The Influence of Whole-Body Cryotherapy or Winter Swimming on the Activity of Antioxidant Enzymes.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a series of 20 whole-body cryotherapy sessions and 20 winter swimming sessions on the level of catalase, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase. The experimental group consisted of 60 people (30 people received cryotherapy and 30 people swam in cold water). The control group-without intervention: 30 people. Each of the three groups was tested twice. Analyzing the changes in the examined indicators, a statistical increase of CAT was observed in men after the use of WBC, as well as an increase of SOD in women and a decrease of SOD in men after the winter swimming season. Regular WS does not seem to place an excessive burden on the body in terms of intensifying oxidative processes. WS sessions once a week can be recommended as an effective method of improving health by causing positive adaptive changes and strengthening the body's antioxidant barrier. WBC may be used as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of diseases caused by oxidative stress, as it improves the body's antioxidant capacity. Further research is needed to elucidate antioxidant mechanisms in humans and to determine the short- and long-term effects of exposure to WS and WBC.

The Beneficial Effects of Nordic Walking Training Combined with Time-Restricted Eating 14/24 in Women with Abnormal Body Composition Depend on the Application Period.

The aim of the study was to assess the impact of two lengths of Nordic walking (NW) training interventions combined with time-restricted eating (TRE) on improving body-composition parameters, lipid profiles, and levels of selected adipokines in women with elevated body mass. Overweight and obese women (n = 55, age: 21-85) were recruited. Four groups were selected: 6 weeks (SG6, n = 13) and 12 weeks intervention (SG12, n = 13); and two control groups: CON6 (n = 13) and CON12 (n = 13). The training sessions took place three times a week (60 min each) and were conducted outdoors under the supervision of a professional coach. The training intensity was determined individually. The extended NW program combined with TRE induced a significant weight reduction in SG12 by 1.96 kg (p = 0.010) and fat tissue by 1.64 kg (p = 0.05). The proposed interventions did not affect LBM, TBW [kg], VFA, and lipid profile. The LDL/HDL ratio changed with a small size effect. The leptin concentration differed between groups (p = 0.006), but not over time. For resistin, the differentiating factor was time (p = 0.019), with lower results observed after the intervention. The change in leptin concentration was negatively correlated with its baseline concentration (p = 0.025). Extended to 12 weeks, this intervention allows for an improvement in body composition. Neither 6 nor 12 weeks of training and fasting affected the lipoprotein profile. It is, therefore, indicated to recommend prolonged training protocols and to inform patients that beneficial effects will be seen only after prolonged use of training and time-restricted eating.

The Impact of a 6-Week Nordic Walking Training Cycle and a 14-Hour Intermittent Fasting on Disease Activity Markers and Serum Levels of Wnt Pathway-Associated Proteins in Patients with Multiple Myeloma.

Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) accounts for about 10-15% of all diagnosed hematologic malignancies and about 1-2% of all cancer cases. Approximately 80-90% of MM patients develop bone disease and the changes rarely regress. It is only possible to stop or slow their progression. A major role in bone destruction in MM is attributed to the Wnt signaling pathway, and its action can be modified by various types of interventions including training and diet. Therefore, the aim of this project was to evaluate the effects of a Nordic Walking (NW) training cycle and intermittent fasting (IF) on the levels of selected bone turnover markers associated with the Wnt pathway in patients with MM. Materials and methods: Results from 35 patients divided into training (NW and IF NW) and non-training (IF and control) groups were included in the analysis. A 6-week training cycle involving 60 min workouts 3 times a week was conducted. Body mass and composition as well as the levels of vitamin D, calcium and phosphorus, beta2-microglobulin, and albumin were examined before and after the completion of the training cycle. Markers of bone turnover were also determined: sclerostin (SOST), Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK-1), osteoprotegrin (OPG), osteopontin (OPN), and Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP 5b). Results: There was no negative effect of IF or combined training and fasting on the nutritional status of the patients (the level of albumins was unchanged). Both training groups showed an increase in serum concentrations of the active metabolite of vitamin D (IF NW and NW: p = 0.001 and p = 0.022, respectively). The change in the concentration of this vitamin negatively correlated with the concentration of TRACP 5b (r = -0.413, p = 0.014). Evaluating the concentrations of markers related to bone turnover, a reduction in the concentrations of SOST (time: p = 0.026, time vs. group: p = 0.033) and TRACP 5b (time: p < 0.001, time vs. group p < 0.001) was indicated. Conclusions: The obtained results allow one to indicate the training with the poles as a safe and beneficial form of physical activity that should be recommended to patients suffering from MM. However, the results obtained in the present study are not sufficient to show the beneficial effect of IF applied without trainings.

