3D Mitochondrial Structure in Aging Human Skeletal Muscle: Insights into MFN-2 Mediated Changes.

Age-related atrophy of skeletal muscle, is characterized by loss of mass, strength, endurance, and oxidative capacity during aging. Notably, bioenergetics and protein turnover studies have shown that mitochondria mediate this decline in function. Although exercise has been the only therapy to mitigate sarcopenia, the mechanisms that govern how exercise serves to promote healthy muscle aging are unclear. Mitochondrial aging is associated with decreased mitochondrial capacity, so we sought to investigate how aging affects mitochondrial structure and potential age-related regulators. Specifically, the three-dimensional (3D) mitochondrial structure associated with morphological changes in skeletal muscle during aging requires further elucidation. We hypothesized that aging causes structural remodeling of mitochondrial 3D architecture representative of dysfunction, and this effect is mitigated by exercise. We used serial block-face scanning electron microscopy to image human skeletal tissue samples, followed by manual contour tracing using Amira software for 3D reconstruction and subsequent analysis of mitochondria. We then applied a rigorous in vitro and in vivo exercise regimen during aging. Across 5 human cohorts, we correlate differences in magnetic resonance imaging, mitochondria 3D structure, exercise parameters, and plasma immune markers between young (under 50 years) and old (over 50 years) individuals. We found that mitochondria we less spherical and more complex, indicating age-related declines in contact site capacity. Additionally, aged samples showed a larger volume phenotype in both female and male humans, indicating potential mitochondrial swelling. Concomitantly, muscle area, exercise capacity, and mitochondrial dynamic proteins showed age-related losses. Exercise stimulation restored mitofusin 2 (MFN2), one such of these mitochondrial dynamic proteins, which we show is required for the integrity of mitochondrial structure. Furthermore, we show that this pathway is evolutionarily conserved as Marf, the MFN2 ortholog in Drosophila, knockdown alters mitochondrial morphology and leads to the downregulation of genes regulating mitochondrial processes. Our results define age-related structural changes in mitochondria and further suggest that exercise may mitigate age-related structural decline through modulation of mitofusin 2.

The Association between Physical Activity and Anxiety in Aging: A Comparative Analysis.

(1) Background: As the worldwide aging population is growing, there is a need to embrace the role of physical activity in the anxiety of older people. Objectives: To analyze anxiety in older people practitioners and non-practitioners of physical activity; (2) Methods: ample composed of 690 older people of both genders, unselected volunteers, residing in Brazil, present (as participants or observers) in selected street races in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, between 30 October 2019, and 12 March 2020. An instrument composed of the sociodemographic questionnaire and questions from the Beck Anxiety Inventory, BAI, and the Physical Activity Inventory for older people, Baecke-Old. Design: Ex-post-facto observational analytical descriptive research; (3) Results: The average age of the sample was in the range of 65 to 69y, 74% female, 94% completed high school, 69% living with the family, 84% practicing physical activity. Anxiety levels were 26% (without), 35% (mild), 21% (moderate), and 18% (severe). The comparison of anxiety showed a difference between the groups of active and sedentary elderly. Logistic regression analysis considering anxiety (yes or no; dichotomous variable) and physical activity (yes or no; dichotomous variable) and Odds Ratio were performed to identify possible influences of the independent variables PA, gender, marital status, and education on anxiety. Only physical activity was associated with anxiety. (4) Conclusions: The sample data of this research point to the conclusion that physical activity influences anxiety levels with 98% certainty, and it is suggested that it be enriched in the future with different studies with different designs. The older people practitioners of physical activity with a high level of education presented as 26% without, 35% mild, 21% moderate, and 18% severe anxiety. More active individuals are less likely to develop anxiety.

Is there a link between heart rate variability and cognitive decline? A cross-sectional study on patients with mild cognitive impairment and cognitively healthy controls.

BACKGROUND: Given that, up to date, there is no effective strategy to treat dementia, a timely start of interventions in a prodromal stage such as mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is considered an important option to lower the overall societal burden. Although autonomic functions have been related to cognitive performance, both aspects have rarely been studied simultaneously in MCI. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to investigate cardiac autonomic control in older adults with and without MCI. METHODS: Cardiac autonomic control was assessed by means of heart rate variability (HRV) at resting state and during cognitive tasks in 22 older adults with MCI and 29 healthy controls (HCs). Resting HRV measurement was performed for 5 minutes during a sitting position. Afterwards, participants performed three PC-based tasks to probe performance in executive functions and language abilities (i.e., Stroop, N-back, and a verbal fluency task). RESULTS: Participants with MCI showed a significant reduction of HRV in the frequency-domain (high frequency power) and nonlinear indices (SD2, D2, and DFA1) during resting state compared to HCs. Older individuals with MCI exhibited decreases in RMSSD and increases in DFA1 from resting state to Stroop and N-back tasks, reflecting strong vagal withdrawal, while this parameter remained stable in HCs. CONCLUSION: The results support the presence of autonomic dysfunction at the early stage of cognitive impairment. Heart rate variability could help in the prediction of cognitive decline as a noninvasive biomarker or as a tool to monitor the effectiveness of therapy and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.

