The impact of enriched environments on cerebral oxidative balance in rodents: a systematic review of environmental variability effects.

Introduction: The present review aimed to systematically summarize the impacts of environmental enrichment (EE) on cerebral oxidative balance in rodents exposed to normal and unfavorable environmental conditions. Methods: In this systematic review, four databases were used: PubMed (830 articles), Scopus (126 articles), Embase (127 articles), and Science Direct (794 articles). Eligibility criteria were applied based on the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes, and Study (PICOS) strategy to reduce the risk of bias. The searches were carried out by two independent researchers; in case of disagreement, a third participant was requested. After the selection and inclusion of articles, data related to sample characteristics and the EE protocol (time of exposure to EE, number of animals, and size of the environment) were extracted, as well as data related to brain tissues and biomarkers of oxidative balance, including carbonyls, malondialdehyde, nitrotyrosine, oxygen-reactive species, and glutathione (reduced/oxidized). Results: A total of 1,877 articles were found in the four databases, of which 16 studies were included in this systematic review. The results showed that different EE protocols were able to produce a global increase in antioxidant capacity, both enzymatic and non-enzymatic, which are the main factors for the neuroprotective effects in the central nervous system (CNS) subjected to unfavorable conditions. Furthermore, it was possible to notice a slowdown in neural dysfunction associated with oxidative damage, especially in the prefrontal structure in mice. Discussion: In conclusion, EE protocols were determined to be valid tools for improving oxidative balance in the CNS. The global decrease in oxidative stress biomarkers indicates refinement in reactive oxygen species detoxification, triggering an improvement in the antioxidant network.

Environmental Enrichment in Cancer as a Possible Tool to Combat Tumor Development: A Systematic Review.

This systematic review aims to evaluate the influence of environmental enrichment (EE) on oncological factors in experimental studies involving various types of cancer models. A comprehensive search was conducted in three databases: PubMed (161 articles), Embase (335 articles), and Scopus (274 articles). Eligibility criteria were applied based on the PICOS strategy to minimize bias. Two independent researchers performed the searches, with a third participant resolving any discrepancies. The selected articles were analyzed, and data regarding sample characteristics and EE protocols were extracted. The outcomes focused solely on cancer and tumor-related parameters, including cancer type, description of the cancer model, angiogenesis, tumor occurrence, volume, weight, mice with tumors, and tumor inhibition rate. A total of 770 articles were identified across the three databases, with 12 studies meeting the inclusion criteria for this systematic review. The findings demonstrated that different EE protocols were effective in significantly reducing various aspects of tumor growth and development, such as angiogenesis, volume, weight, and the number of mice with tumors. Furthermore, EE enhanced the rate of tumor inhibition in mouse cancer models. This systematic review qualitatively demonstrates the impacts of EE protocols on multiple parameters associated with tumor growth and development, including angiogenesis, occurrence, volume, weight, and tumor incidence. Moreover, EE demonstrated the potential to increase the rate of tumor inhibition. These findings underscore the importance of EE as a valuable tool in the management of cancer.

Impacts of different triathlon races on systemic cytokine profile and metabolic parameters in healthy individuals: a systematic review.

The present systematic review aimed to discuss the impacts of different triathlon protocols on the level of pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines, as well as biomarkers related to the performance of healthy individuals. Four databases [PubMed (28 articles), Scopus (24 articles), Science Direct (200 articles), and SPORT Discus (1101 articles) were assessed. The eligibility criteria were applied, and the selected articles were used in the peer review, independently, as they were identified by March 2022. Of the 1359 articles found, 10 were included in this systematic review. Despite the difference in triathlon protocols, it was observed an increase in pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines including IL-4 and IL-10, and chemokines, such as IL-8 and MCP-1. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory serum levels increase after triathlon. Overall, the studies also reported enhancement in the serum levels of cortisol, creatine kinase, C reactive protein, Endothelial Growth Factor, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, Myostatin, Lactate dehydrogenase, free fatty acids, and lactate dehydrogenase in triathlon athletes. This systematic review indicates that different triathlon race promotes an acute elevation of circulating cytokines and chemokines levels which return to standard levels after triathlon races. The findings of this systematic review demonstrate that the modulation of inflammatory parameters may be associated with an increase in metabolic indicators (CK, Cortisol, and LDH) after the end of different types of triathlon races.

