Effect of Detraining on Muscle Strength, Functional Capacity, Mental Health, and Body Composition in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a condition that significantly affects the quality of life (QoL) of individuals, causing motor, physiological, social, and psychological impairments. Physical exercise plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and functional capacity of these individuals, helping to minimize the negative impacts of SCI. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of detraining (DT) (reduction or cessation of physical exercise) during the pandemic on five individuals with thoracic SCI. We assessed muscle strength using strength tests, functional capacity using a functional agility test, mental health using anxiety and depression inventories, and body composition using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). The results after 33 months of DT showed significant losses in functional agility and MS, as well as a worsening in symptoms of anxiety and depression. It was observed that total body mass and fat mass (FM) exhibited varied behaviors among the individuals. Similarly, the results for lean body mass were heterogeneous, with one participant showing significant deterioration. It is concluded that DT caused by the pandemic worsened the physical and mental condition of individuals with SCI, highlighting the importance of continuous exercise for this population and underscoring the need for individual assessments to fully understand the impacts of DT.

Strength training as a non-pharmacological alternative to improve body composition, and quality of life in people with spinal cord injury: A systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Spinal cord injuries (SCI) have physiological, emotional, and economic consequences in the lives of affected people. Resistance training (RT) is efficient in improving several physiological factors, quality of life, and body composition. Due to the scarce literature on the analysis of isolated RT, the objective of this systematic review is to evaluate the effects of RT without the association of other techniques, in aspects related to the quality of life and body composition of people with SCI. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: The research was carried out in databases such as Pubmed, Cochrane, and Web of Science using the terms ("Spinal cord injury") AND (("Resistance Training") OR ("Strength training")). Given the lack of evidence on the subject, no deadline was set for the study to be eligible for analysis. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: The search for the articles was carried out in November of 2023 and returned 470 results, of which 315 remained after the elimination of duplicates, with 281 being excluded after title analysis. A total of 34 abstracts were analyzed and 29 studies were excluded, leaving 5 complete articles for thorough analysis. CONCLUSIONS: After analyzing the main results, we concluded that RT promotes significant improvements in body composition, pain, stress and depression symptoms, increased functionality, physical awareness, and quality of life.

Physical exercise and major depressive disorder in adults: systematic review and meta-analysis.

The objective of this study was to assess the benefits and potential risks associated with different physical exercise modalities for managing symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder who were not receiving second-generation antidepressants or cognitive behavioral therapy. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted. The search included multiple databases: Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Embase, PsycInfo, Web of Science, Clinical Trials repository, gray literature, and manual search. No language restrictions were applied. Eligible studies involved RCTs of adults with major depressive disorder who were not on antidepressants or receiving psychological therapy, comparing various exercise modalities with second-generation antidepressants or cognitive behavioral therapy, body-mind exercise, or no exercise interventions. Nine RCTs involving 678 adults were analyzed. The pooled results indicated a small clinical effect favoring exercise in reducing depressive symptoms, although the difference was not statistically significant (SMD = 0.27, 95% CI [- 0.58, 0.04], P = 0.09). Subgroup analyses suggested that intervention duration, frequency, intensity, supervision, age, overweight/obesity status, and diagnosis of depression could influence treatment outcomes. A sensitivity analysis was conducted for studies with controls without exercise interventions and a low risk of bias in the domains related to the randomization process and deviations from the intended interventions. The results showed that there are no statistically significant differences when interventions are compared with medication and body-mind exercise (p = 0.12, I2 = 78%). Furthermore, the analysis showed a moderate effect size favoring exercise, but no statistically significant difference between groups (p = 0.05), with high heterogeneity (I2 = 85%). The evidence quality was generally low to very low, and methodological limitations compromised the certainty of the findings. Adverse events associated with exercise were manageable. The study emphasizes the need for well-designed RCTs to provide clearer insights into the potential benefits of exercise in managing major depressive disorder symptoms. Caution is warranted in interpreting these results due to the limitations of the included studies.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42022356741.

Atividade física, comportamento sedentário e absenteísmo de professores da educação básica / Physical activity, sedentary behaviour and basic education teacher absenteeism / Actividad física, sedentarismo y ausentismo de profesores de enseñanza básica

