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This study clinically validated the nursing diagnosis of "sedentary lifestyle" (SL) among 564 Brazilian adolescents. Measures of diagnostic accuracy were calculated for defining characteristics, and Mantel--Haenszel analysis was used to identify related factors. The measures of diagnostic accuracy showed that the following defining characteristics were statistically significant: "average daily physical activity less than recommended for gender and age," "preference for activity low in physical activity," "nonengagement in leisure time physical activities," and "diminished respiratory capacity." An SL showed statistically significant associations with the following related factors: insufficient motivation for physical activity; insufficient interest in physical activity; insufficient resources for physical activity; insufficient social support for physical activity; attitudes, beliefs, and health habits that hinder physical activity; and insufficient confidence for practicing physical exercises. The study highlighted the four defining characteristics and six related factors for making decisions related to SL among adolescents.

Copyright of Fisioterapia e Pesquisa is the property of Universidade de Sao Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Texto & Contexto Enfermagem is the property of Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Programa de Pos-Graduacao de Enfermagem and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Context: Pelvic-drop exercises are often used to strengthen the gluteus medius (GM) muscle with the aim of increasing or prioritizing its recruitment. However, the effect of hip rotation on the performance of the action of the GM is unknown. Objective: To evaluate the effect of hip rotation on the recruitment of the GM, tensor fasciae latae (TFL), and quadratus lumborum (QL). Method: Seventeen healthy subjects performed 2 sets of 4 repetitions of pelvic-drop exercise in random order with pelvic-drop lateral, medial, and neutral rotation of the hip. Main Outcome Measures: The electromyographic (EMG) activity of the GM, TFL, and QL was evaluated using surface electromyography. Results: There were significant increases in the activation of the GM with medial and neutral rotation compared with lateral rotation (P = .03, P = .01, respectively), and there was no difference between medial and neutral rotation (P = 1.00). There was no difference in EMG activity of the TFL and QL in any of the positions. The GM:TFL ratio was the same in all analyzed positions. Regarding the GM:QL ratio, there was a significant increase with medial rotation compared with lateral rotation (P = .02). Conclusions: Pelvic-drop exercises are more efficient for activating the GM when the hip is in medial rotation and neutral position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast Cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in women worldwide and, although 70% of patients are responsive to selective Estrogen Receptor (ER) modulators such as Tamoxifen (Tam), patients' survival is comprised by resistance to endocrine therapy. Brazilian flora, especially the Amazon biome, is one of the richest global sources of native species with potentially bioactive compounds. Arrabidaea chica is a plant native to the Amazon that has been used in the treatment of different diseases. However, its action on BC remains unclear. Methods: Herein the biological effects of the chloroform extract of A. chica (CEAC) were evaluated on BC cells and in in vivo model. After confirmation of CEAC antioxidant capacity, cells were treated with CEAC and Tam, alone and with CEAC+Tam. The cell viability was evaluated by MTT and hormone receptor transcripts levels were assessed (ESR1, ESR2 and AR). Finally, anticarcinogenicity of CEAC was recorded in Drosophila melanogaster through Epithelial Tumor Test (ETT). Results: The study confirmed the antioxidant activity of CEAC. CEAC was selective for MCF-7, downregulating ESR2 and AR transcripts and upregulating ESR2 expression. The modulatory effects of CEAC on ERs did not differ between cells treated with Tam and with CEAC+Tam. Interestingly, previous treatment with CEAC, followed by treatment with Tam promoted a significant decrease in cell viability. The extract also presented anticarcinogenic effect in in vivo assay. Conclusion: The bioassays on breast tumor cells demonstrated the antiproliferative activity of the extract, which modulated the expression of hormone receptors and sensitized luminal tumor cells to Tam. These results suggest that CEAC could be a complementary treatment for BC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of an enforced fast start on long-distance performance are controversial and seem to depend on the athlete's capacity to delay and tolerate metabolic disruption. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an enforced start on 10-km-running performance and the influence of the some physiological and performance variables on the ability to tolerate an enforced fast start during the running. Fifteen moderately trained runners performed two 10-km time trials (TTs): free pacing (FP-TT) and fast start (FS-TT). During FS-TT, speed during the first kilometer was 6% higher than in FP-TT. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), peak velocity (PV), velocity associated with VO2max (vVO2max), ventilatory threshold, and running economy at 10 and 12 km/h and FP-TT average velocity (AV-10 km) were individually determined. There were no differences between FP-TT and FS-TT performance (45:01 ± 4:08 vs 45:11 ± 4:46 min:s, respectively, P = .4). Eight participants improved (+2.2%) their performance and were classified as positive responders (PR) and 7 decreased (-3.3%) performance and were classified as negative responders (NR). Running speed was significantly higher for PR between 6 and 9.2 km (P < .05) during FS-TT. In addition, PR presented higher PV (P = .02) and vVO2max (P = .01) than NR, suggesting that PV and vVO2max might influence the ability to tolerate a fast-start strategy. In conclusion, there was an individual response to the enforced fast-start strategy during 10-km running, and those who improved performance also presented higher vVO2max and PV, suggesting a possible association between these variables and response to the strategy adopted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study examined the sensitivity of maximal (Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery [IR] 1 and 2) and submaximal (5'-5') tests to identify training adaptations in futsal players along with the suitability of heart-rate (HR) and HR-variability (HRV) measures to identify these adaptations. Methods: Eleven male professional futsal players were assessed before (pretraining) and alter (posttraining) a 5-wk period. Assessments included 5'-5' and Yo-Yo IR1 and IR2 performances and HR and HRV at rest and during the IR and 5'-5' tests. Magnitude-based-inference analyses examined the differences between pre- and posttraining, while relationships between changes in variables were determined via correlation. Results: Posttraining, Yo-Yo IR1 performance likely increased while Yo-Yo IR2 performance almost certainly increased. Submaximal HR during the Yo-Yo IR1 and Yo-Yo IR2 almost certainly and likely, respectively, decreased with training. HR during the 5'-5' was very likely decreased, while HRV at icst and during the 5-5 was likely increased alter training. Changes in both Yo-Yo IR performances were negatively correlated with changes in HR during the Yo-Yo IR1 test and positively correlated with the change in HRV during the 5'-5'. Conclusions: The current study has identified the Yo-Yo IR2 as more responsive for monitoring training-induced changes of futsal players than the Yo-Yo IR1. Changes in submaximal HR during the Yo-Yo IR and HRV during the 5'-5' were highly sensitive to changes in maximal performance and are recommended for monitoring training. The 5'-5' was recommended as a time-efficient method to assess training adaptations for futsal players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: To analyze the effects of a very congested match schedule on the total distance (TD) covered, high-intensity-running (HIR) distance, and frequency of accelerations and body-load impacts (BLIs) performed in a team of under-15 soccer players (N = 10; 15.1 ± 0.2 y, 171.8 ± 4.7 cm, 61 ± 6.0 kg) during an international youth competition. METHODS: Using global positioning systems, player performances were repeatedly monitored in 5 matches performed over 3 successive days. RESULTS: Significant differences were observed between matches (P < .05) for the frequency of accelerations per minute, BLIs, and BLIs per minute. No differences were observed for the TD covered, TD run per minute, number of high-intensity runs, distance covered in HIR, per-minute peak running speed attained, or frequency of accelerations. The frequency of accelerations per minute decreased across the competition while BLIs were higher during the final than in all other matches. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that BLIs and acceleration might be used as an alternative means to represent the external load during congested match schedules rather than measures related to running speed or distance covered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the factors associated with functional capacity in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). All patients were submitted to six-minute walk test (6MWT), 10-repetition sit-to-stand test (STS-10) and SF-36 health-related quality of life questionnaire (HRQoL). Patients with functional capacity ≥80% exhibited higher education level, family income, body mass index, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and lower age and STS-10 time. Multiple linear regression showed that gender, age, family income, chronic kidney disease stage, STS-10 time, and physical component summary of HRQoL were significantly associated with the 6MWT distance. Functional capacity was significantly associated with gender, age, family income, CKD stage, STS-10 time, and physical component of HRQoL. The progression of CKD has an impact on the decrease in functional capacity in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People who are obese sustain very high foot pressures when standing, with potential consequences to their feet soles' cutaneous sensibility. In the current investigation, we performed a detailed assessment of foot sole sensibility in women with morbid obesity (n = 13; age = 38.85, SD = 8.09 