Rheological properties of blood in multiple myeloma patients.

Multiple myeloma (MM) is considered to be one of the hematological malignancies formed by excessive and abnormal proliferation of plasmocytes. Among other parameters, several blood tests are used to diagnose multiple myeloma. The hemorheological profile in multiple myeloma is not widely studied. Hemorheology includes the study of measuring the deformability and aggregation of erythrocytes, blood viscosity, and sedimentation rate. The degree of deformability of blood cells is necessary to maintain proper vital functions. Proper deformability of red blood cells ensures proper blood circulation, tissue oxidation and carbon dioxide uptake. The aim of the study was to compare morphology and blood rheology parameters in patients with MM and healthy individuals. The study included 33 patients with MM, and 33 healthy subjects of the same age. The hematological blood parameters were evaluated using ABX MICROS 60 hematology analyzer. The LORCA Analyzer to study erythrocyte aggregation and deformability. Patients with MM had lower red blood cells count (RBC) (9.11%) (p < 0.001) and half time of total aggregation (T1/2) (94.29%) (p < 0.001) values and higher mean corpuscular volume (MCV) (5.50%) (p < 0.001), aggregation index (AI) (68.60%) (p < 0.001), total extent of aggregation (AMP) (87.92%) (p < 0.001) values than the healthy control group. Aggregation in patients with MM is different compared to healthy individuals. It was observed that the percentage of cell aggregation is almost 50% higher than in the control group. The study of morphology, aggregation and deformability of erythrocytes in patients with suspected MM may be helpful in making clinical decisions.

The Impact of Intermittent Hypoxic Training on Aerobic Capacity and Biometric-Structural Indicators among Obese Women-A Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Obesity, a common lifestyle-related condition, is correlated with factors like inadequate physical activity. Its connection to diverse health issues presents a significant challenge to healthcare. This pilot study investigated the effects of hypoxic training on aerobic capacity and biometric-structural indicators in obese women. The secondary objective was to determine the feasibility, effectiveness, and safety of the planned research procedures and their potential for larger-scale implementation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty-one non-trained women with first-degree obesity were randomly assigned to even normobaric hypoxic training (H + E), normoxic training (E), passive exposure to hypoxia (H), and a control group (C). Training sessions were conducted three times a week for four weeks (12 training sessions). Body composition parameters were assessed, metabolic thresholds were determined, and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) was measured before and after interventions. RESULTS: The results demonstrated that training in hypoxic conditions significantly affected somatic parameters, with the H + E group achieving the best outcomes in terms of weight reduction and improvements in body composition indicators (p < 0.001). Normoxic training also induced a positive impact on body weight and body composition, although the results were less significant compared to the H + E group (p < 0.001). Additionally, training in hypoxic conditions significantly improved the aerobic capacity among the participants (p < 0.001). The H + E group achieved the best results in enhancing respiratory endurance and oxygen consumption (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The results of this pilot study suggest, that hypoxic training can be effective for weight reduction and improving the aerobic capacity in obese women. Despite study limitations, these findings indicate that hypoxic training could be an innovative approach to address obesity and related conditions. Caution is advised in interpreting the results, considering both the strengths and limitations of the pilot study. Before proceeding to a larger-scale study, the main study should be expanded, including aspects such as dietary control, monitoring physical activity, and biochemical blood analysis.

The Influence of Interval Training Combined with Occlusion and Cooling on Selected Indicators of Blood, Muscle Metabolism and Oxidative Stress.