O absenteísmo é caracterizado pelo distanciamento do funcionário ao trabalho, se tratando de um fenômeno complexo e multifatorial. Devido ao número de afastamentos atribuídos em 2018, o objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a associação entre nível de atividade física (NAF), comportamento sedentário (CS) e absenteísmo de professores da educação básica do município de Divinópolis-MG. A amostra foi composta por 84 docentes de ambos os sexos, com idade média de 45,12±8,88 anos. Realizou-se a identificação do absenteísmo através de questionário sociodemográfico e para NAF e CS utilizou-se o International Physical Activity Questionnarie (IPAQ) - versão curta. O valor de alfa foi estabelecido em 5%. A análise de relação, dada pelo Qui- Quadrado, demonstrou que o não absenteísmo no ano de 2019 está relacionado com exercer cargo efetivo (p=0,030), lecionar no Ensino Fundamental I (p=0,041) e ser fisicamente ativo (p=0,003). Pode-se observar pela correlação de Spearman que o absenteísmo está correlacionado ao NAF (rho=-0,321; p=0,003) e ao cargo exercido (rho= 0,237; p=0,030). A Regressão de Poisson indicou que docentes com cargo temporário apresentaram 74% menos chances de ocorrência de absenteísmo quando comparados àqueles que exerciam cargo efetivo (p<0,001; Exp. ß= 0,744; IC=0,655- 0,844) e que professores irregularmente ativos demonstraram 123% mais chances de ocorrência de afastamento comparados aos fisicamente ativos (p=0,004; Exp. ß= 1,234; IC=1,070-1,423). Conclui-se que docentes fisicamente ativos, que atuavam em cargos temporários no Ensino Fundamental I, comparados com professores do Ensino Infantil, possuíam menor probabilidade de absenteísmo, sugerindo que o NAF pode ser preditor do afastamento de professores da rede municipal.

Absenteeism is characterized by the distancing of the employee from work, being a complex and multifactorial phenomenon. Due to the number of absences attributed in 2018, the objective of this study was to verify the association between physical activity level (PAL), sedentary behavior (CS) and absenteeism of basic education teachers in the city of Divinópolis-MG. The sample consisted of 84 teachers of both genders, with a mean age of 45.12±8.88 years old. The identification of absenteeism was carried out through a sociodemographic questionnaire and for PAL and CS the International Physical Activity Questionnarie (IPAQ) - short version was used. The alpha value was set at 5%. The relationship analysis, given by the Chi-Square, showed that non- absenteeism in 2019 is related to holding an effective position (p=0.030), teaching in Elementary School I (p=0.041) and being physically active (p=0.003). It can be seen from Spearman's correlation that absenteeism is correlated with PAL (rho=-0.321; p=0.003) and position held (rho= 0.237; p=0.030). Poisson Regression indicated that professors with a temporary position were 74% less likely to have absenteeism when compared to those who held a permanent position (p<0.001; Exp. ß= 0.744; CI=0.655-0.844) and that irregularly active professors demonstrated 123% more chances of sick leave compared to physically active (p=0.004; Exp. ß= 1.234; CI=1.070-1.423). It is concluded that physically active teachers, who worked in temporary positions in Elementary School I, compared to teachers in Kindergarten, had a lower probability of absenteeism, suggesting that the PAL can be a predictor of the removal of teachers from the municipal network.

El ausentismo se caracteriza por el alejamiento del empleado del trabajo, siendo un fenómeno complejo y multifactorial. Debido al número de ausencias atribuidas en 2018, el objetivo de este estudio fue verificar la asociación entre el nivel de actividad física (NAC), el comportamiento sedentario (CS) y el ausentismo de los profesores de educación básica en la ciudad de Divinópolis-MG. La muestra fue constituida por 84 profesores de ambos sexos, con edad media de 45,12±8,88 años. La identificación del absentismo se realizó a través de un cuestionario sociodemográfico y para PAL y CS se utilizó el International Physical Activity Questionnarie (IPAQ) - versión corta. El valor alfa se fijó en el 5%. El análisis de relación, dado por el Chi-Cuadrado, mostró que el no ausentismo en 2019 está relacionado con ocupar un cargo efectivo (p=0,030), enseñar en la Escuela Primaria I (p=0,041) y ser físicamente activo (p=0,003). De la correlación de Spearman se desprende que el absentismo está correlacionado con el PAL (rho=-0,321; p=0,003) y el cargo desempeñado (rho= 0,237; p=0,030). La regresión de Poisson indicó que los profesores con un puesto temporal tenían un 74% menos de probabilidades de absentismo en comparación con los que ocupaban un puesto permanente (p<0,001; Exp. ß= 0,744; CI=0,655-0,844) y que los profesores irregularmente activos mostraban un 123% más de probabilidades de baja por enfermedad en comparación con los físicamente activos (p=0,004; Exp. ß= 1,234; CI=1,070-1,423). Se concluye que los profesores físicamente activos, que trabajaban en puestos temporales en la Escuela Primaria I, en comparación con los profesores del Jardín de Infancia, tenían una menor probabilidad de absentismo, lo que sugiere que el PAL puede ser un predictor de la baja de los profesores de la red municipal.