Post-activation performance enhancement effect of drop jump on long jump performance during competition.

Drop jump is widely used in training sessions, aiming for chronic effects on long jump performance. However, the acute effect of drop jump on long jump performance through its use as a Conditioning Activity (CA) has not been explored. The objective of this study was to verify the Post-activation Performance Enhancement (PAPE) responses induced by successive Drop Jumps (DJ) on competitive long jump performance. Eleven male jumpers (19.0 ± 2.0 years; 178.0 ± 9.0 cm; 73.1 ± 8.9 kg; and personal record 5.78 ± 0.44 m) volunteered for participation. The athletes performed 5 drop jumps 2 min (1'45-2'15 min) before the second, and fourth attempt during official competition of state level, the attempts without the use of CA were considered controls. The performance of the second (5.63 ± 0.43 m), third (5.65 ± 0.46, g = 0.24) and fourth (5.71 ± 0.34 m) jumps performed after activation were higher than the first (5.54 ± 0.45 m) in the control condition, p = 0.02, and p = 0.01 respectively. Differences were also found in the take-off vertical velocity of the jump between the fourth (1.55 ± 0.21) and the first jump (1.30 ± 0.40), p = 0.006. Jump performance showed positive correlation with approach velocity, r = 0.731, vertical take-off velocity, r = 0.412, and take-off duration, r = 0.508. The mean performance in jumping post-activation (5.67 ± 0.38 m) was higher than that without the use of previous CA (5.59 ± 0.44 m), p = 0.02, g = 0.19. The use of DJs as a CA prior to the long jump promotes improvements in the performance of the jump, which can be explained by the increase in the take-off vertical velocity in the athletes.

The frequency and performance trends of European countries in the U18 and U20 rankings for 1500 m and 3000 m between 2009-2020.

We purpose to determine the nationality of the European middle-distance athletes under 18 years (U18) and under 20 years (U20) during the last decade, to verify the participation trend for each country, and to assess whether the place of competition can be associated with the athletes ranking position. The sample comprised 902 European male runners, ranked among the best finishers from 2009 to 2020. The athletes were divided into two categories (nU18 â€‹= â€‹266; and nU20 â€‹= â€‹636) of two distances (n1 500 â€‹m â€‹= â€‹397; n3 000 â€‹m â€‹= â€‹505). The Mantel test was used for participation trend and the Chi-square test (χ2) was used to verify differences between the ranking position and the place of competition. For both distances, the highest number of athletes were from Spain (n = 127), followed by Turkey (n = 62) and Great Britain (n = 50). No significant trends were shown for most of the countries, in both distances. A positive trend was shown for Slovenia (i.e., 3000 â€‹m) over the years. A non-significant association was verified between the countries and the ranking position, as non-significant differences were proved for the place of competition. This information may be useful to guide athlete development programs in each country.

Acute effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on peak torque and 5000 m running performance: a randomized controlled trial.

