Is resistance training a protective factor for musculoskeletal injuries in crossfit practitioners? / ¿es el entrenamiento de resistencia un factor protector de las lesiones musculoesqueléticas en crossfit? / Treinamento resistido é um fator de proteção para lesões musculoesqueléticas no crossfit?

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of musculoskeletal injuries associated with CrossFit® practitioners and the relationship of this prevalence among those who concomitantly perform resistance training (RT). Methods: Cross-sectional study in which adult participants of both sexes were included, who answered a mixed morbidity questionnaire adapted. The participants were allocated into groups according to whether or not they practiced another modality along with CrossFit®, with emphasis on RT. Analytical and descriptive statistics procedures were used, with a statistical significance level of 5% (p<0.05). Results: A total of 179 participants were included in the study. Prevalences of musculoskeletal injuries were observed in the overall study sample of 32.4% and in those who perform CrossFit® with RT of 30.8%. The injury prevalence ratio for this group was 0.95, with lower injury prevalence for the upper limbs (p=0.03) and lower limbs (p=0.02). It is worth noting that 96% of the CrossFit® and RT practitioners did strength training focused only on the upper and/or lower limb musculatures, without specific training for the anatomical segment of the Core (lumbar and pelvis). Conclusion: RT associated with CrossFit® and covering all anatomical segments, can be considered a protective factor for the occurrence of musculoskeletal injuries in CrossFit®. Level of Evidence IV; Case Series.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar la prevalencia y las características de las lesiones musculoesqueléticas asociadas a los practicantes de CrossFit® y la relación entre esta prevalencia y los que realizan simultáneamente entrenamiento de resistencia (ER). Métodos: Se trató de un estudio transversal en el que participaron adultos de ambos sexos que respondieron a un cuestionario adaptado de morbilidad mixta. Los participantes se dividieron en grupos según practicaran o no otro deporte junto con CrossFit®, en particular entrenamiento de resistencia. Se utilizaron procedimientos estadísticos analíticos y descriptivos, con un nivel de significación estadística del 5% (p<0,05). Resultados: Se incluyó en el estudio a un total de 179 participantes. Hubo una prevalencia de lesiones musculoesqueléticas en la muestra global del estudio del 32,4% y en los que practicaban CrossFit® con ER del 30,8%.El ratio de prevalencia de lesiones para este grupo fue de 0,95, con una menor prevalencia de lesiones en las extremidades superiores (p=0,03) y en las extremidades inferiores (p=0,02).Cabe destacar que el 96% de los practicantes de CrossFit® y ER realizaban entrenamientos de fuerza centrados únicamente en la musculatura de los miembros superiores y/o inferiores, sin realizar entrenamientos específicos para el segmento anatómico del Core (regiones lumbar y pélvica). Conclusión: El ER asociado al CrossFit® y que cubre todos los segmentos anatómicos puede ser considerado un factor protector contra la ocurrencia de lesiones músculo-esqueléticas en CrossFit®. Nivel de Evidencia IV; Serie de Casos.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência e as características das lesões musculoesqueléticas associadas aos praticantes de CrossFit® e a relação dessa prevalência entre aqueles que realizam de forma concomitante o treinamento resistido (TR). Métodos: Estudo transversal, no qual foram incluídos participantes adultos de ambos os sexos, que responderam a um questionário misto de morbidade adaptado. Os participantes foram divididos em grupos de acordo com a prática ou não de outra modalidade juntamente ao CrossFit®, com destaque para o TR. Foram utilizados procedimentos de estatísticas analítica e descritiva, com um nível de significância estatística de 5% (p<0,05). Resultados: Foram incluídos no estudo 179 participantes. Observaram-se prevalências de lesões musculoesqueléticas na amostra geral do estudo de 32,4% e naqueles que realizam o CrossFit® com TR de 30,8%. A razão de prevalência de lesões para esse grupo foi de 0,95, com menor prevalência de lesões para os membros superiores (p=0,03) e inferiores (p=0,02). Vale a pena destacar que 96% dos praticantes de CrossFit® e TR realizaram treinamentos de força com foco apenas nas musculaturas dos membros superiores e/ou inferiores, sem realização de treinamento específico para o segmento anatômico do Core (regiões lombar e pelve). Conclusão: O TR associado ao CrossFit® e com abrangência a todos os segmentos anatômicos pode ser considerado um fator de proteção para a ocorrência de lesões musculoesquelética no CrossFit®. Nível de Evidência IV; Série de Casos.

Sedentary postmenopausal women not undergoing hormone replacement therapy can have their blood pressure lowered by performing resistance training: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract Aim: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at examining the literature regarding the effects of resistance training (RT) on blood pressure (BP) in postmenopausal women. Methods: The Pubmed, Scopus, Embase, and BVS databases were accessed by two independent reviewers between July 2020, and June 2021 to search for studies that investigated the effects of RT on BP. The eligibility criteria were determined by the PICOT strategy. P: postmenopausal women, I: RT, in which training variables are presented, C: presence of a control group that does not receive any type of intervention, O: BP measured in both groups, at least before and after the intervention, T: randomized controlled trial. For the studies included in the meta-analysis, we calculated the effects sizes based on the net changes in the systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) BP for a random effect model with a confidence interval of 95% and a statistical significance of p < 0.05. Results: The RT group presented a significantly lower SBP (−7.25 mmHg [95% CI: −14.04, −0.45], p = 0.04), while DBP was not statistically significantly different compared to controlled conditions (−2.54 mmHg [95% CI: −5.52, 0.44], p = 0.09). Conclusions: Physically-inactive postmenopausal women who did not take hormone replacement but performed RT exercise had a lower BP value when compared to the control group.

