Exercise Intensity Research Articles

Effect of Mat Pilates intervention on sleep quality in adolescent girls: A single blinded randomised controlled trial

BackgroundPilates, a low-to-moderate intensity workout provides an alternative to traditional methods that stimulate both the mind and the body. Adolescent girls often experience sub optimal sleep quality, especially on school days, posing significant health risks. This study aims to investigate the effects of Pilates on the sleep quality of adolescent females. MethodsA single-blinded Randomized Controlled Trial was conducted at a Physiotherapy OPD. Eligible adolescent girls (aged 10–19) with PSQI scores exceeding 5 were enrolled. Sixty participants were allocated each to Group A (Control) or Group B (Mat Pilates) via convenience sampling. Parental consent and participant assent were obtained. Group A maintained daily activities with ergonomic exercises, while Group B underwent Mat Pilates training three times weekly for eight weeks. Data were collected at baseline, at the end of 4th and 8th week. ResultBetween-group analysis at the 4th and 8th weeks showed significant differences. Post hoc analysis with Bonferroni adjustment revealed notable improvements from baseline to both time points (p < 0.05). The experimental group achieved a 45.14 % greater reduction in Global PSQI score compared to the control group, indicating significant improvements in sleep quality. The experimental group also showed a substantial 53.39 % improvement in sleep duration and a significant 65 % reduction in sleep latency, outperforming the control group. ConclusionThis study reveals promising improvements in sleep quality, highlighting the potential benefits of Pilates for this demographic. This can be a valuable approach to enhancing sleep quality among adolescent girls, potentially contributing to their overall health and life quality.

External Mechanical Work Versus Energy Expenditure During on-Court Tennis Drills in Elite Adolescent Tennis Players

Abstract Purpose Tennis demands exceptional technical skills, speed, strength and endurance. Previous studies have highlighted the high energy expenditure during tennis drills due to constant directional changes. While metabolic monitoring and player tracking have been used to quantify exercise intensity and movements, mechanical efficiency (ME) in tennis remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate ME in tennis by combining metabolic and mechanical measurements during on-court drills. Methods Ten elite adolescent tennis players (males n = 5, females n = 5) performed a VO2max test on a treadmill and participated in three standard tennis drills, Spanish cross, lateral and inside out. During the tennis drill, full-body kinematics were captured, and energy expenditure was measured using a portable breath-by-breath gas analysis. ME was calculated for each drill, and individual differences were examined. Results Results revealed significant differences in energy expenditure and mechanical work between drills. ME was not associated with VO2max or running speed. highlighting the need to focus on other factors like strength, footwork technique, and neuromuscular training to enhance ME. Conclusion This study underscores the complexity of ME in tennis, with individual variations and where factors like footwork technique, muscular strength and motor abilities might influence ME.

The impact of moderate-intensity basketball intervention on the physical self-esteem and school adjustment of first-year high school students.

This study conducted an 8-week experiment with the basketball sports intervention program to explore the relationship between the basketball sports intervention program and the physical self-esteem and school adjustment of first-year high school students, providing references for first-year high school students' school adjustment and related research. Using convenient sampling,88 students in two classes of grade one in a senior high school in Changzhou were selected as the experimental research objects and were randomly divided into experimental groups (basketball) 44 people (20 male and 24 female; control group routine physical education) 44 people (23 male and 21 female). The exercise intervention lasted 8-week, 3-times-a-week with about 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each time. The control group had normal sports activities, and the exercise intensity was not monitored. The Physical Self-esteem Scale and the School Adaptation Scale were used to measure the data in a group manner before and after the experiment. All data were statistically analyzed with SPSS26.0. (1) After 8 weeks of basketball intervention, the post-test level of school adaptation of first-year high school students was significantly higher than the pre-test (p<0.01), and the post-test level of physical self-esteem was significantly higher than the pre-test (p<0.01). (2) Basketball intervention can directly affect the school adaptation of first-year high school students and indirectly affect the school adaptation through physical self-esteem. The direct effect was 86.79%, and the indirect effect was 13.21%. (1) Intervention of moderate intensity basketball can improve first-year high school students' school adaptation and physical self-esteem. (2) Intervention of moderate intensity basketball can directly improve first-year high school students' and school adaptation by improving individual physical self-esteem. Physical self-esteem plays a partial intermediary role between basketball and school adaptation.