Resistance Training and Muscle Strength in people with Spinal cord injury: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Spinal cord injuries (SCI) have physiological, emotional, and economic consequences in the lives of affected people. Resistance training (RT) is efficient in improving several physiological factors, quality of life, and body composition. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: Due to the scarce literature on RT analyzed separately, the objective of this systematic review is to analyze the effects of RT with no association to other techniques, in aspects related to the quality of life and body composition of people The research for the articles was carried out in the Pubmed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases using the terms "Spinal cord injuries" AND "Resistance Training" OR "Strength training". Given the scarcity of evidence on the subject, no deadline was set for the study to be eligible for analysis. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: The research for the articles was carried out in November of 2020 and returned 349 results, of which 220 remained after the elimination of duplicates, with 145 being excluded after title analysis. Seventy-five abstracts were analyzed and 70 studies were excluded, leaving 5 complete articles for a thorough analysis with SCI. Despite the I2 being 87%, the meta-analysis revealed an overall effect of Z = 4.79 (P < 0.00001). CONCLUSIONS: After analyzing the main results, we concluded that RT is feasible, secure, and promotes significant improvements in maximum strength, local muscular endurance, power, and muscular isometric voluntary contraction in people with spinal cord injury.

Effects of Different Types of Resistance Training and Detraining on Functional Capacity, Muscle Strength, and Power in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Study.

ABSTRACT: Filho, MM, Venturini, GRdO, Moreira, OC, Leitão, L, Mira, PA, Castro, JB, Aidar, FJ, Novaes, JdS, Vianna, JM, and Caputo Ferreira, ME. Effects of different types of resistance training and detraining on functional capacity, muscle strength, and power in older women: A randomized controlled study. J Strength Cond Res 36(4): 984-990, 2022-Resistance training (RT) increases muscle strength, power, and functional capacity (FC) of older women. However, these benefits can be lost partially or totally with detraining. This study aimed to compare the effect of 20 weeks of different types of RT and 4 weeks of detraining on muscle strength, power, and FC in older women. Ninety-five older women were randomly divided into 4 experimental groups (strength endurance, power, absolute strength, and relative strength training) and 1 control group (CG). We assessed muscle strength (10RM test) and muscle power of the lower (countermovement jump) and upper limbs (medicine ball pitch). Functional capacity was assessed by the Senior Fitness Test, which comprises the following tests: 30-second arm curl, 30-second chair stand, back scratch, chair sit and reach, 8-foot up and go, and 6-minute walk. The experiment lasted 24 weeks (familiarization: 2 weeks; neural adaptation: 6 weeks; specific training: 12 weeks; and detraining: 4 weeks). Muscle strength, lower and upper limb power (all p < 0.05), 30-second arm curl, 30-second chair stand, 8-foot up and go, 6-minute walk (all p < 0.001), and lower limb flexibility (p = 0.002) improved in all experimental groups after training and CG showed no differences in any of these variables. After detraining, muscle strength, lower and upper limb power (p < 0.05 for all), and FC decreased in comparison to the end of RT (30-second arm curl, 30-second chair stand, 8-foot up and go, 6-minute walk, and lower limb flexibility, p < 0.05 for all). Although the FC of the subjects has been reduced after 4 weeks of detraining, it was maintained at higher levels in comparison to baseline. These results suggested that older women can be submitted to different types of RT to achieve improvements in general fitness.

A utilização dos jogos no processo de ensino/aprendizagem da fisiologia humana: uma revisão das aplicações, vantagens e desvantagens / The use of games in the teaching/learning process of human physiology: a review of applications, advantages and disadvantages

O professor deve utilizar diferentes alternativas para que se tenha o estímulo e o desenvolvimento do aprendizado efetivo, abrangendo a singularidade de cada estudante. Nesse contexto, os métodos práticos podem configurar-se como importante alternativa de ensino da Fisiologia Humana por proporcionar práticas educacionais atrativas, em que o estudante tem a chance de aprender de forma mais ativa, dinâmica e motivadora. Diante disso, o presente estudo objetivou revisar a literatura e analisar a utilização dos jogos no processo de ensino/aprendizagem da Fisiologia Humana, em todos os níveis de ensino, e discutir suas principais aplicações, vantagens e desvantagens. Realizou-se a revisão de estudos publicados em revistas indexadas nas bases: Scielo, Lillacs e Google Acadêmico. Para busca destes estudos utilizou-se os termos: "métodos alternativos", "Fisiologia Humana", "Fisiologia Humana AND ensino", "jogos AND Fisiologia Humana", "métodos práticos AND Fisiologia Humana", e "jogos AND ensino AND Fisiologia Humana". A partir dos artigos analisados, foi possível encontrar três diferentes tipos de jogos (jogos representacionais, jogos didáticos e jogos teatrais). Os jogos representacionais e os jogos didáticos apresentaram vantagens em relação aos jogos teatrais, sendo indicadas suas aplicações para o ensino da Fisiologia Humana, pois podem auxiliar os estudantes na consolidação dos conteúdos, de modo motivante e divertido. Além disso, a utilização desses jogos pode atuar como uma estratégia facilitadora do processo de ensino/aprendizagem da Fisiologia Humana. (AU)