Knee injuries prevalence in brazilian jiu-jitsu: epidemiological study / Prevalência de lesões do joelho no jiu-jitsu brasileiro: estudo epidemiológico

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of knee injuries in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioners. Methods: Cross-sectional study, using a mixed questionnaire, based on the Referred Morbidity Index. Results: 198 amateur and professional BJJ fighters, of both sexes, aged between 18 and 60 years, participated in the study. The majority (88%) of the fighters had only one knee injury (p < 0.001). In total, 29.8% proportion of knee injuries (p < 0.001) was identified, which were mainly from the medial collateral ligament (38%), caused by a sprain mechanism (86%) and conservative treatment (65%). Conclusion: A high prevalence of knee injuries in JJB fighters was found, compared to other sports that also perform rotational movements and have great body contact, such as mixed martial arts (MMA), judo, soccer, basketball and handball. Some JJB strikes, such as the key and the projection, can cause greater knee joint stress, both in the attacking fighter and in the opponent. The knowledge of the epidemiological characteristics of sports injuries is important in the elaboration of prevention and training protocols more specific to the sport and for the understanding of the complex mechanisms involved with this outcome in sport. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar as características epidemiológicas e clínicas das lesões no joelho de praticantes de jiu-jitsu brasileiro (JJB). Métodos: Estudo de desenho transversal, por meio de questionário do tipo misto, baseado no Índice de Morbidade Referida. Resultados: Participaram 198 lutadores amadores e profissionais de JJB, de ambos os sexos, com idades entre 18 e 60 anos. A grande maioria (88%) dos lutadores apresentou apenas uma lesão no joelho (p < 0,001). Observou-se proporção de 29,8% de lesões no joelho (p < 0,001), que foram principalmente do ligamento colateral medial (38%), causadas por mecanismo de entorse (86%) e de tratamento conservador (65%). Conclusões: Observou-se alta prevalência de lesões no joelho em lutadores de JJB, comparativamente a outros esportes que também realizam movimentos rotacionais e têm grande contato corporal, como as artes marciais mistas (MMA), o judô, o futebol, o basquetebol e o handebol. Alguns golpes do JJB, como a chave e a projeção, podem causar maior estresse articular no joelho, tanto no lutador que ataca quanto no oponente. O conhecimento das características epidemiológicas das lesões esportivas é importante na elaboração de protocolos de prevenção e treinamento mais específicos à modalidade e também para a compreensão dos mecanismos complexos envolvidos com esse desfecho no esporte. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

Does the Fight Profile Interfere with Orthopedic Injuries in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

PURPOSE: To evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of orthopedic injuries associated with the technical-tactical profiles of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) fighters, according to the fighters' graduation level (beginner and advanced). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study, which included the participation of amateur and professional BJJ athletes, aged between 18 and 60 years and practitioners of the sport for at least six months. All answered a mixed self-reported morbidity questionnaire. Participants were divided into four groups, according to the technical-tactical profile in the fight (keeper and passer) and the fighter's graduation level (beginner and advanced), and also into four subgroups, divided by joining the groups in pairs above. Descriptive and analytical statistical procedures were used, with a level of statistical significance set at 5% (p < 0.05). RESULTS: A total of 198 participants were included in the study. There was a higher prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries in advanced fighters (p<0.001), with no significant difference between the profiles of guard and passer fighters. Sprains were the most common type of injury in all studied groups and subgroups. The anatomical segments knee and shoulder, respectively, were the most affected in all groups, and both segments showed significant associations of the athletes in the advanced and guard groups. CONCLUSION: The study showed important data for creation of specifics injury prevention protocols, through the higher prevalence of injuries in athletes of the advanced profile and in the segments of the knee and shoulder, with emphasis on the guard fighters.

Compression Stockings Used During Two Soccer Matches Improve Perceived Muscle Soreness and High-Intensity Performance.