Lifestyle intervention improves cognition and quality of life in persons with early Multiple Sclerosis

BackgroundLifestyle changes have been demonstrated to impact pathophysiology in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Various diet and exercise protocols have been reported to improve symptoms and function in persons with MS. Evidence is accumulating that interventions as early as possible in the disease course are warranted. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of a remotely delivered lifestyle program focusing on specific diet and exercise recommendations in persons with early MS. MethodsMS patients, with disease diagnosis no more than 2 years prior, were recruited from the patient population of the MS clinic of the Pacific Neuroscience Institute. Participants followed recommendations for diet and exercise delivered via remote heath coaching. Each participant received 6 sessions with a health coach over a 12-week period. They were given parameters of a Mediterranean-type diet to follow, and specific and individualized recommendations about duration, intensity and type of exercise and physical activity. Outcome measures included Quality of Life (QOL), cognition (Symbol Digit Modalities Test, SDMT), fatigue (Multiple Sclerosis Fatigue Impact Scale, MFIS), fitness (estimated with Metabolic equivalents, METS) and other objective and patient reported outcomes (PRO). Changes in outcomes were analyzed using mixed effects general linear models and standardized pre-post differences.(Cohen's d) ResultsFifteen persons with early (≤ 2 years) MS enrolled in the study, 14 of whom completed the study. We observed significant improvements in QOL (p = 0.02), SDMT (p = 0.006), fatigue(p = 0.005), fitness (p = 0.04), and other PRO and objective metrics at the end of the protocol compared to baseline. Adherence and patient satisfaction measures were high. ConclusionsSpecific and individualized lifestyle recommendations can be effectively delivered remotely, and may produce improvement in symptoms and function in persons with early MS. Larger controlled trials of these interventions are warranted.

Effects of aerobic exercise at different intensities on articular cartilage in mice.

Maintaining intrinsic articular cartilage homeostasis is essential for the health of cartilage. However, the impact of aerobic exercise of varying intensities on the articular cartilage homeostasis has never been studied. This study aims to elucidate the influence of different aerobic exercise intensities on the anabolic and catabolic processes within articular cartilage. Forty-eight male C57BL/6J mice, aged 7 weeks, were divided into 4 aerobic exercise groups and 1 control group. The aerobic exercise groups were subjected to both acute and chronic exercise protocols with varying intensities of 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 mmin-1. Total RNA from the knee joint cartilage was extracted in both phases to quantify mRNA of anabolic (Sox9, Col2a1, and Acan) and catabolic (MMP-13 and ADAMTS5) markers. In the chronic exercise, articular cartilage thickness and chondrocyte density were histologically assessed. Additionally, immunohistochemical staining quantified relevant molecules involved in cartilage metabolism. Inthe acute exercise, the 8 m min-1 group exhibited reduced ADAMTS5 expression compared to the control, 16 m min-1, and 24 m min-1 groups. Chronic exercise showed enhanced articular cartilage thickness in both the 8 and 12 m min-1 groups relative to the control group. Moreover, the 8 m min-1 group demonstrated elevated aggrecan levels in comparison to both the control and 24 m min-1 groups. Additionally, the 24 m min-1 group exhibited significantly higher ADAMTS5 levels than the control group. Our findings suggest that consistent low-intensity aerobic exercise suppresses catabolic molecule expression in articular cartilage, thereby fostering anabolic activity. Conversely, continuous high-intensity aerobic exercise can potentially disrupt cartilage homeostasis by enhancing catabolic processes. This dichotomy underscores the need for balanced exercise regimens to maintain cartilage health.

The Effects of Diet, Dietary Supplements, Drugs and Exercise on Physical, Diagnostic Values of Urine Characteristics.

