Moderate-intensity Training Research Articles

Effect of a 12-week home-based exercise training program on aerobic capacity, muscle mass, liver and spleen stiffness, and quality of life in cirrhotic patients: a randomized controlled clinical trial

BackgroundPhysical inactivity and sarcopenia are two important predictors associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients with cirrhosis. At present, the benefit of a home-based exercise training program is not well established in cirrhotic patients. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a 12-week home-based exercise training program on aerobic capacity in cirrhotic patients.MethodsThis is a randomized controlled study. Patients with compensated cirrhosis were randomized by a block of 4 with concealed allocation to the home-based exercise training (n = 20) or control (n = 20). Both groups received protein supplementation (9 g/day) for 12 weeks. The home-based exercise training program included several aerobic/isotonic moderate-intensity continuous training exercises for 40 min per session, at least four times a week, with a total duration of 12 weeks. The heart rate was continuously monitored using a Garmin® watch. In the control group, patients received exercise instruction without active encouragement and continuous monitoring. The primary outcome was a change in the 6-min walk test from baseline. Secondary outcomes were the difference in thigh muscle thickness, liver stiffness, spleen stiffness, and quality of life.ResultsA total of 40 patients were enrolled prospectively. The mean age was 56.3 ± 7.8 years, with a male predominance of 65%. The mean body mass index was 25.23 ± 3.0 kg/m2, and all were Child–Pugh A. Chronic hepatitis B or C was the primary cause of cirrhosis. The baseline values were a 6-min walk test of 475 ± 70 m, liver stiffness of 15.3 ± 9.3 kPa, spleen stiffness of 29.8 ± 21.7 kPa, and thigh muscle thickness (average compression index) of 0.64 ± 0.2 cm/m2. All baseline characteristics between the two groups were not different except the mean muscle mass which was significantly higher in the home-based exercise training group (p = 0.03, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.17). At the end of the study, no significant difference in the 6-min walk test was observed (p = 0.36, 95% CI −15.5 to 41.7). Liver stiffness measurement significantly improved in both groups, but no significant difference between groups was demonstrated (p = 0.77, 95% CI −1.3 to 1.8). Thigh muscle thickness was not different between groups. The fatigue domain of the quality of life index was significantly improved in the home-based exercise training group compared with the control group (p = 0.05, 95% CI 0.00 to 0.67). No adverse events occurred in a home-based exercise training program.ConclusionsA 12-week moderate-intensity home-based exercise training program in compensated cirrhotic patients significantly improved the fatigue domain of the quality of life index without an increase in adverse events. However, no benefit in terms of aerobic capacity, thigh muscle mass, liver stiffness, and spleen stiffness was demonstrated.Trial registration: Thai Clinical Trials Registry number TCTR20190926002, 26/09/2019 (Retrospectively registered).

A Guide to Different Intensities of Exercise, Vaccination, and Sports Nutrition in the Course of Preparing Elite Athletes for the Management of Upper Respiratory Infections during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Narrative Review.

Elite athletes use high-intensity training to maintain their fitness level. However, intense training can harm the immune system, making athletes suspectable to COVID-19 and negatively affecting their performance. In addition, the diet of athletes should be appreciated more as it is another influencer of the immune system, especially during the COVID 19 pandemic. The other important issue elite athletes face currently is vaccination and its possible intervention with their training. The present study attempts to discuss the impact of different training intensities, nutritional strategies, and vaccination on the immune system function in elite athletes. To this end, Scopus, ISC, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were searched from 1988 to 2021 using the related keywords. The results of our review showed that although high-intensity exercise can suppress the immune system, elite athletes should not stop training in the time of infection but use low- and moderate-intensity training. Moderate-intensity exercise can improve immune function and maintain physical fitness. In addition, it is also better for athletes not to undertake high-intensity training at the time of vaccination, but instead perform moderate to low-intensity training. Furthermore, nutritional strategies can be employed to improve immune function during high-intensity training periods.

Aerobic training reduces pancreatic fat content and improves β-cell function: A randomized controlled trial using IDEAL-IQ magnetic resonance imaging.

