Low-grade systemic inflammation and leptin levels were improved by arm cranking exercise in adults with chronic spinal cord injury.

OBJECTIVE: To ascertain the effect of arm cranking exercise on improving plasma levels of inflammatory cytokines and adipokines in untrained adults with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). DESIGN: Longitudinal study. SETTING: Community-based supervised intervention. PARTICIPANTS: Men (N=17) with complete SCI at or below T5 volunteered for this study. Participants were randomly allocated to the intervention (n=9) or control group (n=8) using a concealed method. INTERVENTION: A 12-week arm cranking exercise program of 3 sessions per week consisted of warm-up (10-15min), arm crank (20-30min; increasing 2min and 30s every 3wk) at a moderate work intensity of 50% to 65% of heart rate reserve (starting at 50% and increasing 5% every 3wk), and cool-down (5-10min). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Plasma levels of leptin, adiponectin, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and interleukin-6 were determined. Furthermore, physical fitness (maximum oxygen consumption [V˙O2max]) and body composition (anthropometric index, waist circumference, and body mass index) were also assessed. RESULTS: Plasma levels of leptin, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and interleukin-6 were significantly decreased after the completion of the training program. Similarly, the anthropometric index and waist circumference were diminished too. A moderate correlation was found between leptin and the anthropometric index. Finally, V˙O2max was significantly increased, suggesting an improvement of physical fitness in the intervention group. No changes were found in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Arm cranking exercise improved low-grade systemic inflammation by decreasing plasma levels of inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, it also reduced plasma leptin levels. Long-term, well-conducted studies are still required to determine whether these changes may improve clinical outcomes of adults with chronic SCI.

Risk of headache, temporomandibular dysfunction, and local sensitization in male professional boxers: a case-control study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate differences in the incidence of headache, trigeminal nerve mechanosensitivity, and temporomandibular functionality in professional male boxers (exposed to repetitive craniofacial trauma) who were actively training and without severe previous injuries compared with handball players. DESIGN: Case-control study. SETTING: University-based physical therapy research clinic. PARTICIPANTS: Eighteen boxers (mean age, 23±4.61y) as the cases group, and 20 handball players as the comparison group (mean age, ±2y, and sex matched), were included. All participants (N=38) completed the assessment protocol. INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Measurements were taken of the headache impact (Headache Impact Test-6) and the pressure pain threshold over the trigeminal nerve sensory branches, the masseter muscle, and the tibialis anterior muscle. The secondary outcome measure included the temporomandibular function (Helkimo Clinic Index). RESULTS: The boxers showed slight mandibular function impairment, local muscular and neural sensitization, and a higher impact from headaches than did the handball players. The between-group comparison found significant differences in all outcome measures (P<.05), except in the tibialis anterior muscle pressure pain threshold on the dominant (P=.958) and the nondominant (P=.453) sides. CONCLUSIONS: Professional male boxers seem to suffer a greater headache impact and local sensitization of the craniomandibular region than do professional handball players. It cannot be determined whether these findings are short-lasting, as a result of the training activity, or long-lasting.

[Association between abdominal obesity and seminal oxidative damage in adults with metabolic syndrome]. / Asociación entre obesidad abdominal y daño oxidativo seminal en pacientes con síndrome metabólico.

BACKGROUND: Abdominal obesity, metabolic syndrome (MS) and oxidative stress may impair seminal quality leading to derangements in fertility. AIM: To identify an association between abdominal obesity and markers of seminal oxidative damage in adults with MS. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Seventy males aged 25 to 40 years, with MS according to ATP-III criteria volunteered for this cross-sectional study. The control group included 70 healthy and normal weight adults. Semen analysis included volume, sperm concentration, motility and normal morphologic features. Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) were measured, fat mass was determined by bioelectrical impedance. RESULTS: Sperm concentration and the percentage of sperms with normal motility and morphology were significantly lower in adults with MS, when compared to their healthy normal weight counterparts. Seminal levels of malondialdehyde and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine were significantly higher among participants with MS. Significant correlations were found between WC and seminal markers of oxidative stress. CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with MS had an impaired seminal quality that may be explained, at least in part, by increased seminal oxidative damage.

Resistance circuit training reduced inflammatory cytokines in a cohort of male adults with Down syndrome.