Background/Objectives: This review summarizes the current knowledge about factors that affect the physical characteristics of urine. It highlights proper urine sample collection and displays factors like diet, hydration status, and medications that can alter urine color, odor, clarity, specific gravity and pH. Results: Urinalysis is a minimally invasive examination of a patient's health, especially concerning nephrological and endocrinological abnormalities, as well as dietary habits and stimulants used. Certain deviations in appearance, composition or frequency/pain during urination may indicate an ongoing disease process in the body. Based on laboratory results, further medical treatment is determined. The reason for a change in the color of the urine, for its clouding or intense odor may be a disease, as well as the consumption of food, medication, intensive physical exercise or inadequate hydration of the body. Well-standardized procedures for collecting, transporting, preparing and analyzing samples should become the basis for an effective diagnostic strategy in urinalysis. It is worth noting that pharmacists in pharmaceutical care are often the first people to whom a patient turns for health advice and for the interpretation of simple laboratory tests. Acquiring the ability to interpret the results of laboratory tests and the principles of proper sampling for laboratory tests is indispensable in the process of possible counseling and providing reliable answers to patients' questions. Conclusions: Although urinalysis is not recommended as a routine screening tool for the general population, it can prove to be a valuable source of patient health data in some cases as the data will be useful to physicians and pharmacists to more effectively diagnose and better care for patients.

Implementation and Clinical Outcomes of Blood Flow Restriction Training on Adults With Cerebral Palsy: A Case Series.

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a congenital neurological disorder that causes musculoskeletal weakness and biomechanical dysfunctions. Strength training guidelines recommend at least 70% of 1-repetition maximum to increase muscle strength and mass. However, individuals with CP may not tolerate such high exercise intensity. Blood flow restriction (BFR) can induce similar gains in strength and muscle mass using loads as low as 20% to 30% 1-repetition maximum. This case series described the safety, feasibility, and acceptability of BFR in adults with CP and examined changes in muscle mass and strength. Three male participants with gross motor function classification system level 3 CP underwent strength training using a periodized 8-week BFR protocol. Outcomes included: Safety via blood pressure during and post-BFR exercises in addition to adverse event tracking; Feasibility via number of support people and time-duration of BFR exercises; Acceptability via rate of perceived discomfort (0-10) and qualitative interviews; Muscle Mass via ultrasonographic cross-sectional area of the quadriceps and hamstring; and Strength via (1) 3-repetition maximum in the leg press and knee extension, (2) isometric knee flexor and extensor muscle force measured with a hand-held dynamometer, and (3) 30-second sit-to-stand test. Participants replaced 2 exercises from their current regimen with seated knee extension and leg press exercises using progressively higher limb occlusion pressure and exercise intensity. Limb occlusion pressure started at 60%, by week 4 progressed to 80%, and then remained constant. The exercise repetition scheme progressed from fixed nonfailure repetition sets to failure-based repetition sets. Blood pressure never exceeded safety threshold, and no adverse events were reported. The BFR training was time-consuming and resource-intensive, but well-tolerated by participants (rate of perceived discomfort with a mean value of 5.8, 100% protocol adherence). Strength, as measured by 3-repetition maximum testing and 30-second sit-to-stand test, increased, but isometric muscle force and muscle mass changes were inconsistent. Blood flow restriction may be an effective means to increase strength in adults with CP who cannot tolerate high-intensity resistance training. Future research should compare BFR to traditional strength training and investigate mediators of strength changes in this population. for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A473 ).

Sex-Specific Impacts of High-Versus Moderate-Intensity Training on AT1R mRNA Expression and Cardiovascular Stress

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the responses of AT1R mRNA expression, cortisol, and cardiovascular stress to high- versus moderate-intensity training (HIT vs. MIT) among women and men. Methods: 144 participants were allocated to the exercise training groups for both sexes. Right after the HIT and MIT running were performed on a treadmill, AT1R mRNA expression and physiologic stress were measured by real-time PCR and a 12-lead ECG system. Results: Regarding the exercise intensity, although AT1R mRNA expression and O2 pulse values were abruptly higher among men compared to women (p &lt; 0.001), the SpO2 amounts did not change during the recovery period (p &gt; 0.05). Moreover, more time was required for MvO2 to be recovered in men who performed HIT. Conclusion: Despite the fact that various exercise intensities result in temporary physiological stress on the cardiovascular system, especially in men, these challenges are required to improve cardiovascular fitness and it is temporary.

Association between Neural Plasticity and Pain-Related Fear in Chronic Ankle Instability: A Structural Neuroimaging Study.