years) status in comparison with leaner women (n = 13; age = 37.62, SD = 7.10 years). We estimated tactile feet sole sensibility through graduated monofilament light touch applied at several hotspots of both feet soles, covering the toes, metatarsal heads, midfoot internal and lateral arches, and heel. Intergroup comparisons per foot sole region indicated significantly lower sensibility for the group with morbid obesity under the fifth and third metatarsal heads, midfoot lateral and internal arches and heel. We found a large variation across the sole regions, with the lowest difference between the obese and lean groups observed under the hallux (18%) and the largest difference observed under the lateral arch of the midfoot (76%). Correlation analyses between body weight and sensibility scores revealed a significant positive correlation among participants who were leaner (r s = 0.56, p = 0.05) but not among participants who were obese (r s = –0.06, p = 0.83). Mainly, our results showed that morbid obesity was associated with significantly higher cutaneous sensibility thresholds, with large variability of the sensibility deficit across different regions of both feet soles. Due to its functional relevance for body balance control, reduced sensibility thresholds among women who are morbidly obese may have implications for stance stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Investigacion & Educacion en Enfermeria is the property of Universidad de Antioquia, Facultad de Enfermeria and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study aimed to determine the influence of age, anthropometry, and distance on stroke parameters of 10- to 17-y-old swimmers. Forty-six male swimmers were divided into 4 chronological age groups. Anthropometry and sexual maturity were assessed, and maximal efforts of 100, 200, and 400 m using front-crawl style were performed to determine stroke rate (SR), length (SL), and index (SI). Multiple linear regression, 1-way, and mixed ANOVA for repeated measures were used for statistical analyses. There was significant effect of distance for all stroke parameters (P < .001) and an age effect only for SL and SI (P < .001). Post hoc showed that the 10- to 17-year-old group significantly reduced SR with increasing distance (effect size -0.8 to -1.5 comparing 100, 200, and 400 m) but were not effective in offsetting this adaptation with increased SL, especially from 200- to 400-m distance, at which no group made both adjustments, highlighting the decreased efficiency with significant SI reduction (effect size -0.2 to-0.4 comparing 100,200, and 400 m). Considering all stroke parameters, the performances were almost 100% explained, but SI itself could explain around 90% of the performance; furthermore, limb length contributed to explain all stroke parameter, and SI was the variable best predicted (around 75%) by anthropometrical (upper limbs and height) and descriptive variables (age and y of systematic training).Thus, distinct effects of distance and advancing age were found during childhood and adolescence on stroke parameters, and SI was highlighted as the best predictor of 100-, 200-, and 400-m maximal performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: to verify the impact of the bundles and the interprofessional learning for the prevention of mechanical ventilation-associated pneumonia of an intensive care unit (ICU). Method: This was a quasi-experimental study performed in an ICU of a public hospital in Diamantina, Minas Gerais. Were included in this study 56 professionals who provided direct assistance to patients in mechanical ventilation. The data collection took place in three phases: pre-intervention, which consisted of direct observation and interview; intervention, in which training was performed through clinical simulations; and post-intervention, in which the impact of the strategies implemented through direct observation, was evaluated. Differences between pre and post groups were assessed using McNemar's test. An alpha level of 0.05 set a priori was used, and a Bonferroni correction determined statistical significance for the case of multiple comparisons. Results: After the intervention, there was increased adherence to endotracheal cuff pressure (8.10%), daily interruption of sedation (16.67%) and subglottic aspiration (18.75%). It was significant (p < 0,0083) in the associations between the professional category versus non-aspiration, bed head positioning, oral hygiene frequency and the type of hand hygiene after intervention. Conclusions: There is still a gap to be detected in the bundle implementation and the positive impact generated by the inter-professional knowledge, mainly because it is not immediate but in the long term to obtain the desired feedback. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the therapeutic potential of one-stage, full-mouth, ultrasonic debridement (FMUD) as a treatment for type 2 diabetic patients with generalized severe chronic periodontitis. Method and Materials: Sixteen patients diagnosed with generalized severe chronic periodontitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus were allocated to the diabetic group; another 15 subjects with periodontitis but without metabolic disorders were placed in the nondiabetic group. Both groups were treated using the FMUD protocol, a unique 45-minute session of ultrasonic debridement of all sites presenting periodontal disease. Patients were analyzed for the following parameters: plaque and bleeding indices, gingival recession, probing depth, and clinical attachment level. Further, diabetic subjects were assessed using fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) tests. Patients were evaluated at 3 and 6 months for all parameters. ANOVA and the Turkey test were used for data analysis (P < .05). Results: Both groups showed improved periodontal health after treatment. There were no significant differences between the groups for any of the parameters assessed (P > .05). Diabetic subjects treated with FMUD had a clinical response similar to that of nondiabetic subjects at all pocket depths. No adverse effects or medical disturbances were observed in either group during treatment. FPG and HbA1c levels remained unaltered after treatment. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, FMUD promoted clinical improvements in patients with type 2 uncontrolled diabetes and generalized severe chronic periodontitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To verify a potential association between the presence of noncarious cervical lesions, parafunctional habits, and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) diagnosis. Method and Materials: Sample-size calculation provided a value of 130 participants with a confidence level of 95% and an error margin of 5%. A population of 132 volunteers (30men: mean age, 23.7 ± 3.05 years; 102 women: mean age, 24.9 ± 5.86 years) underwent an oral examination and was interviewed by a trained dentist. The following parameters were registered: personal details, TMD diagnosis, parafunctional habits, and noncariouscervical lesion presence. The population was then divided into a noncarious cervical lesion group and a control group and subjected to the t test, chi-square test, Fisher exact test, and Spearman correlation (α = .05). Results: Nocarious lesions were present in 39% of the population, with the largest concentrations found in the maxillary premolars (32%).The data showed a significant association between noncarious cervical lesion presence, tooth clenching (P = .03), and nail biting (P = .02), as well as a relation with TMD diagnosis(Fonseca Index [P=.01] and Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMD(RDC/TMD) [P = .004]).In the noncarious cervical lesion group, direct rank correlation was found between maxillary premolars and clenching (P = .03), mandibular canines and nail biting (P = .05), and mandibular incisors and parafunctional habits without dental contacts (P = .02). Conclusion: Parafunctional habits and TMD presence should be taken into account in the diagnosis and treatment plan of noncarious cervical lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the prevalence of orofacial manifestations between patients with and without sickle cell anemia and to investigate the distribution of such events in patients with sickle cell anemia by sex and age. Method and Material: A cross-sectional study was conducted in which 330 subjects divided into two groups (a group of individuals with sickle cell anemia and a healthy control group) were examined. Results: It was observed that patients with sickle cell anemia had a significantly higher prevalence of previous mental nerve neuropathy (P = .000) and delayed tooth eruption (P = .006) than patients without the disease. Regarding the distribution of orofacial manifestations in patients with sickle cell anemia by sex and age, the only statistical associations were between the prevalence of previous mental nerve neuropathy and sex (P = .023) and previous mandibular pain and age (P = .019). Conclusions: This study found that sickle cell anemia is associated with the prevalence of previous mental nerve neuropathy and delayed tooth eruption. Moreover, previous mental nerve neuropathy is more frequent among females with sickle cell anemia, and previous mandibular pain is more frequent among individuals older than 21 years of age with sickle cell anemia. Further studies using a methodology similar to the one in this study are necessary considering the scarcity of studies using this approach. (Quintessence Int 2011;42:701-709) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: The aim of this study was to verify the effects of a multisensory exercise programme on the cognition and functionality of institutionalized older adults. Methods: Forty‐five volunteers were randomly allocated to 2 groups, the multisensory exercise programme (n = 24) and the control group that received no treatment (n = 21). The programme consisted of 3 50‐min sessions of progressive exercises per week for 16 weeks that challenged their strength, balance, coordination, multisensory stimulation, and flexibility in different tasks. Cognition (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), balance (Berg Scale), mobility (Timed Up and Go), and functional performance (Physical Performance Test) were measured preintervention and postintervention. Statistical analyses were performed using Student's t test and 2‐way ANOVA. Results: The multisensory exercise programme showed statistically significant improvements (p < .05) on cognition (effect size [ES]: 0.92), balance (ES: 0.77), mobility (ES: 0.51), and functional performance (ES: 0.86) as compared with the control group, which showed no statistical significant differences at the postintervention time point. Conclusions: The multisensory exercise programme improved the cognition and functionality of institutionalized older adults. The introduction of a motor and multisensory‐based approach in care routines may improve residents' health and engagement to the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: to investigate the associations of preoperative anxiety and depression symptoms with postoperative complications and with sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients submitted to the first coronary artery bypass graft. Method: observational, analytical and longitudinal study. A consecutive non-probabilistic sample consisted of patients submitted to coronary artery bypass graft. To evaluate the symptoms, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale was used. tracheal intubation for more than 48 hours, hemodynamic instability, sensorineural deficit, agitation, hyperglycemia, infection, nausea, vomiting, pain and death were classified as complications. The Mann-Whitney and Spearman Correlation tests were used, with a significance level of 0.05. Results: a total of 75 patients participated. The group that presented hemodynamic instability in the postoperative period had a greater median for the anxiety symptoms (p = 0.012), as well as the women (p = 0.028). The median of the depression symptoms was higher in the group presenting nausea (p = 0.002), agitation (p <0.001), tracheal intubation for more than 48 hours (p = 0.018) and sensorineural deficit (p = 0.016). Conclusion: there was association of the symptoms of preoperative anxiety with hemodynamic instability in the postoperative period and with the female gender, as well as association of depression symptoms with the following complications: nausea, agitation, time of intubation in the postoperative period and sensorineural deficit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although growing evidence supports the use of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) for performance and recovery enhancement, there have only been laboratory-controlled studies. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the effects of PBMT in performance and recovery of high-level rugby players during an anaerobic field test. Twelve male high-level rugby athletes were recruited in this randomized, crossover, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. No interventions were performed before the Bangsbo sprint test (BST) at familiarization phase (week 1); at weeks 2 and 3, pre-exercise PBMT or placebo were randomly applied to each athlete. Photobiomodulation therapy irradiation was performed at 17 sites of each lower limb, employing a cluster with 12 diodes (4 laser diodes of 905 nm, 4 light emitting diodes [LEDs] of 875 nm, and 4 LEDs of 640 nm, 30 J per site, manufactured by Multi Radiance Medical). Average time of sprints, best time of sprints, and fatigue index were obtained from BST. Blood lactate levels were assessed at baseline, and at 3, 10, 30, and 60 minutes after BST. Athletes' perceived fatigue was also assessed through a questionnaire. Photobiomodulation therapy significantly (p ≤ 0.05) improved the average time of sprints and fatigue index in BST. Photobiomodulation therapy significantly decreased percentage of change in blood lactate levels (p ≤ 0.05) and perceived fatigue (p ≤ 0.05). Pre-exercise PBMT with the combination of super-pulsed laser (low-level laser), red LEDs, and infrared LEDs can enhance performance and accelerate recovery of high-level rugby players in field test. This opens a new avenue for wide use of PBMT in real clinical practice in sports settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

* STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional, case-control design. * BACKGROUND: Pelvic movement has been considered a possible discriminating parameter associated with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) symptom onset. Decreased pelvic rotation has been found during squatting in people with FAI when compared to people with healthy hips. However, it is possible that changes in pelvic movement may occur in other hip conditions because of pain and may not be specific to FAI. * OBJECTIVES: To compare sagittal pelvic rotation during hip flexion and in sitting between people with FAI and people with other symptomatic hip conditions. * METHODS: Thirty people with symptomatic FAI, 30 people with other symptomatic hip conditions, and 20 people with healthy hips participated in the study. Sagittal pelvic rotation was calculated based on measures of pelvic alignment in standing, hip flexion to 45° and 90°, and sitting. * RESULTS: There were significant differences in sagittal pelvic rotation among the 3 groups in all conditions (P<.05). Post hoc analyses revealed that participants in the symptomatic FAI group had less pelvic rotation during hip flexion to 45° and 90° compared to participants in the other symptomatic hip conditions group and the hip-healthy group (mean difference, 1.2°-1.9°). In sitting, participants in the other symptomatic hip conditions group had less posterior pelvic