BACKGROUND: It is widely accepted that muscle strength plays a key role on functional tasks of daily living and employability in individuals with Down syndrome (DS). Recent studies have also reported resistance training may improve chronic inflammation in other clinical situations. This is the first study conducted to determine the effect of resistance circuit training on low-grade systemic inflammation in adults with DS. MATERIAL/METHODS: A total of 40 young male adults with DS were recruited for the trial through different community support groups for people with intellectual disabilities and their families. They had medical approval for physical activity participation. Twenty-four were randomly assigned to perform resistance circuit training with 6 stations, 3 days per week for 12 weeks. Exercise intensity was based on function of the 8RM assessments. The control group included 16 age-, sex-, and BMI-matched adults with Down syndrome. Plasma levels of leptin, adiponectin, and TNF-a were assessed by commercial ELISA kits. C-reactive protein (CRP) was assessed by nephelometry. Body composition was also determined, measuring fat-free mass percentage and waist circumference (WC). This protocol was approved by our Institutional Ethics Committee. RESULTS: Plasma levels of leptin, TNF-a, and IL-6 were significantly decreased after the completion of the training program, as were fat-free mass and WC. No sports-related injuries or withdrawals from the program were reported during the entire study period. No changes were observed in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Resistance circuit training improved low-grade systemic inflammation in male sedentary adults with DS.

Arm-cranking exercise reduced oxidative damage in adults with chronic spinal cord injury.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of a 12-week arm-cranking exercise program on reducing oxidative damage in untrained adults with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Community-based supervised intervention. PARTICIPANTS: Male adults with complete SCI at or below the fifth thoracic level (T5) (N=17) volunteered for this study. Participants were randomly allocated to the intervention (n=9) or control (n=8) group using a concealed method. INTERVENTION: A 12-week arm-cranking exercise program, 3 sessions/wk, consisting of warming-up (10-15min) followed by a main part in arm-crank (20-30min [increasing 2min and 30s every 3wk]) at a moderate work intensity of 50% to 65% of the heart rate reserve (starting at 50% and increasing 5% every 3 weeks) and by a cooling-down period (5-10min). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Plasmatic levels of total antioxidant status as well as erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase activity were measured. Lipid and protein oxidation were determined as malondialdehyde and carbonyl group levels, respectively. Furthermore, physical fitness and body composition were assessed. RESULTS: When compared with baseline results, maximum oxygen consumption was significantly increased (P=.031), suggesting an improvement in physical fitness in the intervention group. Regarding the antioxidant defense system, it was found that both total antioxidant status (P=.014) and erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase activity (P=.027) were significantly increased at the end of the training program. As a consequence, plasmatic levels of malondialdehyde (P=.008) and carbonyl groups (P=.022) were significantly reduced. CONCLUSION: A 12-week arm-cranking exercise program improved the antioxidant defense system in adults with chronic SCI, which may finally attenuate both lipid and protein oxidation in this population.

Anti-inflammatory effect of exercise, via reduced leptin levels, in obese women with Down syndrome.

Recent studies have reported that obese young people with Down syndrome suffer from low-grade systemic inflammation. Whereas this condition may be improved in the general population by regular exercise, the problem has received no attention in the case of people with intellectual disability. Therefore, the authors' aim was to assess the influence of aerobic training on plasma adipokines in obese women with Down syndrome. Twenty obese young women with Down syndrome volunteered for this study, 11 of whom were randomly assigned to a 10-wk aerobic-training program. They attended 3 sessions/wk, which consisted of warm-up exercises followed by the main activity on a treadmill (30-40 min) at a work intensity of 55-65% of peak heart rate and ended with a cooling-down period. The control group included 9 women with Down syndrome matched for age, sex, and body-mass index. Fat-mass percentage and distribution were measured, and plasma adipokine levels (leptin and adiponectin) were assessed. In addition, each participant performed a maximal graded continuous treadmill exercise test. These parameters were assessed pre- and postintervention. Aerobic training produced a significant increase in participants' maximal oxygen uptake (20.2 ± 5.8 vs.23.7 ± 6.3 ml · kg-1 · min-1; p < .001), and plasma leptin levels were significantly reduced in the intervention group (54.2 ± 6.7 vs.45.7 ± 6.1 ng/ml; p = .026). Further significant correlations between plasma leptin and indices of obesity were found. In contrast, no significant changes were found in adiponectin levels (p > .05). None of the tested parameters changed in the control group. In conclusion, a 10-week training program reduced leptin levels in obese young women with Down syndrome.

Regular Exercise Improved Fatigue and Musculoskeletal Pain in Young Adult Psoriatic Patients without Psoriatic Arthritis.

