Supervised Exercise Training Program Research Articles

Exploring the effect of exercise training on breast cancer's pathologic response and tumor immune microenvironment after neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Pathological complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and the percentage of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are established prognostic biomarkers in early breast cancer (BC). While exercise training is effective as supportive care throughout the BC journey, its impact on the efficacy of NAC is unknown. This study aims to investigate the influence of a supervised exercise training program (SETP) on pCR and TILs in BC women undergoing NAC. Retrospective exploratory analysis of the subgroup of BC patients treated with NAC included in a clinical trial randomizing to STEP and control arm. Endpoints were pCR, biopsy, and stromal TILs. Sixty-four participants were included, with a mean age of 50.3 ± 10.1years, predominantly stage II and III disease (n = 58, 90.6%), HER2 + (n = 23, 35.9%), or triple-negative (n = 19, 29.7%) tumors. pCR was achieved in 56.7% and 55.9% in the STEP and control arm (p = 0.950). In the STEP arm, median TILs were 5.0 (0.0-80.0) and 5.0 (5.0-30.0), while in the control arm, 5.0 (0.0-90.0) and 0.0 (0.0-30.0) for biopsy and tumor site, respectively. The difference in TILs between arms was 0.04 (confidence interval (CI 95%) - 13.6, 13.7; p = 0.995) and - 4.3 (CI 95% - 11.5, 2.9; (p = 0.233) for biopsy and tumor site, respectively. No statistically significant difference was discerned between the groups concerning TILs of the biopsy. However, a marginally higher TIL level at the tumor site was associated with the SETP arm. No differences were discerned within and between groups on both pCR and TILs, in possible relation to the exploratory nature of the analysis. Future adequately powered research is warranted.

Effect of sustained decreases in sedentary time and increases in physical activity on liver enzymes and indices in type 2 diabetes.

Current guidelines for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) recommend high volumes and/or intensities of physical activity (PA), the achievement of which generally requires participation in supervised exercise training programs that however are difficult to implement in routine clinical practice. Conversely, counselling interventions may be more suitable, but result in only modest increases in moderate-to-vigorous-intensity PA (MVPA). This study assessed whether a counseling intervention for increasing PA and decreasing sedentary time (SED-time) is effective in improving NAFLD markers in people with type 2 diabetes. Three-hundred physically inactive and sedentary patients were randomized 1:1 to receive one-month theoretical and practical counseling once-a-year (intervention group) or standard care (control group) for 3 years. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and γ-glutamyltranspeptidase (γGT) levels were measured and fatty liver index (FLI), hepatic steatosis index (HSI), and visceral adiposity index (VAI) were calculated. Total PA volume, light-intensity PA (LPA), moderate-to-vigorous-intensity PA (MVPA), and SED-time were objectively measured by an accelerometer. Throughout the 3-year period, NAFLD markers did not change in the control group, whereas ALT, γGT, FLI, and HSI decreased in the intervention group, with significant between-group differences, despite modest MVPA increases, which however were associated with larger decrements in SED-time and reciprocal increments in LPA. Mean changes in NAFLD markers varied according to quartiles of (and correlated with) changes in MVPA (all markers) and SED-time, LPA, and PA volume (ALT, γGT, and HSI). Mean changes in MVPA or PA volume were independent predictors of changes in NAFLD markers. When included in the models, change in cardiorespiratory fitness and lower body muscle strength were independently associated with some NAFLD markers. A behavior change involving all domains of PA lifestyle, even if insufficient to achieve the recommended MVPA target, may provide beneficial effects on NAFLD markers in people with type 2 diabetes.

Feasibility, acceptability, and initial efficacy of a wheelchair exercise training program in persons with multiple sclerosis: study protocol for a parallel group randomized controlled trial

Purpose: This study is a randomized controlled trial (RCT) that examines the feasibility, acceptability, and initial efficacy of a home-based, remotely supported and supervised exercise training program that was developed using a three-step community engaged research process for persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) who are wheelchair users.Materials and Methods: The study design is a parallel group RCT (NCT05888727). We aim to enroll 24 wheelchair users with MS who will be randomly assigned using REDCap randomization module into exercise training or attention/contact wellness control conditions. The conditions will be delivered remotely over 16 weeks and supported using online, one-onone behavioral coaching. The feasibility outcomes of interest include recruitment and retention rates, and safety outcomes collected throughout the study period. The acceptability outcomes include participant satisfaction and perceptions measured using formative surveys and interviews following the 16-week period. Efficacy outcomes include metabolic health, MS symptoms, and exercise behavior measured before and after the 16-week period. The data analysis will follow intent-to-treat principles using 2 group by 2 time mixed factor ANOVA with estimation of Cohen’s d values as effect sizes.Conclusions: The results will guide future research targeting health outcomes using exercise training among wheelchair users with MS who have largely been absent from health promotion research.