rotation compared to those in the hip-healthy group (mean difference, 3.9°). * CONCLUSION: People with symptomatic FAI have less posterior pelvic rotation during hip flexion when compared to people with other symptomatic hip conditions and those with healthy hips. * LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Diagnosis, level 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Beneficial effects of green tea (GT) polyphenols against obesity have been reported. However, until this moment the molecular mechanisms of how green tea can modulate obesity and regulates fat metabolism, particularly in adipose tissue, remain poorly understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of GT extract in the adipose tissue of obese animals and its effect on weight gain, metabolism and function (de novo lipogenesis and lipolysis), and the involvement of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Methods and results: Male Wistar rats were treated with GT by gavage (12 weeks/5 days/week; 500 mg/kg of body weight), and obesity was induced by cafeteria diet (8 weeks). Here, we show that obese rats treated with GT showed a significant reduction in indicators of obesity such as hyperlipidemia, fat synthesis, body weight, and fat depots as compared to those treated with standard control diet. AMPK was induced in adipose tissue in rats that were treated with GT and likely restored insulin sensitivity, increased mRNA expression of GLUT4, reducing the concentrations of plasma and liver lipid content, also stimulating fatty acid oxidation in the same tissue. Importantly, repression of de novo lipogenesis in the adipose tissue, reduced lipid droplets in the liver, and the development of insulin resistance in diet-induced obese rats were accompanied by AMPK activation. Conclusion: Our study identified that metabolic changes caused by GT intake induced AMPK activation and modulate the expression of genes involved in metabolism, particularly in adipose tissue, thus offering a therapeutic strategy to combat insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and obesity in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Insulin resistance promotes liver disease progression and may be associated with a lower response rate in treated hepatitis C virus ( HCV) infected patients. n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid ( PUFA) supplementation may reduce insulin resistance. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of n-3 PUFA supplementation on insulin resistance in these patients. Methods In a randomised, double-blind clinical trial, 154 patients were screened. After applying inclusion criteria, 52 patients [homeostasis model assessment index of insulin resistance ( HOMA- IR ≥2.5)] were randomly divided into two groups: n-3 PUFA ( n = 25/6000 mg day−1 of fish oil) or control ( n = 27/6000 mg day−1 of soybean oil). Both groups were supplemented for 12 weeks and underwent monthly nutritional consultation. Biochemical tests were performed at baseline and after intervention. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon Mann-Whitney test for comparisons and the Wilcoxon test for paired data. Statistical package r, version 3.02 (The R Project for Statistical Computing) was used and P < 0.05 (two-tailed) was considered statistically significant. Results Comparisons between groups showed that n-3 PUFA supplementation was more effective than the control for reducing HOMA- IR ( P = 0.015) and serum insulin ( P = 0.016). The n-3 PUFA group not only showed a significant reduction in HOMA- IR 3.8 (3.2-5.0) versus 2.4 (1.8-3.3) ( P = 0.002); serum insulin 17.1 (13.8-20.6) μ IU mL−1 versus 10.9 (8.6-14.6) μ IU mL−1 ( P = 0.001); and glycated haemoglobin 5.4% (5.0-5.7%) versus 5.1% (4.8-5.6%) ( P = 0.011), but also presented an increase in interleukin-1 97.5 (0.0-199.8) pg mL−1 versus 192.4 (102.2-266.8) pg mL−1 ( P = 0.003) and tumour necrosis factor 121.2 (0.0-171.3) pg mL−1 versus 185.7 (98.0-246.9) pg mL−1 ( P = 0.003). Conclusions n-3 PUFA supplementation reduces insulin resistance in genotype 1 HCV infected patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Therapeutic high-frequency ultrasound, microcurrent, and a combination of the two have been used as potential interventions in the soft tissue healing process, but little is known about their effect on the immune system. Objective: To evaluate the effects of therapeutic high frequency ultrasound, microcurrent, and the combined therapy of the two on the size of the wound area, peritoneal macrophage function, CD4+ and CD8+, T lymphocyte populations, and plasma concentration of interleukins (ILs). Method: Sixty-five Wistar rats were randomized into five groups, as follows: uninjured control (C, group 1), lesion and no treatment (L, group 2), lesion treated with ultrasound (LU, group 3), lesion treated with microcurrent (LM, group 4), and lesion treated with combined therapy (LUM, group 5). For groups 3,4 and 5, treatment was initiated 24 hours after surgery under anesthesia and each group was allocated into three different subgroups (n=5) to allow for the use of the different therapy resources at on days 3, 7 and 14 Photoplanimetry was performed daily. After euthanasia, blood was collected for immune analysis. Results: Ultrasound increased the phagocytic