Pain-related movement fear is a contributing factor to residual pain and functional deficits in chronic ankle instability (CAI), but its underlying neural mechanisms remain unclear. We aimed to (1) delineate whether participants with CAI exhibit discernible differences in specific emotion and pain-related brain regions, compared to a healthy control (HC) cohort and (2) explore potential neural mechanisms underlying pain and fear in participants with CAI, with an emphasis on investigating possible associations with pain-related neural plasticity. Cross-sectional study. University research laboratory. 28 participants with CAI (17males and 11 females; age: 31.28±6.31 years) and 28 HCs (16 males and 12 females; age: 30.18±7.59 years). We analyzed T1 structural imaging data from participants and assessed their fear of movement and pain intensity using the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK) and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, respectively. We compared the mean gray matter (GM) density of pain-related area between the two groups and their correlations with the TSK and VAS scores. In comparison with the HC group, participants with CAI showed a significant decrease in the mean GM density in the prefrontal cortex (Cohen's d = -0.808) and periaqueductal gray (Cohen's d = -0.934). In participants with CAI, the mean GM density of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) was negatively correlated with the TSK scores (r = -0.531). During intense exercise, the mean GM density of the periaqueductal gray (PAG) was negatively correlated with the VAS scores (r = -0.484). Additionally, TSK scores were positively correlated with VAS scores (r = 0.455). Our exploratory findings suggest that, in participants with CAI, the atrophy of the PFC and PAG may be associated with pain-related fear. Future clinical diagnosis and treatment for CAI should consider the impact of psychological barriers on functional recovery.

Effects of Sports Bras and Breast Volume on Pulmonary System and Respiratory Symptom Responses to Exercise in Healthy Females.

This study assessed the individual and combined effects of sports bras and breast volume on pulmonary system and respiratory symptom responses to exercise in recreationally-active females. Twenty-three healthy females (18-27 y; bra sizes 32B-36DDD) were divided into small and large breast volume groups (SBV and LBV, respectively) around median volume (324 ml; mean ± SD SBV: 284 ± 38 ml vs. LBV: 560 ± 97 ml; p < 0.001, g = 3.84). Participants completed three 5-minute bouts of constant-load cycle exercise at 30, 60, and 90% of their peak power output while wearing a high-support sports bra, low-support sports bralette, or their own (self-selected) sports bra in randomized order. Measurements included ventilation, breathing pattern, respiratory pressures, diaphragm electromyogram (EMGdi), and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), breathlessness (intensity and unpleasantness) and chest tightness due to bra. Compared to low-support and personal sports bras, the high-support sports bra evoked stronger sensations of restricted breathing and chest tightness ('slight' to 'moderate' restriction in n = 7 [30%] vs. n = 1 [4%] in low-support and personal bras; p = 0.014). There was, however, no evidence of greater concomitant inspiratory constraints, EMGdi, or inspiratory muscle pressure generation in either bra (all p > 0.05). Notably, LBV compared to SBV participants reported greater RPE (p = 0.037, ηp2 = 0.20), breathlessness intensity (p = 0.039, ηp2 = 0.20) and unpleasantness (p = 0.041; ηp2 = 0.19), which, in the setting of comparable pulmonary system responses to exercise, was likely driven by stronger perceived chest tightness and/or bra awareness in LBV participants. Despite evoking mild-to-moderately severe chest tightness due to bra during exercise - correctly fitted sports bras, whether low- or high-support, do not impose a physiological burden to the respiratory system and its response to mild-to-heavy intensity exercise in otherwise healthy females.

Exercise and Heat Stress in Well-Healed Burn Survivors: Effects of Cooling Modalities on Thermal and Perceptual Responses.

Burn injuries that require grafting impair thermoregulation, which may dissuade individuals with such injuries from being physically active. We tested the hypothesis that cooling modalities attenuate core temperature elevations and perceptions of heat stress during physical activity in the heat among adults with well-healed burn injuries. Adults with no burn injuries (non-burned), 20-40% body surface area burn injuries (moderate burn), and > 40% body surface area burn injuries (large burn) performed 1 hour of moderate intensity exercise (2.5 ± 0.2 mph and 2% grade) on four different occasions in two environmental conditions (30 °C & 39 °C, 40% relative humidity). Within each environmental condition, we applied one of the following cooling modalities, random assigned, for each visit: no cooling (control), fan at 4 m/s (fan), water spray every 5 min (water spray; scaled to burn area size), or a combination of water spray + fan. In 30 °C, perceptual strain index (PeSI) was reduced in the non-burned and moderate burn groups with water spray + fan, whereas PeSI was reduced with all cooling modalities in the large burn group. The cooling modalities did not affect core temperature responses. In the 39 °C environment, water spray and water spray + fan attenuated the elevation in core temperature (p ≤ 0.007) only in the large burn group. In the moderate burn group, PeSI was decreased with water spray + fan (p = 0.017). In the large burn group, both water spray alone and water spray + fan (p ≤ 0.041) lowered PeSI. For both environments across burn groups, the applied cooling modalities were generally more effective at reducing indices of perceptual strain relative to indices of thermal strain (e.g., core temperature).

