Significant Improvements In Body Composition Research Articles

A case of severe Covid-19 infection as the first manifestation of Cushing's disease.

Cushing's disease (CD) is characterized by distinct syndromic features, often accompanied by obesity and depression. However, considering its gradual onset of symptoms, it is usually associated with diagnostic delays. In rare instances, CD may lead to severe infections due to the observed immunosuppression in affected individuals. We present a rare case of an undiagnosed CD in a 20-year-old male with a medical history of depression and obesity, complicated by severe COVID-19 infection. He presented to the Emergency Room with respiratory distress, hypertensive crisis, and fever, ultimately receiving the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. The patient required mechanical ventilation and intensive care unit (ICU) admission due to severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). During ICU care, he received remdesivir and dexamethasone, subsequently developing severe hyperglycemia and worsened hypertension, requiring insulin and multiple antihypertensive agents to manage metabolic disruption. Upon physical examination, classic signs of hypercortisolism were noted. Subsequent laboratory tests and pituitary magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis of CD. The patient underwent surgical resection with significant improvements in body composition and metabolic parameters postoperatively. After surgery, remission of hypercortisolism was evident, accompanied by notable improvements in mood and overall health. This case underscores the importance of recognizing hypercortisolism in the context of metabolic, physical, and mood changes. Timely diagnosis of CD is crucial to mitigate complications such as severe opportunistic infections and their outcomes. Despite some hallmark features such as proximal myopathy, easy bruising, purple striae, and facial plethora, Cushing's disease (CD) is a challenging diagnosis due to its nonspecific signs and symptoms and gradual onset. The case emphasizes the importance of recognizing subtle signs of CD, such as social isolation, depressive symptoms, and changes in body composition, which may be confounded by external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients with CD are prone to severe infections due to chronic hypercortisolism-induced immunosuppression. CD diagnostic delays are common, leading to worsening of metabolic and immune dysfunction over time. Heightened clinical suspicion and early intervention are essential to prevent diagnostic delays and optimize patient outcomes.

Effects of 12-weeks resistance training and vitamin E supplementation on aminotransferases, CTRP-2, and CTRP-9 levels in males with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a double-blind, randomized trial

BackgroundNonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) involves excessive liver fat accumulation and is closely linked to oxidative stress, which contributes to liver inflammation and damage. This study aimed to evaluate how interventions such as resistance training (RT) and vitamin E supplementation (VES) can modulate markers of NAFLD and key proteins regulating glucose and lipid metabolism, such as C1Q/TNF-related proteins (CTRPs).MethodsForty participants with NAFLD (mean age: 32.4 ± 8.2 years) were randomly assigned to one of four groups for 12 weeks: placebo (PLB), VES, PLB + RT, and VES + RT. VES was administered at 800 IU/day in a double-blind manner. The RT regimen included eight exercises at 60–80% of one-repetition maximum (1RM), with three sets of 8–12 repetitions, performed three times per week. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included body composition, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lipid profile, glycemic control, CTRP-2, CTRP-9, and 1RM evaluations.ResultsFollowing the interventions, there was a significant improvement in body composition, lipid profile, glycemic control, and 1RM indices in the exercise groups compared to non-exercise groups (p < 0.05). AST and ALT levels decreased in all groups (p < 0.05) compared to the PLB group. There was also a significant difference between the VES + RT group and both the VES and PLB + RT groups (p < 0.05). CTRP-2 and CTRP-9 levels decreased in the exercise groups compared to non-exercise groups (p < 0.05), and their changes showed a marked correlation with body composition, lipid profile, and glycemic control indices (p < 0.05).ConclusionsThis study highlights the benefits of RT on various health parameters among NAFLD patients. While adding VES to RT resulted in greater decreases in aminotransferases, it did not provide further improvements in other variables. Additionally, enhancements in body composition, lipid profile, and glycemic control indices were possibly associated with decreased levels of CTRPs.Trial registrationRegistered retrospectively in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20220601055056N1) on December 21, 2023. Access at https://irct.behdasht.gov.ir/trial/69231.