Effect of a 36-Week Supervised Exercise Training Program on Physical and Cognitive Function in Older Patients With Dementia.

To investigate the effects of an exercise training program on physical and cognitive function in older patients with dementia. Thirty-eight patients with early-middle dementia (31 females and seven males), aged 80.6±6.9 years, residents in an Elderly Care Unit, either completed a 36-week structured exercise program (Intervention Group, IG; n=19), or received the usual medical care (Control Group, CG; n=19). Before and after the 36-week intervention, cognitive function was evaluated in both groups by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and depression by Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS); physical function was assessed using handgrip test, Timed Up to Go (TUG), Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Chair-Stand Test (CST), and daily living functionality by Functional Rating Scale for Symptoms of Dementia (FRSSD). As a result of exercise intervention, participants scored better in all functional and cognitive test assessments compared to the control group, as reflected by absolute and relative (%) differences in all metrics after the 36-week exercise program (p<0.001). A 36-week supervised exercise training program was found to result in significant improvements in physical and cognitive function of elderly patients in early to middle stages of dementia at an Elderly Care Unit. The promising results of this study shed more light on the adaptability of elderly patients with early and mild dementia to long-term exercise training and verified the feasibility of applying such programs in this clinical population.

Time-course evolution of functional performance during a 3-month supervised exercise training program in patients with symptomatic peripheral artery disease.

Functional performance is impaired in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). The effects of a supervised exercise training (SET) program on functional performance have yet to be clearly determined. The aim was to investigate the time-course evolution of functional performance during a 3-month SET program. Patients with chronic symptomatic PAD participating in a 3-month SET program were investigated. Six-minute walking distance (6MWD), the stair climbing test (SCT), and the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) were assessed before SET, after the first and second months of SET, and following the SET program. The ankle- and toe-brachial indices were measured before and after the SET program. Ninety patients with PAD (age 65.4 ± 10.2 years) were analyzed. The 6MWD significantly improved after the first (+7%, p ⩽ 0.001) and second months (+13%, p ⩽ 0.001) and following SET (+14%, p ⩽ 0.001) compared to before the SET program. The 6MWD significantly improved after the 2nd month (+6%, p ⩽ 0.001) and following SET (+7%, p ⩽ 0.001) compared to after the first month of the SET program. The SPPB score and SCT performance significantly improved after the first (SPPB score: +9%, p ⩽ 0.001; SCT: +17%, p ⩽ 0.001) and second months (SPPB score: +11%, p ⩽ 0.001; SCT: +24%, p ⩽ 0.001) and following SET (SPPB score: +12%, p ⩽ 0.001; SCT: +25%, p ⩽ 0.001) compared to before the SET program. No significant differences were observed following SET compared to the second month of the SET program. Vascular parameters did not change significantly. A 3-month SET program improves several components of functional performance, and adaptations mainly occur during the 1st and 2nd months of the SET program.

Exercise to enhance cardiovascular health among Black patients with prostate cancer with androgen deprivation therapy: The POWER trial.

TPS5120 Background: Large racial disparities persist in prostate cancer (PCa) incidence and mortality in the US. Among all races, Black men have the highest rates of PCa incidence and mortality, where they are 1.7 and 2.1 times more likely to develop and die of PCa compared to non-Hispanic White men, respectively. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is one of the most recommended treatments for intermediate and advanced PCa. However, men receiving ADT have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) by 65% compared to patients not receiving ADT, which is likely linked to ADT-induced cardiovascular and metabolic toxicity. Moreover, Black men with PCa receiving ADT have a higher risk of CVD-related death and a higher prevalence of comorbid conditions. Therefore, prevention and management of CVD risk factors in this population is an important unmet clinical need. Exercise is an effective way to lower CVD risk factors in many clinical settings; however, Black men with cancer are underrepresented in exercise oncology research, and no studies to date have focused on Black men with PCa on ADT. We designed a randomized controlled trial, entitled “Exercise to Enhance Cardiovascular Health among Black Prostate Cancer Patients with Androgen Deprivation Therapy: POWER Trial.” The objective of the POWER Trial is to examine the effects of a tailored exercise intervention on CVD risk factors in Black men with PCa undergoing ADT. Methods: The POWER trial is a two-arm, multi-center, randomized controlled trial, recruiting 62 Black men with localized or metastatic PCa who are receiving ADT at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute or Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA. Participants are randomly assigned to either exercise training or usual care at a 1:1 ratio. Participants in the intervention group are asked to complete a culturally tailored, home-based, virtually supervised exercise training program thrice weekly for 16 weeks. Aerobic exercise is high-intensity interval training and performed on a stationary bike, alternating 1-min high-intensity (75-95% of VO2peak) and 1-min recovery (40% of VO2peak) intervals. Resistance exercises are performed on large muscle groups using dumbbells with 2-3 sets of 15-20 repetitions at 60-75% of the 1-repetition maximum. Participants in the usual care group are asked not to change their baseline exercise behavior and then may cross over to the exercise program after the initial 16 weeks. The primary outcome is the CVD risk assessed by the Framingham Risk Score (i.e., age, sex, blood cholesterol, blood pressure, and smoking). The secondary and exploratory outcomes include cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, body composition, patient-reported outcomes, and treatment-related symptoms. To date, five out of the planned 62 patients have been enrolled. This trial is registered in clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05327465). Clinical trial information: NCT05327465 .

