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.

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

Sarcopenia is an age-related loss of skeletal muscle, 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 mitochondrial aging is associated with decreased mitochondrial capacity, the three-dimensional (3D) mitochondrial structure associated with morphological changes in skeletal muscle during aging still requires further elucidation. Although exercise has been the only therapy to mitigate sarcopenia, the mechanisms that govern these changes remain unclear. 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. We found that mitochondria became less complex with age. Specifically, mitochondria lost surface area, complexity, and perimeter, indicating age-related declines in ATP synthesis and interaction capacity. Concomitantly, muscle area, exercise capacity, and mitochondrial dynamic proteins showed age-related losses. Exercise stimulation restored mitofusin 2 (MFN2), which we show is required for mitochondrial structure. Furthermore, we show that this pathway is evolutionarily conserved with Marf, the MFN2 ortholog in Drosophila, as Marf 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 mitofusins.

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.

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.

Salivary markers of stress and physical activities: a systematic review / Marcadores salivares de estrés y actividades físicas: una revisión sistemática / Marcadores salivares de estresse e atividades físicas: uma revisão sistemática

In recent years, stress levels during exercise are measured using different salivary markers. The aim of the study was to conduct a systematic review of the main salivary stress markers related to physical exercise and their effects on health of MEDLINE, LILACS, IBECS, BVS and SciELO databases between 2011 and 2018. The descriptors used in the search were “Biochemical” and “Marker”; “Stress” and “Physical” and “Exercise”; “Salivary chromogranin-A”; “Salivary Alpha-Amylase”; “Salivary IgA”; and “Salivary cortisol”, in three languages. After assessment of eligibility criteria, of the 13405 studies identified, 12 were included in the final review and, although saliva has clear advantages over blood by easy to collect and non-invasive, the use of these markers in the response to stress remains incomplete due to the different effects observed, considering that the information available in the literature involves different types of participants as study subjects and a range of protocols. (AU)

En los últimos años, se han medido los niveles de estrés durante el ejercicio mediante el análisis de diferentes marcadores salivales. El objetivo del estudio fue realizar una revisión sistemática de los principales marcadores salivares de estrés relacionados con el ejercicio y sus efectos en la salud en bases de datos MEDLINE, LILACS, IBECS, BVS y SciELO, de 2011 a 2018. Los descriptores utilizados en la investigación fueron "bioquímicos" y "marcadores"; "estrés" y "físico" y "ejercicio"; "cromogranina A salivar"; "alpha-amilase salivar"; "IgA salivar"; "cortisol salivar", en tres idiomas. Después de la evaluación de los criterios de elegibilidad, de los 13405 estudios identificados, 12 fueron incluidos en la revisión final y, aunque la saliva presentaba claras ventajas sobre la sangre por la fácil recolección y no invasión, el empleo de estos marcadores en la respuesta al estrés sigue incompleto por los distintos efectos observados, considerando los diferentes tipos de participantes como sujetos del estudio y la gama de protocolos. (AU)

Nos últimos anos, os níveis de estresse durante o exercício foram mensurados pela análise de diferentes marcadores salivares. O objetivo do estudo foi realizar uma revisão sistemática dos principais marcadores salivares de estresse relacionados ao exercício físico e seus efeitos na saúde em bases de dados MEDLINE, LILACS, IBECS, BVS e SciELO, no período de 2011 a 2018. Os descritores utilizados na pesquisa foram “bioquímicos” e “marcadores”; “estresse” e “físico” e “exercício”; “cromogranina A salivar”; “alfa-amilase salivar”; “IgA salivar”; e “cortisol salivar”, em três idiomas. Após a avaliação dos critérios de elegibilidade, dos 13405 estudos identificados, 12 foram incluídos na revisão final e, embora a saliva apresente claras vantagens sobre o sangue pela fácil coleta e não invisibilidade, o emprego desses marcadores na resposta ao estresse após o exercício permanece incompleto pelos distintos efeitos observados, considerando os diferentes tipos de participantes como sujeitos do estudo e a gama de protocolos. (AU)

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.

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.

CENTERS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AND HEALTH PROMOTION DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC / CENTROS DE ATIVIDADES FÍSICAS E PROMOCÃO DE SAÚDE DURANTE A PANDEMIA DA COVID-19

Parece que esquemos que o mundo já enfrentara outras pandemias e, commaior ênfase, necessita combater outra pandemia, de natura diferente, representada pela inatividade física e hábito sedentário. De acordo com a OMS, somente no Brasil, doenças relacionadas ao sedentarismo matam 300 mil pessoas por ano e, no mundo, são aproximadamente 3,2 milhões de mortes anuais em decorrência desse comportamento prejudicial à saúde e qualidade de vida da população. Nesse sentido, questiona-se o porquê que, em alguns países do mundo, os centros de atividades físicas continuam fechados? Quando a própria OMS incentiva a manutenção da prática regular de atividades físicas como estratégia de promoção de saúde. Dessa forma, o referido ponto de vista tem como objetivo principal elucidar, através de evidências científicas, a importância e possibilidades de reabertura de centros de atividades físicas outdoor e indoor, visando à melhoria e manutenção da saúde e da qualidade de vida da população.

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.

Precautions and recommendations for physical exercise in face of COVID-19: an integrative review / Precauciones y recomendaciones para el ejercicio físico frente a COVID-19: una revisión integradora / Precauções e recomendações para a prática de exercício físico em face do COVID-19: uma revisão integrativa

This review aims to analyze and synthesize the scientific evidence on the effects of physical exercise on the precaution of COVID-19 and the main recommendations on the practice of physical activity during and after the pandemic. A search was carried out with the MEDLINE / PUBMED, Cochrane, Web of Science and Scopus databases, and manual searches in journals, in the references of the selected studies, in addition to the use of pre-print studies. The initial search totaled 1026 records. After the exclusion by title, summary, duplicates and full reading, 13 publications remained, in addition to another 10 studies selected manually, totaling 23 publications. After analyzing the results, the evidence was categorized according to: the effects of physical exercise on viral respiratory infections, the impact of COVID-19 in relation to physical inactivity, physical and mental health, precautions and recommendations on regular physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic and recommendations on post-pandemic physical activity. Most evidence recommends regular moderate physical activity during and after the pandemic. However, more specific recommendations on intensity, type of exercise, sets and duration of training need further investigation.

A presente revisão visa analisar e sintetizar as evidências científicas sobre os efeitos do exercício físico na precaução do COVID-19 e as principais recomendações sobre a prática de atividade física durante e após a pandemia. Realizou-se uma busca junto às bases MEDLINE/PUBMED, Cochrane, Web of Science e Scopus, e buscas manuais em periódicos, nas referências dos estudos selecionados, além da utilização de estudos pré-print. A busca inicial totalizou 1026 registros. Após a exclusão por título, resumo, duplicatas e leitura na íntegra restaram 13 publicações, além de mais 10 estudos selecionados manualmente, totalizando 23 publicações. Após análise dos resultados, as evidências foram categorizadas de acordo com: os efeitos do exercício físico sobre infecções respiratórias virais, o impacto do COVID-19 em relação à inatividade física, saúde física e mental, as precauções e recomendações sobre a atividade física regular durante a pandemia do COVID-19 e recomendações sobre atividade física pós pandemia.  A maioria das evidências recomendam a realização de atividade física moderada regular durante e após a pandemia. No entanto, recomendações mais específicas sobre a intensidade, o tipo de exercício, séries e duração do treino precisam de maiores investigações.

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.