Assessment of the Efficacy in Athletes and Non-Athletes of the Use of Creatine Monohydrate in Physical Exercise: A Systematic Review

Background: Considering the growing awareness of the population regarding the importance of engaging in physical activity, the utilization of supplements, such as creatine monohydrate, is also expanding in search of the attributed benefits of these substances. This study describes and analyzes the relationship between supplementation with creatine monohydrate and the improvement in the athletic performance of athletes from various disciplines and training levels, as well as non-athletes. Material and methods: A systematic review of clinical trials that address the use of creatine monohydrate in various sports contexts was conducted, followed by an analysis of the results based on body composition, jump capacity, and strength performance to determine points of correlation between the data presented in each publication. Results: A significant improvement in body composition, jump capacity, and strength performance was observed among participants who used supplementation, although in many cases, the results were heterogeneous. Conclusion: Creatine monohydrate supplementation positively influences body composition and physical performance, but further research is needed to understand its effects in specific populations.

Fat loss and muscle gain: The possible role of cortical glutamate in determining the efficacy of physical exercise

BackgroundPhysical exercise is widely acknowledged for its health benefits, but its effectiveness in treating obesity remains contentious due to variability in response. Owing to the roles of glutamate in appetite regulation, food addiction, and impulsivity, this observational cohort-study evaluated medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) glutamate as a predictor of variability in exercise response, specifically in terms of fat loss and muscle gain. MethodsHealthy non-exercising adult men (n = 21) underwent an 8-week supervised exercise program. Baseline glutamate levels in the mPFC were measured through magnetic resonance spectroscopy. For exercise-dependent changes in body composition (fat and muscle mass), basal metabolic rate (BMR), and blood metabolic biomarkers related to lipid and glucose metabolism, measurements were obtained through bioelectrical impedance and blood sample analyses, respectively. ResultsThe exercise program resulted in significant improvements in body composition, including reductions in percentage body fat mass, body fat mass, and waist-to-hip ratio and an increase in mean muscle mass. Furthermore, BMR and metabolic indicators linked to glucose and lipids exhibited significant changes. Notably, lower baseline glutamate levels were associated with greater loss in percentage body fat mass (r = 0.482, p = 0.027), body fat mass (r = 0.441, p = 0.045), and increase in muscle mass (r = −0.409, p = 0.066, marginal) following the exercise program. ConclusionThese preliminary findings contribute to our understanding of the neurobiology of obesity and emphasize the significance of glutamate in regulating body composition. The results also highlight cortical glutamate as a potential predictor of exercise-induced fat loss and muscle gain.

Longitudinal changes in body composition, physiological characteristics, and motor performance of Paralympic goalball athletes

Research has yet to explore the long-term influences of physical fitness parameters on goalball and how COVID-19 affected athletes’ training program. This study evaluated the longitudinal changes in body composition (BC), postural balance (PB), maximal isometric grip force (MIGF), vertical jump (countermovement (CJ), squat jump (SJ), and peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) in seven male Paralympic goalball athletes preparing for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. Six measurements were performed three times ([first] pre-lock down: January 2020, [second] post-lock down: September 2020, and [third] final follow-up: June 2021) on a variable-by-variable basis. Post hoc tests showed a significant improvement in BC at the third time point compared to the first and second time points. Concomitantly, PB and MIGF were significantly improved at the third time point compared to the first and second time points, respectively. A significant decline was observed in CJ and SJ heights at the second time point compared to the first time point whereas SJ height increased at the third time point compared to the second time point. No change was observed in CJ height at the third time point versus the second time point. There was a dramatic reduction in VO2peak at the second time point compared to the first time point. No change was observed in VO2peak occurred at the third time point versus pre and post lock down. Even with the disruption in the annual training plan due to COVID-19 pandemic, our participants maintained physical fitness levels with home-based exercises.