The impact of exercise training on the pathologic response and tumor immune microenvironment in breast cancer after neoadjuvant chemotherapy: An exploratory study.

e12596 Background: In early breast cancer (BC), pathological complete response (pCR) is an efficacy endpoint of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (ChT) and percentage of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) is a prognostic biomarker. Although exercise training is an evidence-based supportive care across the BC journey, one open question is its impact on the antitumor effect of neoadjuvant ChT. The authors aim to investigate the effects of a supervised exercise training program (STEP) in pCR and TILs in BC women undergoing neoadjuvant ChT. Methods: MAMA_MOVE_Gaia on Treatment (ISRCTN, ISRCTN32617901) is randomized controlled trial in which women with early BC undergoing anthracycline containing ChT were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to a SETP or to usual care, close to recruitment in January 2022. For this exploratory analysis, we retrospectively identified patients who underwent neoadjuvant ChT, and compare pCR and TILs between the two arms. Results: Sixty-four participants were included, aged from 26 to 72 years old (mean = 50.3, SD = 10.1) majority with stage II and III (n = 58, 90,6%) and HER2+ (n = 23, 35.9%) or triple negative (n = 19, 29.7%) disease. The pCR in STEP arm had a prevalence of 56.7% and in the usual care arm of 55.9%(p = 0.950). In the STEP arm median TILs were, for the biopsy and tumor site, of 5.0 (range 0.0-80.0) and 5.0 (range 5.0-30.0). In the usual care arm, median TILs were, for the biopsy and tumor site, of 5.0 (range 0.0-90.0) and 0.0 (range 0.0-30.0). There was no difference between groups for TILs of the biopsy (p = 0.907). Higher TILs of the tumor site was marginally associated with the STEP arm (p = 0.082). Conclusions: Despite the results obtained, it is believed that a larger sample may lead to different results. However, these data could also support future research in this field, bringing new insights for cancer survivors continuum of care.

Abstract P5-07-13: Effect of a 12 Week Virtual Supervised Exercise Program on Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: Results from the STRENGTH Trial

