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.

Postural balance and falls in elderly nursing home residents enrolled in a ballroom dancing program.

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of a ballroom dancing program on the postural balance of institutionalized elderly residents. The sample consisted of 59 sedentary elderly residents of long-stay institutions who were randomly assigned to a ballroom dancing experimental group (EG, n=30) or a control group (CG, n=29). The ballroom dancing program consisted of three 50-min sessions each week on alternate days over a 12-week period. The dances included the foxtrot, waltz, rumba, swing, samba and bolero. The medical records of the subjects were reviewed to determine the number of falls they experienced in the three months prior to the intervention. Postural static balance was assessed using a Lizard (Med. EU., Italy, 2010) stabilometric and posturometric platform. Only patients in the EG lost a significant amount of weight (Δ=-2.85 kg) when comparing the pre- and post-test postural balance assessments. The intergroup comparison revealed a reduced lower limb weight distribution difference in the EG post-test compared to the CG post-test (p=0.012). In the intragroup comparison, the EG patients experienced significantly fewer falls post-test relative to pre-test (p<0.0001). This improvement was not observed for patients in the CG. In the intergroup analysis, we observed fewer falls in the EG post-test compared to the CG post-test (p<0.0001). Therefore it was conclude that sedentary elderly people living in long-term institutions can improve their balance via a ballroom dancing program. This activity improved balance and reduced the number of falls in this elderly population.

Functional autonomy, bone mineral density (BMD) and serum osteocalcin levels in older female participants of an aquatic exercise program (AAG).

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of an AAG on BMD, osteocalcin and functional autonomy in older women. The sample consisted of eighty-two post-menopausal women with low BMD, randomly divided into two groups: the Aquatic Aerobics Group [AAG; n=42; age: 66.8±4.2years], submitted to two weekly sessions over eight months, and the Control Group (GC; n=42; age: 66.9±3.2years), which did not participate in regular exercise. BMD was measured by Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry [DXA] of the lumbar and femur, and serum osteocalcin was measured using electrochemiluminescence. A functional autonomy assessment protocol (GDLAM, 2004) was also applied. Statistical analyses used were repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests. The results showed a significant improvement in tests following the GDLAM protocol: 10 meters walk (10mw) -p=0.003; rising from a ventral decubitus position (RVDP) - Δ%=0.78, p<0.001; rising from a chair and moving around the house (RCMH) -p<0.001 and autonomy index (AI) -p=0.007, with more favorable results observed in the AAG when compared to the CG. The AAG achieved the best results for BMD; however, no inter or intragroup statistical differences were recorded for total femur -p=0.975 and lumbar L(2)-L(4)p=0.597. For serum osteocalcin, intra and intergroup statistical differences of p=0.042 and p=0.027 were observed in the AAG, respectively. This demonstrates that an eight-month aquatic aerobic exercise program can improve functional autonomy and osteocalcin levels, although training did not improve lumbar and total femur BMD in the older women.

Effects of a physical activity governmental health programme on the quality of life of elderly people.

BACKGROUND: The population ageing occurring worldwide resulted in multiple researches on sedentary ageing and quality of life. PURPOSE: To verify the effects of a physical activity programme on the quality of life (QOL) of elderly individuals served by a governmental health programme. DESIGN: Descriptive inquiry research. METHODS: Randomly distributing 70 elderly individuals in a control group (n=35; mean±SD 69.80±8.05 years) and an experimental group (n=35; 68.66±5.93 years) plus QOL evaluation via WHOQOL-Old. RESULTS: The experimental group showed significant best results on the post-test by repeated-measures ANOVA on sensorial functioning (Δ%=0.022%, p=0. 0001), social participation (Δ%=0.012%, p=0.013), perceptions of death and dying (Δ%=0.04%, p=0.009), intimacy (Δ%=0.059%, p=0.05), and total score (Δ%=0.001, p=0.000). CONCLUSIONS: Sensorial functioning, social participation, perceptions of death and dying, and intimacy play an important role in the positive relationship between physical activity and QOL.

The effect of ballroom dance on balance and functional autonomy among the isolated elderly.