Exercise training: which impact on COPD patients?

Introduction: Exercise training reactivates the aerobic pathway through physical exercise, thereby improving dyspnea and breaking deconditioning spiral in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Method: 60 COPD patients were selected to benefit from a four-week outpatient exercise training and muscle strengthening program, at a rate of 3 sessions per week, after excluding the following cases: patients who have contraindications to exercise training; severe patients or those receiving long-term oxygen therapy. The program combined exercise training on a bicycle ergometer for 45 min, muscle strengthening of the lower limbs and nutritional monitoring. Nutritional management included a diet based on nutritional status and the prescription of oral food supplements for malnourished COPD patients. Parameters assessed before and after training were bioimpedance analysis (BIA),6MWT, quadriceps isometric voluntary contraction (MVC) and dynamic endurance, and the quality-of-life questionnaire (Q11). Result: Forty COPD patients (36 men and 4 women) aged 67.22 (± 10) years were able to complete the program. Amid them, 36 were non-smokers. Ten patients (GOLD I), 14 patients (GOLD II), 16 patients (GOLD III), no patients (GOLD IV). Dyspnea was stage 2 (± 1) m MRC. After training, quadriceps muscle function ((MVC) and endurance) improved significantly (p &lt; 0.0001). The improvement in distance covered during 6MWT was also significant (p &lt; 0.0001). A significant improvement in quality of life after training was noted on the total score of the Q11 questionnaire. No significant improvement in body composition after training in COPD patients. Conclusion: this study has confirmed the beneficial effects of training mainly on muscle function, effort capacity and quality of life in COPD patients.

Abstract 18383: Body Composition Changes in Peak Oxygen Uptake Responders and Non-Responders During Cardiac Rehabilitation

Introduction: Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is known to improve peak oxygen uptake (VO 2 peak) and body composition (BC). However, not all CR patients improve VO 2 peak and it remains unclear if non-responders also exhibit limited improvement in BC. This study aimed to examine if non-responders to VO 2 peak also demonstrate limited improvement in BC and whether BC is related to VO 2 peak changes in CR patients. Methods: Retrospective analysis of patients who completed CR between 2015 and 2022 at Mayo Clinic. The study included 143 patients who completed both dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and cardiopulmonary exercise testing before and after CR. Patients were grouped by VO 2 peak response to CR (36 non-responders=Δ≤0 vs 107 responders=Δ&gt;0 mL/kg/min). Within and between-group differences were assessed by paired and independent t-tests respectively. Regression models were used to evaluate whether baseline BC or ΔBC predict VO 2 peak changes. Results: As an entire cohort there were significant mean improvements in VO 2 peak and BC (Table 1, p&lt;0.05). VO 2 peak increased in 75% of patients (responders: Δ 2.9±2 vs non-responders: Δ -2.1 ±2, mL/kg/min, p&lt;0.05). There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between groups including BC (Table 2, p&gt;0.05); however, non-responders had significantly shorter duration and exercise sessions compared to responders (Table 2, p&lt;0.001). Non-responders for VO 2 peak exhibited a significant improvement in body fat mass, body lean percentage, body fat percentage, and fat mass index (all p&lt;0.001), with no differences in ΔBC between groups (Table 3). Regression models revealed no significant BC predictors for VO 2 peak. Conclusion: Despite significant improvements in BC, 25% of patients did not improve VO 2 peak with CR. These data suggest VO 2 peak improvement is not related to baseline BC or change in BC. These findings suggest the need for additional strategies to maximize improvements in VO 2 peak for patients undergoing CR.

Feasibility of exercise therapy for children with asthma: a meta-analysis.