To explore the effects of six months of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise on pancreatic fat content and its impact on β-cell function. A total of 106 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were randomized to either a moderate-intensity aerobic training group (three times a week, including 5 min warm-up, 50 min aerobic dancing, and 5 min relaxation, n=53) or control group (n=53) with 6-month intervention. The primary endpoint was change in pancreatic fat content. An intention-to-treat analysis was conducted. Eighty-six patients completed the study with 43 patients in the aerobic training group. The average age, HbA1c, and pancreatic fat content for all participants (106 patients) were 66.39±5.59years, 7.05±1.24%, and 10.35±9.20%, respectively. Nearly half (49.06%) of patients were males. Subjects in the aerobic training group saw a significant reduction in pancreatic fat content when compared to controls (p=0.001). In logistic regression models containing age, diabetes duration, change in BMI, smoking/drinking status, changes in lipid indices, and other abdominal fat content, only reduction in pancreatic fat content (p<0.05) was an independent protective factor for β-cell function and HbA1c. Six months of moderate-intensity aerobic training significantly reduced the pancreatic fat content. The reduction of pancreatic fat content was an independent protective factor for β-cell function and HbA1c.

Quality of Community Sports Service Distribution and Behavior Intention of the Elderly

The purpose of this study was to explore the quality of community sports distribution service through the evaluation and satisfaction of the elderly in Yangpu District of Shanghai on the quality of community sports service and explore the relationship between the quality of community sports distribution service, satisfaction, and behavioral intention. Data were collected by using surveys and analyzed using mathematical statistics. The survey refers to SERVPERF model to design a six-dimension, intermediary variable satisfaction and behavioral intention five-point scale for the service quality of community sports distribution. The sample size was 261. SPSS25.0 was used to conduct data analysis. Reliability and validity test and correlation analysis of service quality and satisfaction and behavior intention of the elderly were conducted. The Cronbach's Alpha value of the scale was 0.932. The KMO value was above 0.8, and Bartlett sphericity test was significant, indicating high reliability and validity of the scale. The analysis results showed that the mean values of the six dimensions of service quality and satisfaction were higher than 4.2, indicating that the elderly had a high evaluation of community sports distribution service quality. Community sports service delivery service quality dimensions and satisfaction and behavior intention between different degree of correlation, in addition to the tangibility of community sports service reliability of distribution service quality, responsiveness, assurance, empathy, and practicality for older people to participate in community sports service satisfaction and behavior intention of distribution had significant positive correlations. More women than men participated in community sports service delivery among the elderly since most of the delivery items are dance and martial arts. The elderly had a good participation in community sports service distribution, with the frequency and duration of weekly participation basically meeting the requirements of China's sports population within 4-5 years. They had more than 30 minutes of moderate intensity training at least three times a week. According to the evaluation and satisfaction of the elderly on the service quality of community sports service delivery, community sports service delivery was of high service quality. The service quality of community sports service delivery had a positive impact on the sustainability of elderly people's participation in community sports service delivery, and they were willing to recommend it to people around them to participate. Community sports service distribution activities should be publicized and promoted on the Internet so that more people can participate in the willingness.

Impact of continuous vs. interval training on oxygen extraction and cardiac function during exercise in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Exercise training improves exercise capacity in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It remains to be elucidated whether such improvements result from cardiac or peripheral muscular adaptations, and whether these are intensity dependent. 27 patients with T2DM [without known cardiovascular disease (CVD)] were randomized to high-intensity interval training (HIIT, n = 15) or moderate-intensity endurance training (MIT, n = 12) for 24weeks (3sessions/week). Exercise echocardiography was applied to investigate cardiac output (CO) and oxygen (O2) extraction during exercise, while exercise capacity [([Formula: see text] (mL/kg/min)] was examined via cardiopulmonary exercise testing at baseline and after 12 and 24weeks of exercise training, respectively. Changes in glycaemic control (HbA1c and glucose tolerance), lipid profile and body composition were also evaluated. 19 patients completed 24weeks of HIIT (n = 10, 66 ± 11years) or MIT (n = 9, 61 ± 5years). HIIT and MIT similarly improved glucose tolerance (pTime = 0.001, pInteraction > 0.05), [Formula: see text] (mL/kg/min) (pTime = 0.001, pInteraction > 0.05), and exercise performance (Wpeak) (pTime < 0.001, pInteraction > 0.05). O2 extraction increased to a greater extent after 24weeks of MIT (56.5%, p1 = 0.009, pTime = 0.001, pInteraction = 0.007). CO and left ventricular longitudinal strain (LS) during exercise remained unchanged (pTime > 0.05). A reduction in HbA1c was correlated with absolute changes in LS after 12weeks of MIT (r = - 0.792, p = 0.019, LS at rest) or HIIT (r = - 0.782, p = 0.038, LS at peak exercise). In patients with well-controlled T2DM, MIT and HIIT improved exercise capacity, mainly resulting from increments in O2 extraction capacity, rather than changes in cardiac output. In particular, MIT seemed highly effective to generate these peripheral adaptations. NCT03299790, initially released 09/12/2017.