Fatigue and musculoskeletal pain are also frequent in patients with psoriasis (PsO) without arthritis (PsA). The current study aimed to assess the impact of an intervention program based on aerobic training to reduce fatigue and musculoskeletal pain in patients with PsO without PsA. A total of 118 male patients with PsO volunteered in the current interventional study and were randomly allocated to the experimental (n = 59) or control group (n = 59). The intervention consisted of a 16-week aerobic training program on a treadmill, three sessions per week, consisting of a warm-up, 35-50 min treadmill exercise (increasing 5 min/4 weeks) at a work intensity of 50-65% of peak heart-rate (increasing 5%/4 weeks), and cooling-down. The functional assessment of chronic illness therapy fatigue scale (FACIT-Fatigue), health assessment questionnaire disability index (HAQ-DI), and visual analog scale (VAS) were compared pre and post intervention. Nutritional intake, maximal aerobic power, lipid profile, serum markers of muscle damage, and body composition were also assessed. When compared to baseline, FACIT-Fatigue, HAQ-DI, and VAS scores were significantly improved without increasing markers of muscle damage. Fat mass percentage, lipid profile, and maximal oxygen consumption were also improved. In conclusion, a 16-week aerobic training program at moderate intensity was safe, well tolerated, and effective in psoriatic patients without PsA. Long-term follow-up studies are required to examine whether these promising results may improve clinical outcomes.

[Aerobic training improves antioxidant defense system in women with metabolic syndrome]. / Mejora de defensas antioxidantes mediante ejercicio aeróbico en mujeres con síndrome metabólico.

A 12-week training protocol increased antioxidant defense system in young adult women with metabolic syndrome. It is generally accepted that oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, recent studies have reported that stress may be acting as a therapeutic target in metabolic syndrome. Consequently, this study was designed to explore whether aerobic training may increase plasmatic total antioxidant status in women with metabolic syndrome. A total of 100 young adult women with metabolic syndrome according to the criteria reported by the National Cholesterol Education Program (Adult-Treatment-Panel-III) volunteered for this study. Of them, 60 were randomly included in the experimental group to enter a 12-week aerobic training program, 5 days/week, at low/moderate intensity. The control group included 40 age, sex and body mass index (BMI)-matched women with metabolic syndrome who did not enter any training program. Total antioxidant status (TAS) was assayed in plasma using colorimetric Randox kits. This protocol was approved by an Institutional Ethics Committee. When compared to baseline, plasmatic TAS was significantly increased (0.79 ± 0.05 Vs 1.01 ± 0.03 mmol/l; p = 0.027). No changes were found in controls. A 12-week aerobic training program increased plasmatic TAS in adult women with metabolic syndrome. Further long-term well-conducted studies are required in order to highlight the potential clinical benefits of TAS improvement.

Effects of Resistance Training in Muscle Mass and Markers of Muscle Damage in Adults with Down Syndrome.

Recent studies have emphasized that regular exercise should be encouraged as a key part of care and support for people with Down syndrome (DS). However, muscle hypotonia has traditionally been considered a major barrier to resistance training (RT) in people with DS. The main objective of this study was to analyze the impact of circuit RT on markers of muscle damage. The secondary objective was to assess the influence of a RT program on body composition and work task performance. Thirty-six men with DS were recruited and randomly assigned to perform a circuit RT program with six stations 3 days/week for 12 weeks (n = 18) or to a control group (n = 18). Body composition was assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis. Serum markers of muscle damage (creatine kinase, myoglobin, and lactate dehydrogenase) were determined at baseline and at the end of training weeks 1, 6, and 12. Work task performance was assessed using the weighted pail-carry test. RT did not induce significant changes in markers of muscle damage during the intervention. Furthermore, muscle mass and work task performance were significantly improved in the exercise group. These findings suggest that circuit RT can be used safely to increase muscle mass and work task performance in young adults with DS. Muscle hypotonia should not be considered a major barrier to exercise in people with DS, provided that qualified staff design and supervise all training sessions.

The Predictive Role of Raw Bioelectrical Impedance Variables in Disordered Eating Attitudes in Female Ballet Dance Students.

The present study used receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to investigate the accuracy of body composition and raw bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) in correctly classifying disordered eating attitudes (DEA) in dance students. Participants were 81 female dancers assigned in two groups: beginner training (BT; age (mean ± SD) = 10.09 ± 1.2 years, n = 32) and advanced training (AT; age = 15.37 ± 2.1 years, n = 49). Fat mass (FM) was estimated by Slaughter's equation and skeletal muscle with Poortman's equation. Impedance (Z), resistance (R), reactance (Xc) and phase angle (PhA) were obtained through multifrequency BIA at a frequency of 50 kHz. Fat-free mass (FFM) was assessed using Sun's equation. For evaluation of DEA, the Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26) questionnaire was performed. We defined an EAT-26 score ≥ 20 as positive for DEA. Comparisons between groups were performed by a one-way ANOVA test or Kruskall-Wallis test. Spearman's rank correlation coefficients were performed to assess associations between variables. ROC curve analysis was utilized to test the accuracy of body composition and BIA variables in predicting DEA. In the BT group, Xc and PhA demonstrated high accuracy in predicting DEA with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.976 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.85-1.00) and 0.957 (95% CI: 0.82-0.99), respectively, (both p < 0.0001). FFM Sun had an AUC of 0.836 (95% CI: 0.66-0.94) (p < 0.0001) in the BT group and FFM Slaughter was 0.797 (95% CI: 0.66-0.90) (p < 0.001) in the AT group. Reactance and Phase angle were excellent and useful predictors of DEA in the BT group.

