The relationship between the levels of stress and the age and years of service of military firefighters from the fire rescue corps of the metropolitan area of the state of São Paulo.

PURPOSE: To verify the relationship between stress indicators and the age and years of service of military firefighters from the fire rescue corps of the metropolitan area of the state of São Paulo. METHODS: Forty military firefighters with the mean age of 37.9 ± 5.4 years, from the 1st, 2nd and 8th fire brigades of the metropolitan area of São Paulo participated in this study. All underwent clinical, physical and psychological evaluations to verify the relationship between the age and years of service with the variables of levels of stress (tension, depression, anger, vigor, fatigue, confusion and total stress) on workdays and on days off. RESULTS: On workdays, the mean scores for tension, depression, fatigue and stress were overall higher compared to those on days off. The older the firefighter, the higher the levels of stress, depression, anger and total stress. The more years of service, the greater the depression and anger. CONCLUSIONS: The levels of stress were high on workdays. Chronological age and years of service influenced the increase in the scores of stress.

Maximal and submaximal physiological responses to adaptation to deep water running.

The aim of the study was to compare physiological responses between runners adapted and not adapted to deep water running at maximal intensity and the intensity equivalent to the ventilatory threshold. Seventeen runners, either adapted (n = 10) or not adapted (n = 7) to deep water running, participated in the study. Participants in both groups undertook a maximal treadmill running and deep water running graded exercise test in which cardiorespiratory variables were measured. Interactions between adaptation (adapted vs. non-adapted) and condition (treadmill running vs. deep water running) were analysed. The main effects of adaptation and condition were also analysed in isolation. Runners adapted to deep water running experienced less of a reduction in maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) in deep water running compared with treadmill running than runners not adapted to deep water running. Maximal oxygen consumption, maximal heart rate, maximal ventilation, VO2max at the ventilatory threshold, heart rate at the ventilatory threshold, and ventilation at the ventilatory threshold were significantly higher during treadmill than deep water running. Therefore, we conclude that adaptation to deep water running reduces the difference in VO2max between the two modalities, possibly due to an increase in muscle recruitment. The results of this study support previous findings of a lower maximal and submaximal physiological response on deep water running for most of the measured parameters.

Growth hormone replacement improves thyroxine biological effects: implications for management of central hypothyroidism.

CONTEXT: The biological significance of GH-induced changes in serum TH concentrations is unknown. It has been suggested that serum free T(4) (FT(4)) should be targeted at the high-normal range during GH replacement. OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to evaluate the effects of GH replacement on T(4) biological effects. HYPOTHESIS: If GH modulates thyroxine biological effects, serum FT(4) should be targeted accordingly. DESIGN AND SETTING: We conducted observational (study 1) and interventional (studies 2 and 3)/outpatient studies. PATIENTS: Thirty-two GH-deficient patients (13 off GH; 22 on l-T(4)) participated in the study. INTERVENTIONS: In study 2, levothyroxine was administered to increase FT(4) (>1.0 ng/dl). In study 3, GH was administered or withdrawn. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: We measured FT(4), total T(3) (TT(3)), myocardial isovolumic contraction time (ICT), and resting energy expenditure (REE). RESULTS: In study 1, off-GH and on-GH groups had similar FT(4), but off GH showed lower TT(3) (P < 0.01) and REE (P = 0.02), higher ICT (P < 0.05) than on-GH and controls. On GH, ICT and REE correlated only with TT(3) (r = -0.48; r = 0.58; P < 0.05). Off GH, ICT correlated only with FT(4) (P < 0.01). In study 2, off GH, levothyroxine intervention increased FT(4) (P = 0.005) and TT(3) (P = 0.012), decreased ICT (P = 0.006), and increased REE (P = 0.013); ICT and FT(4) changes correlated (r = -0.72; P = 0.06). On GH, levothyroxine increased FT(4) (P = 0.0002), TT(3) (P = 0.014), and REE (P = 0.10) and decreased ICT (P = 0.049); REE and TT(3) changes correlated (r = 0.60; P = 0.05). In study 3, GH decreased FT(4), increased TT(3), decreased ICT, and increased REE (P < 0.05). REE correlated (P < 0.05) with IGF-I (r = 0.57) and TT(3) (r = 0.64). ICT correlated only with TT(3) (r = -0.46). CONCLUSIONS: GH replacement improves the biological effects of T(4). Serum FT(4) should be targeted at the high-normal range in GH-deficient patients only off GH replacement.

[Divergent responses of serum testosterone and cortisol in athlete men after a marathon race]. / Resposta divergente da testosterona e do cortisol séricos em atletas masculinos após uma corrida de maratona.

Physical exercise alters homeostasis, as it requires prompt mobilization of metabolic sources. In this study, we measured serum testosterone (T) and cortisol (C) levels and the muscle-wastage enzymes CK, CKMB and LDH in 20 healthy male athletes (ages 25 to 40 years) in response to a marathon race (42.2 km). Venous blood samples were drawn in 3 different periods: (i) in the morning, 48 h before the competition (control), (ii) at the end of the race (end), and (iii) in the next morning, 20 h after the race (recovery). At the end, T was significantly lower (from 673 to 303 ng/dl) and C higher (from 20.3 to 42.5 microg/dl) as compared to the control period. At recovery, both were virtually identical to control levels. CK, CKMB and LDH were significantly higher at the end of the competition and even higher in the recovering period (except for CKMB), characterizing muscle wastage. CK and LDH disclosed a significant negative correlation with T (-0.412 and -0.546, respectively), whereas CKMB correlated positively with C (0.4521). We conclude that the inverse correlation observed between T and C levels, and the pattern of CK, CKMB and LDH increase, allow us to confirm that a marathon race may cause a marked physical stress, resulting in a distinct hormonal imbalance and severe cellular damage.