The aim of the present study was to analyze the influence of a ballroom dancing program on the functional autonomy and physical balance of institutionalized elderly individuals. The study enrolled 75 sedentary elderly subjects from long-term institutions who were randomly divided into a ballroom dance program group (EG; n=39) and a control group (CG; n=36). The protocol of the Latin American Group for Maturity (GDLAM) was used to evaluate functional autonomy. Physical balance was analyzed using a stabilometer and posture meter platforms. The level of significance in statistical tests was set at p<0.05. Regarding the physical balance evaluation, only the members of the EG achieved a significant reduction in weight (Δ=-0.98 kg) following the experiment, both in the intragroup (p=0.002) and in the intergroup analysis (p=0.012). In the evaluation of functional autonomy, only the EG showed a significant reduction in the execution time of all the tests and in the GDLAM index: GI (Δ=-6.99), both in the intragroup (p<0.001) and in the intergroup analysis (p=0.011). Thus, it can be inferred that sedentary elderly individuals who are residents of long-term institutions can improve their functional autonomy and balance with a ballroom dance program.

Efeitos agudos do treinamento concorrente sobre os níveis séricos de leptina e cortisol em adultos jovens sobrepesados / Acute effects of concurrent training on serum leptin and cortisol in overweight young adults

OBJETIVO: Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar os efeitos imediatos do treinamento concorrente sobre a leptina e os níveis de cortisol em adultos jovens com sobrepeso. MÉTODOS: Este estudo utilizou uma metodologia quase-experimental. Foram 20 indivíduos voluntários de ambos os sexos, divididos em um grupo sobrepesado treinamento (GST n = 10) e um grupo sobrepesado controle (n = 10). A coleta de sangue foi realizada com os indivíduos em repouso após jejum de 12 horas. Os níveis de leptina e cortisol foram analisados por radioimunoensaio e ensaio por quimioluminescência chimiluminescence antes e imediatamente após o treinamento. ANOVA two way foi utilizada para análise estatística com nível de significância de p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Na análise da leptina sérica, observou-se diferença significativa intergrupos (GST x GSC) nos momentos pré-intervenção (p = 0,02) e pós-intervenção (p = 0,01). Na análise intragrupos, não foram observadas alterações significativas. E na análise do cortisol sérico intergrupos (GST x GSC), foi observada uma diferença significativa nos momentos pré-intervenção (p = 0,01) e pós-intervenção (p = 0,01), porém, na análise intragrupos, não houve alterações significativas. CONCLUSÃO: Uma única sessão de treinamento concorrente não é suficiente para promover alterações agudas nos níveis de leptina e cortisol dos jovens adultos sobrepesados voluntários deste estudo.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to analyze the immediate effects of concurrent training on leptin and cortisol levels in overweight young adults. METHODS: This study used a quasi-experimental methodology. We included 20 volunteers of both sexes, randomly divided into a training competitor group (TCG n = 10) and a control group (C n = 10). Blood collection was performed in individuals at rest after fasting for 12 hours. The leptin and cortisol levels were analyzed by radioimmunoassay and chimiluminescence immunoassay before and immediately after training. Two-way ANOVA was used for statistical analysis with a significance level of p <0.05. RESULTS: In the analysis of leptin levels, there was significant difference between groups (TCG x C) in the pre intervention (p = 0.02) and post intervention (p = 0.01). In the intra groups, no significant changes were found, and in the analysis of cortisol levels between groups (TGC x C), a significant difference in the pre intervention (p = 0.01) and post intervention (p = 0.01) was observed; however, in the intra groups there were no significant changes. CONCLUSION: A single concurrent training session is not sufficient to promote acute changes in the leptin and cortisol levels of the volunteer overweight young adults in this study.

Acute effects of a warm-up including active, passive, and dynamic stretching on vertical jump performance.