The role of the multi-drug resistance 1, p53, b cell lymphoma 2, and bcl 2-associated X genes in the biologic behavior and chemotherapeutic resistance of canine transmissible venereal tumors.

BACKGROUND: Canine transmissible venereal tumors (CTVTs) generally have different cytomorphologic subtypes and phases of progression. Some tumors have variable biologic behavior including a progressive increase in tumor aggressiveness and variable responses to chemotherapy. This behavior is partially due to high p-glycoprotein expression by tumor cells, which leads to the expulsion of chemotherapeutic drugs. Other possible causes include changes in pro- and anti-apoptotic genes from the BCL-2 family and DNA repair systems, which are associated with the p53 gene family. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to determine the relative expression of the multi-drug resistance 1 (MDR1), p53, b-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2), and bcl 2-associated X (BAX) genes in CTVT before and after therapy and establish a relationship with treatment responses, cytomorphologic patterns, and tumor progression identified with histopathology. METHODS: RT-qPCR was performed on 21 CTVT tumor samples before and after initiating chemotherapy to determine specific gene expression. Normal canine testicular tissue was used as a negative control for all experiments. RESULTS: MDR1 expression was decreased before and after initiating vincristine therapy in CTVT tumor tissues compared with normal canine testicular tissue; p53 and BAX were overexpressed at both time points compared with normal tissue, and no statistical differences were seen between the different morphologic types. However, BAX expression was decreased in the group with quick therapeutic responses but was still overexpressed compared with normal testicular tissue. In the group with the slowest chemotherapeutic responses, BCL2 was overexpressed. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study showed a relative increase in MDR1 gene expression in response to chemotherapy and higher expression in plasmacytoid CTVTs compared with the other cytomorphologic patterns. BCL2 overexpression was related to a favorable prognosis, and p53, BAX, and BCL2 were expressed independent of the cytomorphologic CTVT type. All of the genes were expressed independent of tumor progression, as noted on histopathology.

In vitro and in silico studies reveal capsid-mutant Porcine circovirus 2b with novel cytopathogenic and structural characteristics.

Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) is an icosahedral, non-enveloped, and single-stranded circular DNA virus that belongs to the family Circoviridae, genus Circovirus, and is responsible for a complex of different diseases defined as porcine circovirus diseases (PCVDs). These diseases - including postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS), enteric disease, respiratory disease, porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS), and reproductive failure - are responsible for large economic losses in the pig industry. After serial passages in swine testicle (ST) cells of a wild-type virus isolated from an animal with PMWS, we identified three PCV2b viruses with capsid protein (known as Cap protein) cumulative mutations, including two novel mutants. The mutant viruses were introduced into new ST cell cultures for reisolation and showed, in comparison to the wild-type PCV2b, remarkable viral replication efficiency (> 1011 DNA copies/ml) and cell death via necrosis, which were clearly related to the accretion of capsid protein mutations. The analysis of a Cap protein/capsid model showed that the mutated residues were located in solvent-accessible positions on the external PCV2b surface. Additionally, the mutated residues were found in linear epitopes and participated in pockets on the capsid surface, indicating that these residues could also be involved in antibody recognition. Taking into account the likely natural emergence of PCV2b variants, it is possible to consider that the results of this work increase knowledge of Circovirus biology and could help to prevent future serious cases of vaccine failure that could lead to heavy losses to the swine industry.

Glucose-6-phosphatedehydrogenase is also increased in erythrocytes from adolescents with Down syndrome.

For some time it has been claimed that trisomic cells are more sensitive to oxidative stress since there is an imbalance in hydrogen peroxide metabolism due to an increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) catalytic activity. We designed the present study to assess activity levels of antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT) and glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase (G6PDH)] in erythrocytes in 31 male adolescents with Down syndrome (mean age 16.3 +/- 1.1). An increase of 35.2%, 15.3% and 14.9% in the catalytic activity of SOD, GPx and G6PDH respectively was observed in male adolescents with Down syndrome compared to age-matched controls. For CAT, a slight increase of 6.0% was also found. It is concluded that our data are consistent with previous evidence of the existence of oxidative stress in individuals with Down syndrome as revealed by significantly enhanced activities of SOD and GPx. The most striking feature was that G6PDH, in contrast to CAT, presented a similar behaviour. Further studies are required to identify other antioxidant enzymes in red blood cells as well as in white blood cells in order to increase the range of potential bioindicators of oxidative stress.