Abstract Background: Chemotherapy (CTX) for breast cancer (BC) can have a detrimental effect on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), as measured by VO2max. This decline may be attenuated by physical activity, which can also reduce mortality risk and improve quality of life (QoL) for patients (pts) with BC. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many have pivoted to home-based exercise routines, which have been shown to be safe and feasible for pts with BC receiving CTX. We conducted the STRENGTH Trial to evaluate the effect of a 12-week virtual supervised exercise program in BC pts receiving CTX on CRF. Methods: This is a single-center, prospective, single-arm study designed to evaluate the effect of a 12-week virtual supervised exercise training program on CRF in BC pts receiving CTX. Participants aged ≥18 years with stage I-IV BC who were planned to receive at least 12 weeks of CTX of investigator’s choice were eligible for inclusion. Participants were asked to complete a total of 150 minutes (min) of moderate intensity physical activity/week, as a combination of a 45 min weekly virtual personal training session and workout classes streamed from the Peloton® Digital platform (i.e. walking, running, cardio, yoga, strength training, and cycling). The primary endpoint was the distance walked on a Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), an accepted surrogate marker for VO2max, at the start and completion of the program. Secondary endpoints included assessment of QoL using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - General (FACT-G) and symptom assessment using the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI) questionnaires at the beginning, middle and end of the study. Exploratory endpoints included treatment adherence, toxicities, completion and response. Results: 33 participants signed consent for the clinical trial and 2 withdrew voluntarily prior to beginning the program. 5 participants discontinued prematurely due to a diagnosis of COVID-19 (N=3) and pulmonary embolism (N=2) and were not included in the primary endpoint. One participant remains on study at this time. Median age 49 yrs; range 33-68. Mean BMI 29.55; range 18.1-46.5. 13 HR+/HER2-, 7 HR-/HER2-, 11 HER2+. 14 (45%) pts had Stage I, 11 (35%) pts had Stage 2, 5 (16%) pts had Stage 3, 1 (3%) pt had Stage 4. 23 pts (70%) received either an anthracycline or HER2-based therapy. 19 pts (61%) received neoadjuvant CTX on study, 11 pts (35%) received adjuvant CTX and 1 pt (3%) received treatment in metastatic setting. The average number of exercise min per week per participant was 123.2 min (95% CI, 104.1-142.2), with a relative dose intensity of 82%. In the pts that completed the study thus far (N=25), there was no statistically significant difference between the distance walked during the 6MWT at the start and end of the study (median difference= -10m, range: -129-150m, p= 0.67). There was no statistically significant difference in the FACT-G score at the start and end of the study (median difference= -1.0, range -17.83- 30.0, p=0.54). Pts scored higher on the MDASI (median difference= 0.33, range -1.55-4.62, p=0.04) at the end of the exercise program compared to the beginning. There were no new or unexpected treatment toxicities observed. Conclusion: Pts who participated in a 12-week virtual supervised exercise program during CTX for BC did not experience a statistically significant difference in the distance walked during the 6MWT between the beginning and end of the exercise program. Exercise may attenuate the decline in cardiorespiratory function that has historically been observed with CTX for BC. Some pts were not able to adhere to the recommended 150 min of exercise/week suggesting a potential need for modified exercise targets for pts with BC undergoing CTX. This study is limited by a small sample size and larger, randomized clinical trials are needed to further evaluate optimal exercise recommendations for patients with BC undergoing CTX in order to maintain and potentially, even improve, cardiorespiratory function. Citation Format: Eleonora Teplinsky, Amanda Podolski, Kasey Bessada, John Rutledge, Benita Burke, Moira Christoudias, Laura Klein, Kariann Abbate. Effect of a 12 Week Virtual Supervised Exercise Program on Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: Results from the STRENGTH Trial [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2022 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2022 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(5 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-07-13.

Exercise training and DNA methylation profile in post-bariatric women: Results from an exploratory study.

Exercise training and bariatric surgery have been shown to independently modulate DNA methylation profile in clusters of genes related to metabolic and inflammatory pathways. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 6-month exercise training program on DNA methylation profile in women who underwent bariatric surgery. In this exploratory, quasi-experimental study, we analyzed DNA methylation levels by array technology in eleven women who underwent Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and a 6-month, three-times-a-week, supervised exercise training program. Epigenome Wide Association Analysis showed 722 CpG sites with different methylation level equal to or greater than 5% (P < 0.01) after exercise training. Some of these CpGs sites were related to pathophysiological mechanisms of inflammation, specially Th17 cell differentiation (FDR value < 0.05 and P < 0.001). Our data showed epigenetic modification in specific CpG sites related to Th17 cell differentiation pathway in post-bariatric women following a 6-months exercise training program.

Feasibility and effects of prehabilitation in cardiac surgery. Preliminary study.

evaluation of the feasibility of a multimodal prehabilitation program and its effect on functional capacity in patients candidates for elective cardiac surgery. Pilot study conducted from July 2017 to June 2018 in patients candidates to myocardial revascularization and/or valve replacement. The program consisted of: 1) supervised exercise training program, 2) breathing incentive exercises, 3) nutritional support, and 4) mindfulness training. An evaluation was carried out prior to the start of the program and at the end of it (preoperatively). All patients except one who refused surgery, completed the program, which lasted an average of 45 days. No patients presented complications related to the program. The program induced a significantly increase in functional capacity measured by the six-minute walking test (510.7 + 62 m vs 534.3 + 71 m, p = 0.007) and the chair test (13.2 + 4, 7 vs 16.4 + 7 repetitions, p = 0.02), as well as an increase in the level of physical activity measured by the Yale physical activity questionnaire (37.6 + 20 vs 54.2 + 27; p = 00029). Multimodal prehabilitation in patients candidates for elective cardiac surgery is feasible and it increases functional capacity preoperatively without being associated with complications. The presumed beneficial impact of this improvement on the incidence of postoperative complications and hospital stay, requires further investigation.