The benefits of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on brain function, cognitive response, and motor ability are well described in scientific literature. Nevertheless, the effects of tDCS on athletes' performance remain unclear. To compare the acute effects of tDCS on the running performance of 5000 m (m) runners. Eighteen athletes were randomized into Anodal (n = 9) groups that received tDCS for 20 min and 2 mA, and Sham (n = 9), in the motor cortex region (M1). Running time in 5000 m, speed, perceived exertion (RPE), internal load and peak torque (Pt) were evaluated. The Shapiro-Wilk test followed by a paired Student's t-test was used to compare Pt and total time to complete the run between the groups. The running time and speed of the Anodal group (p = 0.02; 95% CI 0.11-2.32; d = 1.24) was lower than the Sham group (p = 0.02, 95% CI 0.05-2.20; d = 1.15). However, no difference was found in Pt (p = 0.70; 95% CI - 0.75 to 1.11; d = 0.18), RPE (p = 0.23; 95% CI - 1.55 to 0.39; d = 0.60) and internal charge (p = 0.73; 95% CI - 0.77 to 1.09; d = 0.17). Our data indicate that tDCS can acutely optimize the time and speed of 5000 m runners. However, no alterations were found for Pt and RPE.

Physical Exercise Decreases Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Central and Peripheral Tissues of Rodents: A Systematic Review.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress) affects many tissues and contributes to the development and severity of chronic diseases. In contrast, regular physical exercise (PE) has been considered a powerful tool to prevent and control several chronic diseases. The present systematic review aimed to evaluate the impact of different PE protocols on ER stress markers in central and peripheral tissues in rodents. The eligibility criteria were based on PICOS (population: rodents; intervention: physical exercise/physical training; control: animals that did not undergo training; outcomes: endoplasmic reticulum stress; studies: experimental). The PubMed/Medline, Science Direct, Scopus, and Scielo databases were analyzed systematically. Quality assessment was performed using SYRCLE's risk of bias tool for animal studies. The results were qualitatively synthesized. Initially, we obtained a total of 2.490 articles. After excluding duplicates, 30 studies were considered eligible. Sixteen studies were excluded for not meeting the eligibility criteria. Therefore, 14 articles were included. The PE protocol showed decreased levels/expression of markers of ER stress in the central and peripheral tissues of rodents. PE can decrease ER stress by reducing cellular stress in the cardiac, brain, and skeletal muscle tissues in rodents. However, robust PE protocols must be considered, including frequency, duration, and intensity, to optimize the PE benefits of counteracting ER stress and its associated conditions.

Effects of aerobic exercise training in oxidative metabolism and mitochondrial biogenesis markers on prefrontal cortex in obese mice.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the effects of 8 weeks of Aerobic Physical Training (AET) on the mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative balance in the Prefrontal Cortex (PFC) of leptin deficiency-induced obese mice (ob/ob mice). METHODS: Then, the mice were submitted to an 8-week protocol of aerobic physical training (AET) at moderate intensity (60% of the maximum running speed). In the oxidative stress, we analyzed Malonaldehyde (MDA) and Carbonyls, the enzymatic activity of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT) and Glutathione S Transferase (GST), non-enzymatic antioxidant system: reduced glutathione (GSH), and Total thiols. Additionally, we evaluated the gene expression of PGC-1α SIRT-1, and ATP5A related to mitochondrial biogenesis and function. RESULTS: In our study, we did not observe a significant difference in MDA (p = 0.2855), Carbonyl's (p = 0.2246), SOD (p = 0.1595), and CAT (p = 0.6882) activity. However, the activity of GST (p = 0.04), the levels of GSH (p = 0.001), and Thiols (p = 0.02) were increased after 8 weeks of AET. Additionally, there were high levels of PGC-1α (p = 0.01), SIRT-1 (p = 0.009), and ATP5A (p = 0.01) gene expression after AET in comparison with the sedentary group. CONCLUSIONS: AET for eight weeks can improve antioxidant defense and increase the expression of PGC-1α, SIRT-1, and ATP5A in PFC of ob/ob mice.

Effects of ibuprofen during 42-km trail running on oxidative stress, muscle fatigue, muscle damage and performance: a randomized controlled trial.