[Evolution of physical fitness and functional capacity in active elderly women over 50 years of age according to chronological age in Santos city]. / Evolução da aptidão física e capacidade funcional de mulheres ativas acima de 50 anos de idade de acordo com a idade cronológica, na cidade de Santos.

The scope of this study was to compare the evolution of physical fitness, functional capacity and bone mineral density in active elderly women over a one-year period. The sample consisted of 78 women from 50 to 79 years of age (c:62.4 ± 7.1) participating in an aerobic program, twice a week, 50 minutes per session during 3.4 years and divided into three age groups: A: 50-59 (n:38); B: 60-69 (n:28); C: 70-79 (n:12). Results were compared using Two Way ANOVA, "post-hoc" Bonferroni and delta (D%) variations (*p<.o1). The velocity of rising from a chair and gait speed revealed a significant difference in the three groups ranging from -14.3% to -45.5%; there was a significant improvement in A and B groups in walking speed (-12.1% to -13.9%), and also in maximum gait speed (-15.4% to -18.5%), elbow flexion in all the groups (18.9% to 24.1%), vertical jump (22.5% to 43.9%) in groups B and C, and rising from a chair in 30 seconds (25.2% to 30.8%) in groups A and B, the flexibility test showed an increase in group A (16.2% to 33.3%) and stationary walking in the three groups of (16,4% 30.0%) and bone mineral density (BMD) presented a significant increase (3.1% to 10.2%). The results indicate the salutary effect of regular physical activity.

Call Accuracy and Distance from the Play: A Study with Brazilian Soccer Referees.

Refereeing decisions in soccer has always been a controversial issue. In order to better understand this subject, foul calls made by Brazilian soccer referees were evaluated to determine the potential relationship between the distance from the referee to a foul play and the accuracy of the call. Soccer matches supervised by the São Paulo State Football Federation were recorded and 321 foul calls were analyzed. No significant association was found between the referee's distance from a foul play and accuracy of the call (p = 0.561). However, there was a significant increase in the number of correct calls in the last 15 minutes of the second half compared with the number of correct calls in the first 30 minutes of the same half (p = 0.003).

Aerobic exercise capacity and pulmonary function in athletes with and without type 1 diabetes.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the aerobic exercise capacity and pulmonary function between athletes with and without type 1 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Fifty-one adult age-matched individuals were assessed in random order to the maximum volume of O(2) consumption (Vo(2 peak max)) (ml/kg/min), anaerobic threshold (ml/kg/min), peak pulmonary ventilation (Ve), heart rate (beats per min), time to exhaustion (min), forced vital capacity (FEV) (%), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) (%), total lung capacity (TLC) (%), and lung diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DL(CO)) (%). Individuals were 27 with type 1 diabetes: 15 athletes (ADM) and 12 nonathletes (NADM); and 24 healthy individuals: 12 ADM and 12 NADM. Duration of diabetes was 14.6 ± 6.2 and 15.2 ± 6.7 years in ADM and NADM, respectively. RESULTS: Vo(2 peak) (max) was higher in ADM than in NADM (P < 0.001). The anaerobic threshold was lower in subjects with type 1 diabetes than in control subjects (P < 0.001). FEV1 was lower in ADM than in other groups (NADM, athletes control, and nonathletes control, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Aerobic capacity in subjects with type 1 diabetes with programmed exercise is similar to the capacity of normal athletes despite lower anaerobic threshold and FEV1.

Efeito agudo dos extensores do joelho unilateral na cadeira extensora com e sem estímulos na plataforma vibratória / Acute effect of extensors knee unilateral on leg extension machine with and without stimulation on the vibrating platform

INTRODUÇÃO: Nos últimos anos muitos estudos foram feitos com o objetivo de avaliar a utilização da vibração mecânica como parte de treinamento para melhora do condicionamento físico. Entretanto, a maioria avaliou os efeitos dos exercícios em conjunto com o treinamento vibratório para determinar se havia melhora após o treinamento, sem avaliar os efeitos dos exercícios realizados na plataforma com e sem vibração. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o efeito agudo do exercício nos extensores do joelho, com e sem o estímulo da plataforma vibratória. MÉTODOS: Trinta indivíduos ativos, do sexo masculino, com idades entre 18 e 45 anos, realizaram, de forma randomizada, três protocolos: grupo plataforma ligada (GPL), grupo plataforma desligada (GPD) e grupo controle (GC). Cada protocolo começava com aquecimento de cinco minutos em bicicleta ergométrica, com carga entre 75 e 100 watts e 70 rotações por minuto, seguido por seis séries de 10 movimentos de agachamento unilateral com intervalo de um minuto entre elas, com ou sem vibração mecânica, e terminava com o Work Test, realizado apenas no membro inferior dominante para determinação das valências físicas: trabalho, força, potência e velocidade. O grupo controle realizou apenas o Work Test após o aquecimento. RESULTADOS: Apenas a variável velocidade apresentou diferença estatisticamente significante (p < 0,05) quando comparado o GPL ao GC. CONCLUSÃO: O estímulo na plataforma vibratória não exerceu influência nas variáveis trabalho e potência dos extensores do joelho unilateral, mas, na velocidade do movimento, exerceu influência negativa causando fadiga.