ABSTRACT: Gimenes, SV, Marocolo, M, Pavin, LN, Pagoto Spigolon, LM, Neto, OB, Côrrea da Silva, BV, Duffield, R, and Ribeiro da Mota, G. Compression stockings used during two soccer matches improve perceived muscle soreness and high-intensity performance. J Strength Cond Res 35(7): 2010-2017, 2021-Evidence on the use of compression stockings (CS) during soccer matches is limited. Thus, we evaluated the acute effects of CS on match-based physical performance indicators and perceptual responses during 2 consecutive soccer matches with 72-hour recovery. Twenty outfield players were randomly allocated to the CS group (20-30 mm Hg) or control group (non-CS) and performed 2 matches (5 players using CS or regular socks per team/match). Match loads {rating of perceived exertion × minutes; CS ∼830 vs. control 843 (arbitrary units [AU])} and heart rate (HR) responses (both CS and control ∼86% HRpeak) did not differ (p > 0.05) between CS and control groups. Although total distance covered did not differ (p > 0.05) between groups, CS increased distances (effect size [ES] = 0.9-1.32) in higher-speed zones (>19 km·h-1 CS ∼550 m vs. control ∼373 m) alongside an increased number of accelerations (-50.0 to -3.0 m·s-2) than control (CS: 33.7 ± 11.2 vs. control: 23.8 ± 7.9; p = 0.003; ES = 1.04). Perceived recovery did not differ (p > 0.05) between groups for either match but was worse in the second match for both groups. Perceived muscle soreness increased in control after match 2 (from 3.1 ± 1.9 to 6.3 ± 1.6 AU; p < 0.0010) but did not in CS (from 2.8 ± 1.4 to 4.1 ± 1.9 AU; p = 0.6275; ES = 1.24 CS vs. control after match). Accordingly, CS use during 2 soccer matches with 72-hour recovery reduces perceived muscle soreness in the second match and increases higher-speed match running performance.

Acute Photobiomodulation Does Not Influence Specific High-Intensity and Intermittent Performance in Female Futsal Players.

The acute improvement of performance after photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) has been reported in different types of exercise. However, the effect on high-intensity and intermittent exercises that are relevant for team sports is unknown. Thus, we evaluated the effect of prior acute application of PBMT on high-intensity and intermittent exercise performance, muscle oxygenation, and physiological/perceptual indicators in amateur female futsal players. Thirteen players (24.1 ± 3.7 years) performed a testing battery (countermovement jump (CMJ), Illinois agility and YoYo intermittent recovery test level 1 (YYIR1)) preceded by 15 min of PBMT (1 min 30 s each muscular point; five muscular points in each lower limbs) or 15 min of placebo (SHAM), in a counterbalanced randomized cross-over design (one-week in-between PBMT/SHAM). All test performance did not differ (p > 0.05) between PBMT and SHAM, as well as blood lactate, rating of perceived exertion, heart rate, and muscle oxygenation (via near infrared spectroscopy) responses. The acute application of PBMT prior to a physical testing battery does not influence high-intensity and intermittent exercises performance, neither physiological nor perceptual responses in amateur female futsal players.

Combined effects of exercise training and high doses of anabolic steroids on cardiac autonomic modulation and ventricular repolarization properties in rats.

Several studies have reported that high doses of synthetic anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) can have serious negative effects on health, including the cardiovascular system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the combined effects of AAS and exercise training on ventricular repolarization and cardiac autonomic modulation in rats. Male Wistar rats were allocated into 4 groups: sedentary rats treated with vehicle, sedentary rats treated with nandrolone decanoate, swimming-trained rats treated with vehicle, and swimming-trained rats treated with nandrolone decanoate. Ventricular repolarization was evaluated by electrocardiographic analysis of QT interval and QT dispersion. Cardiac autonomic modulation was assessed by heart rate variability. Our results show that AAS increased QT interval and QT dispersion in sedentary rats treated with nandrolone decanoate as compared to sedentary rats treated with vehicle, indicating AAS-induced ventricular repolarization abnormalities. When rats treated with nandrolone decanoate were subjected to concomitant exercise training, ventricular repolarization was normalized. On the other hand, AAS-induced reduction in cardiac parasympathetic modulation was not prevented by exercise training. In conclusion, AAS produced cardiac autonomic dysfunction and ventricular repolarization disturbances in rats. Combining an exercise training protocol during the AAS treatment attenuated the ventricular repolarization abnormalities and did not prevent cardiac autonomic dysfunction.

Low levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate are associated with the risk of developing cardiac autonomic dysfunction in elderly subjects.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationships between serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) levels and heart rate variability (HRV) among different age groups. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Forty-five healthy men were divided into 3 groups: young age (YA; 20-39 yrs; n = 15), middle age (MA; 40-59 yrs; n = 15) and old age (OA; ≥ 60 yrs; n = 15). Hemodynamic parameters, linear analyses of HRV and concentrations of cortisol and DHEA-S were measured at rest. RESULTS: The OA group presented a higher resting heart rate (84.3 ± 4.6 bpm) than the YA group (72.0 ± 4.4 bpm; p < 0.05). The YA group showed an attenuated variance of HRV (2235.1 ± 417.9 ms2) compared to the MA (1014.3 ± 265.2 ms2; p < 0.05) and OA (896.3 ± 274.1 ms2; p < 0.05) groups, respectively. The parasympathetic modulation of HRV was lower in both the MA (244.2 ± 58.0 ms2) and OA (172.8 ± 37.9 ms2) groups in comparison with the YA group (996.0 ± 255.4 ms2; p < 0.05), while serum DHEA-S levels were significantly lower in both the MA (91.2 ± 19.6 mg/dL) and OA (54.2 ± 17.7 mg/dL) groups compared to the YA group (240.0 ± 50.8 mg/dL; p < 0.05). A positive correlation between lower serum concentrations of DHEA-S and attenuated variance of HRV (r = 0.47, p = 0.031), as well as lower serum concentrations of DHEA-S and decreased parasympathetic modulation of HRV (r = 0.54, p = 0.010), were found. CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrated that the decline of plasma DHEA-S is associated with reduced cardiac autonomic modulation during the aging process.