Up to 75% of marathon runners ingest non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) during competition. Despite the doubt whether or not they contribute to performance, the effect of NSAID in endurance sports is unclear. We evaluated the effect of ibuprofen (IBU) use on oxidative stress, muscle damage, physical performance, and vertical jump of runners participating in a 42-km-trail running. The sample consisted of 12 men randomly divided into 2 groups: a placebo group (placebo) and an ibuprofen group (IBG). A 400-mg IBU capsule was administered to the IBG 15 min prior to the start of the trial and during the course after 5 h. In the intergroup analysis, placebo 70.1% increase (p < 0.0001; Cohen's d = 4.77) of the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS); the IBG exhibited a 31.46% increase of the sulphhydryl groups (SH) (p = 0.024, Cohen's d = 0.27), 55% of squat jump (SJ) (p < 0.01; Cohen's d = 1.41) with no significant effect on creatine kinase (CK), pace, speed, and finish time. In summary, IBU had positive evidence on oxidative stress and muscle fatigue, but had no effect on physical performance and muscle damage.

Acute Neuromuscular, Physiological and Performance Responses After Strength Training in Runners: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Strength training (ST) is commonly used to improve muscle strength, power, and neuromuscular adaptations and is recommended combined with runner training. It is possible that the acute effects of the strength training session lead to deleterious effects in the subsequent running. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to verify the acute effects of ST session on the neuromuscular, physiological and performance variables of runners. METHODS: Studies evaluating running performance after resistance exercise in runners in the PubMed and Scopus databases were selected. From 6532 initial references, 19 were selected for qualitative analysis and 13 for meta-analysis. The variables of peak torque (PT), creatine kinase (CK), delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), countermovement jump (CMJ), ventilation (VE), oxygen consumption (VO2), lactate (La) and heart rate (HR) were evaluated. RESULTS: The methodological quality of the included studies was considered reasonable; the meta-analysis indicated that the variables PT (p = 0.003), DOMS (p < 0.0001), CK (p < 0.0001), RPE (p < 0.0001) had a deleterious effect for the experimental group; for CMJ, VE, VO2, La, FC there was no difference. By qualitative synthesis, running performance showed a reduction in speed for the experimental group in two studies and in all that assessed time to exhaustion. CONCLUSION: The evidence indicated that acute strength training was associated with a decrease in PT, increases in DOMS, CK, RPE and had a low impact on the acute responses of CMJ, VE, VO2, La, HR and submaximal running sessions.

Evaluation of Ibuprofen Use on the Immune System Indicators and Force in Disabled Paralympic Powerlifters of Different Sport Levels.

Background: Paralympic powerlifting (PP) training is typically intense and causes fatigue and alterations in the immune system. Objective: To analyze whether IBU would affect performance and the immune system after training in PP. Methodology: 10 athletes at the national level (NL) and 10 at the regional level (RL) participated in the study, where force and blood indicators were evaluated after training. The study took place over three weeks: (1) familiarization and (2 and 3) comparison between recovery methods, with ibuprofen or placebo (IBU vs. PLA), 800 mg. In the evaluation of the force, the peak torque (PT), fatigue index (FI), and blood immune system biomarkers were analyzed. The training consisted of five sets of five repetitions with 80% of one maximum repetition (5 × 5, 80% 1RM) on the bench press. Results: The PT at the national level using IBU was higher than with PLA (p = 0.007, η2p = 0.347), and the FI in the NL was lower with IBU than with PLA (p = 0.002, η2p = 0.635), and when comparing the use of IBU, the NL showed less fatigue than the regional level (p = 0.004, η2p = 0.414). Leukocytes, with the use of IBU in the NL group, were greater than in the RL (p = 0.001, η2p = 0.329). Neutrophils, in the NL with IBU, were greater than in the RL with IBU and PLA (p = 0.025, η2p = 0.444). Lymphocytes, in NL with IBU were lower than in RL with IBU and PLA (p = 0.001, η2p = 0.491). Monocytes, in the NL with IBU and PLA, were lower than in the RL with IBU (p = 0.049, η2p = 0.344). For hemoglobin, hematocrit, and erythrocyte, the NL with IBU and PLA were higher than the RL with IBU and PLA (p < 0.05). Ammonia, with the use of IBU in the NL, obtained values higher than in the RL (p = 0.007), and with the use of PLA, the NL was higher than the RL (p = 0.038, η2p = 0.570). Conclusion: The training level tends to influence the immune system and, combined with the use of the IBU, it tends to improve recovery and the immune system.