ANTECEDENTES: Como não existe até o momento uma estratégia eficaz para tratar a demência de comprometimento cognitivo leve (MCI, na sigla em inglês), as intervenções em um estágio prodrômico são consideradas uma opção. Embora as funções autonômicas tenham sido relacionadas ao desempenho cognitivo, ambos os aspectos raramente foram estudados simultaneamente no MCI. OBJETIVO: Investigar o controle autonômico cardíaco em idosos com e sem MCI. MéTODOS: O controle autonômico cardíaco foi avaliado por meio da variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (HRV, na sigla em inglês) em repouso e durante tarefas cognitivas, em 22 idosos com MCI e 29 controles saudáveis (HCs, na sigla em inglês). A medida da HRV de repouso foi realizada por 5 minutos na posição sentada. Os participantes realizaram três tarefas executadas em computador para testar o desempenho em funções executivas e habilidades de linguagem (o teste de cores e palavras - Stroop, Tarefa N-back auditiva e uma tarefa de fluência verbal). RESULTADOS: Em pacientes com MCI, observou-se uma redução significativa da HRV no domínio da frequência (potência de alta frequência) e índices não lineares (SD2, D2 e DFA1) durante o estado de repouso em comparação com os HCs. Indivíduos mais velhos com MCI exibiram diminuições em RMSSD e aumentos em DFA1 do estado de repouso para Stroop e tarefas N-back, refletindo forte recessão vagal, enquanto este parâmetro permaneceu estável em HC. CONCLUSãO: Observou-se disfunção autonômica na fase inicial da neurodegeneração. A HRV pode ajudar na previsão do declínio cognitivo, como um biomarcador não invasivo, ou como uma ferramenta para monitorar a eficácia da terapia e prevenção de doenças neurodegenerativas.

Impact of Physical Activity on Anxiety, Depression, Stress and Quality of Life of the Older People in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Population aging all over the world invites older people to be active, considering physical activity (PA) as associated with reduced anxiety, depression and stress and a high quality of life (QOL) in older people. OBJECTIVE: To analyze anxiety, depression, stress and QOL as a function of PA in older people. METHODOLOGY: Descriptive analytical research. Six hundred and ninety older people answered the instrument composed of sociodemographic questions, followed by questions from the WHOQOL-Old, Baecke-Old, WHOQOL-SRPB, Stress Perception Scale, Beck Anxiety Inventory and Beck Depression Inventory. RESULTS: The beneficial effect of PA on the elderly is evident in this sample with such a high QoL (73%) and such a high level of physical activity (84%), and even with an advanced level of education (75%) and high spirituality (99.6%). The influence of PA on the anxiety and stress cluster showed Pearson's chi-square = 9.9, DF = 4, p = 0.04239, critical value = 9.5. The influence of PA on the anxiety, depression and stress cluster showed Pearson's chi-square = 6.8; DF = 5; p-value = 0.24; critical value = 11.1. CONCLUSION: In the elderly, PA has a significant relationship with anxiety, stress and QOL. In addition, the high level of QOL of the elderly in the sample demonstrates the capacity for PA, educational level and spirituality for personal satisfaction.

Is there a link between heart rate variability and cognitive decline? A cross-sectional study on patients with mild cognitive impairment and cognitively healthy controls / Existe uma ligação entre a variabilidade da frequência cardíaca e o declínio cognitivo? Um estudo transversal em pacientes com deficiência cognitiva leve e controles cognitivos saudáveis

Abstract Background Given that, up to date, there is no effective strategy to treat dementia, a timely start of interventions in a prodromal stage such as mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is considered an important option to lower the overall societal burden. Although autonomic functions have been related to cognitive performance, both aspects have rarely been studied simultaneously in MCI. Objective The aim of the present study was to investigate cardiac autonomic control in older adults with and without MCI. Methods Cardiac autonomic control was assessed by means of heart rate variability (HRV) at resting state and during cognitive tasks in 22 older adults with MCI and 29 healthy controls (HCs). Resting HRV measurement was performed for 5 minutes during a sitting position. Afterwards, participants performed three PC-based tasks to probe performance in executive functions and language abilities (i.e., Stroop, N-back, and a verbal fluency task). Results Participants with MCI showed a significant reduction of HRV in the frequency-domain (high frequency power) and nonlinear indices (SD2, D2, and DFA1) during resting state compared to HCs. Older individuals with MCI exhibited decreases in RMSSD and increases in DFA1 from resting state to Stroop and N-back tasks, reflecting strong vagal withdrawal, while this parameter remained stable in HCs. Conclusion The results support the presence of autonomic dysfunction at the early stage of cognitive impairment. Heart rate variability could help in the prediction of cognitive decline as a noninvasive biomarker or as a tool to monitor the effectiveness of therapy and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.