INTRODUCTION: A great number of studies have been conducted lately concerning the use of mechanical vibration as part of the training for improvement of physical conditioning. However, the majority of these studies have evaluated the effects of the exercises joined with the vibrating training in order to determine if there was post-training improvement, and did not evaluate the effects of both vibrating and non-vibrating platform exercises. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the acute effect of exercise on the knee extensors, with and without the stimulus of the vibrating platform. METHODS: Thirty male active individuals, with age range between 18 and 45 years, randomly conducted three protocols: with the platform on (POG), the platform off (POFFG) and control group (CG). Each protocol began with a five minute warm-up on the ergonomic bicycle, with loads ranging from 75 to 100 watts and 70 rotations per minute, followed by six sets of 10 unilateral squats with one minute of pause between them, with or without mechanical vibrating, and finished with the Work Test, performed only on the dominant leg for determination of the physical valences: work, strength, power and speed. RESULTS: Only the variable speed has presented statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) when the platform on was compared to the control. CONCLUSION: The training on the vibration platform had no influence on the work or muscle power variables, but it exerted negative influence on the movement velocity causing fatigue in the quadriceps muscles.

Comparison of maximal heart rate using the prediction equations proposed by Karvonen and Tanaka.

BACKGROUND: Equations for predicting maximal heart rate (HRmax) are widely used in exercise testing and for training prescription, but their efficacy remains controversial in the literature. OBJECTIVE: To compare maximal heart rate during cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) using the prediction equations developed by Karvonen and Tanaka. METHODS: Of the 24,120 maximal treadmill graded exercise tests stored in the CEMAFE database from 1994 to 2006, 2047 HRmax values were analyzed, 1091 of which were from male and 956 from female sedentary subjects. These data were used as a gold standard to compare Karvonen's and Tanaka's prediction formulas. RESULTS: Mean measured maximal heart rates were 181.0 +/- 14.0; 180.6 +/- 13.0, and 180.8 +/- 13.8 for men, women, and both genders combined, respectively. Likewise, mean values from Karvonen's equation were 182.0 +/- 11.4; 183.7 +/- 11.5, and 183.9 +/- 11.7; and from Tanaka's, 182.0 +/- 8.0; 182.6 +/- 8.0, and 182.7 +/- 8.2. Karvonen's and Tanaka's equations yielded the same correlation coefficients, as compared with measured maximal heart rate (r = 0.72). CONCLUSION: Karvonen's and Tanaka's equations are similar in predicting maximal heart rate and show good correlation with measured maximal heart rate.

Evolução da aptidão física e capacidade funcional de mulheres ativas acima de 50 anos de idade de acordo com a idade cronológica, na cidade de Santos / Evolution of physical fitness and functional capacity in active elderly women over 50 years of age according to chronological age in Santos city

O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a evolução da aptidão física, capacidade funcional e densidade mineral óssea de mulheres fisicamente ativas durante um ano. Métodos: A amostra consistiu de 78 mulheres de 50 a 79 anos de idade (c: 62,4 ± 7,1 anos), participantes de um programa de exercícios aeróbicos, duas vezes por semana, 50 minutos por sessão durante 3,4 anos e divididas em três grupos: A: 5059 (n: 38); B: 6069 (n: 28); C: 7079 (n:12). Os resultados foram comparados usando ANOVA Two Way com "post-hoc" Bonferroni e delta percentual (*p<0,01). Resultados: A velocidade de levantar da cadeira evidenciou diferença significativa nos três grupos de -14,3 por cento a -45,5 por cento, na de andar, houve melhora significativa nos grupos A e B (-12,1 por cento a -13,9 por cento), na máxima de andar (-15,4 por cento a -18,5 por cento), a flexão de cotovelo em todos os grupos (18,9 por cento a 24,1 por cento) e a impulsão vertical (22,5 por cento a 43,9 por cento) nos grupos B e C; o levantar da cadeira em 30 segundos de 25,2 por cento a 30,8 por cento nos grupos A e B, o teste da flexibilidade no grupo A, que variou de 16,2 por cento a 33,3 por cento e a marcha estacionária nos três grupos de 16,4 por cento a 30,0 por cento; a densitometria óssea evidenciou ganho significativo de massa óssea de 3,1 por cento a 10,2 por cento. Conclusões: Os resultados sugerem um efeito favorável da atividade física regular.

The scope of this study was to compare the evolution of physical fitness, functional capacity and bone mineral density in active elderly women over a one-year period. The sample consisted of 78 women from 50 to 79 years of age (c:62.4 ± 7.1) participating in an aerobic program, twice a week, 50 minutes per session during 3.4 years and divided into three age groups: A: 50-59 (n:38); B: 60-69 (n:28); C: 70-79 (n:12). Results were compared using Two Way ANOVA, "post-hoc" Bonferroni and delta (D percent) variations (*p<.o1). The velocity of rising from a chair and gait speed revealed a significant difference in the three groups ranging from -14.3 percent to -45.5 percent; there was a significant improvement in A and B groups in walking speed (-12.1 percent to -13.9 percent), and also in maximum gait speed (-15.4 percent to -18.5 percent), elbow flexion in all the groups (18.9 percent to 24.1 percent), vertical jump (22.5 percent to 43.9 percent) in groups B and C, and rising from a chair in 30 seconds (25.2 percent to 30.8 percent) in groups A and B, the flexibility test showed an increase in group A (16.2 percent to 33.3 percent) and stationary walking in the three groups of (16,4 percent 30.0 percent) and bone mineral density (BMD) presented a significant increase (3.1 percent to 10.2 percent). The results indicate the salutary effect of regular physical activity.