There is increasing evidence to support the use of interval training and/or low-impact blood flow restriction exercises in musculoskeletal rehabilitation. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of interval training combined with occlusion and cooling in terms of changes in selected blood parameters affecting the development and progression of atherosclerosis of the lower limbs, as well as selected parameters of muscle metabolism and oxidative stress affecting the growth of muscle mass and regeneration after training. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 30 young, healthy and untrained people. The VASPER (Vascular Performance) training system was used-High-Intensity Interval Training with the simultaneous use of occlusion and local cryotherapy. Blood from the project participants was collected six times (2 weeks before the start of training, on the day of training, after the first training, after the 10th training, after the 20th training and two weeks after the end of training). The subjects were randomly divided into three groups: exercises only (controlled), with occlusion and with occlusion and local cryotherapy. RESULTS: Statistical analysis of changes in the average values of indicators in all study groups showed a significant change increase due to the time of testing IGF-1 (F = 2.37, p = 0.04), XOD (F = 14.26, p = 0.00), D-Dimer (F = 2.90, p = 0.02), and decrease in MDA (F = 7.14, p = 0.00), T-AOC (F = 11.17, p = 0.00), PT Quick (F = 26.37, p = 0.00), INR (F = 8.79, p = 0.00), TT (F = 3.81, p = 0.00). The most pronounced changes were observed in the occlusion and cooling group. CONCLUSIONS: Both interval training without and with the modifications used in the study influences coagulation and oxidative stress parameters and, to a small extent, muscle metabolism. It seems reasonable to use occlusion and local cryotherapy in combination with occlusion.

The effect of a series of whole­body cryotherapy treatments on the activity of antioxidant enzymes in healthy women and women with multiple sclerosis.

The study aimed to compare the effect of a series of 20 sessions of whole­body cryotherapy (WBC) on the level of CAT, GPx and SOD in women with multiple sclerosis and healthy women. The consent of the Bioethics Committee at the Regional Medical Chamber in Krakow was obtained, and the trial was registered in the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry. Thirty people took part in the study: the study group (MS) and the control group (CONT). All subjects participated in 20 cryotherapy sessions. Venous blood was collected for analysis before the WBC session and after 20 sessions. There were no changes in the examined parameters (CAT, GPx, SOD) after using WBC in the MS or control groups. There were also no differences between the groups in the first or the last study. There were no adverse changes in the parameters tested - WBC appeared to be a safe form of therapy, although the mechanisms of hypothermic protection are not fully understood.

The influence of whole-body cryotherapy or winter swimming on the lipid profile and selected adipokines.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a series of 20 whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) sessions and 20 winter swimming sessions on the lipid profile and selected adipokines. MATERIALS/METHODS: The experimental group consisted of 30 people who underwent a series of WBC treatments and 30 people who underwent a winter swimming. The control group consisted of 30 people - without intervention. Study 1: on the day of the commencement of whole-body cryotherapy / at the beginning of the winter swimming season; and Study 2: after a series of 20 cryotherapy sessions / at the end of the winter swimming season. The control group was also tested twice (4-week break). There were 20 WBC treatments - 5 times a week (4 weeks) and 20 cold water baths - once a week (20 weeks). RESULTS: A statistically significant increase in the concentration of adiponectin, resistin and leptin in women and resistin and leptin in men was observed after the winter swimming season. Differences were also found in the second study between the groups of women using WBC and the control group, as well as the groups of women swimming and the control group. In men, however, these differences were observed in WBC and the control group. The significance level of α = 0.05 was adopted in the analyzes. CONCLUSIONS: The use of WBC may changes in the lipid profile and selected adipokines in men. Regular winter swimming may changes of selected adipokines in both women and men.

The Effect of a Six-Week Nordic Walking Training Cycle on Oxidative Damage of Macromolecules and Iron Metabolism in Older Patients with Multiple Myeloma in Remission-Randomized Clinical Trial.