Effect of exercise intensity on growth performance, serum biochemistry parameters, liver antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) in recirculating aquaculture system

This study examined the impact of different exercise intensities on the growth performance, serum biochemistry, liver antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health of common carp (Cyprinus carpio). A total of 270 common carp with an initial weight of 63.91 ± 1.45 g were divided into three groups: a Sustained Exercise group [SE, 1 bl/s (body length per second), 24 h/day], an Intermittent Exercise group (IE, 1 bl/s, 8 h/day), and a Control group (CG, 3 cm/s) for a 90-days experiment. The results demonstrated that exercise substantially improved weight gain rates in common carp. Analysis of serum biochemical parameters revealed that increased exercise intensity significantly reduced levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (T-CHO), and glucose (GLU) (P < 0.05). Post-exercise evaluations also indicated significant reductions in immune-related markers, including lysozyme (LZM), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Regarding liver antioxidant enzyme activities, the levels of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) were significantly higher in the IE group relative to the CG group (P < 0.05). Conversely, the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) was significantly lower in the SE group than in the CG group (P < 0.05). In terms of intestinal health, intermittent exercise significantly reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes and increased gut villus length. Additionally, an increase in exercise intensity significantly enhanced the activities of intestinal amylase and lipase. Analysis of the intestinal microbiota through 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that intermittent exercise fostered a more diverse microbial community. Specifically, with an increase in exercise intensity, the relative abundance of Fusobacteriota rose, while those of Firmicutes decreased. At the genus level, the abundances of Cetobacterium and Aeromonas increased, contrasting with declines in Muribaculaceae, Bacteroides, and Escherichia-Shigella. PICRUSt2 functional predictions suggest that exercise might modify the intestinal environment by increasing the prevalence of pathogenic bacterial communities, potentially leading to intestinal damage and adversely affecting the physiological state of the intestine. An observed increase in riboflavin metabolism in the SE group likely contributed to its markedly improved growth performance relative to other groups. In summary, sustained exercise at 1 bl/s improved growth and intestinal digestive enzyme activity in common carp. However, it also induced stress, potentially compromising physiological health, liver function, and immune strength, consequently elevating the risk of disease. These findings provide crucial insights for optimizing growth and physiological health in common carp and other fish species in recirculating aquaculture systems through exercise.

Changes in hematopoietic stem cell numbers following acute exercise in non-athlete marathon runners

PurposeHematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplant is one of the curative methods for some patients with hematological malignancies. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is the most common drug used to mobilize CD34+ cells, generally found in small numbers. Recent evidence showed that exercise causes transient mobilization in HSC. However, the type and intensity of exercise have not been fully revealed. We aimed to detect a significant increase in stem cell levels following 60 ​min of running at a personalized running pace. Materials/methodsEighteen runners, 48.2 ​± ​1.9 years with peak oxygen consumption of 46.2 ​± ​1.4 ​ml/kg/min, were enrolled in the study. The cardiopulmonary exercise test was performed to determine the individual running pace, and the participants ran 60-min on a treadmill at an intensity close to their ventilatory threshold (VT). The blood sampling for HSC count was performed before, immediately after, at the 1st, 4th and 24th hour after the 60-min running. ResultsThe CD34+ HSCs were 13.9 ​± ​2.3 ​cells/μl before and significantly increased immediately after to 19.5 ​± ​3.6 ​cells/μl (p ​< ​0.05). The consecutive HSC counts were 15.3 ​± ​2.2, 19.5 ​± ​4.8 and 15.1 ​± ​3.4 ​cells/μl at the 1st, 4th, and 24th hour, respectively. ConclusionThe individual data showed that some runners had higher HSC levels than the transplantation limit before and after the 60-min running trail, which was maintained for 24 ​h. Pre-running high CD34+ HSCs may reflect an adaptive response to regular exercise, with a 60-min run near the VT further elevating HSCs. Individualized exercise may be a valuable tool to mobilize the CD34+ HSCs in peripheral blood for donors.