[A 12-week physical activity program increases glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase activity in Down syndrome adolescents]. / Incremento de la glucosa-6-fosfato-deshidrogenasa eritrocitaria en jóvenes con sindrome de Down tras un programa de actividad física de 12 semanas.

In recent years it has been claimed that trisomic cells are more sensitive to oxidative stress since there is an imbalance in the hydrogen peroxide metabolism. We designed the present study to assess the activity level of antioxidant enzyme glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase (G6PDH) of erythrocytes in 31 male adolescents with Down syndrome (mean age 16.3 +/- 1.1) after performing a 12 week aerobic training program. First of all, a significant increase of 14.9% in the catalytic activity of G6PDH was observed in male adolescents with Down syndrome when compared with age, sex and body mass-matched controls without trisomy. After 12-wk program its activity increased significantly compared to baseline value in Down syndrome individuals. Our data are consistent with previous evidence of the existence of higher oxidative stress in adolescents with Down syndrome when compared to the general population. We may also conclude that G6PDH activity was significantly increased after a 12 week exercise program.

[A short-term training program reduced acute phase proteins in premenopausal women with metabolic syndrome]. / Reducción de reactantes de fase aguda en mujeres con síndrome metabólico tras 12 semanas de entrenamiento.

INTRODUCTION: It is accepted low grade systemic inflammation plays a key role in metabolic syndrome. Further, several studies have reported it may be considered a therapeutic target. Accordingly, this study was conducted to ascertain the impact of a short-term aerobic training program on acute phase proteins in women with metabolic syndrome. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 135 adult women (38.4 ± 3.3 years) with metabolic syndrome volunteered for this study. Participants assigned to the intervention group underwent a 12-week aerobic training program, 3 sessions/week. The main part of each exercise sessions was performed in a treadmill at moderate intensity (60- 75%HRmax; increasing 5% each 3 weeks) for 25-40 minutes (increasing 5 minutes each 3 weeks). Physical fitness was determined by a continuous maximal incremental test. Further, fat mass percentage and indices of obesity were assessed. Plasmatic levels of C reactive protein (CRP-us) and fibrinogen were determined by nephelometry and HPLC respectively. This protocol was approved by an Institutional Ethics Committee. RESULTS: Aerobic training improved physical fitness and reduced both fat mass percentage and indices of obesity. Compared with baseline, it also reduced significantly plasmatic levels of CRP-us (4.90 ± 0.7 vs. 3.77 ± 0.4 mg/l; p = 0.017) and fibrinogen (3.88 ± 0.4 vs. 3.36 ± 0.2 g/l; p = 0.025). Further, a moderate correlation was found between CRP-us and waist circumference (r = 0.66; p = 0.008). No significant changes were found in controls. CONCLUSION: A short-term, aerobic training program reduced acute phase proteins in young women with metabolic syndrome. Further, long-term, well-conducted studies are still required to determine whether correction of this low-grade inflammation improves clinical outcomes of women with metabolic syndrome.

Fundamento y objetivo: Actualmente se acepta la importancia del estatus proinflamatorio en la fisiopatología del síndrome metabólico. De hecho, ha sido propuesto como diana terapéutica en el manejo clínico de estos pacientes. Por consiguiente este estudio pretende reducir los niveles plasmáticos de reactantes de fase aguda en mujeres con síndrome metabólico mediante un corto programa de entrenamiento. Material y método: Un total de 135 mujeres jóvenes adultas (38,4 ± 3,3 años) con diagnóstico de síndrome metabólico participaron voluntariamente en este estudio. El grupo de intervención se sometió a un programa de entrenamiento aeróbico de 12 semanas, con 3 sesiones/ semana en el que duración e intensidad de la parte principal se incrementaron progresivamente. Los niveles plasmáticos de proteína C-reactiva (PCR) y fibrinógeno se determinaron mediante nefelometría y HPLC respectivamente. También se evaluaron el fitness cardiovascular mediante prueba de esfuerzo máxima e índices de distribución de masa grasa. Este protocolo fue aprobado por un Comité de Ética Institucional. Resultados: Tras completar el programa, se observo una mejora significativa del fitness cardiovascular además de una reducción también significativa de los niveles de fibrinógeno y PCR. Asimismo, se encontraron correlaciones entre niveles de reactantes e índices de distribución de masa grasa, siendo la de mayor fuerza de asociación la establecida entre PCR y perímetro cintura. Conclusión: Un programa de 12 semanas consiguió reducir los niveles de reactantes de fase aguda en mujeres con síndrome metabólico. Futuros estudios longitudinales son necesarios para conocer el impacto del efecto anti-inflamatorio del ejercicio en el manejo de estos pacientes a medio/largo plazo.