Resumo Antecedentes Como não existe até o momento uma estratégia eficaz para tratar a demência de comprometimento cognitivo leve (MCI, na sigla em inglês), as intervenções em um estágio prodrômico são consideradas uma opção. Embora as funções autonômicas tenham sido relacionadas ao desempenho cognitivo, ambos os aspectos raramente foram estudados simultaneamente no MCI. Objetivo Investigar o controle autonômico cardíaco em idosos com e sem MCI. Métodos O controle autonômico cardíaco foi avaliado por meio da variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (HRV, na sigla em inglês) em repouso e durante tarefas cognitivas, em 22 idosos com MCI e 29 controles saudáveis (HCs, na sigla em inglês). A medida da HRV de repouso foi realizada por 5 minutos na posição sentada. Os participantes realizaram três tarefas executadas em computador para testar o desempenho em funções executivas e habilidades de linguagem (o teste de cores e palavras - Stroop, Tarefa N-back auditiva e uma tarefa de fluência verbal). Resultados Em pacientes com MCI, observou-se uma redução significativa da HRV no domínio da frequência (potência de alta frequência) e índices não lineares (SD2, D2 e DFA1) durante o estado de repouso em comparação com os HCs. Indivíduos mais velhos com MCI exibiram diminuições em RMSSD e aumentos em DFA1 do estado de repouso para Stroop e tarefas N-back, refletindo forte recessão vagal, enquanto este parâmetro permaneceu estável em HC. Conclusão Observou-se disfunção autonômica na fase inicial da neurodegeneração. A HRV pode ajudar na previsão do declínio cognitivo, como um biomarcador não invasivo, ou como uma ferramenta para monitorar a eficácia da terapia e prevenção de doenças neurodegenerativas.

The Effect of Physical Activity on Motor Skills of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The present study was aimed at analyzing the effect of physical activity on motor coordination in children with ASD. METHODS: On 28 June 2021, a systematic review with meta-analysis was performed using the following databases: MEDLINE, SciELO, LILACS, PEDro, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, SCOPUS, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Science Direct. We analyzed the methodological quality and risk of bias using the Jadad scale and Cochrane tool, respectively. Motor coordination results were meta-analyzed using the RevMan program. Two independent researchers used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) tool to assess the level of evidence from the meta-analysis. RESULTS: We found four studies in the listed databases and five randomized clinical trials were included in the meta-analysis that included 109 children with ASD. Children with ASD who performed physical activity did not present significantly better motor coordination than control children (p = 0.12). CONCLUSIONS: Considering the clinical importance of physical activity for children with ASD, this systematic review with meta-analysis showed that physical activity had no statistically significant effects on coordination in individuals with ASD.

Resistance Circuit Training or Walking Training: Which Program Improves Muscle Strength and Functional Autonomy More in Older Women?

To evaluate the effects of two programs (resistance and walking training) on the functional autonomy and muscle strength (isometric and dynamic) of older women, 67 subjects were divided randomly into three groups: resistance training (RTG; Mean = 64.70 ± 6.74 years), walking (WG, Mean = 65.56 ± 7.82 years), and control (CG; Mean = 64.81 ± 4.34). The experimental groups underwent a 16-week intervention. Muscle strength (isometric and dynamic) and functional autonomy were assessed. The subjects participating in the RTG showed improvements in the comparison pre to post-test in the maximal forces of upper limb (MULS) (Δ% = 49.48%; p = 0.001) and lower limb (MLLS) (Δ% = 56.70%; p = 0.001), isometric biceps forces (BIS) (Δ% = 30.13%; p = 0.001) and quadriceps forces (QIS) (Δ% = 65.92%; p = 0.001), and in the general index (GI) of functional autonomy (Δ% = −18.32%; p = 0.002). The WG improved in all functional autonomy tests, except for the standing up from prone position test (SVDP). In strength tests, the WG obtained improvements only in the QIS (Δ% = 41.80%; p = 0.001) and MLLS (Δ% = 49.13%; p = 0.001) tests. The RTG obtained better results (p < 0.05) when compared to the WG and CG. The results allow us to infer that resistance exercise programs are more effective in increasing strength and functional autonomy, a fact that may mitigate the deleterious effects on health of aging.