The teacher must use different alternatives in order to have the stimulus and the development of effective learning, covering the uniqueness of each student. In this context, practical methods can be configured as an important teaching alternative for Human Physiology because it provides attractive educational practices, in which the student has the chance to learn in a more active, dynamic and motivating way. Therefore, the present study aimed to review the literature and analyze the use of games in the teaching/learning process of Human Physiology, at all levels of education, and to discuss their main applications, advantages and disadvantages. Were analyzed studies published in journals indexed in the databases: Scielo, Lillacs and Google Scholar. To search for these studies, were used the terms "alternative methods", "Human Physiology", "Human Physiology AND teaching", "games AND Human Physiology", "practical methods AND Human Physiology", and "games AND teaching AND Human Physiology". From the analyzed articles, it was possible to find three different types of games (representational games, educational games and theatrical games). Representational games and didactic games presented advantages over theatrical games, indicating their applications for teaching Human Physiology, as they can assist students in consolidating content in a motivating and fun way. In addition, the use of these games can act as a strategy to facilitate the teaching/learning process of Human Physiology. (AU)

Evaluation of the Post-Training Hypotensor Effect in Paralympic and Conventional Powerlifting.

High blood pressure (HBP) has been associated with several complications and causes of death. The objective of the study was to analyze the hemodynamic responses in Paralympic bench press powerlifting (PP) and conventional powerlifting (CP) before and after training and up to 60 minutes (min) after training. Ten PP and 10 CP athletes performed five sets of five repetition maximal bench press exercises, and we evaluated systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure (SBP, DBP, and MBP, respectively), heart rate (HR), heart pressure product (HPP), and myocardial oxygen volume (MVO2). The SBP increased after training (p < 0.001), and there were differences in the post training and 30, 40, and 60 min later (p = 0.021), between 10 and 40 min after training (p = 0.031, η2p = 0.570), and between CP and PP (p =0.028, η2p = 0.570). In the MBP, there were differences between before and after (p = 0.016) and 40 min later (p = 0.040, η2p = 0.309). In the HR, there was a difference between before and after, and 5 and 10 min later (p = 0.002), and between after and 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min later (p < 0.001, η2p = 0.767). In HPP and MVO2, there were differences between before and after (p = 0.006), and between after and 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min later (p < 0.001, η2p = 0.816). In CP and PP, there is no risk of hemodynamic overload to athletes, considering the results of the HPP, and training promotes a moderate hypotensive effect, with blood pressure adaptation after and 60 min after exercise.

Evaluation of Training with Elastic Bands on Strength and Fatigue Indicators in Paralympic Powerlifting.

BACKGROUND: Variable resistance training has recently become a component of strength and conditioning programs. OBJECTIVE: This randomized counterbalanced cross-over study aimed to investigate the use of elastic bands (EB) and the traditional method (TRAD) and force indicators in a training session. METHODS: 12 Paralympic athletes (age: 28.60 ± 7.60 years) participated in this three-week study. In the first week, the participants were familiarized with EB and TRAD and were tested for maximal repetition (1-RM). The research occurred in weeks 2 and 3, which included the pre-post training, during which the following measures were extracted: maximum isometric force (MIF), the peak torque (PT), rate of force development (RFD), fatigue index (FI), and time to MIF (Time). The athletes performed two tests, EB and TRAD, separated by a one-week interval. RESULTS: Significant differences were found between the pre- and post-test for 1RM (p = 0.018, η2p = 0.412), MIF (p = 0.011, η2p = 0.415), PT (p = 0.012, η2p = 0.413), and RFD (p = 0.0002, η2p = 0.761). With the use of EB, there was a difference in RFD between TRAD before and EB after (p = 0.016, η2p = 0.761). There were significant differences in the before and after for FI between TRAD and EB (p < 0.001) and for Time (p < 0.001), indicating that training with the use of elastic bands promotes overload, characterized by increased fatigue and decreased strength. CONCLUSIONS: Training with EB did not decrease 1RM, PT, MIF or RFD, however, there was an increase in fatigue and time to reach MIF when compared to the method with fixed resistance.

Static and Dynamic Strength Indicators in Paralympic Power-Lifters with and without Spinal Cord Injury.