The Effects of Different Exercise Intensities on the Static and Dynamic Balance of Older Adults: A randomised Controlled Trial

This study aims to find the effectiveness of different exercise intensities (high-, moderate-, and low-intensity) on the dynamic and static balance of elderly women. A single-blinded factorial design study was conducted in healthy older adults (>65 years) in 12 weeks. The authors have assessed the Forward Reach Test (FRT), Lateral Reach Test (LRT), One Leg Stand (OLS), Tandem Stand Test (TST) in 60 healthy older women at a gym centre, Fit House located in Bukit Rimau, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Participants were randomly assigned to a High-Intensity Training (HIT) group; (n=15) (Mean age 69.60 ± 3.68) who performed four exercises [Leg Press (LP), Leg Extension (LE), Leg Curl (LC), and Calf Raises (CR)] at 80 to 90% of One-Repetition Maximum (1RM); Moderate-Intensity Training (MIT) group (n=15) (Mean age 69.27 ± 3.41) performed at 65 to 75% of 1RM; Low- Intensity Training (LIT) group (n=15) (Mean age 69.27 ± 1.94) performed at 50 to 60% of 1 RM; and a Control Group (CG) (n = 15) (Mean age 68.67 ± 2.38) with no training. Data was collected at pre-test, 4th, 8th, and 12th weeks of intervention. 60 participants were analysed and the main effect of time showed a statistically significant difference in the mean of all variables (all p < 0.001), and also there was a statistically significant interaction between intervention and time on all variables (all p < 0.001). Different levels of intensity on only the lower extremities muscles had a significant effect on the dynamic balance and static balance of the elderly population. After four weeks of training HIT, MIT, and LIT illustrated significant improvement in dynamic balance, as well as static balance.

Postexercise hypotension in men with parental history of hypertension: effects of mode and intensity

A family history of arterial hypertension is a significant risk factor for the development of hypertension in youngsters. Thus, primary prevention has been emphasized in those subjects with a genetic predisposition. This randomized clustered trial aimed to compare the effects of four modalities of aerobic training in postexercise hypotension. The primary outcomes were systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Secondly, peak oxygen uptake, heart rate, and subjective perceived exertion were analyzed. Nine normotensive men were randomized in four isocaloric sessions (200 kcal): high-intensity continuous training (HICT), moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and moderate-intensity interval training (MIIT). The area under the curve (AUC) showed a difference between sessions for SBP (F(3;8)=3.2; P=0.04), with MICT promoting a higher reduction than MIIT (P<0.05). In DBP there was also a difference (F(3;8)=15.3; P<0.001), with HICT reducing more than HIIT (P<0.05) and MIIT (P<0.05). Moderate-intensity protocols provided clinically relevant changes (CRC) in 11.1% of the individuals, and high-intensity protocols presented CRC in 50% of them (χ2=6.41; P=0.011) for SBP. For DBP, there was CRC in 27.8% of continuous conditions and none in the intervals (χ2=5.81; P=0.016). All training sessions promoted postexercise hypotension for DBP, and HICT provided higher reductions in the AUC. CRC for SBP were observed according to the intensity, while CRC for DBP were associated with modality.

Acute effects of a typical rhythmic gymnastic training session on physiological parameters in Olympic athletes