O uso da estimulação transcraniana como tratamento na reabilitação motora de criança com paralisia cerebral - projeto de estudo de caso / El uso de la estimulación transcraneal como tratamiento en la rehabilitación motora de un niño con parálisis cerebral -un proyecto de estudio de caso / The use of transcranial stimulation as a treatment in the motor rehabilitation of a child with cerebral palsy -a case study projec

RESUMO A Paralisia Cerebral (PC) também denominada como encefalopatia crônica não-progressiva da infância é consequência de lesões não progressivas que aconteceram no cérebro imaturo no período pré, peri ou pós-natal, afetando o sistema nervoso central em fase de maturação estrutural e funcional. O presente trabalho trata-se de um estudo de caso com características de Pesquisa Experimental, Intervencional, onde foi realizado um protocolo de duas sessões semanais, com tempo de atendimento de 40 minutos, num total de 20 (vinte) sessões. O protocolo terapêutico consistiu de estimulação transcraniana e teve como objetivo geral investigar os efeitos da ETCC, associada à cinesioterapia e ativação dos neurônios espelhos, na reabilitação de uma criança com paralisia cerebral, sexo masculino, 54 meses de idade cronológica, grau moderado de hipotonia muscular em membros inferiores, movimentos voluntários com debilidade de força muscular; escoliose dorso-lombar e pontuação zero na Escala de Mobilidade Funcional e Asworth Modificada. O Sistema de Classificação da Função Motora Grossa (GMFCS) apresentou-se com classificação nível V, limitação na habilidade de manter as posturas anti-gravitacionais da cabeça e tronco e de controlar os movimentos de braços e pernas. Índice de Barthel Modificado com pontuação 11- classificação de dependência severa. A escala Denver II com prejuízos significativos nos domínios: pessoal-social, motor fino adaptativo, linguagem e motor grosso.

RESUMEN La parálisis cerebral (PC) también denominada como encefalopatía crónica no progresiva de la infancia es consecuencia de lesiones no progresivas que ocurrieron en el cerebro inmaduro en el periodo pre, peri o post-natal, afectando el sistema nervioso central en la fase de maduración estructural y funcional. El presente trabajo trata de un estudio de caso con características de investigación experimental, intervencional, donde fue realizado un protocolo de dos sesiones semanales de cuarenta minutos, con un total de veinte (20) sesiones. El protocolo terapéutico consistió en una estimulación transcraniana y tuvo como objetivo general, investigar los efectos de la ETCC, asociada a la cinesioterapia y activación de las neuronas espejo, en la rehabilitación de un niño con parálisis cerebral de 54 meses de edad cronológica, grado moderado de hipertonía muscular en miembros inferiores, movimientos voluntarios con debilidad de fuerza muscular; escoliosis dorsolumbar y puntuación cero en la escala de Movilidad Fun.

ABSTRACT Cerebral Palsy (CP) also known as chronic non-progressive encephalopathy of childhood is a consequence of non-progressive lesions that occurred in the immature brain in the pre, peri or postnatal period, affecting the central nervous system in a phase of structural maturation and functional. The present work is a case study with characteristics of Experimental, Interventional Research, where a protocol of two weekly sessions was carried out, with a service time of 40 minutes, in a total of 20 (twenty) sessions. The therapeutic protocol consisted of transcranial stimulation and aimed to investigate the effects of tDCS, associated with kinesiotherapy and activation of mirror neurons, in the rehabilitation of a 54-month-old male child with cerebral palsy, moderate degree of muscular hypotonia in the lower limbs, voluntary movements with weak muscular strength; dorsolumbar scoliosis and zero score on the Functional Mobility and Modified Asworth Scale. The Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) has a level V classification, limiting the ability to maintain antigravity postures of the head and trunk and to control arm and leg movements. Modified Barthel Index with score 11- severe dependency rating. The Denver II scale with significant impairments in the following domains: personal-social, adaptive fine motor, language and gross motor.