Central obesity measurements predict metabolic syndrome in a retrospective cohort study of postmenopausal women.

INTRODUCTION: The various diagnostic classifications in the literature concur as regards the important role of abdominal obesity in the onset and progression of metabolic syndrome. Accordingly, this study was aimed at clarifying whether central obesity measurements assessed by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) may predict metabolic syndrome in Spanish postmenopausal women. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This historical cohort study included a total of 1326 postmenopausal women aged > 45 years old who had routinely undergone DXA to measure their bone mineral density between January 2006 and January 2011. The regions of interest (ROI) envisaged in our study by using DXA were the lumbar regions L1-L4 and L4-L5. At the same time, they underwent a complete medical examination including personal medical history assessment, biochemical blood analysis, blood pressure measurement and anthropometrical evaluation. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed attending to the criteria established by National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NECP-ATP-III). RESULTS: During the observation period, 537 women, representing 40.5% of the total studied, met the diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome. L1-L4 and L4-L5 abdominal fat mass determinations were associated with the development of metabolic syndrome in all regression models tested, showing an increasing gradient from the lowest to highest quintile. CONCLUSION: Central adiposity measurements assessed by DXA, especially L1-L4 region of interest, could be considered a powerful predictor of metabolic syndrome in postmenopausal women.

Introducción: En la actualidad se acepta la importancia de la masa grasa abdominal en la fisiopatología del síndrome metabólico tal y como reconocen las diferentes clasificaciones diagnósticas disponibles. Nuestro objetivo fue analizar la utilidad como predictores de síndrome metabólico de marcadores de grasa abdominal obtenidos por DEXA en mujeres postmenopausicas aprovechando su participación en screening rutinarios para el estudio de la densidad mineral ósea. Material y método: El presente estudio de cohortes histórico incluyó a un total de 1326 mujeres post-menopausicas con edad > 45 años que se habían sometido rutinariamente a DEXA para conocer su densidad mineral ósea entre Enero de 2006 y Enero de 2011. Además del DEXA, se obtuvo de cada participante la correspondiente anamnesis, bioquímica, tensión arterial e índices de distribución de masa grasa mediante técnicas antropométricas convencionales. Se utilizó la clasificación NCEP-ATP-III para el diagnóstico de síndrome metabólico. Este protocolo fue aprobado por un Comité de Ética Institucional. Resultados: Durante el periodo de observación, 537 mujeres, el 40.5% del total de las estudiadas, cumplió los criterios diagnósticos de síndrome metabólico. Los parámetros de masa grasa abdominal obtenidos mediante DEXA fueron significativamente mayores en mujeres postmenopáusicas con síndrome metabólico. Finalmente, la masa grasa abdominal de regiones de interés L1-L4 y L3-L4 obtenidas por DEXA se relacionaron con el desarrollo de síndrome metabólico en los modelos de regresión ensayados. Conclusión: La masa grasa abdominal determinada por DEXA, especialmente la región L1-L4, podría recomendarse como predictor de síndrome metabólico en este grupo.

Maternal fat mass may predict overweight/obesity in non-instituzionalized women with intellectual disability.

INTRODUCTION: Previous studies have found a significant correlation between parents and offspring regarding overweight and obesity in general population at early life stages. However this issue has received no attention in people with intellectual disability (ID). Therefore, the present study was designed to find out potential correlations in overweight/obesity between young adult women with ID living in the family and their parents. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In the present observational cross-sectional study, a total of thirty-four women with Down syndrome (n=34;22.6±2.1 years; 29.6±3.3 km/m2) were recruited through different community support groups for people with intellectual disabilities. Furthermore, biological mothers (n=34;59.6±4.9 years; 28.5±3.2 km/m2) and fathers (n=34; 61.5±5.3 years; 26.2±2.7 km/m2) volunteered for this study. They all underwent an anthropometric assessment to determine body mass index (BMI). This protocol was approved by an Institutional Ethics Committee. RESULTS: In the studied population, a total of 26 (76.5%) women with ID were overweight/obese. Furthermore, there were 22 (66.6%) overweight/obese mothers and 16(53.3%) fathers. Results also showed significant correlations between participants BMI and their father (r = 0.327; p = 0.0116) and mother BMI (r = 0.412; p < 0.001). Lastly, overweight/obese women presented a stronger correlation with overweight/obese mothers (odds ratio 4.3; 95%CI 2.9-7.3) than fathers (odds ratio 3.1; 95%CI 1.6-4.4). CONCLUSION: Parental overweight/obesity, especially maternal one, was strongly associated to overweight/obesity in young adult women with DS. Accordingly, there is an urgent necessity of incorporating parents in the intervention programs designed to the prevention and treatment of overweight and obesity in people with ID.