Estresse oxidativo no plasma sanguíneo de indivíduos submetidos ao esforço físico agudo seguido de crioimersão corporal / Oxidative stress in blood plasma in persons who are submitted to cold water immersion after acute physical exercise

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a influência da crioimersão corporal (CIC) imediata ao esforço físico agudo no estresse oxidativo (EOx) no plasma sanguíneo. Participaram do presente estudo 12 homens, com idade média de 22±1 anos, submetidos ao teste de esforço físico intenso em esteira, seguido de CIC em um tanque com água a 10ºC durante 10 minutos contínuos. Do repouso ao final da CIC, os indivíduos foram monitorados através de alguns parâmetros como: o índice de percepção subjetiva do esforço (IPE) expresso conforme escala de Borg, frequência cardíaca (FC), pressão arterial (PA) e temperatura corporal (TC) através da temperatura timpânica. A análise morfológica do EOx plasmático foi realizada de acordo com o método denominado Morfologia Óptica do Estresse Oxidativo no Plasma (MEOP), utilizando-se gotas de sangue capilar. Observou-se uma significativa elevação (p<0,01) no grau do estresse oxidativo plasmático após a realização do esforço físico, em relação ao respectivo grau em repouso. Porém, esta elevação no grau do EOx foi significativamente reduzida (p<0,001) em função da CIC. Embora sejam necessários mais estudos científicos com o MEOP, concluiu-se que, para o presente estudo, este teste mostrou-se viável. Os dados encontrados no presente estudo sugerem que a CIC em água a 10ºC por 10 minutos imediatos ao esforço físico agudo com intensidade alta, apresenta-se como uma importante conduta fisioterapêutica para a normalização do EOx pós-esforço.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of cold water immersion (CWI) following acute physical exercise on the oxidative stress in the blood plasma. Twelve men with average age of 22±1 years old, participated this study. All of them underwent the treadmill stress test followed by CWI in tank with water at 10ºC for 10 minutes. During this process, they were monitored and a set of parameters were analyzed: physical effort perception (Borg Scale), Heart Rate (HR), Blood Pressure (BP) and body heat, by measuring tympanic temperature. The morphological analysis of oxidative stress in blood plasma was done in accordance with a method known as Optical Morphology of the Oxidative Stress on Blood Plasma, which uses drops of capillary blood. A significant increase (p<0.01) in the rate of oxidative stress in plasma was noted after intense physical effort when compared with the rate of stress while at rest. However, the stress rate was significantly decreased (p<0.001) after CWI. Although further scientific studies should be carried out on the above mentioned test, may be concluded that, in the present study, the test has proven itself viable. The data found in the present study suggest that cold water immersion at 10ºC for 10 minutes following high intensity physical effort appears to be an important physical therapeutic measure towards the normalization of oxidative stress.

Influência da maturação sexual no limiar de lactato em jogadoras de futebol / Influence of sexual maturation in lactate threshold in female soccer players

Os limiares de lactato são utilizados para a avaliação da capacidade aeróbia em diferentes idades. Estudos demonstram que crianças e adolescentes apresentam menores concentrações sanguíneas de lactato [La], para mesma carga de esforço, do que adultos. Existem evidências de que isto está relacionado ao desenvolvimento maturacional das mesmas. OBJETIVO: Verificar a associação entre a maturação sexual e o limiar de lactato de atletas de futebol de 12 a 15 anos de idade. MÉTODO: A amostra foi do tipo intencional, não probabilística, com um total de 36 meninas, entre 12 a 15 anos, participantes de escolinhas de futebol da prefeitura da cidade de São Paulo. Foram obtidas da amostra a massa corporal, a estatura e a tomada de dobras cutâneas triciptal e panturrilha. A maturação sexual foi feita através da observação direta, por uma médica, do desenvolvimento de órgãos genitais e de pilosidade púbica, por meio de planilhas propostas por Tanner. Para determinação do limiar de lactato foi realizado teste progressivo em pista, onde as jovens realizaram três corridas de 800 metros, com a intensidade do esforço sendo controlada por zonas de frequência cardíaca pré-estabelecidas, com mensurações das [La] no final de cada corrida. Através da interpolação linear foi encontrada a velocidade correspondente a [La] de 2,5mmol (V2,5). Para compreender melhor a natureza das associações entre as variáveis foi utilizada a regressão linear múltipla, tendo como variável dependente o limiar de lactato (V2,5), e como variáveis independentes idade (anos), IMC (kg/m²), estatura (cm) e somatório de dobras cutâneas (mm). RESULTADO: Em mais jovens, pré-púbere, as variáveis de crescimento e a maturação sexual tem pouca associação com o limiar de lactato. Sendo importante uma ponderação sobre a influência da maturação sexual no limiar de lactato. CONCLUSÃO: Levando em consideração a homogeneidade do grupo e o fato de a idade entre 12 e 15 anos ser um período de diversas modificações, o desenvol...