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a day with two separate training sessions (morning and afternoon) of rhythmic gymnastics on erythrocytes, leukocytes, muscle damage, oxidative stress, and hydration of Brazilian team [age 17.7 (±1.1) years; body height 165 (±0.5) cm; body mass 49.7 (±4.2) kg]. Heart rate and session-ratings of perceived exertion were used to monitor training intensity. Blood samples were collected immediately before (M1) and after (M2) the training day for analyzing erythrocytes, leukocytes, plasma creatine kinase activity, lactate dehydrogenase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, ferric reducing ability plasma, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and free T4. Saliva was collected for cortisol analysis. After 24 hours rest (M3), blood collection was performed to analyze creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase. The moderate-intensity training day induced significant elevations of total leukocytes (5,163.3 to 9,617.8), lymphocytes (1,752.7 to 2,729.7), neutrophils (2,873.9 to 6,163.6), monocytes (255.7 to 519.1), platelets (280,000.0 to 300,666.7), aspartate aminotransferase (13.1 to 25.6), lactate dehydrogenase (102.5 to 249.1), thyroid-stimulating hormone (1.0 to 3.2), and ferric reducing ability plasma (136.8 to 165.4), as well as significant reductions in red cells (4,691,111.1 to 4,497,777.8), hematocrit (42.1 to 39.3), and hemoglobin (12.9 to 12.5) at M2. There were also significant increases in creatine kinase (144.2 to 519.3) and lactate dehydrogenase (102.5 to 538.2) at M3. The average dehydration rate was 1.3%. A moderate-intensity day of training in rhythmic gymnastics of 8h21min duration caused hemolysis, leukocytosis, muscle damage, redox status perturbations, and insufficient hydration status. These findings show that athletes are exposed to physiological vulnerabilities that can possibly harm their performance and health.

Physical activity reduces oxidative stress and improves lipid profile made by smoking - Effectiveness of irregular and continuous training programs.

The aim of the study was to identify the possible benefits of physical activity program in improving the antioxidant enzymes activity and lipid profile among smokers. Fifteen cigarette smokers (CS), 14 hookah smokers (HS), and 14 non-smokers (NS) participated in the low-intensity continuous training (LCT). Eleven CS, 12 HS, and 12 NS participated in the moderate-intensity intermittent training (MIT). The LCT groups performed a 20 to 30-minute continuous exercise at 40% of the VO2max. The MIT groups performed 6 to 10 sets of 2-minute sprint at 70% of the VO2max interspersed by a 1-min recovery period. At baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention, the antioxidant defense activity and lipid profile were assessed. The improvement in antioxidant capacity under the effect of MIT program is statistically more significant than after LCT. The increase of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), malondialdehyde (MDA) and α-tocopherol was higher in smoker subjects participating in the MIT program compared to those participating in the LCT. In contrast, the LCT program has favorably altered lipid and lipoprotein profile of smokers and thus reduced their cardiovascular risk. The combination of the two training methods may have major implications in both defense and prevention programs.

High-Intensity Interval and Resistance Training Improve Health Outcomes in Older Adults With Coronary Disease.

Both high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and resistance exercises (R) are used in cardiac rehabilitation in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the combined effect of an HIIT+ R exercise program in older adults with CAD is not well investigated. The study's purpose was to assess the changes in anthropometric parameters, physical activity, functional capacity, physiological parameters, and quality of life (QoL) in this population following a combined HIIT+ R program. The study was a 2-group (n= 45 each) randomized controlled single-blinded trial. The study was done at a treatment clinic of a tertiary hospital. The mean age of participants was 69.23 ± 4.9years. The HIIT+ R group performed 8 sessions (1/wk) of HIIT+ R training. The 30minutes of the active exercise phase consisted of ten 3-minute bouts. Each bout comprised of 1minute of high-intensity treadmill walking at 85% to 90% maximum heart rate (MHR), followed by a low-intensity walking at 60%-70% MHR, followed by low-to moderate-intensity resistance training. The Usual Care group underwent conventional medical treatment. Anthropometric measurements [weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, body fat percentage, lean body mass], physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire), functional capacity (Incremental Shuttle Walking Test), physiologic measurements (blood pressure, heart rate), and QoL (36-Item Short Form Health Survey) were measured pre- and postintervention. Significant group and time interaction were found for the participants in the HIIT+ R Group for BMI (P= .001), body fat percentage (P= .001), waist circumference (P < .001), physical activity (P < .001), functional capacity (P < .001), and QoL (P= .001) compared with the UC Group. Significant improvement in systolic blood pressure (P= .001) was seen in the HIIT+ R group. A combined HIIT+ R training protocol in older adults with CAD can be useful in producing desired health outcomes. Further evaluation of longer duration exercise programs with more frequent dosing needs to be evaluated for their benefits and sustainability.