PSV-4 Clodronate re-release in response to controlled exercise and bone stressors in juvenile horses

Abstract Concerns over the extra-label use of bisphosphonates in skeletally immature horses has extended to include its likely re-release from bone into circulation in response to stressors. Therefore, the objective of this study was to be first to quantify the re-release of clodronate in response to controlled stressors. Yearling Quarter horses (n = 32) were stratified by age, body weight (BW), sex, and initial bone optical density into four treatment groups for a 168-d trial. Treatments consisted of control (CON; n = 8), single-dose (1X; d 84; n = 8), 2-dose (2X; d 0 and 84; n = 8), and four-dose groups (4X; d 0, 42, 84, and 126; n = 8). All horses received iso-volumetric intramuscular injections of either 1.8 mg/kg BW clodronate disodium (OSPHOSÒ) or saline (placebo) on d 0, 42, 84, and 126. Horses were housed in individual stalls (3.6 m × 7.2 m). Diets were formulated to meet nutrient requirements including concentrate offered every 12-h and ad libitum coastal bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) hay and water. Horses were exercised 5 d/wk with a progressive workload, and maximum exercise intensity was reached on d 120, verified via heart rate and blood lactate. On d 120, blood samples were collected prior to the start of the exercise bout (pre), and 0-, 0.5-, 1-, 3-, 12-, and 24-h post exercise. Both tuber coxae of each horse were biopsied on d 168 with blood samples collected prior to (pre), and 0, 12, 24, 48, 72, 168, and 336 h post biopsy. Clodronate was quantified in plasma from exercise and biopsy samples using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Exercise and biopsy serum were analyzed for cortisol, a marker of stress, while biopsy serum was analyzed for substance P, a pain marker. Data were analyzed using SAS PROC MIXED. Exercise did not result in clodronate re-release as there was no treatment x time interaction or time effect (P ≥ 0.44), but clodronate was dose-dependently greater in treated groups throughout the exercise collection period (P &amp;lt; 0.01). A treatment x time interaction (P ≤ 0.01) was observed for clodronate concentrations surrounding bone biopsy in which concentrations decreased at 168 h post biopsy before increasing at 336 h in 4X horses. Substance P increased over time (P &amp;lt; 0.01) following biopsy, regardless of treatment. Despite decreasing over time (P ≤ 0.01), there were similarly no treatment differences (P ≥ 0.46) nor treatment ´ time interactions (P ≥ 0.78) for cortisol following either exercise or bone insult. In conclusion, submaximal exercise did not result in re-release of clodronate; however, direct bone insult disrupted clodronate concentrations in horses receiving 4 administrations of bisphosphonate despite no treatment impact on stress or pain indicators.

Cool mama: Temperature regulation during high-intensity interval running in pregnant elite and recreational athletes

BackgroundRegular exercise during pregnancy is beneficial, but athletes often exceed the recommended 150 min of moderate-intensity activity, incorporate high-intensity exercises. The upper limit for exercise intensity and duration on fetal and maternal safety remains uncertain. A concern is a maternal core body temperature of >39.0 °C, potentially increase the risk of heat-related fetal malformations and complications during pregnancy. Blood flow redirection for thermoregulation could compromise fetal cardiovascular function, increasing the risk of miscarriage and preterm labor. This study evaluated whether pregnant women (gestational weeks 25–35) were at risk of exceeding a core body temperature of 39.0 °C during high-intensity running. We also investigated effects on skin temperature, fluid loss, and thermal sensation, comparing pregnant athletes to non-pregnant controls. MethodsIn this comparative cross-sectional study, 30 elite and recreational athletes (pregnant n = 15) completed up to five high-intensity treadmill-intervals. Core and skin temperature were continuously measured. Body weight was utilized to calculate the amount of fluid loss. ResultsHighest core body temperature were 38.76 °C and 39.56 °C in one pregnant and non-pregnant participant, respectively. Pregnant participants had lower core body temperatures (mean difference −0.47 °C, p ≤ 0.001) initially and a smaller increase (0.10 °C, p ≤ 0.003) during later intervals compared with the non-pregnant controls. Pregnant participants also showed a greater increase in skin temperature (4.08 ± 0.72 °C vs. 3.25 ± 0.86 °C, p = 0.008) and fluid loss (0.81 ± 0.19 L vs. 0.50 ± 0.12 L, p˂0.001). ConclusionPhysiological changes in pregnancy may enhance thermoregulation, indicating that high-intensity interval runs are unlikely to pose a risk of exceeding a core body temperature of 39 °C for pregnant athletes.