BACKGROUND: In Paralympic powerlifting (PP), athletes with and without spinal cord injury (SCI) compete in the same category. Athletes with SCI may be at a disadvantage in relation to the production of muscle strength and the execution of motor techniques. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the indicators force, dynamic and static, at different intensities, on performance in athletes with and without SCI. METHODS: The sample was composed of two groups of PP athletes: SCI (30.57 ± 4.20 years) and other deficiencies (OD; 25.67 ± 4.52 years). Athletes performed a test of maximum isometric force (MIF), time to MIF (Time), rate of force development (RFD), impulse, variability and fatigue index (FI), dynamic tests Mean Propulsive Velocity (MPV), Maximum Velocity (Vmax) and Power. RESULTS: There were differences in the SCI in relation to OD, 50% 1RM (p < 0.05), in relation to MPV and Vmax. There were no differences in the static force indicators. Regarding EMG, there were differences between the SCI triceps in relation to the previous deltoid (p = 0.012). CONCLUSION: We concluded that the static and dynamic strength indicators are similar in Paralympic powerlifting athletes with spinal cord injury and other disabilities.

Evaluation of Strength and Muscle Activation Indicators in Sticking Point Region of National-Level Paralympic Powerlifting Athletes.

BACKGROUND: The sticking region is considered an intervening factor in the performance of the bench press with high loads. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the strength indicators in the sticking point region in Powerlifting Paralympic athletes. METHODS: Twelve Brazilian Powerlifting Paralympic athletes performed maximum isometric force (MIF), rate of force development (RFD), time at MIF, velocity, dynamic time in sticking, and surface electromyography in several distances from the bar to the chest. RESULTS: For velocity, there was a difference between the pre-sticking and sticking region (1.98 ± 0.32 and 1.30 ± 0.43, p = 0.039) and dynamic time between the pre-sticking and the sticking region (0.40 ± 0.16 and 0.97 ± 0.37, p = 00.021). In static test for the MIF, differences were found between 5.0 cm and 15.0 cm (CI 95% 784; 1088; p = 0.010) and between 10.0 cm and 5.0 cm (CI 95% 527; 768; p < 0.001). Regarding the RFD, differences were found (CI 95% 938; 1240; p = 0.004) between 5.0 cm and 25.0 cm and between 10.0 cm and 25.0 cm (CI 95% 513; 732; p < 0.001). In relation to time, there were differences between 5.0 cm and 15.0 cm (CI 95% 0.330; 0.515; p < 0.001), 5.0 cm, and 25.0 cm (CI 95% 0.928; 1.345; p = 0.001), 10.0 cm and 15.0 cm (p < 0.05) and 15.0 cm and 25.0 cm (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the muscles in electromyography, although the triceps showed the highest muscle activation values. CONCLUSIONS: The maximum isometric force, rate of force development, time, velocity, and dynamic time had lower values, especially in the initial and intermediate phases in the sticking region.

Two Weekly Sessions of High-Intensity Interval Training Improve Metabolic Syndrome and Hypertriglyceridemic Waist Phenotype in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background: Exercise training provides physiological benefits for maintaining good health. A common exercise strategy is high-intensity interval training (HIIT). HIIT may alleviate metabolic syndrome (MetS) and hypertriglyceridemic waist (HTGW) phenotype, but remains largely unstudied in ageing participants. The aim of this research was to investigate the impact of 2 weekly HIIT sessions on MetS markers and HTGW-related factors in older adults. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 140 older men and women were randomized into two groups, the experimental group (EG), and the control group (CG). The EG performed 2 weekly sessions of HIIT during 12 weeks. HIIT sessions consisted of 40 min treadmill running/walking: a 10 min warm-up at 50%-60% of maximum heart rate (HRmax), followed by 10 sets of 1 min bouts at 85%-90% of HRmax interspersed with 1 min walking at self-selected pace (totaling 20 min), and 10 min cool-down walking at self-selected pace. The CG did not perform any type of intense exercise during the intervention period. Results: Participants in the EG of both sexes decreased MetS, HTGW, blood pressure, cholesterol, and glycemia (P < 0.05). After training, the number of hypertensive men decreased by 100% and women by 70%. There was a 75% reduction in women with diabetes, a 100% reduction in MetS indicators and over 80% reduction in HTGW in participants of both sexes. Conclusion: Two weekly sessions of HIIT proved to be feasible and effective to induce clinically relevant improvements in MetS and HTGW indicators.

The comparative measurement of body segment parameters using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry between sexes.