EFEITO DO TREINAMENTO FÍSICO EM OBESOS COM LOMBALGIA: REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA

ABSTRACT Objective: To understand the hypoalgesic effect of exercises in obese patients with low back pain. Methods: From the methodological point of view, this is a systematic review study supported by the PRISMA guidelines (2020). Only clinical trials with defined eligibility criteria were included and the methodological evaluation was carried out using the Risk of Bias 2.0 (RoB 2.0) tool. Results: Four clinical trials were found, which underwent an assessment of risk of bias and were mostly categorized as moderate risk of bias or with some concerns. Conclusions: Moderate-intensity interval training (MIIT), high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and total resistance or lumbar spine extension exercises were shown to be effective for pain control, quality of life, and functional performance in obese individuals. On the other hand, the exercises alone did not produce a decrease in body composition. Level of evidence I; Systematic review.

Interval or continuous aerobic exercise performed 3 days a week increases endothelium-dependent relaxation in female rats fed with fructose

Aim: We investigated the effects of continuous or interval aerobic exercise training on vascular reactivity of female rats fed with fructose. Methods: Female Wistar rats (8-wk old) were divided into: sedentary (SD), continuous training (CTR), and interval training (ITR). Moderate intensity training protocols consisted of running 3 days/week for 7 weeks. CTR ran 40 min at 30%–40% of the maximal speed (MS) and TRI consisted of 7 sets of 1 min at 70% of MS followed by 3 min at 35% of MS. Animals were fed with standard chow and fructose (10%) in drinking water. Concentration-response curves to acetylcholine and phenylephrine, and oxidative stress biomarkers, were determined in the aorta. Body weight gain, visceral fat, and plasma triglycerides and glucose were also evaluated. Results: Endothelium-dependent relaxation was significantly increased by both exercise regimens (CTR: Emax = 85 ± 6% and ITR: Emax = 84 ± 1%) compared to sedentary rats (SD: Emax = 62 ± 5%). The contractile maximal response was not different but phenylephrine potency was increased in CTR (pEC50: 8.41 ± 0.19) and reduced in ITR (pEC50: 7.06 ± 0.11) compared to SD (pEC50: 7.77 ± 0.08). In addition, the generation of superoxide was lower in trained groups as compared with sedentary (about −28% in CTR and −22% in ITR). TBARS and nitrate/nitrite levels were not modified. Compared to the SD group, ITR gained 39% less body weight and CTR has 29% less visceral fat. Glucose and triglycerides were not modified. Conclusion: CTR and ITR, carried out 3 days/week, were efficient to improve endothelium-dependent relaxation and reduce superoxide generation in the aorta from female rats fed with fructose.

Estimated energy expenditure and training intensity in young female artistic gymnasts

Aim: This study determined the energy expenditure and effort intensity of athletes during women's artistic gymnastics training sessions. Methods: Ten gymnasts (age 10.9 ± 1.7 years) performed a test to estimate the maximum rate of oxygen uptake (VO2max), during which the maximum heart rate (HRmax) was also obtained. The heart rate (HR) of these gymnasts was recorded during five training sessions and then used to estimate the exercise intensity and energy expenditure. Results: Mean duration of training sessions was 4.08 ± 0.42 h, with mean HR corresponding to 137 ± 8 bpm or 69.0 ± 3.5% of HRmax. Gymnasts spent less training time at 90-100% HRmax compared to the other HR ranges (p < 0.05). Time spent at 60-70% and 70-80% was higher compared to 80-90% HRmax (p = 0.012 and p = 0.001, respectively). The training impulse was 239.2 ± 35.4 AU. Estimated energy expenditure was 768.3 ± 168.5 kcal, metabolic rate was 3.1 ± 0.6 kcal/min, and the metabolic equivalent of task (MET) corresponded to 6.1 ± 0.6. Conclusion: Young gymnasts performed prolonged and moderate-intensity training sessions that generated high energetic demands. This information is beneficial to gymnasts since the coaching team can use the data to control the training load and prescribe a proper diet.