Efeito do oncofitness na amplitude articular de pacientes com câncer de próstata / Efecto del oncofitnessen el rango de movimiento articular de pacientes con cáncer de próstata / Effect of oncofitness in joint amplitude of patients with prostate cancer

RESUMO O objetivo da pesquisa foi avaliar o efeito de um Programa de Exercício Físico Oncológico - ONCOFITNESS na amplitude articular em pacientes com câncer submetidos à radioterapia. O estudo é um tipo de ensaio clínico prospectivo randomizado controlado no qual se compara o efeito e o valor de uma intervenção, com características profiláticas ou terapêuticas, em seres humanos. Os procedimentos consideraram as normas para realização de pesquisas em seres humanos com a aprovação do projeto pelo CEP/Hospital Mário Kröeff. A avaliação da flexibilidade foi realizada seguindo o protocolo LABIFIE, com goniômetro de aço da marca Lafayette® (EUA). O grupo experimental realizou uma intervenção com Oncofitness. Após esse período, foi realizada outra avaliação, seguindo os mesmos procedimentos. A análise estatística foi realizada no programa SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) versão 20.0. A amostra foi composta por 30 homens com idade GE (X ̅ = 59,0 ± 2,0 anos) e GC (X ̅ = 60,0 ± 1,0 anos). Os dados revelaram que os ganhos do GE foram observados em: flexão do joelho (∆%=5,0%, p=0,0011x); em abdução do quadril (∆%=15,8%, p=0,003x); em rotação interna (∆%=8,1%, p=0,0129x) e em flexão de ombro, (∆%=8,3%, p=0,0185x). Não foi observado ganho no GC, pode-se verificar que o Oncofitness proporcionou a redução de alguns dos sintomas relacionados aos tratamentos oncológicos devido à melhora da amplitude articular.

RESUMEN El objetivo de la investigación fue evaluar el efecto de un Programa de Ejercicios Físicos Oncológicos - ONCOFITNESS en la amplitud articular en pacientes oncológicos sometidos a radioterapia. El estudio es tipo ensayo clínico controlado randomizado, prospectivo en que compara el efecto y valor de una intervención, con características profilácticas o terapéuticas, en seres humanos. Los procedimientos consideraron las normas para la realización de investigación en seres humanos con la aprobación del proyecto por el CEP/Hospital Mário Kröeff. La evaluación de la flexibilidad fue realizada siguiendo el protocolo del LABIFIE, con un goniómetro de acero da marca Lafayette® (EUA). El grupo experimental realizó una intervención con el Oncofitness. Después de ese periodo, se realizó otra evaluación, siguiendo los mismos procedimientos. El análisis estadístico fue realizado mediante el SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) versión 20.0. La muestra fue de 30 hombres con edades GE (X ̅ = 59,0 ± 2,0 años) y GC (X ̅ = 60,0 ± 1,0 años). Los datos revelaron que fueron observadas ganancias GE en: flexión de rodillas (∆%=5,0%, p=0,0011x); en la abducción de cadera (∆%=15,8%, p=0,003x); en la rotación interna (∆%=8,1%, p=0,0129x) y en flexión de hombro, (∆%=8,3%, p=0,0185x). No fue observada ganancia en el GC, se puede verificar que el Oncofitness proporcionó la reducción de algunos de los síntomas relacionados a los tratamientos oncológicos por la mejora de la amplitud articular.

ABSTRACT The research aimed to evaluate the effect of an Oncology Physical Exercises Program - ONCOFITNESS on the joint range of cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. The study is considered a randomized controlled clinical trial, being prospective in that it compares the effect and value of an intervention, with prophylactic or therapeutic characteristics, in human beings. The procedures met the standards for researching human beings, and the project was approved. CEP/Hospital Mário Kröeff. Flexibility measurement performed following the LABIFIE protocol, with a Lafayette® brand steel goniometer (USA). The experimental group performed an intervention with Oncofitness. After this period, another evaluation was carried out, following the same procedures. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) version 20.0. Sample of 30 men aged GE (X ̅ = 59.0 ± 2.0 years) and CG (X ̅ = 60.0 ± 1.0 years). The data revealed that gains were observed in the EG in knee flexion (∆%=5.0%, p=0.0011x); in hip abduction (∆%=15.8%, p=0.003x); in internal rotation (∆%=8.1%, p=0.0129x) and in shoulder flexion, (∆%=8.3%, p=0.0185x). As was not observed in the CG, Oncofitness provided a reduction in some of the symptoms related to oncological treatments by improving joint range of motion.

Higher Muscle Damage Triggered by Shorter Inter-Set Rest Periods in Volume-Equated Resistance Exercise.