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable hematologic malignancy originating from clonal plasma cell proliferation within the bone marrow, predominantly affecting older individuals. While anemia serves as a diagnostic criterion for MM, it often ameliorates upon achieving disease remission. Iron metabolism parameters have emerged as potential prognostic indicators in MM. Notably, physical exercise has been established to influence iron metabolism. This study aimed to assess alterations in serum iron, ferritin, and transferrin concentrations, as well as leukocyte gene expression, in MM patients undergoing a six-week cycle of Nordic walking training. Thirty patients divided into an exercise group (NW, n = 15, mean age 63.1 ± 8.4 years) and a control group (CG, n = 15, mean age: 63.5 ± 3.6 years) completed the study protocol. Blood samples were collected at baseline, after three and six weeks of training, and after nine weeks. Serum ferritin, transferrin, and iron concentrations were measured, along with the leukocyte expression of genes. Additionally, serum oxidative damage marker levels were determined. Following the Nordic walking training cycle, a declining trend in serum ferritin concentrations was observed. Intracellular mRNA levels of genes associated with iron metabolism were positively influenced by the training regimen, indicating the potential impact of this physical activity on gene expression and ferritin concentrations. Although positive trends were noted, extended training periods might be requisite for significant changes. To conclude, moderate-intensity exercise induces favorable shifts in the analyzed parameters among MM patients, potentially influencing disease progression. Consequently, Nordic walking training is a safe recommendation for MM patients, though sustained training beyond six weeks could be necessary for notable effects on iron metabolism factors.

Effects of Vibrotherapy with Different Characteristics and Body Position on Post-Exercise Recovery after Anaerobic Exercise.

The aim of this project was to indicate the optimal parameters such as frequency, duration of a single vibrotherapy, and body position, which will be used as a form of recovery modality after physical exercise. Sixteen healthy male volunteers were involved in this study. The aerobic and anaerobic capacity of participants was assessed. Each of the subjects performed a set of intensive physical exercises and then underwent vibrotherapy treatment. In random order, each of the men tested the effectiveness of eight of the combinations of frequency, duration, and body position. The effect of the procedure accelerating recovery was assessed 24 h after physical exercise with the Wingate test. Changes in oxygen saturation and biochemical markers (interleukins: Il-1ß, Il-6, and creatine kinase: CK), hemoglobin (Hb), and hematocrit (Hct) were assessed 1 h and 24 h after the physical effort. Lactate concentrations were measured 3, 15, 30, and 60 min after the end of the vibration. It was indicated that the optimal treatment should be based on lower ranges of frequency values (2-52 Hz). The procedure with raised feet is also more beneficial than the flat, supine position. To improve the overall work, and a number of biochemical markers (CK and Il-1ß), a 45 min treatment will be more efficient, because significantly lower CK activity was indicated for the 45 min treatment. For this duration, higher values of Il-1ß were indicated in the measurement carried out for samples collected 60 min after the treatment and lower in the measurement carried out 24 h after the treatment.

The Role of Increased Expression of Sirtuin 6 in the Prevention of Premature Aging Pathomechanisms.

Sirtuins, in mammals, are a group of seven enzymes (SIRT1-SIRT7) involved in the post-translational modification of proteins-they are considered longevity proteins. SIRT6, classified as class IV, is located on the cell nucleus; however, its action is also connected with other regions, e.g., mitochondria and cytoplasm. It affects many molecular pathways involved in aging: telomere maintenance, DNA repair, inflammatory processes or glycolysis. A literature search for keywords or phrases was carried out in PubMed and further searches were carried out on the ClinicalTrials.gov website. The role of SIRT6 in both premature and chronological aging has been pointed out. SIRT6 is involved in the regulation of homeostasis-an increase in the protein's activity has been noted in calorie-restriction diets and with significant weight loss, among others. Expression of this protein is also elevated in people who regularly exercise. SIRT6 has been shown to have different effects on inflammation, depending on the cells involved. The protein is considered a factor in phenotypic attachment and the migratory responses of macrophages, thus accelerating the process of wound healing. Furthermore, exogenous substances will affect the expression level of SIRT6: resveratrol, sirtinol, flavonoids, cyanidin, quercetin and others. This study discusses the importance of the role of SIRT6 in aging, metabolic activity, inflammation, the wound healing process and physical activity.