Background: Although numerous studies have demonstrated the clear benefits of exercise for people with asthma, controversy remains. This study evaluated the effects of sustained exercise types on lung function and quality of life in patients with asthma. Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang database since January 2000 to August 2022 .included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of asthmatic children intervened with exercise. The outcomes were lung function and asthma-related quality of life. Fixed-effects model (I2≤50%) or random-effects model (I2>50%) was applied to calculate the pooled effects. Funnel plots were quantified to present publication bias, and a P value <0.05 was statistically significant. Results: Eventually, 15 trials conformed to the selection criteria. The exercise group significantly improved lung function (FEV1 and FVC) in asthmatic children compared with the control group. Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second (MD = 2.12, 95%CI = 0.70, 3.53; p = 0.003; I2 = 15%); Forced Vital Capacity (MD = 2.78, 95%CI = 1.26, 4.31; p = 0.0004; I2 = 56%). The immune system markers IL-6 and TNF-α, were significantly reduced in the exercise group. Interleukin-6 (MD = -0.49, 95%CI = -0.81, -0.17; p = 0.003; I2=0%); tumor necrosis factor-α (MD = -0.54, 95%CI = -0.92, -0.15; p = 0.006; I2 = 0%). That quality of life (PAQLQ) was significantly improved in children with asthma in the exercise group. PAQLQ-Total score (MD = 1.06, 95%CI = 0.46, 1.66; p = 0.006; I2 = 94%); PAQLQ-Emotional (MD = 0.91, 95%CI = 0.76, 1.06; p<0.00001; I2 = 90%); PAQLQ-symptoms (MD = 0.87, 95%CI = 0.71, 1.02; p<0.00001; I2 = 95%); PAQLQ-activities (MD = 1.20, 95%CI = 0.58, 1.82; p = 0.00001; I2 = 93%). Meta-analysis showed significant improvements in body composition in the exercise group. BMI (MD = -2.42, 95%CI = -4.40, 0.44; p = 0.02; I2 = 85%). Conclusions: This meta-analysis demonstrated the effectiveness of exercise in improving pulmonary function index (FEV1, FVC), immune system (IL-6, TNF-α, Feno), exercise ability (6MWT), body composition (BMI), and quality of life (PAQLQ) in asthmatic children. Asthmatic children should regularly participate in physical exercise.

Sindrome progeroide atipica con lipodistrofia parziale familiare, dovuta alla mutazione missenso c.1045 C &gt; T (p.Arg349Trp) in eterozigosi del gene LMNA, e diabete mellito di tipo 2

Familial partial lipodystrophy (FPLD) associated with LMNA gene mutations is a rare form of lipodystrophy disorder characterized by partial absence of subcutaneous adipose tissue and predisposition to develop metabolic complications related to insulin-resistance inclu-ding type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). Recently, this peculiar phenotype has been associated to atypical progeroid syndrome (APS). We present a case of 31-year-old woman with progeria features, partial lipodystro¬phy, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), hypertriglyceridemia and hepatic steatosis. The baseline insulin sensitivity and secretion assessment showed strong insulin-resistance with hyperglycemia and elevated insulin secretion. Genetic analysis revealed a missense heterozygous LMNA mutation c.1045 C &gt; T (p. Arg349Trp) that established APS diagnosis with FPLD, so far studied and described in only 10 patients worldwide. The patient was initially treated with metformin, fenofi¬brate, omega-3 and low carb and low fat diet with optimal results on metabolic control related to glycemic and lipid profile; later, liragluti¬de (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 analog, GLP-1) therapy was added. Du¬ring the 6 month follow-up the anthropometric parameters improved, in particular a significant improvement in body composition with redi¬stribution of fat mass and a reduction of visceral fat and liver volume were observed. The improvements obtained were consolidated and maintained in the following years. However, with disease progression, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and peripheral neuropathy developed. This case highlights the clinical and metabolic characteristics of this rare form of lipodystrophy and proposes an innovative therapeutic approach to manage the disease.

Supplementation with inulin-type fructans affects gut microbiota and attenuates some of the cardiometabolic benefits of a plant-based diet in individuals with overweight or obesity.