Objectives: The aim of the manuscript was to analyze the effects of two rest periods between volume-equated resistance exercise (RE) on inflammatory responses (cytokines and leukocyte) and muscle damage. Methods: Ten trained men (26.40 ± 4.73 years, 80.71 ± 8.95 kg, and 176.03 ± 6.11 cm) voluntarily participated in training sessions consisting of five sets of 10 reps performed at 10-RM on (1) the barbell bench press followed by (2) leg press, with either 1- or 3-min rest between sets and exercises. Circulating concentrations of different biomarkers was measured before (Pre), and after 3 h (excepted for cytokines), 6, 12, and 24 h from exercise. The rate of perceived exertion (RPE) was recorded after each set on both planned visits. Results: We found greater increases triggered by the 1-min rest period in Creatine Kinase (CK), occurring from 12 to 24 h post-exercise compared to the 3-min rest condition. A significant increase in the 1-min rest condition was also observed in the total number of leukocytes, neutrophils, and monocytes. The 1-min rest period also triggered increases compared to baseline in pro-inflammatory cytokines [Interleukin 1 beta (IL-1ß), p = 0.004; tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), p = 0.01; and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), p = 0.01], which were more evident after 6 and 12 h post-exercise. Similarly, increases in anti-inflammatory cytokines [Interleukin 5 (IL-5), p = 0.01; Interleukin 6 (IL-6), p = 0.01; and Interleukin 10 (IL-10), p = 0.01] at all time-points were observed. Conclusion: Our results indicate that a 1-min rest condition in volume-equated RE promoted greater overall muscle tissue damage with a longer duration of the inflammatory processes compared to a 3-min rest.

Chronic Effects of Different Types of Neuromuscular Training on Hemodynamic Responses Estimated VO2max, and Walking Performance in Older People.

This paper investigated the effects over time of different forms of neuromuscular training on hemodynamic responses, the estimated VO2max, and walking performance. 105 older adults were randomly organized into three groups: RGA, RGB, and the Control Group (CG). RGA and RGB did 4 weeks of adaptation phase training and 12 weeks of intervention with different loads: moderate loads for RGB. and higher loads for RGA. A pre- and post-evaluation of the resting heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), double product (DP), estimated VO2max, and walking performance were assessed. Significant differences were observed for SBP, DBP, HR, and DP. For SBP, a post-evaluation reduction was observed only in RGA (p = 0.007) and when comparing RGA with the Control Group (p < 0.000). For the absolute VO2max, a significant improvement was seen in RGB compared to RGA (p = 0.037) and CG (p < 0.000). For the relative VO2max, RGB scored significantly higher than RGA (p < 0.000) and CG (p < 0.000), post-intervention. For the walk test, a significant reduction in completion times was observed for RGA (p = 0.027) and RGB (p < 0.000), and for RGB compared to RGA (p = 0.000) and CG (p < 0.000). Resistance training can be an excellent strategy for hemodynamic and cardiorespiratory improvement in the elderly.

Born to move: a review on the impact of physical exercise on brain health and the evidence from human controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Physical exercise has been found to impact neurophysiological and structural aspects of the human brain. However, most research has used animal models, which yields much confusion regarding the real effects of exercise on the human brain, as well as the underlying mechanisms. OBJECTIVE: To present an update on the impact of physical exercise on brain health; and to review and analyze the evidence exclusively from human randomized controlled studies from the last six years. METHODS: A search of the literature search was conducted using the MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science and PsycINFO databases for all randomized controlled trials published between January 2014 and January 2020. RESULTS: Twenty-four human controlled trials that observed the relationship between exercise and structural or neurochemical changes were reviewed. CONCLUSIONS: Even though this review found that physical exercise improves brain plasticity in humans, particularly through changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), functional connectivity, basal ganglia and the hippocampus, many unanswered questions remain. Given the recent advances on this subject and its therapeutic potential for the general population, it is hoped that this review and future research correlating molecular, psychological and image data may help elucidate the mechanisms through which physical exercise improves brain health.

Born to move: a review on the impact of physical exercise on brain health and the evidence from human controlled trials / Nascidos para o movimento: uma revisão sobre o impacto do exercício físico na saúde do cérebro e as evidências de estudos controlados em humanos

Abstract Background: Physical exercise has been found to impact neurophysiological and structural aspects of the human brain. However, most research has used animal models, which yields much confusion regarding the real effects of exercise on the human brain, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Objective: To present an update on the impact of physical exercise on brain health; and to review and analyze the evidence exclusively from human randomized controlled studies from the last six years. Methods: A search of the literature search was conducted using the MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science and PsycINFO databases for all randomized controlled trials published between January 2014 and January 2020. Results: Twenty-four human controlled trials that observed the relationship between exercise and structural or neurochemical changes were reviewed. Conclusions: Even though this review found that physical exercise improves brain plasticity in humans, particularly through changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), functional connectivity, basal ganglia and the hippocampus, many unanswered questions remain. Given the recent advances on this subject and its therapeutic potential for the general population, it is hoped that this review and future research correlating molecular, psychological and image data may help elucidate the mechanisms through which physical exercise improves brain health.