The Effect of Circuit Resistance Training With Varying Intensity on Selected Inflammatory Markers in Obese Men

Obesity and associated chronic inflammation lead to insulin resistance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of varying intensity circuit resistance training on metabolic and inflammatory markers in obese men. In a semi-experimental trial, 44 obese men were selected and randomly divided into four groups, including 1) Control (n=11), 2) Low-intensity circuit resistance training (n=11), 3) Moderate-intensity circuit resistance training (n=11), and 4) High-intensity circuit resistance training (n=11). Resistance training was performed at different intensities, including 1) High-intensity circuit resistance training (80% 1RM), 2) Moderate-intensity circuit resistance (60% 1RM), and 3) Low-intensity circuit resistance training (40% 1RM), three sessions per week for 12 weeks. Serum levels of Dectin-1, TLR2, TLR4, MyD88 were measured using an ELISA kit. Data were analyzed with covariance analysis at P&lt;0.05. Twelve weeks of moderate and high-intensity circuit resistance training significantly reduced weight, body mass index, serum levels of Dectin-1, TLR2, TLR4, MyD88, and HOMA-IR (P=0.001). The reduction of weight, body mass index, serum levels of Dectin-1, TLR2, TLR4, MyD88, and HOMA-IR were significant in obese men in the high-intensity training group compared to low-intensity training (P=0.001). It seems that circuit resistance training, especially high-intensity circuit resistance training, can be used as an option to reduce the inflammatory and metabolic complications associated with obesity.

Impact of moderate-intensity aerobic training on inflammasome complex activation in elderly women

Impact of moderate-intensity aerobic training on inflammasome complex activation in elderly women

Comparative analysis of aerobic cardiorespiratory training of high and moderate intensity in cardiac surgery profile patients

Aim. The aim of our study was to conduct a comparative analysis of aerobic high-intensity interval training and constant moderate intensity training in cardiac rehabilitation of adult patients after open-heart surgery, namely after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).&#x0D; Material and methods. 137 patients after CABG were included in the study. 90.4% of patients were consider as class I of chronic heart failure after surgery. Cardiorespiratory trainings were initiate in 4 weeks after surgery, using cycling by veloergometers. Two groups were compare according to rehabilitation programs: one carried out constant aerobic trainings of moderate and medium intensity, and the other, aerobic high-intensity interval trainings. Supervised trainings were carry out for 150 minutes per week. Total length of trainings was 47 weeks. Long-term trainings were distantly monitore.&#x0D; Results. Ergospirometric results as well as results of echocardiography were significantly improve after training course. These results were more significant in high-intensity interval training group, compared to moderate intensity-training group. VO2, heart rate and training power significantly improved. Body mass index significantly diminished in high-intensity interval training group, compared to moderate intensity-training group. In 7 weeks after training ominously decreased blood triglycerides and increased high-density lipoproteins.&#x0D; Conclusion. Cardiorespiratory trainings ameliorate mitochondrial biogenesis, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, promote to reduce abdominal obesity and other crucial risk factors of coronary patients. Aerobic high-intensity interval cardiac trainings are as safe as moderate intensity cardiac trainings, and in some issues, they outperform moderate intensity cardiac trainings.

Effect of Black Grape Seed(Vitis Vinifera) Extract Consumption with Moderate-Intensity Aerobic Training on the Expression of MicroRNAs in Type 1 Diabetic Cardiac Tissue Rats

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of consuming grape seed extract with moderate-intensity aerobic training on the expression of miR-126 and miR-29 in the cardiac tissue in type 1 diabetic male rats. Materials and Methods: 40 rats with an initial weight range of 160-220 g were divided into five groups: Training + Extract, Training, Extract, Diabetic / Control, and Healthy / Control. Aerobic training program was moderate intensity and rats performed aerobic training for 60 minutes a day with the intensity 70 to 75% of maximum oxygen consumption (28 meters per minute). Grape seed extract was also administered by gavage at a dose of 40 mg/kg per day. Results: Expression of both miRNAs in the three groups of training + extract, healthy training and control was significantly higher than the two groups of extract and diabetic control (P-value= 0.001). The difference between the three groups of training + extract, healthy training and control and also the difference between the two groups of extract and diabetic control were not significant (P-value&gt; 0.05). Conclusion: Aerobic training may be able to prevent cardiac disease caused by type 1 diabetes.

Effect of Intensity on Changes in Cardiac Autonomic Control of Heart Rate and Arterial Stiffness After Equated Continuous Running Training Programs.