BACKGROUND: The study aimed to determine the proportion of the body segments in relation to the total body mass in healthy people, as well as analyze the composition of each segment and compare these results between sexes. METHODS: A total of 60 young adults (30 men and 30 women) were subjected to a full-body scan by dual energy X-rays absorptiometry (DXA) under standardized conditions. The regions of interest (ROI) were determined by a single trained evaluator. The body was divided into 16 segments to obtain values of total mass, lean mass (LM), fat mass, bone mineral content (BMC), lean mass percentage (%LM) and fat mass percentage (%FM) of each body segment represented by the 16 ROI. RESULTS: Men presented higher absolute mass in the upper limbs (Δ=32.87%; P<0.05). The proportion of the lower limbs (Δ=6.83%; P<0.05) and trunk (Δ=5.07%; P<0.05) of men is higher than women. In addition, males have more LM in the upper limbs (Δ=42.19%; P<0.05) and trunk (Δ=26.46%; P<0.001), and more BMC in the trunk (Δ=18.78%; P<0.05) and forearms (Δ=32.21%; P<0.05). They also present higher %LM (Δ=6.48%; P<0.001) and lower %FM (Δ=54.43%; P<0.001) than women in the forearms. CONCLUSIONS: The different body segments represent a different percentage of the total body mass in men than in women, as well as men present more LM and BMC in the trunk and upper limbs.

Effects of circuit resistance training on muscle power, functional agility, and bones' mineral content in people with spinal injury.

BACKGROUND: Physical exercise is one of the main agents when it comes to rehabilitation and changes in health aspects of people with SCI. This study aimed to establish the effects of circuit resistance training (CRT) on people with spinal cord injury (SCI), specifically on their body composition, muscle strength, anaerobic power, and functional capacity. METHODS: Sample consisted of five people with SCI: both sexes, ages between 25 and 62 years, and 12 weeks of CRT, twice a week. Before and after the 12 weeks of intervention, this research adopted clear-cut tests (medicine ball pitch, Wingate, zigzag, and dual-energy X-ray densitometry) to analyze the desired variables (muscle strength, anaerobic power, functional capacity, and body composition). RESULTS: Showed muscle strength improvement (P=0.028), agility increase (P=0.028), and equal levels of lean mass, bone mineral content, and bone loss index throughout life (T-score). CONCLUSIONS: Therefore, one can consider that CRT is an alternative to develop the upper limbs muscle power and functional agility. Together, all these variables may imply an overall improvement of the functional capacity in people with SCI. Additionally, these 12 weeks of CRT were responsible for helping the maintenance of lean mass, bone mineral content and T-score in this study's sample.

Can Creatine Supplementation Interfere with Muscle Strength and Fatigue in Brazilian National Level Paralympic Powerlifting?

The aim of the present study was to analyze the effect of creatine (Cr) supplementation on peak torque (PT) and fatigue rate in Paralympic weightlifting athletes. Eight Paralympic powerlifting athletes participated in the study, with 25.40 ± 3.30 years and 70.30 ± 12.15 kg. The measurements of muscle strength, fatigue index (FI), peak torque (PT), force (kgf), force (N), rate of force development (RFD), and time to maximum isometric force (time) were determined by a Musclelab load cell. The study was performed in a single-blind manner, with subjects conducting the experiments first with placebo supplementation and then, following a 7-day washout period, beginning the same protocol with creatine supplementation for 7 days. This sequence was chosen because of the lengthy washout of creatine. Regarding the comparison between conditions, Cr supplementation did not show effects on the variables of muscle force, peak torque, RFD, and time to maximum isometric force (p > 0.05). However, when comparing the results of the moments with the use of Cr and placebo, a difference was observed for the FI after seven days (U3: 1.12; 95% CI: (0.03, 2.27); p = 0.02); therefore, the FI was higher for placebo. Creatine supplementation has a positive effect on the performance of Paralympic powerlifting athletes, reducing fatigue index, and keeping the force levels as well as PT.

Prevalência de fatores de risco coronariano e prontidão para atividade física em mulheres praticantes de caminhada e corrida recreativa / Prevalence of coronary risk factors and readiness for physical activity in women practicing walking and recreational running

Este estudo objetivou determinar a prontidão para atividade física e a prevalência de fatores de risco coronariano em mulheres praticantes de caminhada e corrida recreativa, através da aplicação dos questionários PAR-q e RISKO. Participaram do estudo 80 mulheres, as quais foram divididas em quatro grupos etários (G1 = 20-29 anos; G2 = 30-39 anos; G3 = 40-49 anos; G4 = 50-59 anos). Adotou-se com o critério de inclusão mulheres que praticassem caminhada e/ou corrida de forma recreativa há pelo menos dois meses sem orientação de um profissional de Educação Física, com frequência mínima de três vezes por semana. Utilizaram-se os questionários PAR-q, para determinar a prontidão para a prática de atividade física, e RISKO, para identificar os fatores de risco coronariano. Em relação ao PAR-q, 32,5% da amostra respondeu positivamente a, pelo menos, uma questão, apresentando inaptidão para atividade física . A questão com maioríndice de respostas positivas foi relacionada a episódios de tontura, correspondendo a 18,8% da amostra. O G3 apresentou maior prevalência em comparação aos demais grupos. O escore médio de risco coronariano obtido foi de 15,22 ± 3,29 pontos (risco abaixo da média), correspondendo a 66,3% da amostra. Foram encontrados valores maiores nas avaliadas do G4. A questão com maior escore foi relacionada à hereditariedade, correspondendo a 63,8% das entrevistadas, seguida de sexo e sobrepeso. Conclui-se que os grupos com maior faixa etária tiveram maior prevalência em respostas positivas no questionário PAR-q. No tocante ao RISKO, a maioria da amostra foi classificada como risco abaixo da média, sendo os fatores hereditariedade, sexo e sobrepeso os de maior prevalência...(AU)