The lactate thresholds are used to assess the aerobic capacity in different ages. Studies show that children and adolescents present less lactate blood concentrations [La] than adults under certain effort loads. There are evidences that this is related to their maturational development. OBJECTIVE: To verify the association between the sexual maturation and the lactate threshold in some adolescent soccer players ranging from 12 to 15 years old. METHOD: The sample was related to the intentional and not probabilistic type involving 36 girls, from 12 to 15 years old, members of the soccer schools held by the Mayority of São Paulo. The body weight, height and the sum of two skinfolds - calf and triceps were obtained from the sample. A physician directly observed the sexual maturation of the genitals and pubic hair development through the Tanner index.To determine the lactate threshold a progressive test, a 3x800m in running track, was performed by adolescents, their effort intensity was controlled by pre-established heart rate zones and the lactate blood concentrations [La] were measured at the end of each run. The velocity corresponding to lactate blood concentrations [La] of 2,5mmol (V2,5) was obtained through the linear interpolation.The multiple linear regression was used to better understand the nature of these associations between the variables, considering the lactate threshold (V2,5) as a dependent variable and the age (years), the body weight index (kg/m2), height (cm) and the sum of the skinfolds (mm) as independent variables. RESULT: The growth variables and the sexual maturation have little association with the lactate threshold in the youngest and pre-adolescent girls. It is important to take in consideration the sexual maturation influence on the threshold lactate. CONCLUSION: Taking in account the group homogeneity and being the range between 12 and 15 years old a period susceptible to many modifications, the maturational development and not the chr...

Aerobic exercise capacity in normal adolescents and those with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the aerobic exercise capacity between normal adolescents and those with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). METHODS: An experimental group with 72 individuals diagnosed with T1DM aged 9--20, time from diagnosis 4.9 +/- 3.6 yr, without clinical cardiopulmonary disease or anemia and a control group (C) with 46 healthy individuals aged 10--18, matched by age, weight, height, body mass index, and lean and fat mass (kg), underwent an incremental aerobic exercising test on a motorized treadmill, where gas exchange variables - peak pulmonary ventilation (VE), peak oxygen consumption (VO(2)), and carbon dioxide production (CO(2)) - as well as their heart rate (HR) and time to exhaustion were recorded. RESULTS: Body mass composition had no significant difference between experimental and control groups, and male and female subjects had similar exercising performances. The mean of hemoglobin A1c in the control group was 5.2+/- 0.9% and in the diabetic group 8.1+/- 2.2%; p=0.000. The patients with T1DM showed lower levels of aerobic capacity than the control group. Their respective values for each variable were as follows: (i) maximal VO(2) (T1DM: 41.57+/-7.68 vs. C: 51.12+/- 9.94 mL/kg/min; p< 0.001) and (ii) maximal VE (T1DM: 76.39+/-19.93 vs. C: 96.90 +/- 25.72 mL/kg/min; p< 0.001). Patients with T1DM also had an earlier time to exhaustion (T1DM: 8.75+/-1.60 vs. 10.82+/-1.44 min). CONCLUSIONS: Adolescent patients with T1DM showed a reduced aerobic exercising capacity when compared to healthy peers matched to anthropometric conditions. This potential condition should be taken into consideration by the time of evaluation of the aerobic performance of these patients with glycemic control level.

Oxygen uptake during walking in patients with rheumatoid arthritis--a controlled study.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the energy expenditure of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) of functional classes I, II, and III during walking at different speeds on a treadmill. METHODS: Thirty-five consecutive patients selected from the rheumatology outpatient clinic were studied and compared with a control group consisting of 35 healthy individuals paired for age, sex, body weight, and body mass index. An incremental test on a treadmill consistent with normal walking was developed, with metabolic analysis performed at 30 s intervals using a gas analyzer connected to a computerized system. Heart rate, rate of perceived exertion, visual analog scale of pain, Ritchie index, the Scale of the Escola Paulista de Medicina for Evaluation of Articular Movement Range, and the Health Assessment Questionnaire were also used to evaluate functional capacity. RESULTS: Patients with RA showed a greater energy expenditure than controls at the following walking speeds: 3.0 km/h (RA = 229.36 +/- 56.47 kcal/h; controls = 197.44 +/- 52.59), 4.5 km/h (RA = 266.41 +/- 58.94 kcal/h; controls = 231.41 +/- 56.14), and 5.0 km/h (RA = 289.11 +/- 65.35 kcal/h; controls = 250.18 +/- 56.67). Patients with RA presented higher values for all test measures except heart rate. The functional class II group differed significantly from the controls, whereas the functional class I group had values close to normal. CONCLUSION: Patients with RA had a greater energy expenditure during walking compared to healthy controls under the same conditions, and patients with functional class II experienced a greater energy expenditure compared to controls.

Causas e conseqüências físicas e emocionais do término de carreira esportiva / Physical and emotional causes and consequences of career termination in sports

INTRODUÇÃO: Os atletas de alto rendimento, em determinado momento, se defrontam com o término de carreira esportiva, um processo crucial e inevitável, com exigências de ajustamentos nas esferas da vida ocupacional, financeira, social e psicológica e, que, portanto, pode ser acompanhado por distress emocional. OBJETIVO: O presente estudo teve como objetivo pesquisar como ex-atletas brasileiros de alto nível de basquetebol e futebol profissional experienciaram a aposentadoria da carreira esportiva, suas causas e conseqüências físicas e emocionais. MÉTODOS: Para tanto, foram avaliados 79 ex-atletas de alto nível, do sexo masculino, que pertenciam a duas modalidades esportivas: futebol (N = 57) e basquetebol (N = 22), com média de idade de 51,75 ± 8,85 anos. O tempo de prática como atleta profissional foi de 18,22 ± 4,66 anos e o término da carreira esportiva ocorreu em média aos 34,36 ± 4,42 anos. Utilizou-se uma entrevista semi-estruturada; os dados foram analisados pela freqüência de ocorrência de respostas para cada item da entrevista. RESULTADOS: Observou-se que, para 75,9 por cento dos atletas, a decisão de encerrar a carreira foi espontânea. A idade (49,4 por cento) e outros interesses emergentes (43,0 por cento) foram as principais causas da aposentadoria. Os sentimentos vivenciados nesse momento foram de tristeza (50,6 por cento) e de conformismo (36,7 por cento). Para 43 por cento dos ex-atletas a condição física piorou após o término da carreira. CONCLUSÕES: Os autores concluem que, apesar de os atletas terem experienciado uma carreira esportiva longa, o momento de se aposentar no esporte trouxe sentimentos de tristeza. Por outro lado, a idade é um limitador para a carreira esportiva e reconhecer isso levou ao conformismo.