Effects of exercise on platelet reactivity after myocardial infarction: a randomized clinical trial

Exercise training (ET) can lower platelet reactivity in patients with cardiovascular risk factors. However, the effects of ET on platelet reactivity in higher-risk patients is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of ET on platelet reactivity in patients with recent myocardial infarction (MI). Ninety patients were randomly assigned 1 month post-MI to the intervention (patients submitted to a supervised ET program) or control group. All patients were on dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). Platelet reactivity by VerifyNow-P2Y12 (measured by P2Y12 reaction units – PRUs) test was determined at baseline and at the end of 14 ± 2 weeks of follow-up at rest (primary endpoint), and multiplate electrode aggregometry (MEA) adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and aspirin (ASPI) tests were performed immediately before and after the maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) at the same time points (secondary endpoints). Sixty-five patients (mean age 58.9 ± 10 years; 73.8% men; 60% ST elevation MI) completed follow-up (control group, n = 31; intervention group, n = 34). At the end of the follow-up, the mean platelet reactivity was 172.8 ± 68.9 PRUs and 166.9 ± 65.1 PRUs for the control and intervention groups, respectively (p = .72). Platelet reactivity was significantly increased after the CPET compared to rest at the beginning and at the end of the 14-week follow-up (among the intervention groups) by the MEA-ADP and MEA-ASPI tests (p < .01 for all analyses). In post-MI patients on DAPT, 14 weeks of supervised ET did not reduce platelet reactivity. Moreover, platelet reactivity was increased after high-intensity exercise (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02958657; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02958657).

Effect of Yearly Exercise on Medication Expense and Benefit-Cost Ratio in Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Lifestyle modification through incorporation of exercise training could improve metabolic syndrome (MetS) clinical components (hypertension, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, and visceral abdominal obesity). We aimed to assess if long-term exercise training could restrain the increased pharmacological cost of the clinical management of the MetS. Medicine cost during a 5-yr-long randomized controlled exercise intervention trial was analyzed. After a per-protocol analysis, a group of 64 individuals 53 ± 2 yr old, with overweight (body mass index, 33.4 ± 0.9 kg·m -2 ) and MetS (3.6 ± 0.2 factors) were randomized to a training (4 months·yr -1 for 5 yr; EXERCISE, n = 25) or to a control group (CONTROL, n = 26). Subjects were studied on three occasions during the 5-yr follow-up. Participants continued their routine medication managed by their general practitioner. The main outcome is the 5-yr evolution of medication cost to treat MetS (hyperglycemia, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia). A secondary outcome is the benefit-cost ratio of the exercise intervention. In CONTROL, medicine cost increased 160% from baseline ( P < 0.001), whereas in EXERCISE, it remained unchanged (33%; P = 0.25). After the 5-yr follow-up, medicine use was 60% and medicine cost 74% higher in CONTROL than EXERCISE ( P < 0.05 in both cases). However, MetS z score was similarly reduced over time in both groups ( P = 0.244 for group-time interaction). The number of prescribed medications increased after 5 yr in CONTROL (89%; P < 0.001), whereas it remained stable with yearly training (17%; P = 0.72 in EXERCISE). Ten-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk estimation increased only in CONTROL (15%; P = 0.05 for group-time interaction). The benefit in medicine savings (€153 per year and patient) triplicated the estimated cost (€50.8 per year and patient) of the exercise intervention. A 5-yr-long supervised exercise training program in middle-age individuals with MetS prevents the need for increasing medicine use. The savings in pharmacological therapy outweighs the estimated costs of implementing the exercise program.

Exercise Training Programs Improve Cardiorespiratory and Functional Fitness in Adults With Asthma

This systematic review aimed to identify the characteristics and determine the effects of exercise interventions on improving health-related physical fitness in adults with asthma. A systematic search was completed in MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, and SPORTDiscus for peer-reviewed publications of experimental studies that investigated the effects of an exercise training intervention on performance-based health-related physical fitness outcomes in adults with asthma. Two reviewers independently screened studies for inclusion according to predetermined criteria and performed data extraction and quality assessment of included studies. Forty-five articles were included, in which results for 39 unique studies were reported. Subjects (n = 2135) were aged 22 ± 4 to 71 ± 11 yr with mild-severe asthma. Most exercise programs used aerobic exercise, either alone or in combination with resistance or breathing/stretching exercises. The most common exercise program characteristics were supervised moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic exercise performed for 30-45 min 3 d/wk. Meta-analyses revealed significant improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness (V˙o2peak: unstandardized mean difference [MD] 3.1 mL/kg/min, 95% CI, 1.9-4.3), functional fitness (walking distance: MD 41 m, 95% CI, 27-54), and overall health-related physical fitness (standardized mean difference [SMD] 0.67, 95% CI, 0.46-0.89) in favor of groups who underwent experimental exercise training interventions. Aerobic exercise elicited superior improvements in health-related physical fitness compared with breathing/stretching exercise (SMD 0.47, 95% CI, 0.14-0.81).Supervised exercise training programs, particularly those aerobic in nature, are effective in eliciting clinically meaningful improvements in cardiorespiratory and functional fitness in adults with asthma.PROSPERO registration ID number = CRD42018092828.