This study aimed to determine the physical activity readiness and the coronary risk prevalence in women practicing walking and recreational running, through the application of PAR-q and RISKO questionnaires. 80 women participated in this study, divided in four age groups (G1 = 20-29 years old; G2 = 30-39 years old; G3 = 40-49 years old; G4 = 50-59 years old). We adopted as inclusion criterion women who practiced waking and/or recreational running for at least two months, without orientation of a physical educator, with minimal frequency of 3 times per week. We used PAR-q questionnaires to determine the readiness for practicing physical activity, and RISKO, to identify the coronary risk factors In relation to PAR-q, 32.5% of the sampleanswered positively to at least one question, showing inaptitude to physical activity. The question with highest index of positiveanswers wasrelated to dizziness episodes, corresponding to 18.8% of the sample. G3 presented a higher prevalence in relation to the oth er gro ups. The average score for coronary risk was 15.22 ± 3.29 points(below the average risk), correspo ndingto 66.3% of the sample. Higher values were found in G4 age group. Thequestion with the highestscore was the one related to heredity, corresponding to 63.8% of the subjects; followed by sex and overweight. Thus, we concluded that the groups with higher age had higher prevalence in positive answers in PAR-q questionnaire. Regarding RISKO questionnaire, most of sample was classified as below average risk, thus heredity, sex and overweight are the factors with higher prevalence...(AU)

Association between body adiposity index and cardiovascular risk factors in teachers / Associação entre índice de adiposidade corporal e fatores de risco cardiovasculares em professores

Abstract Body adiposity index (BAI) is a relatively recent evaluation method for the diagnosis of overweight and obesity, which takes into account simple measures. The aim of this study was to verify the association between BAI and cardiovascular risk factors in teachers. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 495 teachers from the city of Viçosa-MG. BAI, body mass index (BMI), abdominal circumference (AC), waist-to-hip ratio (WtHR), body fat percentage (%BF), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting glucose, total cholesterol and triglycerides were evaluated. Associations between BAI (independent variable) and other variables (dependent variable) were evaluated through simple linear regression. Of the total participants, 32.12% presented high BAI and higher anthropometric, blood pressure and biochemical values (p<0.05). Higher percentage of high BAI was observed among men and with advancing age. Linear regression analysis showed positive association between BAI and other anthropometric measurements (p<0.001), with glucose (R²=0.024; p=0.001) and total cholesterol (R²=0.028; p<0.001). BAI was positively associated with the other anthropometric measures (BMI, %BF, AC and WtHR), and with the glucose and total cholesterol of evaluated teachers. Higher BAI was observed among men and with advancing age.

Resumo O índice de adiposidade corporal (IAC) é um método relativamente recente de avaliação para o diagnóstico do sobrepeso e obesidade, que leva em consideração medidas simples. Objetivo: Verificar a associação entre IAC e fatores de risco cardiovasculares em professores. Foi realizado um estudo transversal em 495 professores da cidade de Viçosa-MG. Avaliou-se o IAC, índice de massa corporal (IMC), circunferência abdominal (CA), relação cintura-quadril (RCQ), percentual de gordura corporal (%GC), pressão arterial sistólica e diastólica, glicemia de jejum, colesterol total e triglicerídeos. Avaliaram-se as associações entre o IAC (variável independente) e demais variáveis (variável dependente) através da regressão linear simples. Do total de avaliados, 32,12% apresentaram o IAC elevado, com estes apresentando maiores valores antropométricos, pressóricos e bioquímicos (p<0,05). Pode-se observar maior porcentagem de IAC elevada entre os homens e com o avançar da idade. A análise de regressão linear mostrou associação positiva entre o IAC e as demais medidas antropométricas (p<0,001), com a glicose (R²=0,024; p=0,001) e colesterol total (R²=0,028; p <0,001). O IAC apresentou associação positiva com as demais medidas antropométricas (IMC, %GC, CA e RCQ), e com a glicose e colesterol total dos professores avaliados. Pode-se observar maior IAC entre os homens e com o avançar da idade.