Effect of Whole-Body Vibration Training on Hemorheological Blood Indices in Young, Healthy Women.

The aim of the study is to assess the effect of single and 12-week WBVT and training without vibration on changes in hemorheological blood indices and plasma fibrinogen levels in young, healthy women. Three groups are distinguished: the experimental group-participating in WBVT (n = 17); the comparison group-implementing the same physical exercise protocol without the vibration factor (n = 12); and the control group-no intervention (n = 17). In the experimental and comparison group, blood is collected before and after the first and last training, while in the control group, blood is collected twice, 3 months apart. After a series of WBVT, a significant decrease in the mean erythrocyte volume and mean hemoglobin mass in erythrocytes, as well as a slight increase in the mean erythrocyte hemoglobin concentration, is found, and the effect of the last training is a significant decrease in plasma volume. Under the influence of repeated WBVT, there is an increase in erythrocyte deformability at low shear stress and an increase in the aggregation amplitude. The study shows that WBVT improves blood flow in the vessels and does not affect erythrocyte aggregation and the level of fibrinogen, which confirms the safety of this form of exercise.

Satisfaction with Life and Nutritional Behaviour, Body Composition, and Functional Fitness of Women from the Kraków Population Participating in the "Healthy Active Senior" Programme.

Pro-health behaviours are related to a person's personal resources. The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between satisfaction with life (SWL), nutritional behaviours, somatic indices, and functional efficiency of senior women. The research was conducted among 120 women aged 60-84 (Me = 65) participating in the "Healthy Active Senior" project at the University of Physical Education in Kraków. The Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) and the proprietary validated questionnaire of nutritional behaviour were used. Body composition was assessed using the method of bioelectrical impedance (TANITA SC-330ST analyser), while physical fitness was evaluated via the Senior Fitness test (Fullerton Functional Fitness Test). Correlations between the variables were measured by implementing Spearman's R signed-rank correlation coefficients (with p < 0.05). Positive correlations between SWL and selected nutrition behaviours have been demonstrated, including eating 5-6 meals (p < 0.001) and drinking at least 2 litres of fluids a day (p = 0.023), consuming cereal products daily, including whole-grains (p = 0.001), avoiding alcoholic beverages (p = 0.030), and applying vitamin D supplementation (p = 0.010). At the same time, negative correlations between SWL and limiting the consumption of red as well as processed meats (p = 0.002), animal fats (p = 0.046), and the preference for vegetable oils in one's diet (p = 0.023) were shown. Significant correlations between satisfaction with life and two indicators of functional fitness were also confirmed: negative-with the variable '2.44-m Get-Up and Go' (p = 0.003); and positive-with the '2-Minute Step in Place' test (p = 0.034). The relationships between SWL and somatic indices did not reach the level of statistical significance. Among the women participating in the "Healthy Active Senior" programme, correlations between SWL and rational nutritional behaviours, as well as indices of functional fitness, were found (mostly positive), while the trends in these areas were not fully unambiguous, suggesting the validity of conducting further research.

Effect of Whole-Body Vibration on Serum Levels of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Cortisol in Young, Healthy Women.

Vibration exercises on a platform (whole-body vibration, WBV), widely used in rehabilitation, sports medicine, and fitness, is an alternative to strength effort. The presented study assessed the effect of a 12-week cycle of vibration training on the serum concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and cortisol in young women (trial ID: ACTRN 12621000114842). Volunteers were assigned to three groups: performing exercises on a vibrating platform (n = 17), performing identical exercises without a platform (n = 12), and passive control group (n = 17). The concentration of BDNF and cortisol was assessed four times: before the first training session, 5 min after it, also before, and 5 min after the last training session. There were no statistically significant changes in the groups or among groups for both substances. WBV in the presented form did not increase the secretion of BDNF and is not a stressful stimulus.