The purpose of this study was to examine the acute effects of 3 different stretching methods combined with a warm-up protocol on vertical jump performance. Sixteen young tennis players (14.5 ± 2.8 years; 175 ± 5.6 cm; 64.0 ± 11.1 kg) were randomly assigned to 4 different experimental conditions on 4 successive days. Each session consisted of a general and specific warm-up, with 5 minutes of running followed by 10 jumps, accompanied by one of the subsequent conditions: (a) Control Condition (CC)-5 minutes of passive rest; (b) Passive Stretching Condition (PSC)-5 minutes of passive static stretching; (c) Active Stretching Condition (ASC)-5 minutes of active static stretching; and (d) Dynamic Stretching Condition (DC)-5 minutes of dynamic stretching. After each intervention, the subjects performed 3 squat jumps (SJs) and 3 countermovement jumps (CMJs), which were measured electronically. For the SJ, 1-way repeated measures analysis of variance (CC × PSC × ASC × DC) revealed significant decreases for ASC (28.7 ± 4.7 cm; p = 0.01) and PSC (28.7 ± 4.3 cm; p = 0.02) conditions when compared with CC (29.9 ± 5.0 cm). For CMJs, there were no significant decreases (p > 0.05) when all stretching conditions were compared with the CC. Significant increases in SJ performance were observed when comparing the DC (29.6 ± 4.9 cm; p = 0.02) with PSC (28.7 ± 4.3 cm). Significant increases in CMJ performance were observed when comparing the conditions ASC (34.0 ± 6.0 cm; p = 0.04) and DC (33.7 ± 5.5 cm; p = 0.03) with PSC (32.6 ± 5.5 cm). A dynamic stretching intervention appears to be more suitable for use as part of a warm-up in young athletes.

Concentraciones séricas de leptina y zinc: efectos agudos de las distintas órdenes de ejecución del entrenamiento concurrente / Serum concentrations of leptin and zinc: acute effects of distincts perform orders of concurrent training

Objetivo: Investigar los efectos de las diferentes órdenes de ejecución de entrenamiento concurrente (EC) sobre las concentraciones séricas de leptina y zinc en adultos practicantes de ejercicio físico. Método: 10 sujetos (27,1 ± 4,8 años, IMC 25,49 ± 2,65) fueron sometidos a diferentes sesiones: sesión de control (SC), entrenamiento concurrente 1 (EC1) y entrenamiento concurrente2 (EC2) con un intervalo de cinco días entre cada uno. Se recogieron muestras de sangre para el análisis de leptina y zinc. La sesión EC1 consistió en ciclismo interior (ciclismo indoor) seguido de entrenamiento con pesas. El entrenamiento EC2 estaba compuesto por los mismos ejercicios con el orden invertido de ejecución: gimnasio y ciclismo indoor después. En la SC los individuos no realizan ejercicio físico. Al final de cada período de sesiones se reunió al grupo para recoger muestras de sangre que permitan comprobar los niveles de estas variables. Se utilizó la prueba de Shapiro-Wilk, Two-way ANOVA y el test post-hoc de Tukey. Resultados: Se observó una reducción significativa en las concentraciones de leptina después de TC1 (Δ = -16,04%, p =0.05) y TC2 (Δ = -8.54%, p = 0.02), con una reducción significativa después de SC diferencia (Δ = -4.29%, p = 0.11). En cuanto al zinc, no había cambios significativos en los niveles de la variable después de las sesiones TC1 y TC, con una reducción no significativa después de SC (Δ% = 8.45; p = 0.07). Conclusiones: El EC provocó una reducción de la leptina, independientemente de su orden de ejecución; sin embargo, estas reducciones no fueron acompañadas de cambios significativos en el estado de zinc de las personas (AU)

Aim: To investigate the effects of distinct perform orders of concurrent training on serum leptin and zinc concentrations of adults practitioners of physical exercise. Methods: 10 subjects (27,1 ± 4,8 years old, BMI 25,49 ±2,65) were undergone to distinct sessions: control session(CS) concurrent training 1 (CT1) and concurrent training 2 (CT2) with five days of rest between each session. Leptin and zinc blood samples were collected. CT1 session was characterized by indoor cycle followed by resistance traning. CT2 session was composed by the same exercises, however, the perform order was inverted: resistance exercise followed by indoor cycle. In CS session the subjects did not performed physical exercises. At the end of each session, new blood samples were assed to verification the levels of the same variables. Were used Shapiro-Wilk test, Two-way ANOVA and Tukey Post-Hoc test. Results: There was significative reduction on leptin concentrations after CT1 (Δ% = -16,04; p = 0.05) and after CT2 (Δ = -8.54%, p = 0.02), with reduction after SC without statistic significance (Δ% = -4,29; p= 0.11). In relation to zinc, there was no significant changes in the variable levels after TC1 and TC2, with s reduction without significance only after SC (Δ% = 8.45; p = 0.07). Conclusions: CT promoted reductions on serum leptin concentration independently of the perform order, however, such reductions were not followed by significant changes in zinc levels of the subjects (AU)