High-intensity resistance exercise and Schinus terenbinthifolius supplementation attenuate oxidative stress and muscle damage biomarkers / El ejercicio de resistencia de alta intensidad y la suplementación con Schinus terenbinthifolius atenúan los biomarcadores del estrés oxidativo y daño muscular

SUMMARY: High-intensity physical exercises can cause oxidative stress and muscle damage. Several medicinal plants have been used as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. The present study evaluated high-intensity resistance exercise (HIRE) associated with Schinus Terebentifholius ethanolic extract (EE) on oxidative parameters and muscle damage in Wistar rats. Animals were divided into 04 groups (n=10/group): 1. Control (CG) - animals that did not undergo HIRE and were treated with vehicle (distilled water, orally); 2. Acute exercise (AE) - animals submitted to acute exercise session; 3. Exercise + vehicle (EV) - animals that underwent HIRE and were treated with vehicle and 4. Exercise + extract (EX) animals administered with Schinus terebenthifolius EE (100mg/Kg, orally) and submitted to the exercise session. Schinus terebenthifolius EE showed high in vitro antioxidant activity (13.88 ± 0.36 mg/mL). Before the experimental period, lactate was measured at pre and post moments of AE (p<0.0001) and EX (p<0.0001) groups. After the acute session, the following were evaluated: oxidative stress {malondialdehyde (MDA), sulfhydryl groups (SH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)}, muscle damage (creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). In the in vivo analyses of the EX group compared to AE and EV groups, respectively: hepatic (MDA: p<0.0001 and SH: p=0.0033, in both; FRAP: p=0.0011 and p=0.0047), muscle (MDA, SH and FRAP: p<0.0001, in both; CK: p=0.0001 and p<0.0001; LDH: p<0.0001, in both), serum levels (MDA: p=0.0003, p=0.0012, SH: p=0.0056, p=0.0200, FRAP: p=0.0017 and p=0.0165) were significant. There was no significant difference in ALT and AST markers. It could be concluded that Schinus terebenthifolius EE associated with HIRE attenuated oxidative stress and muscle damage in rats.

RESUMEN: Los ejercicios físicos de alta intensidad pueden causar estrés oxidativo y daño muscular. Varias plantas medicinales se han utilizado como agentes antioxidantes y antiinflamatorios. El presente estudio evaluó el ejercicio de resistencia de alta intensidad (HIRE) asociado con el extracto etanólico (EE) de Schinus terebentifholius sobre los parámetros oxidativos y el daño muscular en ratas Wistar. Los animales se dividieron en 4 grupos (n=10/grupo): 1. Control (GC) - animales que no se sometieron a HIRE y fueron tratados con vehículo (agua destilada, por vía oral); 2. Ejercicio agudo (AE) - animales sometidos a sesión de ejercicio agudo; 3. Ejercicio + vehículo (EV) - animales que se sometieron a HIRE y fueron tratados con vehículo y 4. Ejercicio + extracto (EX) animales administrados con Schinus terebenthifolius EE (100 mg/kg, por vía oral) y sometidos a la sesión de ejercicio. Schinus terebenthifolius EE mostró una alta actividad antioxidante in vitro (13,88 ± 0,36 mg/mL). Antes del período experimental, se midió el lactato en los momentos pre y post de los grupos AE (p<0,0001) y EX (p<0,0001). Tras la sesión aguda, se evaluaron: el estrés oxidativo malondialdehído (MDA), grupos sulfhidrilo (SH) y poder antioxidante reductor férrico (FRAP), daño muscular (creatina quinasa (CK) y lactato deshidrogenasa (LDH)), alanina aminotransferasa (ALT) y aspartato aminotransferasa (AST). En los análisis in vivo del grupo EX frente a los grupos AE y EV, respectivamente: hepático (MDA: p<0,0001 y SH: p=0,0033, en ambos; FRAP: p=0,0011 y p=0,0047), muscular (MDA, SH y FRAP: p<0,0001, en ambos; CK: p=0,0001 y p<0,0001; LDH: p<0,0001, en ambos), niveles séricos (MDA: p=0,0003, p=0,0012, SH: p=0,0056, p=0,0200, FRAP: p=0,0017 y p=0,0165) fueron significativas. No hubo diferencia significativa en los marcadores ALT y AST. Se podría concluir que Schinus terebenthifolius EE asociado con HIRE atenuó el estrés oxidativo y el daño muscular en ratas.