Effects of Elevated Body Temperature on Selected Physiological Indices and Thermal Stress in Athletes and Non-Athletes.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of active and passive overheating. A group of athletes (A) and non-athletic men (N) underwent an exercise stress test at elevated ambient temperature and sauna bathing until an increase in rectal temperature of 1.2°C was observed. It was shown that group A performed physical exercise for a longer period of time, which elicited significantly higher amounts of work performed in the stress test. Both forms of overheating caused a significant decrease in BM and a significant change in plasma volume, while greater dehydration was observed after active overheating. Changes observed in group A were higher than in group N. MCV levels were initially higher in group A. The levels in both groups decreased after sauna bathing, although in non-athletes the decrease was greater. Both forms of overheating increased Hb, HCT, and SBP, while only the non-athletic group showed a decrease in DBP after the exercise stress test. However, a decrease in DBP was observed in both groups after sauna bathing. The PSI increased after both tests, yet to a higher extent after the stress test than after sauna bathing. The PSI was negatively correlated with VO2max in both groups. The increase in cortisol concentration was higher after sauna bathing. There was a correlation between cortisol levels and the work performed during the stress test in group A. Endurance training resulted in more efficient thermoregulatory mechanisms in athletes.

Effect of a 6-Week Cycle of Nordic Walking Training on Vitamin 25(OH)D3, Calcium-Phosphate Metabolism and Muscle Damage in Multiple Myeloma Patients-Randomized Controlled Trial.

Introduction: Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy affecting older adults. One of the most common myeloma-defining events is the development of symptomatic lytic bone disease. The serum concentrations of calcium (Ca), inorganic phosphorus (P), and vitamin 25(OH)D3 in the serum reflect bone metabolism. An enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is a marker of muscle damage, but its serum activity also has an important prognostic value in MM. Myoglobin (Mb) is a small protein present in muscles; its serum level increases when myocytes are damaged. Objectives: In this study, the impact of a 6-week Nordic walking (NW) exercise program on blood parameters related to calcium-phosphate metabolism and damage of skeletal muscles was assessed. Patients and methods: A total of 33 patients with MM in the remission stage, without cytostatic treatment, were allocated and randomly assigned to one of two groups: 17 in the training group (NW) and 16 in the control group (CG). All patients were supplemented per os with vitamin D3 and calcium carbonate daily and received zoledronic acid every 4 weeks (intravenous). Nordic walking training sessions took place 3 times a week for 6 weeks, 1 h each. Blood samples were drawn before and after the 6 weeks of training sessions to assess the serum concentrations of vitamin 25(OH)D3, P, Ca, Mb, and LDH. Results: Patients from the NW group showed a statistically significant decrease in mean serum myoglobin concentration (p = 0.018) and an increase in 25(OH)D3 (p < 0.001) and total Ca (p = 0.001) concentrations. There were no statistically significant changes in the results obtained in CG. Between groups, after 6 weeks, Mb serum concentration was significantly lower in NW (p = 0.041), and 25(OH)D3 was higher (p < 0.001) compared to CG. There was a correlation between the changes in myoglobin, phosphorus, 25(OH)D3, and Ca concentrations after 6 weeks. Conclusions: NW training is a safe and beneficial form of physical exercise for patients with MM without inducing muscle damage. NW performed outside improves serum vitamin 25(OH)D3 concentration.

Differences in the Pro/Antioxidative Status and Cellular Stress Response in Elderly Women after 6 Weeks of Exercise Training Supported by 1000 mg of Vitamin C Supplementation.

Vitamin C supplementation and exercise influence pro/antioxidative status and the cellular stress response. We tested the effects of exercise training for 6 weeks, supported by 1000 mg of vitamin C supplementation in elderly women. Thirty-six women were divided into two groups: a control group (CON) (n = 18, age 69.4 ± 6.4 years, 70.4 ±10.4 kg body mass) and a supplemented group (SUPP) (n = 18, aged 67.7 ± 5.6 years, body mass 71.46 ± 5.39 kg). Blood samples were taken twice (at baseline and 24 h after the whole period of training), in order to determine vitamin C concentration, the total oxidative status/capacity (TOS/TOC), total antioxidant status/capacity (TAS/TAC), and gene expression associated with cellular stress response: encoding heat shock factor (HSF1), heat shock protein 70 (HSPA1A), heat shock protein 27 (HSPB1), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). We observed a significant increase in TOS/TOC, TAS/TAC, and prooxidant/antioxidant balance in the SUPP group. There was a significant decrease in HSPA1A in the CON group and a different tendency in the expression of HSF1 and TNF-α between groups. In conclusion, vitamin C supplementation enhanced the pro-oxidation in elderly women with a normal plasma vitamin C concentration and influenced minor changes in training adaptation gene expression.