The response of serum leptin, cortisol and zinc concentrations to concurrent training.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of concurrent training (CT) on serum leptin, cortisol and zinc concentrations in physically active adults. DESIGN: Ten subjects aged (27.1±4.8 years, BMI 25.49 ± 2.65) were recruited to participate in three sessions: control session (CS), concurrent training 1 (CT1) and concurrent training 2 (CT2) sessions with five days of resting between them. In each session blood samples for leptin, cortisol and zinc determination were collected. CT1 session included indoor cycling class followed by strength training. CT2 session included strength training, followed by indoor cycling class. In CS there were no exercises. The Shapiro-Wilk test, repeated ANOVA test and Tukey Post-Hoc test were used. RESULTS: There was a reduction in leptin levels after CT1 (Δ% = -16.04; p = 0.05) and CT2 (Δ% = -8.54; p = 0.02). Cortisol also showed a reduction after CT1 (Δ% = -26.32; p = 0.02) and CT2 (Δ% = -33.57; p = 0.05), whereas zinc did not show any significant alterations after any of the training sessions. There was also significant difference for the leptin and cortisol values between CT1 and CT2. CONCLUSIONS: CT promoted reduction in serum leptin and cortisol levels independently of the training order, while no significant changes in zinc concentrations were observed.

The effect of muscle actions on the level of connective tissue damage.

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of concentric with eccentric muscle actions on the resulting level of damage to connective tissues by urinary concentration of hydroxyproline. Twenty-one male volunteers were divided into control group (CG), experimental concentric group (ECG), and experimental eccentric group (EEG). The measures of hydroxyproline were performed at three times: pretest, fourth week, and posttest. Biceps curl and chest press exercises also were performed with three sets of 10 repetitions two times per week for both experimental groups. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a significant difference between pretest of the CG and pretest of the ECG (p = 0.002), and between pretest and posttest for the EEG (p = 0.029). Therefore, this study concluded that the level of damage to the connective tissue is greater when exercises involving eccentric muscle actions are performed. The continuity of training, however might reduce this damage.

Pressão arterial após programa de exercício físico supervisionado em mulheres idosas hipertensas / Blood pressure after supervised physical exercise program in elderly women with hypertension

INTRODUÇÃO: A população de idosos tem elevado os índices de doenças crônicas como hipertensão arterial sistêmica (HAS) com prevalência em mulheres. Intervenções não farmacológicas, como o exercício físico, são apontadas pela eficácia na diminuição da pressão arterial (PA). OBJETIVO: Verificar a resposta da pressão arterial de idosas hipertensas nos distintos momentos de um programa de exercício físico supervisionado (PEFS). MÉTODOS: Constituiu-se de um estudo descritivo de corte transversal realizado durante 18 semanas. Participaram 41 mulheres idosas com HAS, em tratamento farmacológico, distribuídas em grupo experimental (GE) (n = 26) que participou da intervenção, e grupo controle (GC) (n = 15), em dois momentos: pré e pós-PEFS. O IMC, a pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) e diastólica (PAD) foram avaliados no início e após 18 semanas de PEFS no GE e GC. A comparação intra e intergrupos foi feita com o teste t pareado e ANOVA two way com Kruskal Wallis, com nível de significância de p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: O GE (68,7 ± 8,4 anos, IMC = 27,23 ± 4,73) e o GC (67,3 ± 6,3 anos, IMC = 26,13 ± 4,36), com prevalência de sobrepeso em todos os grupos, sem diferença significativa pós-PEFS. Observou-se uma correlação entre o IMC e a PAS (r = 0,456; p = 0,01) e entre a PAS e a PAD (r = 0,380; p = 0,01). A semelhança inicial entre os grupos foi alterada pelo PEFS no GE, permanecendo no GC. A comparação intergrupos mostrou diferenças da PAS (p = 0,000) e da PAD (p = 0,005) pré e pós-PEFS e intragrupos, no GE com reduções da PAS (Δ = 9,61mmHg, p = 0,000) e da PAD (Δ = 1,54mmHg, p = 0,043) pós-PEFS, o que não ocorreu no GC. CONCLUSÃO: O programa de exercício físico supervisionado exerceu papel importante como modelo terapêutico não medicamentoso na resposta hipotensiva observada.