INTRODUCTION: Elite athletes will have to face sport career termination sooner or later, and this is a crucial and inevitable process that brings about changes in the occupational, financial, social and psychological spheres of their lives, which can be followed by emotional distress. OBJECTIVE: The present study had the aim to research how former Brazilian basketball and professional soccer players have experienced retirement in sports career as well as its causes and consequences. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 79 former elite male athletes (soccer and basketball players) with mean age of 51.75 ± 8.85 years old were assessed. They have been professional athletes for 18.22 ± 4.66 years and had their career termination at about 34.36 ± 4.42 years. A semi-structured interview frame was used and the data were analyzed according to the answers frequency of occurrence for each interview item. RESULTS: It was observed that for 75.9 percent of these athletes the retirement from sport was their own choice. Age (49.4 percent) and appearance of other interests (43.0 percent) were the most frequent reasons related to the retirement. However, they have experienced feelings of sadness (50.6 percent) and resignation (36.7 percent) and 43 percent of the former athletes have experienced worsening in their physical condition after career termination. CONCLUSION: We can conclude that the hereby-assessed athletes have experienced a long sports career, but their retirement caused feelings of sadness. On the other hand, old age itself is a limitation for the practice of elite sports, and its acknowledgement has led to resignation.

Comparação da freqüência cardíaca máxima medida com as fórmulas de predição propostas por Karvonen e Tanaka / Comparison of maximal heart rate using the prediction equations proposed by Karvonen and Tanaka

FUNDAMENTO: Fórmulas de predição da freqüência cardíaca máxima são amplamente utilizadas em serviços de ergometria e para prescrição de treinamento, contudo há controvérsia na literatura sobre a eficácia delas. OBJETIVO: Comparar a freqüência cardíaca máxima obtida pelo teste ergoespirométrico com as equações propostas por Karvonen e Tanaka. MÉTODOS: Dos 24.120 testes ergoespirométricos máximos, com protocolo de cargas crescentes, realizados em esteira rolante e armazenados no banco de dados do Cemafe, no período de 1994 a 2006, foram resgatados 1.091 resultados da freqüência cardíaca máxima de indivíduos sedentários do sexo masculino e 956 do feminino. Esses dados foram utilizados como padrão-ouro na comparação com as fórmulas de predição propostas por Karvonen e Tanaka. RESULTADOS: Os valores médios da freqüência cardíaca máxima medida foram: 181,0 ± 14,0, 180,6 ± 13,0 e 180,8 ± 13,8, para o sexo masculino, feminino e ambos os sexos, respectivamente. Seguindo o mesmo padrão, os valores para equação de Karvonen foram de 182,0 ± 11,4, 183,7 ± 11,5 e 183,9 ± 11,7; e os de Tanaka 182,0 ± 8,0, 182,6 ± 8,0 e 182,7 ± 8,2. A equação de Karvonen apresentou valores de correlação iguais à de Tanaka, quando comparadas com a freqüência cardíaca máxima medida, r = 0,72. CONCLUSÃO: As equações de Karvonen e Tanaka são semelhantes para predição da freqüência cardíaca máxima e apresentam boa correlação com a freqüência cardíaca máxima medida.

BACKGROUND: Equations for predicting maximal heart rate (HRmax) are widely used in exercise testing and for training prescription, but their efficacy remains controversial in the literature. OBJECTIVE: To compare maximal heart rate during cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) using the prediction equations developed by Karvonen and Tanaka. METHODS: Of the 24,120 maximal treadmill graded exercise tests stored in the CEMAFE database from 1994 to 2006, 2047 HRmax values were analyzed, 1091 of which were from male and 956 from female sedentary subjects. These data were used as a gold standard to compare Karvonen's and Tanaka's prediction formulas. RESULTS: Mean measured maximal heart rates were 181.0 ± 14.0; 180.6 ± 13.0, and 180.8 ± 13.8 for men, women, and both genders combined, respectively. Likewise, mean values from Karvonen's equation were 182.0 ± 11.4; 183.7 ± 11.5, and 183.9 ± 11.7; and from Tanaka's, 182.0 ± 8.0; 182.6 ± 8.0, and 182.7 ± 8.2. Karvonen's and Tanaka's equations yielded the same correlation coefficients, as compared with measured maximal heart rate (r = 0.72). CONCLUSION: Karvonen's and Tanaka's equations are similar in predicting maximal heart rate and show good correlation with measured maximal heart rate.