The gut microbiota has emerged as a potential therapeutic target to improve the management of obesity and its comorbidities. We investigated the impact of a high fiber (∼38 g/d) plant-based diet, consumed ad libitum, with or without added inulin-type fructans (ITF), on the gut microbiota composition and cardiometabolic outcomes in subjects with obesity. We also tested if baseline Prevotella/Bacteroides (P/B) ratio predicts weight loss outcomes. This is a secondary exploratory analysis from the PREVENTOMICS study, in which 100 subjects (82 completers) aged 18-65 years with body mass index 27-40 kg/m2 were randomized to 10 weeks of double-blinded treatment with a personalized or a generic plant-based diet. Changes from baseline to end-of-trial in gut microbiota composition (16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing), body composition, cardiometabolic health and inflammatory markers were evaluated in the whole cohort (n = 82), and also compared in the subgroup of subjects who were supplemented with an additional 20 g/d ITF-prebiotics (n = 21) or their controls (n = 22). In response to the plant-based diet, all subjects lost weight (-3.2 [95% CI -3.9, -2.5] kg) and experienced significant improvements in body composition and cardiometabolic health indices. Addition of ITF to the plant-based diet reduced microbial diversity (Shannon index) and selectively increased Bifidobacterium and Faecalibacterium (q < 0.05). The change in the latter was significantly associated with higher values of insulin and HOMA-IR and lower HDL cholesterol. In addition, the LDL:HDL ratio and the concentrations of IL-10, MCP-1 and TNFα were significantly elevated in the ITF-subgroup. There was no relationship between baseline P/B ratio and changes in body weight (r = -0.07, p = 0.53). A plant-based diet consumed ad libitum modestly decreases body weight and has multiple health benefits in individuals with obesity. Addition of ITF-prebiotics on top this naturally fiber-rich background selectively changes gut microbiota composition and attenuates some of the realized cardiometabolic benefits. [https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04590989], identifier [NCT04590989].

Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training vs. Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training on Fat Loss and Cardiorespiratory Fitness in the Young and Middle-Aged a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This systematic review is conducted to evaluate the effect of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on body composition and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in the young and middle-aged. Seven databases were searched from their inception to 22 October 2022 for studies (randomized controlled trials only) with HIIT and MICT intervention. Meta-analysis was carried out for within-group (pre-intervention vs. post-intervention) and between-group (HIIT vs. MICT) comparisons for change in body mass (BM), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), percent fat mass (PFM), fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), and CRF. A total of 1738 studies were retrieved from the database, and 29 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Within-group analyses indicated that both HIIT and MICT can bring significant improvement in body composition and CRF, except for FFM. Between-group analyses found that compared to MICT, HIIT brings significant benefits to WC, PFM, and VO2peak. The effect of HIIT on fat loss and CRF in the young and middle-aged is similar to or better than MICT, which might be influenced by age (18-45 years), complications (obesity), duration (>6 weeks), frequency, and HIIT interval. Despite the clinical significance of the improvement being limited, HIIT appears to be more time-saving and enjoyable than MICT.

Comparison of selected performance-associated parameters after off-season and two-month training preparation in professional Czech ice hockey players

Background: In ice hockey, regular off-ice testing can serve as a controlling mechanism for a training program's effectiveness. Objective: The main aim of this study was to describe changes in selected morphological and physiological parameters, intended to be relevant for a complex ice hockey performance, after two months of pre-season training preparation following one month of an off-season period. Methods: The sample consisted of 22 adult male players aged 18-39 years from a top Czech ice hockey league team. Two laboratory testing procedures performed at the end of the off-season and after two months of the pre-season conditioning consisted of basic anthropometry and body composition measurements, countermovement jump (CMJ), and maximal incremental test focused on the assessment of various parameters, including maximal oxygen consumption (V&#775;O2max), maximal power output during the test (Pmax) or estimation of anaerobic threshold intensity (ANT). Results: After the pre-season, we found a significant decrease in body fat (13.7 vs. 11.4%, p &lt; .001) and an increase in fat-free mass (74.2 vs. 76.6 kg, p &lt; .001), V&#775;O2max (relative 48.8 vs. 52.6 ml.kg-1.min-1 p = .001; absolute 4.20 vs. 4.54 L.min-1, p &lt; .001), Pmax (5.26 vs. 5.44 W.kg-1, p = .011), power output at ANT (4.07 vs. 4.35 W.kg-1, p &lt; .001), and CMJ (44.9 vs. 47.1 cm, p = .002). Conclusions: Based on our results, two months of the pre-season training program led to a significant improvement in body composition and physical performance levels in professional Czech ice hockey players.