Background: It is well known that exercise training has positive effects on both cardiac autonomic function and arterial stiffness (AS). However, it is not clear that which exercise training variables, intensity or volume, or both, play a crucial role in this regard. This study investigates the chronic effects of high-volume moderate-intensity training (HVMIT) and low-volume high-intensity training (LVHIT) on heart rate variability (HRV) and AS in sedentary adult men.Materials and Methods: Notably, 45 males (age: 42 ± 5.7 years) were randomly assigned to a control (n = 15), HVMIT (n = 15), or LVHIT (n = 15). The HVMIT group ran three times per week on a treadmill at 50–60% of VO2max for 45–60 min, while the LVHIT trained at 70–85% of VO2max for 25–40 min. Both training protocols were equated by caloric expenditure. HRV, pulse wave velocity (PWV), hemodynamic variables, and body composition were measured before and after 12 weeks.Results: Both protocols (i.e., HVMIT and LVHIT) significantly increased the SD of normal sinus beat intervals (SDNN) and high-frequency (HF) bands (p < 0.05) after 12 weeks. Whereas the low-frequency (LF)-HF ratio decreased significantly in both training protocols (p < 0.05); however, these changes were significantly greater in the LVHIT protocol (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the root mean square of successive RR interval differences (RMSSD) significantly increased only in the LVHIT (p < 0.05). Moreover, a significant decrease in LF and PWV was only observed following the LVHIT protocol (p < 0.05). Some measures of HRV and PWV were significantly correlated (r = 0.275–0.559; p < 0.05).Conclusion: These results show that the LVHIT protocol was more efficient for improving HRV variables and PWV than the HVMIT protocol after 12 weeks of continuous running training. Interestingly, changes in some HRV parameters were related to changes in PWV. Further studies should elaborate on the link between central and peripheral cardiovascular adaptations after continuous and intermittent training regimens differing in intensity.

The effect of moderate-intensity aerobic training on serum levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in rats undergoing radiotherapy

Background and aims: One of the main potential problems of radiotherapy (RT) in breast cancer is the increase in treatment-related inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the effect of eight weeks of moderate-intensity aerobic training (AT) on serum levels of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in rats undergoing RT. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 32 male rats were randomly divided into four groups of eight members including (1) healthy control (C), (2) AT, (3) RT, and (4) AT + RT groups. Rats were first anesthetized with ketamine-xylazine solution (K, 60-90 kg/mg; Z, 6-10 kg/mg) and then located on a Plexiglas plate with a thickness of 1 cm. Photon beam RT was performed using X-rays with a dose of 11 Gy from an Elekta compact linear accelerator (Elekta Compact 6-MV China). AT program was performed for eight weeks, five days a week, and one session a day for 60 minutes (70-75% of VO2max). Afterwards, one-way ANOVA was run to examine the research variables. Results: According to the results, TNF-α was significantly higher in the RT group compared to the C group (P=0.003), whereas IL-6 levels were significantly lower in the AT + RT group compared to the RT group (P=0.001) and the C group (P=0.027). Further, the levels of this cytokine were significantly lower in the AT group compared to the RT group (P=0.006) and similarly in the RT group compared to the C group (P=0.03). Conclusion: RT led to an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines; however, performing AT could only significantly reduce the IL-6 levels.

A 12-Week Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial, Evaluating the Effect of Supplementation with a Spinach Extract on Skeletal Muscle Fitness in Adults Older Than 50 Years of Age.

The aim of a 12-week randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study was to assess the effect of daily supplementation with a natural extract of Spinacia oleracea L. (4 × 500 mg capsules/day; total 2 g per day) combined with a moderate-intensity training program (1 h session/3 times a week) on skeletal muscle fitness in adults over 50 years of age. Muscle strength assessed by isokinetic and isometric dynamometry improved significantly in the experimental (n = 23) and the placebo (n = 22) groups, but the magnitude of improvement was higher in the experimental group, with between-group differences in almost all variables, including isokinetic at 60° s−1 in knee extension, peak torque (p < 0.007); total work per repetition maximum (p < 0.009); isokinetic at 180°s−1 in knee extension, peak torque (p < 0.002); total work (p < 0.007); total work per repetition maximum (p < 0.005); average power (p < 0.027); isometric in knee extension, peak torque (p < 0.005); and average peak torque (p < 0.002). Similar findings were observed for muscle quality. Changes in quality of life (SF-36) were not found, except for improvements in the role physical (p < 0.023) and role emotional (p < 0.001) domains, likely as a result of the physical training sessions. A nutritional survey did not revealed changes in dietary habits. No adverse events were recorded. In subjects over 50 years of age, moderate-intensity strength training combined with daily supplementation for 12 weeks with a natural extract of Spinacia oleracea L. improved muscle-related variables and muscle quality. Maintaining muscle health is a key component of healthy aging.