Effect of Whole-Body Cryotherapy on Iron Status and Biomarkers of Neuroplasticity in Multiple Sclerosis Women.

The aim of the study was to compare the effect of a series of 20 whole body cryotherapy (WBC) sessions on iron levels and neuroplasticity biomarkers in women with multiple sclerosis (MS) and healthy women. Consent was obtained from the Bioethics Committee at the Regional Medical Chamber in Krakow (87/KBL/OIL/2018; 8 May 2018). The study was registered in the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12620001142921; 2 November 2020). The study included 30 people: 15 women with multiple sclerosis (mean age 41.53 ± 6.98 years) and 15 healthy women (mean age 38.47 ± 6.0 years). Both groups attended cryotherapy sessions. Venous blood was collected for analysis before the WBC session and after 20 sessions. In women with MS and healthy women, no significant effect of WBC on changes in the level biomarkers of neuroplasticity was found. There were also no statistically significant differences between the groups of the analyzed indices at the beginning of the study.

Changes in Skin Microcirculation Resulting from Vibration Therapy in Women with Cellulite.

BACKGROUND: Cellulite is a cosmetic defect that affects over 80% of post-pubertal women. One of its pathomechanisms involves microvascular dysfunction. It has been suggested that vibration is a physical stimulus that may improve circulation in the skin and muscles. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of local vibration on cutaneous microcirculation and on eliminating the symptoms of cellulite in women. METHODS: A total of 57 healthy women with at least grade 1 cellulite were recruited and divided into four groups differing by treatment time (30' or 60') and position (sitting or lying) during the vibration treatments. Participants took part in 15 vibrotherapy sessions. Body composition, selected circumferences, cellulite grade, and thermographic images of buttocks and thighs were recorded. RESULTS: Significant changes in skin temperature were observed in both studied areas after the first and last treatments in each group. A significant decrease in cellulite grade was observed after a series of treatments. The strongest effects were observed for the sitting position with a treatment time of 60 min. CONCLUSION: Vibration treatment improves microcirculation in cellulite-affected areas. Over time, no adaptation was observed, and subsequent treatments maintained the beneficial effects. Extending the treatment time increased its influence on the microcirculation in the skin.

Different Changes in Adipokines, Lipid Profile, and TNF-Alpha Levels between 10 and 20 Whole Body Cryostimulation Sessions in Individuals with I and II Degrees of Obesity.

Obesity is associated with chronic inflammation. While cold therapy influences the pro/antioxidative status of an individual, by affecting adipokine levels and the lipid profile, the effect of body mass index (BMI) on the response to cold exposure is unclear. We analyzed the link between BMI and the differences in effects of whole-body stimulation, depending on the number of treatments, on specific physiological parameters in men. Twenty-seven non-active men were divided into three groups: N (n = 9, BMI < 24.9), IOb (n = 9, BMI 30.0-34.9), and IIOb (BMI ≥ 35.0). The subjects participated in 20 3-min cryochamber sessions (-120 °C), 1/day, 5 days/week. Body composition was analyzed before and after treatment. Blood adiponectin (ADP), leptin (LEP), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) levels, and the lipid profile were analyzed three times: at baseline and up to 2 h after 10 and 20 sessions. The 20 treatments caused significant changes in body composition. Between 10 and 20 whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) sessions, a significant decreased was observed in the LEP and TNF-alpha levels. No significant changes in the lipid profile were noted. However, a positive tendency to regain the metabolic balance in adipose tissue was apparent in the IOb group in the tested period (decreased TG levels, increased HDL levels or the HDL/LDL ratio, and significantly decreased visceral adiposity index levels). Collectively, for people with obesity increasing the number of treatments above the standard 10 should be recommended.