INTRODUCTION: The elderly population has increased the levels of chronic diseases such as hypertension (HBP) with prevalence in women. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as exercise, have been indicated by the effectiveness in lowering blood pressure (BP). OBJECTIVE: To analyze the blood pressure response in elderly hypertensive women in the different moments of a supervised physical exercise program (SPEP). METHODS: It consisted of a cross-sectional descriptive study carried out for 18 weeks. 41 elderly women with hypertension, under pharmacological treatment, distributed in the experimental group (EG) (n=26) which participated in the intervention, and control group (CG) (n=15) in two stages: before and after SPEP. BMI, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were evaluated at baseline and after 18 weeks of SPEP in the EG and CG. The intra and inter comparison was made with the paired t test and two-way ANOVA with Kruskal Wallis test, with a significance level of p <0.05. RESULTS: The EG (68.7 ± 8.4 years, BMI = 27.23 ± 4.73) and CG (67.3 ± 6.3 years, BMI = 26.13 ± 4.36), with a prevalence of overweight in all groups, without significant difference after SPEP. There was a correlation between BMI and SBP (r = 0.456, p = 0.01) and between SBP and DBP (r = 0.380, p = 0.01). The initial similarity between the groups was changed by SPEP in EG, remaining in the CG. Intergroup comparison showed differences in SBP (p = 0.000) and DBP (p = 0.005) before and after SPEP and intragroup, with reductions in SBP (Δ = 9.61 mmHg, p = 0.000) and DBP (Δ = 1.54 mmHg, p = 0.043) after SPEP, which did not occur in the CG. CONCLUSION: The supervised physical exercise program exerted an important model of non-drug treatment in the hypotensive response observed.

Níveis séricos de leptina em adultos submetidos a distintas ordens de execução de treinamento concorrente / Serum levels of leptin in adults undergoing to distinct orders of concurrent Training

Analisar o efeito de distintas ordens de execução do treinamento concorrente (TC) sobre os níveis séricos de leptina em adultos praticantes de exercício físico. Trinta indivíduos (27,1 ± 4,8 anos, IMC 25,49 ± 2,65) foram randomizados em: grupo controle (GC), treinamento concorrente 1 (TC1) e treinamento concorrente 2 (TC2). Foram coletadas amostras sanguíneas de leptina. O TC1 foi caracterizado por ciclismo indoor seguido de musculação. O TC2 foi composto pelos mesmos exercícios com ordem de execução invertida: musculação seguida de ciclismo indoor. O GC não realizou exercícios físicos. Ao término, foi realizada nos grupos nova coleta sanguínea. Utilizou-se o teste de Shapiro-Wilk, ANOVA Two-Way e Post-Hoc de Tukey. Houve redução significativa nos níveis de leptina após TC1 (Δ% = -1,60; p = 0,05) e TC2 (Δ% = -0,86; p = 0,02). O TC promoveu redução nos níveis séricos de leptina, independentemente de sua ordem de execução.

To analyse the effects of distinct perform orders of concurrent training (CT) on serum leptin levels in adults practitioners of physical exercise. Thirty subjects (27.1 ± 4.8 years, BMI 25.49 ± 2.65) were randomized into control group (CG), concurrent training 1 (CT1) and concurrent training 2 (TC2). Blood samples of leptin were collected. The CT1 was characterized by indoor cycle followed by strength training. The CT2 was composed by the same exercises with CT perform order inverted: strength training followed by indoor cycle. The CG did not performed physical exercise. At the end, a new blood sample collection was realized. Were used the Shapiro-Wilk, the Two-way ANOVA and Tukey's Post-Hoc test. Were significant reduction on leptin levels after CT1 (Δ% = -1,60; p = 0,05) and CT2 (Δ% = -0,86; p = 0,02). The CT promoted reduction on serum leptin levels independently of the performed order.

Aerobic resistance, functional autonomy and quality of life (QoL) of elderly women impacted by a recreation and walking program.

The present study had as a goal to analyze the impact of a physical activity program (recreation and walking) over the aerobic resistance, the functional autonomy and the quality of life of elderly women. To this experimental study the elderly women (65±6.40 years old) were randomly separated in experimental group (EG, n=31) and a control group (CG, n=28). A 6-min-walking test (aerobic resistance); a protocol of autonomy evaluation of the Latin-American Group for Maturity Development (functional autonomy), and the WHO QoL-old tests were utilized. The intervention happened with classes of recreation and walking practice, three times a week, for 1h, during 4 months. The results found revealed significant improvement for the EG at the aerobic resistance (Δ%=29.06%, p=0.0001), functional autonomy (Δ%=-27.15%, p=0.0001) and QoL (Δ%=15.47%, p=0.0001). It was concluded that the systematic physical exercise interferes in a positive way at the autonomy, aerobic resistance and QoL of the elderly women.