Effect of supervised exercise training on exercise capacity, pulmonary function and growth differentiation factor 15 levels in patients with interstitial lung disease: A preliminary study

BACKGROUND: Interstitial lung disease is characterized by exertion dyspnea, exercise limitation and reduced quality of life. The role of exercise training in this diverse patient group is unclear. The growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) is a stress-sensitive circulating factor that regulates systemic energy balance and could be a possible biomarker in interstitial lung disease. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of supervised exercise (endurance and resistance) training (SET) on exercise capacity, pulmonary function parameters and GDF15 levels in patients with interstitial lung disease (PwILD). METHODS: In this non-randomized case-control trial, the experimental group comprised of 10 PwILD (7 women and 3 men) while the control group consisted of of 18 apparently healthy participants s 11 women and 7 men). All subjects completed an 8-week supervised exercise training program, at a rate of twice a week. Dyspnea was evaluated using the Shortness of Breath Respiratory Questionnaire. Exercise capacity was measured using the 6-min walk test while the heart rate (HR) was monitored before and after the exercise training. GDF15 levels were measured by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). RESULTS: PwILD had significantly shorter 6-min walk distance than the control subjects at both the 1st and the 15th visit. However, both groups improved significantly in this test. The change (pre to post-exercise) in HR value was smaller in PwILD compared to the controls. Moreover, PwILD had higher Shortness of Breath Respiratory Questionnaire score than controls. The mean pre and post GDF15 values in both groups remained statistically unchanged. However the GDF15 values of the PwILD patients were significantly higher compared to the controls with respect to pre and post exercise training respectively. CONCLUSION: Supervised exercise training did not affect GDF15 levels in both patient and control groups but its values in PwILD were significantly higher compared to those of controls (p⩽0.05). The exercise capacity and dyspnea in these patients improved after exercise training program.

The effect of a 9-month hybrid intradialytic exercise training program on nerve conduction velocity parameters in patients receiving hemodialysis therapy.

Neurological complications such as peripheral neuropathy are very common in the end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients, occurring in 60-80% of this specific population. The aim of the present study was to examine whether a 9-month hybrid intradialytic exercise training program could alter motor and sensory nerve conduction study (NCS) parameters in hemodialysis population. Seventeen stable patients undergoing HD with no clinical evidence of uremic polyneuropathy were included in the study (15M/2F, 59 ± 13.7years). All patients completed a 9-month supervised exercise training program composed of both aerobic cycling and resistance training (hybrid) during HD. Functional capacity was assessed by a battery of tests, while pain levels and fatigue profile were assessed via validated questionnaires. Motor and sensory NCS on bilateral median, ulnar, peroneal and tibial nerves as well as F-wave were assessed using a full neurographic electromyography (EMG) assessment. After the 9-month exercise training intervention, exercise capacity was increased by 65% and functional capacity by an average of 40%. The neurological assessment showed that conduction velocity from tibial and peroneal nerves was improved by 3.7% and 4.2%, respectively, while tibial F-wave latency and peroneal and sural nerve distal latency were significantly improved by 4.2%, 4.9% and 10%, respectively. Fatigue and pain were improved after the exercise intervention while fatigue score was positively correlated with conduction velocity and amplitude values. The results of the current study demonstrate that 9-month hybrid exercise training induces beneficial effects on both sensory and motor NCS parameters, improving conduction velocity and F-wave latency. Improvements in neural activity were accompanied by changes in fatigue score and pain-related aspects. The parallel improvement in motor nerve conduction velocity and its correlations with functional tests supports the hypothesis that exercise could be beneficial for preventing a decline in neural function in HD patients.

Efficacy of a supervised exercise training program on five-year readmission rates in patients with acute coronary syndrome. A randomised controlled trial