The effect of HIIT on body composition, cardiovascular fitness, psychological well-being, and executive function of overweight/obese female young adults.

To evaluate the effect of a short-term HIIT program on the selected health-related parameters for overweight/obese young adult women in a university context. A total of 48 participants were randomly divided into two groups. The exercise group (HIIT) received a HIIT intervention of aerobics for 4 weeks, while the control group (CON) received no training. Body composition including waist circumference (WC), body fat percentage (BF %), Cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max), the score of Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), and Stroop word-color test (SCWT) results were assessed before and after the intervention along with within- and between-group comparisons. All the indices were significantly improved in HIIT group (p < 0.01) after 4 weeks of intervention. No significant changes were found in CON. There were significant differences between HIIT and CON in cardiovascular fitness (p < 0.01), SDS (p < 0.01) and SCWT (p < 0.05) before and after 4 weeks. In addition, weekly measurements of HIIT effects showed significant changes (p < 0.01) from the second week in the variables of body composition, VO2max, SDS and SCWT when compared with the baseline and maintained the tendency till the end of program. The short-term HIIT aerobics of the campus program conducted in a non-lab setting induced significant improvements in body composition, cardiovascular fitness, psychological well-being and executive function in overweight young female adults.

Abstract 10487: In vivo Efficacy of HS135, a Novel Activin and GDF Trap for the Treatment of Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) and Metabolic Syndrome (MetS)

Introduction: PH is a disorder characterized by remodeling of the pulmonary vasculature which causes increased pulmonary vascular resistance and ultimately right ventricular (RV) failure leading to death. MetS is a recognized risk factor for PH, particularly in patients suffering from PH associated with left-sided heart failure (WHO Group 2 PH) for which there are no approved therapies. Activins and growth differentiation factors (GDFs) are implicated in both PH pathology as well as body composition and metabolism by genetic disease association, preclinical, translational, and clinical evidence. HS135 is a rationally designed first-in-class activin-receptor (ActR)-based fusion protein that addresses both vascular remodeling and MetS in PH without affecting hematological parameters; hematological effects limit the dosing of other ActR-based agents. Methods: HS135’s ability to counteract vascular remodeling and heart failure in PH was assessed using a rat monocrotaline (MCT) model: a single dose of 60 mg/kg MCT was administered on Day 0 followed by 4 weeks of twice weekly treatment with either HS135 (1, 4, or 16 mg/kg) or vehicle. PH efficacy was assessed at end of study by echocardiography and histological readouts. HS135’s ability to improve body composition and metabolism was assessed in wild type mice by administering HS135 (1, 3, 10, 20, or 50 mg/kg) or vehicle twice weekly for 3 weeks. The effect of HS135 on hematological parameters was assessed by whole blood cell count in non-human primates (NHPs) 2 weeks following a single administration of HS135 at 3 or 30 mg/kg. Results: HS135 at 3 or 30 mg/kg did not lead to changes in hematological parameters in NHPs. Compared to vehicle, HS135 was effective at counteracting the MCT-induced PH phenotype in rats as evidenced by significant reductions in Fulton index and improved echocardiography parameters. In wild type mice, HS135 led to significant improvements in body composition. Conclusions: Contrary to other ActR-based therapies, HS135 did not lead to increases in hematocrit which would limit its dosing. HS135 was efficacious at treating PH while simultaneously improving body composition in preclinical models. Clinical trials with HS135 are expected to commence within 2023.