RESUMO Introdução: Evidências das últimas décadas têm mostrado que o exercício físico impacta de forma significativa aspectos neurofisiológicos e estruturais do cérebro humano. No entanto, a maioria das pesquisas emprega modelos animais, o que gera confusão no que diz respeito aos efeitos reais do exercício no cérebro humano, assim como os mecanismos adjacentes. Objetivo: Apresentar uma atualização sobre o impacto do exercício no cérebro; revisar e analisar sistematicamente as evidências provenientes exclusivamente de estudos randomizados controlados em humanos, dos últimos seis anos. Métodos: Foi conduzida uma busca na literatura usando as bases de dados MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science e PsycINFO, para todos os estudos randomizados e controlados publicados entre janeiro de 2014 e janeiro de 2020. Resultados: Foram revisados 24 estudos randomizados controlados em humanos, que observavam a relação entre exercício físico e alterações neuroquímicas e estruturais no cérebro. Conclusões: Ainda que esta revisão tenha observado que o exercício físico melhora a plasticidade cerebral em humanos, particularmente por meio de alterações no fator neurotrófico derivado do cérebro (BDNF), conectividade funcional, núcleos da base e hipocampo, muitas questões ainda precisam ser respondidas. Dados os avanços recentes nessa temática e seu potencial terapêutico para a população em geral, espera-se que este manuscrito e pesquisas futuras que correlacionem estudos moleculares e variáveis psicológicas e de imagem possam ajudar na elucidação dos mecanismos pelos quais o exercício físico melhora a saúde cerebral.

Does Physical Activity Improve Cognition and Academic Performance in Children? A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.

INTRODUCTION: In the last decades, different studies have investigated the effects of exercise or physical activity (PA) on cognitive functions and academic performance in children and adolescents. But given the inconsistencies regarding methodologies and the fact that many studies do not have controlled or randomized designs, a more recent review is needed in order to summarize the different outcomes and methodologies employed and correlate them from an applied perspective. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of the present review is to systematically review and analyze the effects of acute and chronic PA interventions exclusively from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on cognitive functions and academic performance of children and adolescents. METHODS: A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases for all RCTs published between January 2014 and July 2020. Authors searched these databases using controlled vocabularies, keywords, and Boolean logic, and data were later extracted from the studies. Effect sizes were calculated based on means and SDs at posttest using Hedge's g formula. RESULTS: A total of 20 studies met the inclusion criteria. They were assessed for eligibility and later included in the review. Although most of the articles did not show any robust effect size and had significant methodological differences, 80% of the studies analyzed showed positive results, indicating a significant impact of exercise or PA on cognition. DISCUSSION: Due to the heterogeneity in the design of the interventions and the variables analyzed, most of the studies showed small or medium effect sizes. Studies with big effect size in all variables had in common the fact that they involved team game variations and coordination activities. The combination of physical exertion (high intensity) and cognitive engagement with social interactions seems to have the strongest effect on executive functions. This ecological and attractive model reflects children's typical PA and might represent an ideal model for exercise in this population. CONCLUSIONS: Although grouping different studies based on PA type, control groups, and comparison treatments is a limitation and results should be interpreted with caution, this review suggests that PA interventions, in particular, team game variations and coordination activities, have positive effects on children's cognitive functions.

Estresse ocupacional e fatores associados: um estudo em professores / Occupational stress and associated factors: a study on professors

O objetivo deste trabalho é estimar a frequência de estresse entre professores e verificar sua associação com variáveis sociodemográficas, características de trabalho e estado nutricional. Trata-se de estudo transversal com 84 professores da área de Ciências Humanas e Naturais, através dos instrumentos: IPAQ abreviado, escala demanda-controle de Karasek e Theorel e Job Stress Scale. O estado nutricional foi definido pelo Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC), o estado de saúde e as características de trabalho foram autorreferidas. Observou-se que 64,3% dos docentes apresentaram baixos níveis de estresse. Embora a prevalência encontrada seja menor do que em outros estudos, 35,7% mostraram alto estresse e trabalho passivo (n = 30). Dentre os estressores, destacam-se os deveres administrativos (p = 0,012) e o tempo exercendo o cargo administrativo (p = 0,024). O excesso de peso predominou na amostra. Diante disso, é fundamental repensar o modelo de gestão dessas instituições de modo a não prejudicar a saúde e atuação do profissional do ensino superior.

To estimate the frequency of stress among professors and to check its association with sociodemographic variables, work characteristics and nutritional status. Cross-sectional study with 84 professors from the Human and Natural Sciences area, using the instruments: abbreviated IPAQ, Karasek and Theorell and Job Stress Scale demand-control scales. Nutritional status was defined by Body Mass Index (BMI), health status and work characteristics were selfreported. It was observed that 64.3% professors had low stress levels. Although the prevalence found is lower than in other studies, 35.7% showed high stress and passive work (n = 30). Among the stressors, we highlight the administrative duties (p = 0.012) and the time exercising the administrative position (p = 0.024). Overweight predominated in the sample. It is essential to rethink the management model of these institutions so as not to damage the health and performance of higher education professionals.