Changes in Cytokines Concentration Following Long-Distance Running: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Long-distance running is an exhausting effort for the whole organism. Prolonged aerobic exercise induces changes in inflammatory markers. However, predicting muscle damage in response has limitations in terms of selecting biomarkers used to measure inflammatory status. The present study conducts a systematic review and meta-analysis of articles focusing in ultra-marathon, marathon, and half-marathon and levels of cytokines. The search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, resulting in the inclusion of 76 articles. IL-6 was highlighted, evaluated in 62 studies and show increase in the standard mean difference (SMD): half-marathon (SMD -1.36; IC 95%: -1.82, -0.89, Ch2:0.58; tau2:0.00; p < 0.0001), marathon (SMD -6.81; IC 95%: -9.26, -4.37; Ch2:481.37 tau2:11.88; p < 0.0001) and ultra-marathon (SMD -8.00 IC 95%: -10.47, -5.53; Ch2:328.40; tau2:14.19; p < 0.0001). In contrast meta-regression analysis did not show relationship to the running distance (p = 0.864). The meta-analysis evidenced increase in the concentration of IL-1ra (p < 0.0001), IL-1B (p < 0.0001), IL-8 (p < 0.0001), IL-10 (p < 0.0001) and TNF-α (p < 0.0001). Reduction in IL-2 (p < 0.0001) and INF-y (p < 0.03) and no change in the IL-4 (p < 0.56). The number of studies evaluating the effect of adipokines was limited, however Leptin and Resistin were recurrent. The effects of an acute bout of prolonged aerobic exercise will protect against chronic systemic inflammation. The time to return to baseline values showed a substantial and dose-dependent relationship with run volume. The concentration of IL-6 was robustly studied and the marathon running was the most explored. Network of endocrine interactions in which circulating factors, released in extreme exercises, interplay through inter-organ crosstalk and physiologic changes were expressed. The running volume variability was able to modulate compounds that play a fundamental role in the maintenance of homeostasis and cell signaling.

Brain-computer interface combined with mental practice and occupational therapy enhances upper limb motor recovery, activities of daily living, and participation in subacute stroke.