Effects and dose-response relationship of exercise training on cardiometabolic risk factors in children with obesity.

To explore the dose-response relationship between physical activity and the improvement of cardiometabolic risks in children with obesity, and provide a reference for the recommendation of physical activity for obese children. A total of 96 children with obesity were recruited to participate in an exercise intervention program. An ActiGraph GT3X+ three-axis accelerometer was used to measure their physical activity. The dose groups (Q1∼Q4) were divided based on the quartiles of physical activity. The analysis of variance was used to compare the changes in body composition and cardiometabolic risk factors before and after the intervention. All intervention groups showed a significant reduction in weight, body mass index, body fat percent, fat mass, fat free mass, and skeletal muscle mass (p<0.01), andthe change in the Q4 and Q3 groups was greater than intheQ2 and Q1 groups. Triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were significantly reduced after intervention in all groups (p<0.01), and the change in SBP, and DBP in the Q4 group was higher than in the Q1 group (p<0.05). Exercise interventions could effectively improve body composition and cardiometabolic risk factors. A higher exercise dose is associated with significant improvements in body composition, and cardiometabolic health.

Effect of circuit training with low-carbohydrate diet on body composition, cardiometabolic indices, and exercise capacity in adults with mild to moderate obesity in Saudi Arabia: A randomized control trial.

Background:Circuit training that combines aerobic and resisted training is reported to reduce body fat, weight, and improve exercise capacity than performing either type of exercise independently. There is no study evaluating the combined effect of circuit training exercise (CTE) and dietary intervention (low-carbohydrate [LC] diet) among young males with obesity.Methods:A randomized control trial was conducted to explore the effects of a combined program of CTE and a LC diet for adults with mild or moderate obesity. Seventy adults with obesity were allocated randomly into 2 groups. The experimental group (group 1) received circuit training with LC diet intervention, whereas the control (group 2) received only circuit training. The study variables such as exercise capacity, body composition, and cardiometabolic indices were measured at the baseline and the end of 60 days of intervention.Results:The participants of group 1 showed significant improvements in body composition (body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, waist hip circumference, and body fat percentage), exercise capacity (maximal oxygen consumption), and cardiometabolic indices (high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and total cholesterol) with a P < .05 for all the variables, when compared with group 2.Conclusions:The combined structured CTE with controlled LC diet intervention in obese adults caused significant reduction in body composition and cardiometabolic indices variables and an increase in exercise capacity.

The Impact of Dietary Counselling on Achieving or Maintaining Normal Nutritional Status in Patients with Early and Locally Advanced Breast Cancer Undergoing Perioperative Chemotherapy.

Background: Obesity is an independent prognostic factor and is associated with poorer response to oncological treatment of breast cancer. Obesity is associated with shorter overall survival and shorter time to recurrence. Material and methods: The study included 104 breast cancer patients qualified for neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The control group consisted of 40 patients who refused to participate in the study. Consultation before chemotherapy included: author’s diet questionnaire, body composition analysis, nutrition education. After chemotherapy, the effects of the first dietary advice were evaluated. Results: More than half of all women had a BMI above normal before treatment. Analysis of the effects of nutrition education showed a significant improvement in body composition. After education, a slight increase in body weight and a significant decrease in fat mass and fat percentage were observed. In women who did not participate in education, a statistically significantly greater increase in body weight after chemotherapy was noted. Nutrition education of the study group did not prevent adverse changes in lipid profile resulting from chemotherapy. Conclusions: Dietary counselling prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy may limit weight gain and may also influence fat mass reduction. Implementation of dietary recommendations does not guarantee maintenance of normal lipid parameters during chemotherapy.