Analysis of Physical Activity on Mental Hyperactivity, Sleep Quality, and Bodily Pain in Higher Education Students-A Structural Equation Model.

The university population is at a vital stage of human development for acquiring an active lifestyle. Following this lifestyle will bring benefits in adulthood. This study seeks to analyse the relationship between physical activity and bodily pain, mental hyperactivity, and sleep quality as a function of the intensity of physical activity. A comparative, descriptive, and exploratory study is presented in a sample of 506 university students. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the Chronic Pain Grade Questionnaire, the Mental Hyperactivity Questionnaire, and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index were used. The proposed model analyses the relationships of physical activity to bodily pain, mental hyperactivity, sleep disturbances, and time to fall asleep. The fit of the different adjustment indices is satisfactory (X2 = 0.47, df = 1, pl = 0.48, IFI = 0.99, CFI = 0.97; NFI = 0.91; RMSEA = 0.01). The relational analysis shows a positive relationship of physical activity to bodily pain (r = 0.02; p < 0.01), mental hyperactivity (r = 0.054; p < 0.01), sleep disturbances (r = 0.029; p < 0.01), and time to fall asleep (r = 0.047; p < 0.01). Multi-group structural equation analysis indicates that there are differences in the causal relationships of physical activity to sleep quality, mental hyperactivity, and bodily pain as a function of exercise intensity. The conclusion is that the intensity at which physical activity is performed plays a key role in mental and physical health.

Effect of Intermittent Recovery Periods on the Magnitude of the VO2 Slow Component During Heavy Intensity Exercise

Effect of Intermittent Recovery Periods on the Magnitude of the VO2 Slow Component During Heavy Intensity Exercise

The effects of acute exercise on food intake and appetite in adolescents with and without obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized evidence pertaining to consummatory and appetitive responses to acute exercise in children and adolescents with and without obesity (5-18 years). Articles reporting on supervised, controlled trials of any modality, duration, or intensity with laboratory-measured food intake were found using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane up to July 2023. Differences between conditions in laboratory energy and macronutrient intake, appetite sensations, and food reward were quantitatively synthesized using random-effects meta-analyses. Thirty-five studies were eligible for the systematic review of energy intake, consisting of 60 distinct intervention arms with lean (n = 374) and overweight/obesity participants (n = 325; k = 51 eligible for meta-analysis). Study quality as indicated by the Effective Public Healthy Practice Project tool was rated as low and moderate risk of bias for 80% and 20% of studies, respectively. Acute exercise had no significant effect on energy intake during an ad libitum test meal (mean difference [MD] = -4.52 [-30.58, 21.54] kcal, p = .729). Whilst absolute carbohydrate intake was lower after exercise (23 arms; MD = -6.08 [-11.26, -0.91] g, p = .023), the proportion of carbohydrate was not (30 arms; MD = -0.62 [-3.36, 2.12] %, p = .647). A small elevation in hunger (27 arms; MD = 4.56 [0.75, 8.37] mm, p = .021) and prospective food consumption (27 arms; PFC; MD = 5.71 [1.62, 9.80] mm, p = .008) was observed post-exercise, but not immediately prior to the test meal (Interval: Mdn = 30 min, Range = 0-180). Conversely, a modest decrease in explicit wanting for high-fat foods was evident after exercise (10 arms; MD = -2.22 [-3.96, -0.47] mm, p = .019). Exercise intensity (p = .033) and duration (p = .013) moderated food intake only in youth with overweight/obesity, indicating lower intake at high intensity and short duration. Overall, acute exercise does not lead to compensation of energy intake or a meaningful elevation of appetite or food reward and might have a modest benefit in youth with overweight/obesity if sufficiently intense. However, conclusions are limited by substantial methodological heterogeneity and the small number of trials employing high-intensity exercise, especially in youth with overweight/obesity.