Fundamento y objetivo: Recientes estudios han encontrado en la población general una correlación entre la incidencia de sobrepeso/obesidad de padres e hijos, especialmente a edades tempranas. Sin embargo, este asunto no ha recibido atención en el caso de hijos adultos con discapacidad intelectual no institucionalizados. El presente estudio pretende determinar una posible correlación entre el sobrepeso/obesidad de padres respecto a sus hijas adultas con discapacidad intelectual que viven en el domicilio. Material y método: Se diseñó un estudio de tipo transversal observacional en el que participaron 34 mujeres adultas con síndrome de Down (22.6±2.1años; 29.6±3.3km/m2). Asimismo 34 madres (59.6±4.9años; 28.5±3.2km/m2) y 34 padres (61.5±5.3años; 26.2±2.7 km/m2) biológicos participaron voluntariamente. Todos los participante se sometieron a un estudio cinenatropométrico en el que se obtuvo el índice de masa corporal (IMC). Este protocolo fue aprobado por un Comité de Ética Institucional. Resultados: El 76.5% de las mujeres con discapacidad intelectual estudiadas presentaba sobrepeso/obesidad. En cuanto a los progenitores, el 66.6% de las madres y el 53.3 de los padres también presentó sobrepeso/obesidad. El IMC de las participantes se correlacionó significativamente con el de sus madres (r=0.412;p.

Asociación entre obesidad abdominal y daño oxidativo seminal en pacientes con síndrome metabólico / Association between abdominal obesity and seminal oxidative damage in adults with metabolic syndrome

Abdominal obesity, metabolic syndrome (MS) and oxidative stress may impair seminal quality leading to derangements in fertility. Aim: To identify an association between abdominal obesity and markers of seminal oxidative damage in adults with MS. Material and Methods: Seventy males aged 25 to 40 years, with MS according to ATP-III criteria volunteered for this cross-sectional study. The control group included 70 healthy and normal weight adults. Semen analysis included volume, sperm concentration, motility and normal morphologic features. Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) were measured, fat mass was determined by bioelectrical impedance. Results: Sperm concentration and the percentage of sperms with normal motility and morphology were significantly lower in adults with MS, when compared to their healthy normal weight counterparts. Seminal levels of malondialdehyde and 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine were significantly higher among participants with MS. Significant correlations were found between WC and seminal markers of oxidative stress. Conclusions: Individuals with MS had an impaired seminal quality that may be explained, at least in part, by increased seminal oxidative damage.

Mejoras del porcentaje y distribución abdominal de masa grasa en mujeres con discapacidad intelectual tras entrenamiento aeróbico de 10 semanas / A short training program reduced fat mass and abdominal distribution in obese women with intellectual disability

En la actualidad se acepta que la obesidad es un grave problema de salud pública. La situación es aún más preocupante entre las personas con discapacidad intelectual, especialmente entre las mujeres. Afortunadamente recientes estudios sugieren la utilidad del ejercicio como estrategia frente a la obesidad. Sin embargo, la mayoría de estos estudios utilizan grupos mixtos (hombres y mujeres) o varones, siendo escasa la información sobre un grupo homogéneo de mujeres. Por consiguiente nos planteamos como hipótesis que un programa de entrenamiento de 10 semanas podría reducir el porcentaje de masa grasa y la distribución abdominal en mujeres obesas con síndrome de Down. En nuestro estudio participaron 20 mujeres adultas (18-30 años) con un cociente intelectual de 50-69 según la escala Stanford-Binet y diagnóstico citogenético de trisomía 21. Todas presentaban obesidad definida como IMC>30 kg/m2. Once de las participantes se asignaron aleatoriamente al grupo experimental y desarrollaron un programa de entrenamiento de 10 semanas de tipo aeróbico con 3 sesiones/semana. El porcentaje de masa grasa se determinó mediante impedanciometría bioeléctrica (Tanita TBF521). Para obtener el índice cintura/cadera se midieron las circunferencias de la cintura y la cadera utilizando una cinta antropométrica. Nuestro protocolo fue aprobado por un Comité de Ética Institucional. Nuestros resultados confirman que el ejercicio aeróbico redujo significativamente el porcentaje de masa grasa, el índice cintura/cadera y el perímetro de la cintura (p<0,05). Por el contrario no se observaron cambios en el grupo control. Concluimos que un programa de entrenamiento de 10 semanas consiguió mejorar la composición corporal de mujeres obesas con síndrome de Down. Futuros estudios longitudinales bien conducidos y controlados son necesarios para conocer el impacto de esta mejora en el manejo clínico de este grupo.