Elderly quality of life impacted by traditional Chinese medicine techniques.

BACKGROUND: The shift in age structure is having a profound impact, suggesting that the aged should be consulted as reporters on the quality of their own lives. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this research was to establish the possible impact of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) techniques on the quality of life (QOL) of the elderly. SAMPLE: Two non-selected, volunteer groups of Rio de Janeiro municipality inhabitants: a control group (36 individuals), not using TCM, and an experimental group (28 individuals), using TCM at ABACO/Sohaku-in Institute, Brazil. METHODS: A questionnaire on elderly QOL devised by the World Health Organization, the WHOQOL-Old, was adopted and descriptive statistical techniques were used: mean and standard deviation. The Shapiro-Wilk test checked the normality of the distribution. Furthermore, based on its normality distribution for the intergroup comparison, the Student t test was applied to facets 2, 4, 5, 6, and total score, and the Mann-Whitney U rank test to facets 1 and 3, both tests aiming to analyze the P value between experimental and control groups. The significance level utilized was 95% (P < 0.05). RESULTS: The experimental group reported the highest QOL for every facet and the total score. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that TCM raises the level of QOL.

Comparação entre a avaliação da amplitude articular estática do cotovelo por meio de três diferentes métodos: goniometria, biofotogrametria e goniometria da imagem radiológica / Comparison of evaluation of static elbow range of motion using three different methods: goniometry, biophotogrammetry and radiological goniometry

Introdução: O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a confiabilidade e objetividade da goniometria e da biofotogrametria para a avaliação de uma posição do cotovelo através da comparação dos dados obtidos por estes métodos com os obtidos pela goniometria radiológica. Material e Métodos: A pesquisa contou com dezesseis indivíduos, sendo seis examinadores e dez avaliados. Para todas as técnicas de medida utilizadas, cada avaliador colheu três medidas de um mesmo ângulo do cotovelo (143º), que foi considerado como ângulo alvo das análises estatísticas e neste estudo chamado de ângulo chave. Resultados: Após a análise estatística, verificou-se baixa e moderada confiabilidade para a goniometria, e alta e muito alta confiabilidade para a biofotogrametria. Quanto à objetividade, verificou-se valores alto e moderado com o uso do goniômetro, ao passo que com a biofotogrametria somente se observaram valores altos. No entanto, as medidas encontradas com essas técnicas não apresentaram boa correlação com os valores obtidos pela goniometria radiológica. Conclusão: A técnica biofotogramétrica apresentou maior confiabilidade e objetividade em comparação com a goniometria sem, no entanto, apresentar correlação de seus dados com os obtidos pela goniometria radiológica.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to verify the reliability and objectivity of goniometry and biophotogrammetry to evaluate one specific elbow position. Data obtained from these two methods were compared with radiological goniometry data. Material & Methods: The group was composed by sixteen subjects: six examiners and ten volunteers. For all measurements used in this research each examiner took three measures of same angle of the elbow (143º) which was considered as target angle of statistical analyses in this study called key angle. Results: After statistical analysis, it was checked low and moderated reliability to the goniometry and high and very high reliability to biophotogrammetry. In regards to objectivity, it was observed higher and moderate reliability with the goniometer while with the biophotogrammetry only higher values. Though, measurements found with these techniques did not show good correlation with radiological goniometry values. Conclusion: The biophotogrammetry technique showed more reliability and objectivity in comparison to goniometry, however did not show correlation with radiological goniometry data values.

Efeitos do grau de DPOC sobre a qualidade de vida de idosos / Effects of the COPD degree on health related quality of life of elders

Objetivo: Este trabalho teve como objetivo mensurar a qualidade de vida de idosos com DPOC moderado e grave, utilizando o Questionário de qualidade de vida do Hospital Saint George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) e comparar os resultados dos idosos com DPOC grave. Método: Sessenta e nove indivíduos idosos, divididos em dois grupos, Grupo I com DPOC moderada (idade média [DP]= 69,13 [6,00]; VEF [DP]=0,86 [0,23] do previsto) participaram do estudo, preenchendo o questionário de qualidade de vida. Resultados: Os resultados da estatística de comparação das médias do teste MannWhitney, evidencia uma diferença significativa entre os resultados nas respostas ao questionário nos quesitos atividade (p=0,000), impacto (p=0,007) e total (p=0,003). Conclusão: Este estudo demonstra que há diferença significativa ao nível de qualidade de vida entre idosos com DPOC moderada e idosos com DPOC grave, avaliados pelo questionário SGRQ.