Acute and prolonged effects of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens GF424-derived SOD on antioxidant defense in healthy individuals challenged with intense aerobic exercise

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a vital role in cellular functions but can lead to oxidative stress and contribute to degenerative diseases when produced in excess. Maintaining redox balance is essential and can be achieved through innate defense mechanisms or external antioxidants. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is a key enzyme that mitigates intracellular oxidative stress by converting harmful free radicals into hydrogen peroxide, which is subsequently neutralized by catalase and glutathione peroxidase. Previous studies have demonstrated the antioxidant capabilities of SOD derived from Bacillus amyloquefaciens GF424 (BA-SOD) in murine models exposed to either irradiation or SOD1 gene deletion. In this study, a randomized clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the antioxidative benefits of BA-SOD in healthy individuals undergoing acute aerobic exercise (AAE). Eighty participants were randomly assigned to receive either BA-SOD or a placebo for 8 weeks. Antioxidant enzyme activities and glutathione levels were measured before, immediately after, and 30 min post-exercise. A single dose of BA-SOD significantly reduced ROS levels induced by AAE, primarily by enhancing SOD activity in erythrocytes and activating glutathione peroxidase. Continuous BA-SOD administration was associated with a sustained increase in catalase activity and elevated levels of reduced glutathione (GSH). Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses revealed that a single BA-SOD dose facilitated GSH oxidation, as evidenced by decreased levels of serine, glutamine, and glycine, and increased pyroglutamate levels. Additionally, repeated dosing led to increased expression of genes encoding isocitrate dehydrogenase and malic enzyme, which are involved in NADPH synthesis, as well as nicotinamide phosphoribosyl transferase and NAD kinase, which are essential for NADP availability–critical for converting oxidized glutathione (GSSG) back to GSH. These molecular insights align with clinical observations, suggesting that both acute and long-term BA-SOD supplementation may effectively enhance antioxidant defenses and maintain redox balance under oxidative stress conditions.

Replacement of sedentary behavior with various physical activities and the risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality

BackgroundSedentary behavior (SB) has emerged as a significant health concern that deserves attention. This study aimed to examine the associations between prolonged sedentary behavior and the risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality as well as to explore desirable alternatives to sitting in terms of physical activity (PA).MethodsTwo prospective cohort investigations were conducted using the UK Biobank and NHANES datasets, with a total of 490,659 and 33,534 participants, respectively. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the associations between SB and the risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality due to cancer, cardiovascular disease (CVD), respiratory diseases, and digestive diseases. In addition, we employed isotemporal substitution models to examine the protective effect of replacing sitting with various forms of PA.ResultsDuring the average follow-up times of 13.5 and 6.7 years, 36,109 and 3057 deaths were documented in the UK Biobank and NHANES, respectively. Both cohorts demonstrated that, compared with individuals sitting less than 5 h per day, individuals with longer periods of sitting had higher risks of all-cause and cause-specific mortality due to cancer, CVD, and respiratory diseases but not digestive diseases. Moreover, replacing SB per day with PA, even substituting 30 min of walking for pleasure, reduced the risk of all-cause mortality by 3.5% (hazard ratio [HR] 0.965, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.954–0.977), whereas cause-specific mortality from cancer, CVD, and respiratory diseases was reduced by 1.6% (HR 0.984, 95% CI 0.968–1.000), 4.4% (HR 0.956, 95% CI 0.930–0.982), and 15.5% (HR 0.845, 95% CI 0.795–0.899), respectively. Furthermore, the protective effects of substitution became more pronounced as the intensity of exercise increased or the alternative duration was extended to 1 h.ConclusionsSB was significantly correlated with substantially increased risks of all-cause mortality and cause-specific mortality from cancer, CVD, and respiratory diseases. However, substituting sitting with various forms of PA, even for short periods involving relatively light and relaxing physical activity, effectively reduced the risk of both overall and cause-specific mortality.Graphical