Recent studies have reported obesity prevalence in people with intellectual disability is even higher than in the general population what may finally lead to impair their health status and increase healthcare costs. Fortunately several studies have reported regular exercise may improve body composition in obese people with and without intellectual disability. To the best of our knowledge this is the first study conducted exclusively in female participants with intellectual disability, in an attempt to keep our sample homogeneous. To date, many studies focused on the influence of regular exercise in people with intellectual disability have recruited mixed (males and females) groups in order to increase their sample size to strengthen research designs. Therefore, we assessed the influence of a 10-week aerobic training program on fat mass percentage and indices of obesity in women with Down syndrome. To get this goal, twenty obese young women with Down syndrome volunteered for this study. Eleven were randomly assigned to perform a 10-week aerobic training program, 3 sessions/week, consisting of warming-up followed by a main part in a treadmill (30-40 min) at a work intensity of 55-65% of peak heart rate and a cooling-down period. Control group included 9 age, sex and BMI matched women with Down syndrome. Fat mass percentage and fat distribution were measured. This protocol was approved by an Institutional Ethics Committee. When compared to baseline, fat mass percentage, waist circumference and waist to hip ratio were significantly reduced after training. Conversely, no changes were reported in controls. It was concluded a 10-week training program reduced fat mass in obese adult women with Down syndrome.

Mejora de defensas antioxidantes mediante ejercicio aeróbico en mujeres con síndrome metabólico / Aerobic training improves antioxidant defense system in women with metabolic syndrome

En la actualidad se acepta que el daño oxidativo juega un papel esencial en la patogénesis del síndrome metabólico. Estudios recientes proponen al daño oxidativo como diana terapéutica frente al síndrome metabólico. Precisamente nuestro objetivo fue mejorar el estatus total antioxidante (TAS) de mujeres con síndrome metabólico mediante ejercicio aeróbico. Participaron voluntariamente 100 mujeres con síndrome metabólico de acuerdo con los criterios del National Cholesterol Educational Program (Adult-Treatment-Panel-III) distribuidas aleatoriamente en grupo experimental (n = 60) y control (n = 40). El grupo experimental desarrolló un programa de entrenamiento aeróbico sobre tapiz rodante de intensidad ligera/moderada de 12 semanas (5 sesiones/semana). La determinación del TAS plasmático se realizó mediante espectrofotometría utilizando kits comercializados por Randox Lab. Este protocolo fue aprobado por un Comité de Etica Institucional. Tras completar el programa de entrenamiento se incrementó significativamente el TAS (0.79 ± 0.05 vs.1.01 ± 0.03 mmol/l; p = 0.027). No hubo cambios en grupo control. El ejercicio aeróbico de intensidad ligera/moderada aumenta las defensas antioxidantes en mujeres con síndrome metabólico. Son necesarios futuros estudios longitudinales para conocer su impacto en la evolución clínica.

A 12-week training protocol increased antioxidant defense system in young adult women with metabolic syndrome. It is generally accepted that oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, recent studies have reported that stress may be acting as a therapeutic target in metabolic syndrome. Consequently, this study was designed to explore whether aerobic training may increase plasmatic total antioxidant status in women with metabolic syndrome. A total of 100 young adult women with metabolic syndrome according to the criteria reported by the National Cholesterol Education Program (Adult-Treatment-Panel-III) volunteered for this study. Of them, 60 were randomly included in the experimental group to enter a 12-week aerobic training program, 5 days/week, at low/moderate intensity. The control group included 40 age, sex and body mass index (BMI)-matched women with metabolic syndrome who did not enter any training program. Total antioxidant status (TAS) was assayed in plasma using colorimetric Randox kits. This protocol was approved by an Institutional Ethics Committee. When compared to baseline, plasmatic TAS was significantly increased (0.79 ± 0.05 Vs 1.01 ± 0.03 mmol/l; p = 0.027). No changes were found in controls. A 12-week aerobic training program increased plasmatic TAS in adult women with metabolic syndrome. Further long-term well-conducted studies are required in order to highlight the potential clinical benefits of TAS improvement.