Low levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate are associated with the risk of developing cardiac autonomic dysfunction in elderly subjects

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the relationships between serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) levels and heart rate variability (HRV) among different age groups. Subjects and methods: Forty-five healthy men were divided into 3 groups: young age (YA; 20-39 yrs; n = 15), middle age (MA; 40-59 yrs; n = 15) and old age (OA; ≥ 60 yrs; n = 15). Hemodynamic parameters, linear analyses of HRV and concentrations of cortisol and DHEA-S were measured at rest. Results: The OA group presented a higher resting heart rate (84.3 ± 4.6 bpm) than the YA group (72.0 ± 4.4 bpm; p < 0.05). The YA group showed an attenuated variance of HRV (2235.1 ± 417.9 ms2) compared to the MA (1014.3 ± 265.2 ms2; p < 0.05) and OA (896.3 ± 274.1 ms2; p < 0.05) groups, respectively. The parasympathetic modulation of HRV was lower in both the MA (244.2 ± 58.0 ms2) and OA (172.8 ± 37.9 ms2) groups in comparison with the YA group (996.0 ± 255.4 ms2; p < 0.05), while serum DHEA-S levels were significantly lower in both the MA (91.2 ± 19.6 mg/dL) and OA (54.2 ± 17.7 mg/dL) groups compared to the YA group (240.0 ± 50.8 mg/dL; p < 0.05). A positive correlation between lower serum concentrations of DHEA-S and attenuated variance of HRV (r = 0.47, p = 0.031), as well as lower serum concentrations of DHEA-S and decreased parasympathetic modulation of HRV (r = 0.54, p = 0.010), were found. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that the decline of plasma DHEA-S is associated with reduced cardiac autonomic modulation during the aging process.

Exercise Training Attenuates Sympathetic Activity and Improves Morphometry of Splenic Arterioles in Spontaneously Hipertensive Rats.

BACKGROUND: Alterations in the structure of resistance vessels contribute to elevated systemic vascular resistance in hypertension and are linked to sympathetic hyperactivity and related lesions in target organs. OBJECTIVE: To assess the effects of exercise training on hemodynamic and autonomic parameters, as well as splenic arteriolar damages in male Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats (SHR). METHODS: Normotensive sedentary (WKYS) and trained (WKYT) rats, and hypertensive sedentary (SHRS) and trained (SHRT) rats were included in this study. After 9 weeks of experimental protocol (swimming training or sedentary control), arterial pressure (AP) and heart rate (HR) were recorded in freely moving rats. We assessed the autonomic control of the heart by sympathetic and vagal autonomic blockade. Morphometric analyses of arterioles were performed in spleen tissues. The statistical significance level was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Resting bradycardia was observed in both trained groups (WKYT: 328.0 ± 7.3 bpm; SHRT: 337.0 ± 5.2 bpm) compared with their respective sedentary groups (WKYS: 353.2 ± 8.5 bpm; SHRS: 412.1 ± 10.4 bpm; p < 0.001). Exercise training attenuated mean AP only in SHRT (125.9 ± 6.2 mmHg) vs. SHRS (182.5 ± 4.2 mmHg, p < 0.001). The WKYT showed a higher vagal effect (∆HR: 79.0 ± 2.3 bpm) compared with WKYS (∆HR: 67.4 ± 1.7 bpm; p < 0.05). Chronic exercise decreased sympathetic effects on SHRT (∆HR: -62.8 ± 2.8 bpm) in comparison with SHRS (∆HR: -99.8 ± 9.2 bpm; p = 0.005). The wall thickness of splenic arterioles in SHR was reduced by training (332.1 ± 16.0 µm2 in SHRT vs. 502.7 ± 36.3 µm2 in SHRS; p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Exercise training attenuates sympathetic activity and AP in SHR, which may be contributing to the morphological improvement of the splenic arterioles.

Exercise Training Attenuates Sympathetic Activity and Improves Morphometry of Splenic Arterioles in Spontaneously Hipertensive Rats / Treinamento Físico Atenua a Atividade Simpática e Melhora a Morfometria das Arteríolas Esplênicas em Ratos Espontaneamente Hipertensos