Avaliação do efeito da hipotermia por crioimersão corporal, nos neutrófilos e linfócitos sanguíneos de ratos submetidos ao exercício físico agudo / Evaluation of the effect of hypothermia by cold water immersion on blood neutrophils and lymphocytes of rats submitted to acute exercise

O estresse sistêmico induzido pelo exercício libera substâncias bioativas determinantes da mobilização neutrofílica. A crioterapia diminui a reação inflamatória e atenua a elevação da perfusão sanguínea induzida pelo exercício. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a influência da hipotermia decorrente da crioimersão corporal (CIC) imediata ao esforço físico agudo nas concentrações neutrofílicas e linfocíticas no sangue. Os ratos do grupo controle (AI) foram mantidos em repouso enquanto os do grupo AII foram submetidos ao protocolo de CIC a 10ºC por 10 minutos. Enquanto os animais dos grupos BI, BII, BIII e BIV realizaram o esforço físico agudo (EFA) em água a 31ºC durante 100 minutos com sobrecarga corpórea de 5% do peso corporal, os dos grupos CI, CII, CIII e CIV foram submetidos ao EFA seguido imediatamente de CIC. Nos grupos B e C, os animais foram sacrificados nos períodos de 06 (I), 12 (II), 24 (III) e 48 (IV) horas posteriores ao EFA. Através da microscopia óptica realizou-se a contagem dos neutrófilos e linfócitos. Utilizou-se do Teste T Student para análise estatística considerando-se nível de significância p < 0,05. Observou-se uma significativa neutrofilia nos grupos AII, BI, BII, BIII, BIV, CI, CII e CIII em relação a AI, diferentemente do grupo CIV, que apresentou quantidade de neutrófilos igual ao grupo controle. Os valores de linfócitos nos grupos BII, BIII, BIV, CI e CII foram significativamente menores do que AI, e nos grupos AII, BI, CIII e CIV foram iguais a AI. A neutrofilia e a linfopenia posteriores ao intenso exercício agudo são mantidas por 48 horas ou mais, porém, mediante a aplicação da crioimersão corporal imediata ao exercício, são normalizadas em 24 horas.

Systemic stress induced by exercise increases bioactive substances in plasma which leads to neutrophilic mobilization. Cryotherapy causes a decrease in the inflammatory reaction and attenuates high blood perfusion after exercise. The objective of this work was to analyze the influence of cold water immersion (CWI) after acute exercise on neutrophil and lymphocyte mobilization. A control group of rats (AI) was kept at rest and a second group (AII) was submitted to CWI at 10º C for 10 minutes. The animals of Groups BI, BII, BIII and BIV were submitted to acute exercise which consisted in swimming in water at 31º C for 100 minutes with a load equivalent to 5% of the body weight. Groups CI, CII, CIII and CIV were submitted to CWI immediately after acute exercise. The animals were sacrificed at 6 (I), 12 (II), 24 (III) and 48 (IV) hours after the exercise and neutrophil and lymphocyte cells were counted for all groups by optic microscopy. The Student t-test was used for statistical analysis with a significance level of p< 0.05. A significant increase in the number of neutrophils was observed in Groups AII, BI, BII, BIII, BIV, CI, CII and CIII compared to AI. The neutrophil count of the CIV Group was similar to the Control Group. There was a significant drop in the number of lymphocytes in Groups BII, BIII, BIV, CI and CII when compared to Group AI. The lymphocyte count of Groups AII, BI, CIII and CIV were similar to the Control Group. The changes in neutrophil and lymphocyte counts caused by acute exercise were reverted to normal at 24 hours by cold water immersion.

Resposta divergente da testosterona e do cortisol séricos em atletas masculinos após uma corrida de maratona / Divergent responses of serum testosterone and cortisol in athlete men after a marathon race / Divergent responses of serum testosterone and cortisol in athlete men after a marathon race

O exercício físico altera a homeostase, pois requer rápida mobilização de fontes metabólicas. Neste estudo, analisamos a resposta dos níveis séricos de testosterona (T) e cortisol (C) e das enzimas de desgaste muscular CK, CKMB e LDH, em 20 atletas masculinos sadios (25 a 40 anos), participantes de uma maratona (42,2 km). Coletas de sangue venoso foram feitas em 3 períodos: (i) pela manhã, 48 h antes da maratona (controle), (ii) logo após o término da corrida (final) e (iii) na manhã seguinte, 20 h após a realização da prova (recuperação). Ao final, T estava significantemente mais baixa (de 673 para 303 ng/dl) e C mais elevado (de 20,3 para 42,5 æg/dl) que no período controle. Na recuperação, ambos praticamente retornaram aos níveis basais. CK, CKMB e LDH estavam significantemente mais elevadas ao final da corrida e mais ainda na recuperação (exceto a CKMB), caracterizando o desgaste muscular. Enquanto CK e LDH apresentaram significante correlação negativa com a T (-0,412 e -0,546, respectivamente), CKMB correlacionou-se positivamente com o C (0,4521). Concluímos que a correlação inversa entre T e C, e o comportamento das enzimas CK, CKMB e LDH, permite comprovar que uma corrida de maratona causa intenso stress físico, provocando desequilíbrio hormonal e lesão celular severa.