Quality of life (QOL) axiological profile of the elderly population served by the Family Health Program (FHP) in Brazil.

With the purpose of optimizing the satisfaction of the elderly subjects, either existential or not, presenting their unique preference, this research aimed to evaluate the effects of aging on QOL of the aged persons, served by the FHP. The basic intention was to establish parameters of QOL-impact on aging. Our sample was a non-selected population of aged volunteers from Perequê-Mirim-I Family Health Unity, in Caraguatatuba, São Paulo, Brazil. In this correlational descriptive research, the elderly subjects answered a questionnaire on QOL, specific to the aged persons (WHOQOL-OLD). These answers revealed the degree to which of the six facets of WHOQOL-OLD was given priority. The dimensional techniques of descriptive statistics (mean+/-S.D., median, coefficient of variation) normality evaluation (Kolmogorov-Smirnov), and inferential statistical techniques (Z-score test, chi2) were adopted, considering the level-II error=10% and accepting level-I error=5%. The main results revealed a correlation between the income and QOL. Death and dying appeared to be a substantial preoccupation, opposed to intimacy that raised the QOL level. It is suggested that any works directed to the elderly population should take in consideration the self-evaluation of aging effects on QOL.

Efeitos da continuidade do treinamento da hidrocinesioterapia sobre o perfil lipídico, a composição corporal e o VO2máx de mulheres ativas na pós-menopausa / Effects of the continuation of hydrotherapy training on the lipids profile, body composition and VO2max in active and post-menopausal women

O presente estudo teve por objetivo avaliar o efeito da continuidade do treinamento de hidrocinesioterapia sobre o perfil lipídico, a composição corporal e o consumo de oxigênio (VO2máx) de mulheres ativas, pós-menopausa. Para este estudo longitudinal, a amostra foi composta de 13 mulheres praticantes de hidrocinesioterapia (idade = 54 ± 7 anos). As variáveis foram comparadas em um intervalo de 18 meses: índice de massa corporal (IMC), percentual de gordura (%G), coeficiente cintura-quadril (CQ), VO2máx, perfil lipídico e glicose. Os testes t dependente e de Wilcoxon não apresentaram diferença significativa (p < 0,05). Na correlação de Spearman, foi observada correlação significativa entre: IMC e %G (r = 0,657; p = 0,0001); IMC e CQ (r = 0,587; p = 0,002); IMC e VO2máx (r = -0,497; p = 0,010); %G e CQ (r = 0,450; p = 0,021); %G e VO2máx (r = -0,417; p = 0,034); CQ e VO2máx (r = -0,448; p = 0,022); CQ e HDL (r = -0,417; p = 0,034); glicose e IMC (r = 0,427; p = 0,029); glicose e %G (r = 0,445; p = 0,023) e CT e LDL (r = 0,705; p = 0,0001). O presente estudo observou na amostra analisada, que mulheres ativas, pós-menopausa, apesar da obesidade moderada (pelo %G), apresentaram, ao longo do tempo, uma estabilidade da composição corporal, do perfil lipídico, da glicose e do VO2máx, tendo revelado estes valores dentro dos parâmetros de normalidade.

This study aimed to assess the effect of the continuity of hydrotherapy training on the lipid profile, body composition and consumption of oxygen (VO2max) of active women, post-menopause. In this longitudinal study, the sample was composed of 13 women practitioners of hydrotherapy (age = 54 ± 7 years). The variables were compared in a range of 18 months: body mass index (BMI), percentage of fat (%G), waist-hip coefficient (WH), VO2max, lipid profile and glucose. The dependent t tests and Wilcoxon showed no significant difference (p < 0.05). In a Spearman correlation was observed significant correlation between: BMI and %fat (r = 0.657; p = 0.0001); BMI and WH (r = 0.587; p = 0.002); BMI and VO2max (r = -0.497; p = 0.010); %G and WH (r = 0.450; p = 0.021); %fat and VO2max (r = -0,417; p = 0.034); WH and VO2max (r = -0.448; p = 0.022); WH and HDL (r = -0.417; p = 0.034); glucose and BMI (r = 0.427; p = 0.029); glucose and %fat (r = 0.445; p = 0.023) e TC and LDL (r = 0.705; p = 0.0001). This study noted, in this sample, that active and post-menopausal women, despite the moderate obesity, had, over time, a stable body composition, lipid profile, glucose and VO2max, having disclosed these values within the parameters of normality.