Introduction and objectivesExercise-based cardiac rehabilitation programmes can reduce mortality but their effects on readmission rates are unclear. The primary aim was to evaluate the efficacy of a supervised exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation programme on cardiac readmissions in patients with acute coronary syndrome at five years. MethodsWe conducted an open, controlled, randomized, hospital-based clinical trial. Patients were assigned either to the control group (CG) who received standard care or to the intervention group (IG) who participated in a supervised exercise programme (3h per week of supervised exercise training for 10 weeks). Patients were evaluated at 5 years. ResultsSeventy-six patients [41 CG, 35 IG, mean age 59.2 (SD 10.4), 82.9% men] were included. Cardiac readmission rates at 5 years were 24% in the CG compared to 9% in the IG (p=0.068), and readmission rates for all causes were 42% in the CG and 23% in the IG (p=0.085). Emergency care for cardiac disease was required more frequently in the CG (17% vs 11%, p=0.486). IG patients performed more regular and intensive exercise (62% vs. 33%, p=0.088). In both groups there were significant deterioration in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, body mass index, waist circumference, HbAc1, triglycerides, LDL and diet, and a significant increase in HDL. ConclusionsPatients who participated in the supervised exercise training programme were readmitted less often than controls for cardiac disease and for all causes at 5 years, the reduction was clinically meaningful although not statistically significant. Control of cardiovascular risk factors deteriorated in both groups.

Abstract OT2-13-01: Supervised training exercise program during chemotherapy for breast cancer (STRENGTH) trial

Abstract Background: Chemotherapy for breast cancer can have a detrimental effect on cardiorespiratory fitness. VO2max (maximal oxygen consumption measured during exercise) is a key predictor of cardiovascular risk and has been found to be lower in women with a history of breast cancer compared with healthy women. Chemotherapy is associated with a decrease in VO2max but these decreases may be attenuated with exercise training, such as resistance, aerobic and high-intensity interval training programs. Physical activity may reduce the risk of mortality for breast cancer patients, improve quality of life (QoL) and reduce weight. All gyms and fitness studios had to close due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and while some have re-opened, many patients are not comfortable returning to an exercise facility now and are incorporating virtual exercise into their routine. Prior studies have demonstrated the safety, feasibility and potential benefits of home-based exercise programs for breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. However, many of these programs are self-reported, which can create bias and to our knowledge, there is no existing data on the effect of home-based exercise programs for breast cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The goal of the STRENGTH Trial is to evaluate the effect of a 12-week virtual supervised exercise program in breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy on cardiorespiratory fitness. Study Description: This is a single-center, prospective, single-arm study designed to evaluate the effect of a virtual supervised exercise training program in breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy on cardiorespiratory fitness. All participants are assigned to a 12-week virtual supervised exercise program and asked to complete a total of 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity per week, as a combination of a weekly virtual personal training session and workout classes streamed from the Peloton®Digital platform (i.e. walking, running, cardio, yoga, strength training, and cycling classes). Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, cardiorespiratory fitness cannot be assessed using a cardiopulmonary exercise test. As such, the co-primary endpoints are resting blood pressure and heart rate and distance walked during a Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), which is measured at the start and completion of the 12-week supervised exercise program. Secondary endpoints are QoL as assessed by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - General (FACT-G) and symptom management assessment by the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI). Several exploratory clinical endpoints will be collected including adherence to the program, type of fitness classes completed, and treatment toxicities. Eligibility Criteria: Patients aged ≥18 years with stage I to IV breast cancer who are planned to receive at least 12 weeks of chemotherapy of investigator’s choice are eligible for inclusion. Patients who have an ejection fraction on echocardiogram &amp;lt;40%, symptomatic heart failure, myocarditis, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, pulmonary embolism or COVID-19 infection within past 3 months, severe, uncorrected valvular disease, uncontrolled hypertension and/or uncontrolled arrhythmias are excluded. Statistical Methods: Continuous and categorical variables measured in this study will be summarized. The distributions of the data collected in the study participants from the 6MWT, FACT-G and MDASI will be evaluated. Based upon the findings, either paired t-tests or nonparametric Wilcoxon signed-rank tests will be performed to analyze the differences observed between the pre-exercise intervention data and the post-exercise intervention data. P values &amp;lt;= 0.05 will be considered statistically significant. . Accrual: At this time, 20 patients have enrolled out of a planned 30 participants. Citation Format: Eleonora Teplinsky, Amanda Podolski, Benita Burke, Kasey Bessada, Laura Klein, Moira Christoudias, Kariann Abbate. Supervised training exercise program during chemotherapy for breast cancer (STRENGTH) trial [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2021 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2021 Dec 7-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(4 Suppl):Abstract nr OT2-13-01.

