y with 25(OH)D concentrations of 18 to <30 ng/mL were randomly assigned to 2000 IU/d vitamin D3 or placebo for 12 mo. Lower-extremity leg power (primary outcome), leg and grip strength, SPPB, timed up and go (TUG), postural sway, and gait velocity and spatiotemporal parameters (secondary outcomes) were assessed at baseline, 4 and 12 mo. A subset (n = 37) also underwent a muscle biopsy at baseline and 4 mo and muscle fiber composition and contractile properties were assessed. ResultsParticipants’ mean ± SD age and SPPB scores at baseline were 73.4 ± 6.3 y and 7.8 ± 1.8, respectively. Mean ± SD 25(OH)D concentrations at baseline and 12 mo were 19.4 ± 4.2 ng/mL and 28.6 ± 6.7 ng/mL in the vitamin D group and 19.9 ± 4.9 ng/mL and 20.2 ± 5.0 ng/mL in the placebo group for a mean ± SE difference of 9.1 ± 1.1 ng/mL (P < 0.0001). However, there were no differences in change in leg power, leg or grip strength, SPPB score, TUG, postural sway, or gait velocity and spatiotemporal parameters by intervention group over 12 mo or muscle fiber composition and contractile properties over 4 mo. ConclusionsIn low-functioning older adults with 25(OH)D concentrations of 18 to <30 ng/mL, randomization to 2000 IU/d vitamin D3 did not result in improvements in leg power, strength, or physical performance or muscle fiber composition and contractile properties.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02015611.

Anti-senescence effects of Rhodiola crenulate extracts on LO2 cells and bioactive compounds.

Rhodiola crenulata (Rc) is a traditional herb, used in Tibetan medicine, has shown promise efficacy in physical performance improvement, work capacity enhancement, fatigue elimination, and altitude sickness prevention. Also, Rc exhibited therapeutic effects on aging-related diseases. However, relevant researches on Rc and their bioactive components are quite few and needs further investigation. The objective of this study was to understand the relationship between phytochemical profiles and their activities of Rc extracts. Rc extracts prepared by solvents with various hydrophilicity (i.e. aqueous ethanol (70%, v/v), water, and ethyl acetate), and their chemical compositions and specific compounds were analyzed by chemical analysis method and ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). The regulate effects of Rc extracts on senescence and antioxidant activity were evaluated using the models of LO2 cells and Caenorhabditis elegans. The 70% ethanol extracts exhibited better regulating effects on senescence via the assays of senescence -associated β-galactosidase (SAβG) staining and lifespan, which was consistent with the higher antioxidant activities observed based on the results of antioxidant assays. A total of 14 phytochemicals have been identified in 70% ethanol extracts, whereas the other two extracts contained much fewer compounds in varieties. Phytochemical profile of water extract was similar to the first half (polar compounds, running time: 0-6min) of 70% ethanol extract profile, while those of ethyl acetate extract was consistent with its second half (more nonpolar compounds, running time: 6-12min). The 14 phytochemicals in Rc might exhibit additive or synergistic effects on senescence regulating and antioxidant activities, providing theoretical basis for daily administration of Rc.