Abstract Background: Alterations in the structure of resistance vessels contribute to elevated systemic vascular resistance in hypertension and are linked to sympathetic hyperactivity and related lesions in target organs. Objective: To assess the effects of exercise training on hemodynamic and autonomic parameters, as well as splenic arteriolar damages in male Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats (SHR). Methods: Normotensive sedentary (WKYS) and trained (WKYT) rats, and hypertensive sedentary (SHRS) and trained (SHRT) rats were included in this study. After 9 weeks of experimental protocol (swimming training or sedentary control), arterial pressure (AP) and heart rate (HR) were recorded in freely moving rats. We assessed the autonomic control of the heart by sympathetic and vagal autonomic blockade. Morphometric analyses of arterioles were performed in spleen tissues. The statistical significance level was set at p < 0.05. Results: Resting bradycardia was observed in both trained groups (WKYT: 328.0 ± 7.3 bpm; SHRT: 337.0 ± 5.2 bpm) compared with their respective sedentary groups (WKYS: 353.2 ± 8.5 bpm; SHRS: 412.1 ± 10.4 bpm; p < 0.001). Exercise training attenuated mean AP only in SHRT (125.9 ± 6.2 mmHg) vs. SHRS (182.5 ± 4.2 mmHg, p < 0.001). The WKYT showed a higher vagal effect (∆HR: 79.0 ± 2.3 bpm) compared with WKYS (∆HR: 67.4 ± 1.7 bpm; p < 0.05). Chronic exercise decreased sympathetic effects on SHRT (∆HR: -62.8 ± 2.8 bpm) in comparison with SHRS (∆HR: -99.8 ± 9.2 bpm; p = 0.005). The wall thickness of splenic arterioles in SHR was reduced by training (332.1 ± 16.0 µm2 in SHRT vs. 502.7 ± 36.3 µm2 in SHRS; p < 0.05). Conclusions: Exercise training attenuates sympathetic activity and AP in SHR, which may be contributing to the morphological improvement of the splenic arterioles.

Resumo Fundamento: Alterações na estrutura dos vasos de resistência contribuem para elevar a resistência vascular sistêmica na hipertensão, estando ligadas à hiperatividade simpática e lesões em órgãos-alvo. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos do treinamento físico nos parâmetros hemodinâmicos e autônomos, assim como as lesões arteriolares esplênica em ratos machos Wistar Kyoto (WKY) e espontaneamente hipertensos (SHR). Métodos: Ratos normotensos sedentários (WKYS) e treinados (WKYT), e ratos hipertensos sedentários (SHRS) e treinados (SHRT) foram incluídos neste estudo. Após nove semanas de aplicação do protocolo experimental (treinamento de natação ou controle sedentário), registraram-se a pressão arterial (PA) e a frequência cardíaca (FC) dos ratos em movimento livre. Avaliamos o controle autônomo do coração através de bloqueio autônomo simpático e vagal. Análises morfométricas das arteríolas esplênicas foram realizadas. Adotou-se o nível de significado estatístico de p < 0,05. Resultados: Observou-se bradicardia de repouso nos dois grupos treinados (WKYT: 328,0 ± 7,3 bpm; SHRT: 337,0 ± 5,2 bpm) em comparação aos seus respectivos grupos sedentários (WKYS: 353,2 ± 8,5 bpm; SHRS: 412,1 ± 10,4 bpm; p < 0,001). O treinamento físico atenuou a PA média apenas no grupo SHRT (125,9 ± 6,2 mmHg vs. 182,5 ± 4,2 mmHg no SHRS; p < 0,001). O grupo WKYT mostrou maior efeito vagal (∆FC: 79,0 ± 2,3 bpm) em comparação ao grupo WKYS (∆FC: 67,4 ± 1,7 bpm; p < 0,05). Exercício crônico diminuiu os efeitos simpáticos em SHRT (∆FC: -62.8 ± 2.8 bpm) em comparação a SHRS (∆FC: -99,8 ± 9,2 bpm; p = 0,005). A espessura da parede das arteríolas esplênicas nos SHR foi reduzida pelo treinamento (332,1 ± 16,0 µm2 nos SHRT vs. 502,7 ± 36,3 µm2 nos SHRS; p < 0,05). Conclusões: O treinamento físico atenua a atividade simpática e a PA em SHR, o que pode contribuir para melhorar a morfologia das arteríolas esplênicas.

Acute interruption of treatment with nandrolone decanoate is not sufficient to reverse cardiac autonomic dysfunction and ventricular repolarization disturbances in rats.

Anabolic androgenic steroids are a class of synthetic compounds derived from testosterone, eventually used by athletes, to improve physical performance. However, anabolic steroids can also modify normal cardiovascular function. Thus, we investigated cardiac electrophysiological and autonomic abnormalities in rats, through a electrocardiographic variability protocol during and after interruption of administration of nandrolone decanoate (DECA) anabolic steroid. Twenty male Wistar rats (60-70 days old) received DECA (10 mg. kg-1i.m) once a week or vehicle, during eight weeks. Electrocardiogram was recorded in conscious rats by a noninvasive method, and time and domain analysis of heart rate variability as well as electrocardiogram intervals (QTc / QTd) were performed. Body mass was lower in treated rats compared to control after 4th and 8th weeks, but not at the end of 14th week. QTc and QTd were longer in DECA group compared to control on 4th, 8th, 11th, but equal on 14th week. Cardiac autonomic dysfunction (vagal attenuation) was present on DECA group after 4th week and did not normalize after interruption of treatment. The animals of DECA group showed a correlation between attenuated parasympathetic modulation and increased correct QT interval. Our data allow us to conclude that long-term treatment with DECA impairs autonomic cardiac physiology, predisposing to cardiovascular risk and sudden death, and interruption of administration does not recovery the normality immediately.

Long-term anabolic steroids in male bodybuilders induce cardiovascular structural and autonomic abnormalities.

OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were to examine the hypothesis that users of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) would have cardiac autonomic disorders and that there is a correlation between sympathetic modulation, high blood pressure (BP) and alterations to cardiac dimensions. METHODS: Forty-five male subjects were enrolled in the study. They were categorized into three groups comprising bodybuilders actively using AAS (AAS users; n = 15), bodybuilders who had never used AAS (nonusers; n = 15) and age-paired healthy sedentary controls (n = 15). Hemodynamic parameters, linear and nonlinear analyses of heart rate variability and electrocardiography and echocardiography analyses were performed at rest. RESULTS: Bodybuilders in the AAS group had a higher mean BP than those in the ASS nonuser group (p < 0.05) and the sedentary controls (p < 0.001). Cardiac sympathetic modulation was higher in AAS users than in AAS nonusers (p < 0.05) and the sedentary controls (p < 0.001), and parasympathetic modulation was lower in AAS users than in nonusers and the sedentary controls (p < 0.05). Shannon entropy was lower in AAS users than in the sedentary (p < 0.05) controls, and the corrected QT interval and QT dispersion were higher in AAS users than in the sedentary controls (p < 0.05). The interventricular septal thickness, left ventricle posterior wall thickness and relative diastolic wall thickness were higher in AAS users than in AAS nonusers and the sedentary controls (p < 0.001). AAS users showed a positive correlation between increased sympathetic modulation and high BP (r = 0.48, p < 0.005), as well as sympathetic modulation and cardiac hypertrophy (r = 0.66, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: There was a marked cardiac autonomic alteration in AAS users, with a shift toward sympathetic modulation predominance and vagal attenuation. The high BP observed in our group of bodybuilders using AAS was associated with increased sympathetic modulation, and this increased sympathetic modulation was associated with structural alterations in the heart. This association may constitute an important mechanism linking AAS abuse to increased cardiovascular risk.

Intradialytic aerobic training improves inflammatory markers in patients with chronic kidney disease: a randomized clinical trial

To investigate the effect of 12 weeks of intradialytic aerobic training on serum levels of interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, interleukin-10, tumor necrosis factor alpha and functional capacity. Methods: Thirty sedentary volunteers were randomly assigned to either to exercise or control group. Exercise group were submitted to 12 weeks of aerobic training performed on a cycle ergometer for 30 minutes at intensity rated using the Borg scale (6 to 7) three times a week while control group kept the daily habits. Results: After 12 weeks only exercise group presented a significant reduction of serum levels of interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, tumor necrosis factor alpha and an increase in serum levels of interleukin-10 and functional capacity. Conclusion: Twelve weeks of intradialytic aerobic training was effective in controlling inflammation and improving the functional ability of patients with chronic kidney disease.(AU)

Acute ischemic preconditioning does not influence high-intensity intermittent exercise performance.

This study evaluated the acute effect of ischemic preconditioning (IPC) on a high-intensity intermittent exercise performance and physiological indicators in amateur soccer players. Thirteen players (21.5 ± 2 yrs) attended three trials separated by 3-5 days in a counterbalanced randomized cross-over design: IPC (4 × 5-min occlusion 220 mmHg/reperfusion 0 mmHg) in each thigh; SHAM (similar to the IPC protocol but "occlusion" at 20 mmHg) and control (seated during the same time of IPC). After 6-min of each trial (IPC, SHAM or control), the players performed the YoYo Intermittent Endurance Test level 2 (YoYoIE2). The distance covered in the YoYoIE2 (IPC 867 ± 205 m; SHAM 873 ± 212 m; control 921 ± 206 m) was not different among trials (p = 0.10), furthermore, lactate concentration and rate of perceived exertion did not differ (P > 0.05) among protocols. There were also no significant differences in either mean heart rate (HR) or peak HR (p > 0.05) for both IPC and SHAM compared to control. Therefore, we conclude that acute IPC does not influence high-intensity intermittent exercise performance in amateur soccer players and that rate of perceived exertion, heart rate and lactate do not differ between the intervention IPC, SHAM and control.

Exercise training reverse autonomic dysfunction and hypertension in rats fed with high-fat diet

AIMS: We evaluated whether exercise training ameliorates cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction in obesity-induced by high-fat diet (HFD) in rats. METHODS Wistar male rats were assigned in normal diet, sedentary (ND-S) and trained (ND-T) and HFD, sedentary (HFD-S) and trained (HFD-T). Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), HR variability (HRV), BP variability (BPV), cardiac baroreflex and cardiac autonomic tonus were assessed. HFD-S showed higher bodyweight increase (19.4%) compared to all other groups (HFD-T: 13.2%, ND-S: 14% and ND-T: 12.4%). Relative epididymal, retroperitoneal and visceral fat was also greater in HFD-S compared to all other groups. Resting bradycardia in ND-T (339.5±10.6 bpm) and HFD-T (341.0 ± 9.4 bpm) was more pronounced than ND-S (438.4 ± 6.3 bpm; p<0.05) and HFD-S (448.5 ± 18.7 bpm; p<0.05). The HFD-T group showed lower systolic (125.3 ( 1.9 mmHg), diastolic (88.5 ( 2.0 mmHg) and mean BP (100.3 ± 2.5 mmHg) in comparison with HFD-S (153.8 ( 3.7; 103.5 ( 2.6 and 120.5 ± 3.7 mmHg; p<0.05, respectively). Lower variance of HRV and higher variance of diastolic BPV was observed in HFD-S compared to other groups while sympathetic modulation of HRV and BPV was higher in HFD-S, as well as the LF/HF ratio. HFD-T showed a decrease in sympathetic tonus compared to HFD-S. ND-T and HFD-T showed higher cardiac vagal tonus than respective sedentary groups. Analysis showed an association between visceral fat, sympathetic activity and BP. CONCLUSIONS: HFD induces hypertension and is associated with autonomic imbalance in rats, while exercise training may reverse these harmful changes.(AU)