Taking Advantage of the Teachable Moment at Initial Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer—Results of a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of Supervised Exercise Training

Increased physical activity (PA) levels are associated with improved prostate cancer (PCa) outcomes. Sustainable PA has been linked to improved health-related quality of life (QoL) in cancer patients. The time of diagnosis of PCa may offer a critical time point when patients might be more likely to consider lifestyle changes. This, in turn, may contribute to sustainable PA and its likely benefits. The aims of this study were to determine if a structured PA intervention introduced at the time of diagnosis can (1) lead to sustainable PA and (2) help improve psychosocial and QoL outcomes as compared with usual PA. This was a pilot randomized controlled trial enrolling patients with intermediate-risk PCa into either arm A (supervised 8- to 12-week physical exercise program; n = 10) or control arm B (usual PA; n = 10). Primary outcome was PA at 6 months. Secondary outcomes were QoL, psychological well-being, physical fitness, and functional outcomes postintervention. Change over time was compared using a nonparametric Wilcoxon test. Demographic variables were the same between arms. Comparing parameters at the start and 6 months post-radical prostatectomy, PA significantly improved in arm A (self-reported Godin score 24.7 vs 42.8 units, P < .01, objective number of chair stands [14-19, P < .01]), but not in arm B. There were no significant differences between arms in QoL and psychosocial outcomes. A preoperative supervised exercise training program increases long-term PA. Future trials should evaluate PA sustainability beyond 6 months and if this leads to improved psychosocial and QoL outcomes.

Heart rate variability after bariatric surgery: The add-on value of exercise

ABSTRACT Purpose: To assess the impact of bariatric surgery and an added supervised exercise training programme on heart rate variability (HRV) in patients with severe obesity. Methods: Fifty-nine patients who underwent bariatric surgery were randomised in the post-operative period to a 12-week supervised exercise training programme (moderate intensity combination aerobic/resistance exercise training programme) or a control group. Indices of HRV including time-domain, spectral-domain, and nonlinear parameters were measured preoperatively, and at 3, 6, and 12 months. Results: After the surgical procedure, both groups improved anthropometric parameters. Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia resolutions were similar between groups. Total body weight loss at 6 and 12 months were also comparable between groups (6 months: 28 ± 6 vs. 30 ± 6%; 12 months: 38 ± 9 vs. 38 ± 10%; control vs. intervention group respectively). Bariatric surgery improved HRV parameters at 12 months compared to the pre-operative values in the intervention group: standard deviation of R-R interval (SDNN) (156.0 ± 46.4 vs. 122.6 ± 33.1 ms), low frequency (LF) (6.3 ± 0.8 vs. 5.8 ± 0.7 ms2), and high frequency (HF) (5.1 ± 0.8 vs. 4.7 ± 0.9 ms2) (all p<0.001). For the control patients, similar improvements in SDNN (150.0 ± 39.4 vs. 118.8 ± 20.1 ms), LF (6.1 ± 0.9 vs. 5.7 ± 0.8 ms2), and HF (5.0 ± 0.9 vs. 4.7 ± 0.9 ms2) were obtained (all p<0.001). However, there was no add-on impact of the supervised exercise training programme on HRV after 12 months (p>0.05 for all HRV parameters). Conclusion: Bariatric surgery is associated with an improvement in HRV. A supervised exercise training programme in the post-operative period did not modulate further the benefits of bariatric surgery regarding HRV parameters. Highlights: Obesity is associated with abnormalities in heart rate variability. Bariatric surgery improves heart rate variability parameters in patients with severe obesity. Due to the substantial weight loss associated with bariatric surgery, a supervised post-operative exercise training programme did not benefit further heart rate variability when compared to bariatric surgery alone.

Necessity of Structured Exercise Training Program and Its Feasability on Physical Capacity and Health Statuswith Post COVID-19 Syndrome Patients

Abstract: Corona virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread worldwide and has become a global public health emergency. The World Health Organization declared the outbreak a pandemic. Pulmonary Rehabilitation has shown good impact on Quality of life , Functional capacity and health status of patients with Chronic Respiratory Disease Recently there are various guidelines and consensus available for Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Post – COVID patients that has been extrapolated from other respiratory condition. There is paucity of literature that has shown the effect of Exercise training program on Physical capacity and Health status of patient with Post COVID 19 syndrome. So the present study uses the available evidence on COVID 19 patients to prepare the exercise program and implement it on post COVID syndrome patients.Thus, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of supervised Exercise Training Program on Post COVID-19 syndrome patients&#x0D; Methodology: In this experimental study total 70 patients with Post Covid Syndrome will be included and they will be equally divided into two groups. Group A will receive supervised exercise training, while Group B will receive unsupervised exercise training. Participant will be evaluated at the beginning of therapy or after 6 weeks.&#x0D; Discussion: This study is conducted to evaluate effectiveness of structured exercise training program and its feasibility on physical capacity and health status of patients with Post COVID19 syndrome.&#x0D; Conclusion: Its effectiveness of a structured exercise program and its feasibility on physical capacity and health status of patients with Post COVID19 syndrome will be evaluated.