Analysis of pain symptoms, flexibility and hydroxyproline concentration in individuals with low back pain submitted to Global Postural Re-education and stretching.

Aim: To evaluate pain, flexibility and hydroxyproline (HP) urinary levels in patients with nonspecific low back pain submitted to Global Postural Re-education (GPR) and stretching. Materials & methods: 39 individuals who reported low back pain were randomly assigned to a group submitted to GPR (GPRG) or stretching exercises (SG) for 8 weeks. Pain and flexibility were assessed using the Borg CR10 scale and goniometry, respectively. Results: The GPR group showed a significant reduction in the HP levels and significant improvements in flexibility after the intervention when compared with SG. Both groups presented a significant reduction in HP and pain after the intervention. Conclusion: Both interventions were effective in the treatment of low back pain. However, the GPR method presented better responses than stretching.

Multimodal HIIT is more efficient than moderate continuous training for management of body composition, lipid profile and glucose metabolism in the diabetic elderly / El entrenamiento multimodal es más eficiente que el entrenamiento continuo moderado para el manejo de la composición corporal, el perfil de lípidos y el metabolismo de la glucosa en adultos mayores diabéticos

The exercise could play a central role to the fat management and glucose metabolism what can be a critical role in the health status of diabetic people, but the high intense exercise remains with controversial data about their effects. To identify the effect of the multimodal high-intensity interval training on body composition, lipid profile, and glucose metabolism in elderly diabetics. Methods: Elderly diabetic individuals (n = 48) were randomly divided in a Sedentary Control (SC) group, a Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training (MICT) group, and a High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) group. MICT and HITT were conducted over 60 days, 3x per week, with 40 minutes of exercise. Blood was collected prior to intervention, at four, and at eight weeks subsequently to assess glucose metabolism and lipid profiles. Body composition was determined before and after the intervention period. To verify the normality Kolmogorov-Smirnov statistical test was performed, followed by student "t" test or two-way ANOVA with Bonferroni's post hoc test with significance of 5 % the Cohen's f test to indicate the magnitude of the differences. HIIT significantly lowered cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and significantly lowered blood glucose and glycosylated haemoglobin levels (p<0.05). MICT and HIIT significantly increased levels of high-density lipoprotein, decreased total body mass and body mass index. HIIT resulted in significantly smaller waist circumferences, waist-to-hip ratios, and weight-to-height ratios over 60 days of training. HIIT is more effective than MICT for improving lipid and glycaemic profiles, decreasing body fat, and improving fat distribution elderly diabetics.

El ejercicio podría desempeñar un papel central en el manejo de la grasa y el metabolismo de la glucosa, lo que puede ser un papel crítico en el estado de salud de las personas diabéticas, pero el ejercicio intenso intenso sigue teniendo datos controvertidos sobre sus efectos. El objetivo del estudio fue identificar el efecto del entrenamiento multimodal de intervalos de alta intensidad sobre la composición corporal, el perfil lipídico y el metabolismo de la glucosa en diabéticos de edad avanzada. Los individuos diabéticos de edad avanzada (n = 48) se dividieron aleatoriamente en un grupo de control sedentario (SC), un grupo de entrenamiento continuo de intensidad moderada (MICT) y un grupo de entrenamiento de intervalos de alta intensidad (HIIT). MICT y HITT se realizaron durante 60 días, 3 veces por semana, con 40 minutos de ejercicio. Se recogió sangre antes de la intervención, a las cuatro y a las ocho semanas posteriormente para evaluar el metabolismo de la glucosa y los perfiles de lípidos. La composición corporal se determinó antes y después del período de intervención. Para verificar la normalidad se realizó la prueba estadística de Kolmogorov-Smirnov, seguida de la prueba "t" de Student o ANOVA de dos vías con la prueba post hoc de Bonferroni con una significancia del 5 % de la prueba f de Cohen, indicando las diferencias. HIIT redujo significativamente los niveles de colesterol y triglicéridos, además de reducir de manera importante los niveles de glucosa en la sangre y la hemoglobina glicosilada (p <0.05). MICT y HIIT aumentaron significativamente los niveles de lipoproteína de alta densidad, disminuyeron la masa corporal total y el índice de masa corporal. HIIT resultó en circunferencias de cintura significativamente más pequeñas, relaciones cintura-cadera y relaciones peso-altura durante 60 días de entrenamiento. HIIT es más efectivo que MICT para mejorar los perfiles de lípidos y glucémicos, disminuir la grasa corporal y mejorar la distribución de grasa en los diabéticos de edad avanzada.