[Obesity and cardiometabolic risk factors during pregnancy]. / Obesidade e fatores de risco cardiometabólicos durante a gravidez.

PURPOSE: To assess cardiometabolic risk factors during normal pregnancy and the influence of maternal obesity on them. METHODS: This study included 25 healthy pregnant women with a single pregnancy and a gestational age of less than twenty weeks. Longitudinal analysis of blood pressure, body weight, body mass index (BMI), serum concentrations of leptin, adiponectin, cortisol, total cholesterol and fractions, triglycerides, uric acid, fasting glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, HOMA-IR and insulin/glucose ratio was performed each trimester during pregnancy. In order to evaluate the impact of obesity, pregnant women were divided into two groups based on BMI for the first quarter of pregnancy: Gpn for pregnant women with BMI<25 kg/m2 and Gso for BMI≥25 kg/m2. One-Way ANOVA for repeated measurements or Friedman test and Student-t or Mann-Whitney tests for statistical comparisons and Pearson correlations test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The mean values for the first quarter of pregnancy for the following parameters were: age: 22 years; weight: 66.3 kg and BMI 26.4 kg/m2, with 20.2 and 30.7 kg/m2 for the Gpn and Gso groups, respectively. Mean weight gain during pregnancy was ±12.7 kg with 10.3 kg for the Gso group and 15.2 kg for the Gpn group. Regarding plasma determinations, cortisol, uric acid and lipid profile increased during all trimesters of pregnancy, except for HDL-cholesterol, which did not change. Blood pressure, insulin and HOMA-IR only increased in the third quarter of pregnancy. The Gso group tended to gain more weight and to show higher concentrations of leptin, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, VLDL-cholesterol, TG, glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, besides lower HDL-cholesterol and greater diastolic blood pressure in the 3rd quarter of pregnancy. Three pregnant women developed gestational hypertension, presented prepregnancy obesity, excessive weight gain, hyperleptinemia and an insulin/glucose ratio greater than two. Weight and BMI were positively correlated with total cholesterol and its LDL fraction, TG, uric acid, fasting blood glucose, insulin and HOMA-IR; and were negatively correlated with adiponectin and HDL-cholesterol. Leptin level was positively correlated with blood pressure. CONCLUSIONS: The metabolic changes in pregnancy are more significant in obese women, suggesting, as expected, an increased risk of cardiometabolic complications. During their first visit for prenatal care, obese women should be informed about these risks, have their BMI and insulin/glucose ratio calculated along with their lipid profile to identify pregnant women at higher risk for cardiovascular diseases.

Obesidade e fatores de risco cardiometabólicos durante a gravidez / Obesity and cardiometabolic risk factors during pregnancy

OBJETIVO: Avaliar fatores de risco cardiometabólicos durante a gestação normal, observando a influência da obesidade materna sobre os mesmos. MÉTODOS: Estudo realizado com 25 gestantes sadias com gestação única e idade gestacional inferior a 20 semanas. Foi feita análise longitudinal de pressão arterial, peso, índice de massa corporal (IMC), concentrações séricas de leptina, adiponectina, cortisol, colesterol total e frações, triglicérides, ácido úrico, glicose de jejum, teste oral de tolerância à glicose, HOMA-IR e relação insulina/glicose nos três trimestres da gestação. Para avaliação da influência da obesidade, as gestantes foram divididas em dois grupos baseados no IMC do primeiro trimestre: grupo com peso normal (Gpn) para gestantes com IMC<25 kg/m2 e grupo com sobrepeso/obesidade (Gso) para IMC≥25 kg/m2. Foram utilizados testes ANOVA de um fator para medidas repetidas ou teste de Friedman e os testes t de Student ou de Mann-Whitney para análises estatísticas comparativas e teste de Pearson para correlações. RESULTADOS: A média de idade foi de 22 anos. Os valores médios para o primeiro trimestre foram: peso 66,3 kg e IMC 26,4 kg/m2, sendo 20,2 kg/m2 do Gpn e 30,7 kg/m2 do Gso. A média do ganho de peso foi de 12,7 kg (10,3 kg para Gso e 15,2 Kg para Gpn). Os níveis de cortisol, ácido úrico e lipidograma elevaram-se nos trimestres, com exceção do HDL-colesterol que não se alterou. A pressão arterial, insulina e HOMA-IR sofreram elevação apenas no terceiro trimestre. O grupo Gso mostrou tendência a maior ganho de peso, apresentou concentrações de leptina, colesterol total, LDL-colesterol, VLDL-colesterol, TG, glicemia jejum e insulina mais elevados, maior HOMA-IR, além de reduzida ...