Efeitos da autonomia funcional de idosos sobre a fadiga muscular / Effect of elderly functional autonomy on muscular fatigue

Este estudo investigou o efeito da autonomia funcional de idosos na fadiga muscular, avaliada através da eletromiografia de superfície. Os participantes foram voluntários, participantes do programa de atividade física e foram avaliados durante a participação no Protocolo GDLAM, desenvolvido para avaliar a autonomia de idosos. O teste de fadiga teve a duração de 60 s e consistiu em manter o sujeito em posição de agachamento isométrico com joelho flexionado a 140° e tronco levemente inclinado anteriormente. Para estimativa do espectro de potência e cálculo da freqüência mediana (FM), foi utilizada uma Transformada de Fourier (FFT) dos sinais de ambos os músculos, antes e depois do protocolo GDLAM em três segmentos do sinal do teste de fadiga. Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas ao comparar os testes antes e depois, tanto para o vasto lateral (VL) quanto para os ísquio-surais (IS), independentemente do segmento avaliado (p > 0,05). Nem todos os indivíduos apresentaram fadiga antes e/ou depois. Para os que apresentaram fadiga em ambos os testes, houve uma tendência de maior fadiga no VL antes que após. Esta tendência não foi observada nos IS, uma vez que quatro indivíduos apresentaram maior taxa de queda na FM antes, quatro depois e um não apresentou fadiga em nenhum dos dois.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of functional autonomy of elderly subjects on muscle fatigue, evaluated through surface electromyography (SEMG). The subjects were volunteers of the program of physical activity. They were regularly participants of a physical activity program, and were measured when practicing the Protocol GDLAM, which was design to assess elderly autonomy. The duration of the fatigue test was 60s and the subject was maintained in an isometric position with the knee at 140° and trunk slightly inclined. In order to estimate the SEMG power spectra and to calculate the Median Frequency (FM), the Fast Fourier Transform was used for the tests before and after the GDLAM protocol in three segments of the fatigue symptoms. No significant difference was found when comparing the tests before and after, for the vast lateral (VL) and for the hamstrings, regardless the segment investigated (p > 0.05). Some of the subjects did not have fatigue before and/or after the GDLAM. For those who showed fatigue in both tests, there was more fatigue in the VL before than after. This tendency was not observed in the hamstrings, since four subjects showed higher rate of falls before the FM, four after and one did not have fatigue.

Effect of two different rest period lengths on the number of repetitions performed during resistance training.

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of 2 different rest period lengths during a resistance training session with the number of repetitions completed per set of each exercise, the volume completed over 3 sets of each exercise, and the total volume during a training session. Fourteen experienced, weight-trained men volunteered to participate in the study. All subjects completed 2 experimental training sessions. Both sessions consisted of 3 sets of 8 repetitions with an 8 repetition maximum resistance of 6 upper body exercises performed in a set manner (wide grip lat pull-down, close grip pull-down, machine seated row, barbell row lying on a bench, dumbbell seated arm curl, and machine seated arm curl). The 2 experimental sessions differed only in the length of the rest period between sets and exercises: 1 session with a 1-minute and the other with a 3-minute rest period. For all exercises, results demonstrate a significantly lower total number of repetitions for all 3 sets of an exercise when 1-minute rest periods were used (p < or = 0.05). The 3- and 1-minute protocols both resulted in a significant decrease from set 1 to set 3 in 4 of the 6 exercises (p < or = 0.05), whereas the 1-minute protocol also demonstrated a significant decrease from set 1 to set 2 in 2 of the 6 exercises (p < or = 0.05). The results indicate that, during a resistance training session composed of all upper body exercises, 1-minute rest periods result in a decrease in the total number of repetitions performed compared with 3-minute rest periods between sets and exercises.