Background: We investigated the effects of brain-computer interface (BCI) combined with mental practice (MP) and occupational therapy (OT) on performance in activities of daily living (ADL) in stroke survivors. Methods: Participants were randomized into two groups: experimental (n = 23, BCI controlling a hand exoskeleton combined with MP and OT) and control (n = 21, OT). Subjects were assessed with the functional independence measure (FIM), motor activity log (MAL), amount of use (MAL-AOM), and quality of movement (MAL-QOM). The box and blocks test (BBT) and the Jebsen hand functional test (JHFT) were used for the primary outcome of performance in ADL, while the Fugl-Meyer Assessment was used for the secondary outcome. Exoskeleton activation and the degree of motor imagery (measured as event-related desynchronization) were assessed in the experimental group. For the BCI, the EEG electrodes were placed on the regions of FC3, C3, CP3, FC4, C4, and CP4, according to the international 10-20 EEG system. The exoskeleton was placed on the affected hand. MP was based on functional tasks. OT consisted of ADL training, muscle mobilization, reaching tasks, manipulation and prehension, mirror therapy, and high-frequency therapeutic vibration. The protocol lasted 1 h, five times a week, for 2 weeks. Results: There was a difference between baseline and post-intervention analysis for the experimental group in all evaluations: FIM (p = 0.001, d = 0.56), MAL-AOM (p = 0.001, d = 0.83), MAL-QOM (p = 0.006, d = 0.84), BBT (p = 0.004, d = 0.40), and JHFT (p = 0.001, d = 0.45). Within the experimental group, post-intervention improvements were detected in the degree of motor imagery (p < 0.001) and the amount of exoskeleton activations (p < 0.001). For the control group, differences were detected for MAL-AOM (p = 0.001, d = 0.72), MAL-QOM (p = 0.013, d = 0.50), and BBT (p = 0.005, d = 0.23). Notably, the effect sizes were larger for the experimental group. No differences were detected between groups at post-intervention. Conclusion: BCI combined with MP and OT is a promising tool for promoting sensorimotor recovery of the upper limb and functional independence in subacute post-stroke survivors.

Ultramarathon Evaluation above 180 km in relation to Peak Age and Performance.

Background: Ultramarathons with distances over 180 km might lead to different results regarding participation, performance, and age compared to shorter runs of 50 and 100 km. Objective: To evaluate ultramarathons with distances above 180 km in relation to runners' peak age and performance. Method: s. Verification of the quantity of competitions in runs over 180 km by continents in the period 2000 to 2020 and evaluation of the individual results of 13,300 athletes after 2010. Results: Europe stood out with the largest number of organized events, followed by Asia and North America. The age peak performance (PP) in men and women averaged 45 years old with relationship between sex × years (F = 3.612, p < 0.001; η2 = 0.003). Men accounted for more than 80% of the runners and showed a reduction in PP from 2015 onwards (p < 0.001). Competitions between 180 and 240 km were the most frequent, particularly after 2016, surpassing the number of marathons over 360 km (p < 0.001). Men and women showed higher velocity in distances (p < 0.001) from 180 to 240 km when compared to 241 to 300 k m, 301 to 360 km, and >360 km courses. Conclusions: The decade between 2010 and 2020 showed an increase in the number of Ultramarathon running events. Europe had the highest number. Women had low participation. Performance progression fell, a fact associated with an increase in the number of participants and not specifically related to a decline in athletic performance over the years.

Evaluation of the Post-Training Hypotensor Effect in Paralympic and Conventional Powerlifting.

High blood pressure (HBP) has been associated with several complications and causes of death. The objective of the study was to analyze the hemodynamic responses in Paralympic bench press powerlifting (PP) and conventional powerlifting (CP) before and after training and up to 60 minutes (min) after training. Ten PP and 10 CP athletes performed five sets of five repetition maximal bench press exercises, and we evaluated systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure (SBP, DBP, and MBP, respectively), heart rate (HR), heart pressure product (HPP), and myocardial oxygen volume (MVO2). The SBP increased after training (p < 0.001), and there were differences in the post training and 30, 40, and 60 min later (p = 0.021), between 10 and 40 min after training (p = 0.031, η2p = 0.570), and between CP and PP (p =0.028, η2p = 0.570). In the MBP, there were differences between before and after (p = 0.016) and 40 min later (p = 0.040, η2p = 0.309). In the HR, there was a difference between before and after, and 5 and 10 min later (p = 0.002), and between after and 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min later (p < 0.001, η2p = 0.767). In HPP and MVO2, there were differences between before and after (p = 0.006), and between after and 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min later (p < 0.001, η2p = 0.816). In CP and PP, there is no risk of hemodynamic overload to athletes, considering the results of the HPP, and training promotes a moderate hypotensive effect, with blood pressure adaptation after and 60 min after exercise.