EFFECTS OF THE ACROBATIC PROGRAM ON THE BODY COMPOSITION AND FLEXIBILITY OF ADOLESCENTS

The aim of the research was to determine the effects of acrobatics programs (ground floor and skipping) on the body composition and flexibility of adolescents. The sample consisted of 50 male adolescents, seventh grade students of the elementary school "Bubanjski Heroji" in Niš, aged 14 years ± 6 months. The experimental group (n = 25) conducted 2 x 45 min per week experimental acrobatics program (ground floor and skipping) The control group (n = 25) continued with the program of regular physical education classes (handball and volleyball) 2 x 45 min per week. The results of the study showed positive changes in body composition: BMI, %MAT, %MIT and flexibility: PLNL, RANL, ISKP caused by the acrobatics program. Based on these results, it can be concluded that the experimental program of acrobatics lasting 16 weeks is an effective method that leads to a statistically significant improvement in body composition and flexibility of adolescents.

A structured physical activity program in an adolescent population with overweight or obesity: a prospective interventional study.

Obesity is a significant health problem, with increasing involvement of young population worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 2 different types of physical exercise (resistance vs. combined aerobic-resistance) on cardiovascular and anthropometric profile of a sample of sedentary adolescents with overweight and obesity. After undergoing clinical, cardiovascular and anthropometric-metabolic evaluation (T0), subjects with overweight and obesity were randomized to a 6-month resistance or combined aerobic-resistance training program. Clinical, cardiovascular and anthropometric-metabolic evaluations were repeated after 6months of training (T1) and after 3months of detraining (T2). Thirty adolescents with overweight/obesity were enrolled and 20 subjects completed training program. A significant improvement in body composition was detected after 6months, with a reduction of body mass index (32.1 [30.5 to 34.4] vs. 31.1 [29.6 to 33.4] kg/m2, p= 0.02) and adipose tissue (45.5 [41.1 to 49.7] vs. 41.6 [37.0 to 49.2] kg, p< 0.01). A reduction in diastolic blood pressure (75.5± 8.9 vs. 68.2± 6.4mm Hg, p= 0.02) and pulse wave velocity (5.7 [5.1 to 5.9] vs. 5.2 [4.7 to 5.7] m/s, p= 0.04) was also observed. Persistence of the effect on the most important parameters was observed also after detraining period. In conclusion, regular physical exercise induces positive metabolic and cardiovascular effects, persisting even after brief discontinuation. Novelty: Physical exercise induces positive effect on cardiovascular risk profile. Positive effects persist also after brief discontinuation. Physical exercise reduces early signs of autonomic disfunction.

The Effect of Eight Weeks of Aqua Therapy on Back Pain, Body Composition and Motor Function of Inactive Elderly Women

Background and Aims: Aging is along with muscle weakness and musculoskeletal pain that requires attention and planning to control these changes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of eight weeks of aqua therapy on back pain, body composition, and motor function in inactive elderly women. Methods: The present study was quasi-experimental with a pre-test and post-test design of a suitable type. Thirty inactive elderly women were voluntarily and randomly assigned to two experimental and control groups. The experimental group performed combined water exercises for eight weeks, three sessions a week with a maximum intensity of 45 to 65% of the maximum heart rate. Body composition variables were analyzed using body composition analysis device, back pain analyzed by Key Star Back 9-item questionnaires, and movement control variables such as walking speed evaluated using 10 m walking test and the ability to maintain balance analyzed with stand-up and time test, tested before and after the training protocol. And the data were analyzed using the SPSS program and independent and dependent t-test. Results: Based on the findings of the present study, significant improvement in body composition, including weight, fat percentage, muscle tissue, and waist to hip ratio, was observed in elderly women (P=0.001), and the results of the present study showed factors affecting motor control had a significant improvement, such as balance (P=0.001), speed (P=0.001) and physical back pain (P=0.001) and mental back pain (P=0.001) after eight weeks practicing in the water. Conclusion: This study showed that as the elderly live a passive and active life, their physical health improves. To increase the range of motion of the lumbar region, stabilize the trunk, and reduce back pain, trainers and officials can use this non-invasive and low-cost method in the training program and rehabilitation of the elderly individual.