Effects of short-term strength training on body composition, muscle strength and functional capacity of elderly: a systematic review and meta-analysis / Efeitos do treinamento de força de curta duração sobre a composição corporal, a força muscular e a capacidade funcional de idosos: revisão sistemática e meta-análise

To examine the effects of short-term strength training (STST) on different manifestations of muscle strength in the lower limbs, functional capacity and body composition of people 65 years old or older. We searched the electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane) to identify all publications using STST (up to 12 weeks) in people aged 65 or older, published in the last five years, prior to May 2018. Results were analyzed as continuous data using random effects to calculate the standardized mean difference (SMD) and the 95% confidence interval (95%CI). 28 studies with 921 subjects met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. These works were grouped into three categories for analysis: Muscular Strength, Functional Capacity and Body Composition. In Muscular Strength category, the overall pooled effect estimate was 0.95 (95%CI: 0.63; 1.26), with a significant STST effect (Z= 5.93; p<0.001), over the different strength manifestations analyzed. In Functional Capacity category, the STST decreased the Time Up-and-Go test run time (SMD: -1.01; 95%CI: -1.56; -0.47) and increased the repetitions' number performed in 30-s chair-stand test (SMD: 1.07, 95% CI: 0.79, 1.34). In Body Composition category, the overall pooled effect estimate was 0.13 (95%CI: -0.16; 0.42), without finding a significant effect of STST (Z= 0.87; p= 0.38). STST has a moderate to large effect in improving the different manifestations of muscle strength and functional capacity. However, this type of intervention has no effect on body composition.

Examinar os efeitos do treinamento de força de curta duração (TFCD) em diferentes manifestações de força muscular nos membros inferiores, capacidade funcional e composição corporal de pessoas maiores de 65 anos. Foram pesquisadas bases de dados eletrônicas (PubMed, Web of Science e Cochrane) para identificar todas as publicações utilizando TFCD (até 12 semanas) em pessoas maiores de 65 anos, publicadas nos últimos cinco anos, antes de maio de 2018. Os resultados foram analisados como dados contínuos usando efeitos aleatórios para calcular a diferença padronizada da média (SMD) e o intervalo de confiança de 95% (IC95%). 28 estudos com 921 sujeitos preencheram os critérios de inclusão e foram analisados. Esses trabalhos foram agrupados em três categorias para análise: Força Muscular, Capacidade Funcional e Composição Corporal. Na categoria Força Muscular, a estimativa geral do efeito combinado foi de 0,95 (95% CI: 0,63; 1,26), com um efeito significativo do TFCD (Z = 5,93; p <0,001), sobre as diferentes manifestações de força analisadas. Na categoria Capacidade Funcional, o TFCD diminuiu o tempo de execução do teste Timed Up-and-Go (SMD: -1.01; 95% CI: -1.56; -0.47) e aumentou o número de repetições realizadas no teste de levantar e sentar na cadeira de 30 segundos (SMD: 1,07, IC 95%: 0,79, 1,34). Na categoria de Composição Corporal, a estimativa geral do efeito combinado foi de 0,13 (IC 95%: -0,16; 0,42), sem encontrar efeito significativo do TFCD (Z = 0,87; p = 0,38). O TFCD apresenta efeito moderado a grande na melhora das diferentes manifestações de força muscular e capacidade funcional. No entanto, este tipo de intervenção não tem efeito sobre a composição corporal.

Effects of a resistance-training programme on endoplasmic reticulum unfolded protein response and mitochondrial functions in PBMCs from elderly subjects.

Aging has been related with a decline in the ability to handle protein folding, which leads to endoplasmic reticulum stress and alterations in unfolded protein response (UPR). Importantly, physical activity could activate the UPR and attenuate or prevent age-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) dysfunction. The current study evaluated the effects of a resistance exercise on UPR and mitochondrial functions in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from elderly subjects. Thirty healthy women and men (age, 72.8, sx- = 2.2 years) were randomized to a training group, which performed an 8-week resistance training programme, or a control group, which followed their daily routines. The phosphorylation of PERK and IRE1, as well as ATF4, and XBP1 protein expression, significantly increased following the training, while expression of BiP, AFT6 and CHOP remain without changes. Additionally, the intervention also induced an increase in PGC-1α and Mfn1 protein levels, while no changes were found in Drp1 expression. Finally, the resistance protocol was not able to activate PINK1/Parkin and Bnip3/Nix pathways. The results obtained seem to indicate that 8-week resistance exercise activates the UPR, stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis, maintains mitochondrial dynamics and prevents mitophagy activation by unfolded proteins in PBMCs from elderly subjects.