PURPOSE: To assess cardiometabolic risk factors during normal pregnancy and the influence of maternal obesity on them. METHODS: This study included 25 healthy pregnant women with a single pregnancy and a gestational age of less than twenty weeks. Longitudinal analysis of blood pressure, body weight, body mass index (BMI), serum concentrations of leptin, adiponectin, cortisol, total cholesterol and fractions, triglycerides, uric acid, fasting glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, HOMA-IR and insulin/glucose ratio was performed each trimester during pregnancy. In order to evaluate the impact of obesity, pregnant women were divided into two groups based on BMI for the first quarter of pregnancy: Gpn for pregnant women with BMI<25 kg/m2 and Gso for BMI≥25 kg/m2. One-Way ANOVA for repeated measurements or Friedman test and Student-t or Mann-Whitney tests for statistical comparisons and Pearson correlations test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The mean values for the first quarter of pregnancy for the following parameters were: age: 22 years; weight: 66.3 kg and BMI 26.4 kg/m2, with 20.2 and 30.7 kg/m2 for the Gpn and Gso groups, respectively. Mean weight gain during pregnancy was ±12.7 kg with 10.3 kg for the Gso group and 15.2 kg for the Gpn group. Regarding plasma determinations, cortisol, uric acid and lipid profile increased during all trimesters of pregnancy, except for HDL-cholesterol, which did not change. Blood pressure, insulin and HOMA-IR only increased in the third quarter of pregnancy. The Gso group tended to gain more weight and to show higher concentrations of leptin, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, VLDL-cholesterol, TG, glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, besides lower HDL-cholesterol and greater diastolic blood pressure in the 3rd quarter of pregnancy. Three pregnant women developed gestational hypertension, presented prepregnancy obesity, excessive weight gain, hyperleptinemia and an insulin/glucose ...

Exercise training improves cardiovascular autonomic activity and attenuates renal damage in spontaneously hypertensive rats.

Experiments were performed to determine the influence of exercise training by swimming on cardiovascular autonomic control and renal morphology in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wystar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Sedentary normotensive (SN), trained normotensive (TN), sedentary hypertensive (SH), and trained hypertensive (TH) rats were included in this study. Arterial pressure (AP), heart rate (HR), means of power spectral analysis of HR (HRV) and systolic AP variability (SAPV) were recorded in baseline conditions. Following, the HR baroreflex and autonomic tonus control were assessed. At the end, all animals were euthanized and their kidneys were excised to evaluate renal damage. Resting bradycardia was observed in TH and TN rats compared with their respective sedentary animals (p < 0.05). Exercise training attenuated AP in TH vs. SH (p < 0.001). The LF component of HRV and SAPV were lower in TH than SH (p < 0.05). The LF/HF relation was lower in TH than SH and SN (p < 0.05). TN and TH rats showed a sympathetic tonus reduction in comparison to SN and SH rats (p < 0.001). The TH presented an increased vagal tonus compared to SH (p < 0.05). Exercise training improved baroreflex control of HR in TH group versus SH (p < 0.05). The TH showed a lower number of sclerotic glomeruli compared to SH (p < 0.005). The exercise training decrease the glomerular indexes in TN and TH (p < 0.05). Further analysis showed a significant correlation between sympathetic nervous activity and AP levels (p < 0.05). A positive association was also found between sympathetic nervous activity and glomerular index (p < 0.05). Therefore, the exercise training reduces AP and attenuates renal damage. In addition, the attenuation of renal injury was associated with lower sympathetic activity. These findings strongly suggest that exercise training may be a therapeutic tool for improving structure and renal function in hypertensive individuals. Key pointsEndurance training.Decrease of the sympathetic activity.Attenuation of renal injury.Decrease of blood pressure in SHR.

Remodeling of elastic layer of aortic artery after training by swimming in spontaneously hypertensive rats.

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, in which the elastic properties of arteries are subjected to high pressure levels, and networks of elastic fibers may develop cleft longitudinal, transverse, breaks and fragmentation, and such structural changes (fibrosis and degradation of elastin) may lead to a decrease in the elasticity of the artery. The descending thoracic aortas of normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) subjected to physical training through swimming or those of sedentary rats were prepared with hematoxylin-eosin and Verhoff to assess the artery medial. The images were captured with a videocamera coupled to an ordinary light microscope and the images were analyzed with the same program. SHRs showed a larger area of the medial layer of the thoracic aorta (F = 25,764, P < 0.001), and it was observed that rats submitted to physical training through swimming showed a larger area of the thoracic aorta (t = 3.206, P = 0.011). There was a higher percentage of elastic trained (F = 6.536, P = 0.019). To conclude, this study aimed to determine the elastic component of the aortic artery in animals that underwent exercise when compared with those that did not perform the activity, and analyze the relationship between the area of the aortic wall in trained and sedentary animals. The principal conclusion is that the rigidity of the aorta is not increased in SHRs subjected to physical training compared with that of trained WKY animals; however, when sedentary SHRs were analyzed there was a decrease in the elasticcomponent, which can characterize the aortic arterial stiffness in SHRs.