Physical exercise alters homeostasis, as it requires prompt mobilization of metabolic sources. In this study, we measured serum testosterone (T) and cortisol (C) levels and the muscle-wastage enzymes CK, CKMB and LDH in 20 healthy male athletes (ages 25 to 40 years) in response to a marathon race (42.2 km). Venous blood samples were drawn in 3 different periods: (i) in the morning, 48 h before the competition (control), (ii) at the end of the race (end), and (iii) in the next morning, 20 h after the race (recovery). At the end, T was significantly lower (from 673 to 303 ng/dl) and C higher (from 20.3 to 42.5 æg/dl) as compared to the control period. At recovery, both were virtually identical to control levels. CK, CKMB and LDH were significantly higher at the end of the competition and even higher in the recovering period (except for CKMB), characterizing muscle wastage. CK and LDH disclosed a significant negative correlation with T (-0.412 and -0.546, respectively), whereas CKMB correlated positively with C (0.4521). We conclude that the inverse correlation observed between T and C levels, and the pattern of CK, CKMB and LDH increase, allow us to confirm that a marathon race may cause a marked physical stress, resulting in a distinct hormonal imbalance and severe cellular damage.

Novo teste de estágios tipo vai e vem, máximo e submáximo, para predizer o consumo máximo de oxigênio / New maximal and submaximal multi-stage shuttle tests to predict maximal oxygen uptake

O consumo máximo de oxigênio é um importante índice de avaliação da função cardiopulmonar, podendo ser utilizado para diagnosticar dispnéia, avaliar o risco pré-operatório e priorizar pacientes para transplante de coração. Altos custos e necessidade de profissionais especializados inviabilizam a aplicação do teste para a população. Validar os testes indiretos de estágios, do tipo vai e vem máximo e submáximo, para predizer o consumo máximo de oxigênio em indivíduos não atletas. Quarenta indivíduos foram submetidos a um teste cardiopulmonar em esteira, que permitiu medir consumo máximo de oxigênio diretamente. Dois dias após foi realizado o teste de estágios máximo, onde os indivíduos percorreram distâncias consecutivas de 15 metros, indo e vindo, com velocidade controlada por sinal sonoro. A partir dos dados obtidos no teste máximo, determinou-se à distância percorrida no teste submáximo. Foram utilizadas as funções estatísticas média e desvio- padrão para as variáveis idade 29,1 ± 6,4 anos, consumo máximo de oxigênio 45,52 ± 8,49 ml/kg/min, distância percorrida no teste de estágios máximo 1131,0 ± 255,1 metros e no teste submáximo 534,4 ± 196,8 metros. A associação entre as variáveis consumo máximo de oxigênio medido e o teste de estágios máximo (r = 0,91) e submáximo (r = 0,81), foi obtida pelo coeficiente de correlação linear de Pearson e regressão linear. O nível de significância foi 5% e p<0,05. Nossos resultados demonstram que os testes de estágios, tipo vai e vem máximo e submáximo, são válidos para predizer o consumo máximo de oxigênio.

The maximal oxygen uptake is an important evaluation index of cardiopulmonary function; it could be used to diagnose dyspnea, to assess pre-operative risk and to prioritize patients for heart transplantation. High costs and the necessity of specialized professionals, make the application of the test for the population impossible. Validate the ability of maximal and submaximal multi-stage shuttle field tests to predict maximal oxygen uptake in non-athletes. Forty individuals were submitted to a cardiopulmonary test on treadmill, which allowed the maximal oxygen uptake to be directly measured. Two days later, the maximal multi-stage test was carried out, where individuals ran consecutive distances of 15 meters, going and coming, at a sound signalcontroled velocity. The distance completed in the submaximal test was determined from data gathered in the maximal test. Average and standart-deviation statistic functions have been used for the variables age 29.1 ± 6.4 years, maximal oxygen uptake 45.52 ± 8.49 ml/kg/min, covered distance in maximal multi-stage test 1131.0 ± 255.1 meters and submaximal multi-stage test 534.4 ± 196.8 meters. The association between the variables maximal oxygen uptake measured and multi-stage test maximal (r = 0.91) and submaximal multi-stage test (r = 0.81), has been determined by Pearson’s correlation coefficient and linear regression. The level of significance was 5% and p<0.05. Our results demonstrated that maximal and submaximal multi-stage tests are valid for predicting maximal oxygen uptake.

Efeitos benéficios da atividade física na aptidäo física e saúde mental durante o processo de envelhecimento / Heart rate, arterial blood pressure and double products during resistance dynamic and aerobic exercices

O objetivo desta revisäo foi identificar as principais evidências científicassobre os efeitos do exercíciofísico, atividade física e treinamento nas variáveis antropométricas, neuromotoras e metabólicas da aptidäo física, assim como dos principais aspectos psicológicos associados à saúde mental durante o processo de envelhecimento. Considerando as variáveis antropométricas, o exercício físico regular está associado com ocontrole do peso corporal, diminuiçäo e/ou manutençäode gordura corporal central e periférica e da massa musular. Em relaçäo ao aspecto neuromotor, o treinamento específico da força muscular leva a hipertrofia das fibras musculares I (14-48 porcento) e II (20 a 62 porcento), aumento da força muscular (9-227 porcento) dos membros superiores (28-67 porcento) e inferiores (32-227 porcento), assim como da capilaridade e capacidade oxidativa muscular, melhora na flexibilidade e diminuiçäo das quedas. Nas variáveis cardiovasculares, o exercício incrementa a potência aeróbica (10-40 porcento), especialmente pelo incremento da diferença arterio-venosa de oxigênio, volume sistólico, débito cardíaco, volume plasmático e sangüinio, melhora nas propriedades de enchimento diastólico do coraçäo, que em algumas variáveis acontece de forma distinta entre homens e mulheres. Da mesma forma, a atividade física apresenta efeitos benéficos nos aspectos psicológics, sociais e cognitivos, sendo assim um aspecto fundamental do estilo de vida na promoçäo de um envelhecimento saudável bem sucedido