capacity and the production of nitric oxide by macrophages and induced the reduction of CD4+ cells, the CD4+/CD8+ ratio, and the plasma concentration of IL-1β. Microcurrent and combined therapy decreased the production of superoxide anion, nitric oxide, CD4+-positive cells, the CD4+/CD8+ ratio, and IL-1β concentration. Conclusions: Therapeutic high-frequency ultrasound, microcurrent, and combined therapy changed the activity of the innate and adaptive immune system during healing process but did not accelerate the closure of the wound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the acute cardiovascular responses during and after resistance exercise with and without whole-body vibration. Nineteen sedentary adults randomly performed one session of isometric squats without vibration and the same exercise with vibration. Systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO) and systemic vascular resistance (SVR) were measured. SBP, DBP and HR were also measured for 20 min after the sessions. The exercise with vibration demonstrated significant values ​​(P< 0.05) for SBP (second to sixth sets), DBP (third to sixth sets) and SVR (second to sixth sets) compared with the exercise without vibration. After the sessions, the values ​​of SBP for both exercises were significantly lower than the respective resting values; with no difference between the sessions. In conclusion, exercise with vibration caused increases in SBP, DBP and SVR compared with exercise with no vibration in sedentary adults. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Chronic musculoskeletal pain is highly prevalent worldwide. Primary study objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Helical® microcoils, a new, noninvasive treatment for chronic musculoskeletal pain. Design: This was a prospective, observational study. Setting: The study was conducted at the main author's private clinic, in São Paulo, Brazil. Participants: We evaluated 20 physicians, from 2 different hospitals, who suffered from chronic musculoskeletal pain and volunteered to participate in the study. Intervention: The Helical® microcoils were applied to the skin over the affected areas. Before and after the intervention, the physician-patients completed questionnaires and a visual analog scale. Primary outcome measures: We quantified postintervention improvement or worsening of pain and muscle tension. Results: Significant improvements in pain and muscle tension were observed in 95% of the physician-patients evaluated. The only side effect reported was mild pruritus at the application site, which occurred in 5 of the 20 cases. Conclusion: The use of Helical microcoils was found to be safe and efficacious in relieving muscle tension and pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background We investigated whether food frequency questionnaire ( FFQ) may be indicative of the serum composition of essential n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in early pregnancy and if correlations are affected by body mass index ( BMI). Methods The present study comprised a prospective cohort conducted in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The sample was composed of 248 women, aged 20-40 years, between 6 and the 13 weeks of gestation. Dietary intake was assessed using a validated FFQ. Fatty acid serum compositions were determined in fasting serum samples, employing a high-throughput robotic direct methylation coupled with fast gas-liquid chromatography. Spearman's correlation ( rs) was used to assess the relationship between fatty acid intake and corresponding serum composition. Women were classified according to BMI (kg m-2) as underweight/normal weight ( BMI < 25 kg m-2; n = 139) or excessive weight ( BMI ≥ 25 kg m-2; n = 109). Results In the total sample, dietary report was significantly correlated with the serum composition of total polyunsaturated fatty acid ( PUFA; rs = 0.232, P < 0.001), linoleic acid ( LA; 18:2 n-6; rs = 0.271, P < 0.001), eicosapentaenoic acid ( EPA; 20:5 n-3; rs = 0.263, P < 0.001) and docosahexaenoic acid ( DHA; 22:6 n-3; rs = 0.209, P = 0.001). When analyses were stratified by BMI, significant correlations between FFQ and serum composition among underweight/normal weight women were observed for total PUFA ( rs= 0.323, P < 0.001), LA ( rs = 0.322, P < 0.001), EPA ( rs = 0.352, P < 0.001) and DHA ( rs = 0.176, P = 0.039). Among women of excessive weight, significant correlations were observed only for alpha linolenic acid ( ALA; 18:3 n-3; rs = 0.199, P = 0.040) and DHA ( rs = 0.236, P = 0.014). Conclusions FFQ in early pregnancy may be used as a possible indicator of serum concentrations of fatty acids. Higher correlations were observed among underweight/normal weight women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of antagonist passive static stretching (AS) during the inter-set rest period on repetition performance and muscle activation. Ten trained men (22.4 ± 0.9 years) participated in this study. Two protocols were adopted: Passive recovery (PR) – three sets to repetition failure were performed for the seated row (SR) with two-minute rest interval between sets without pre-exercise stretching; AS – forty seconds of stretching was applied to pectoralis major prior to each set of SR. Significant increases in the number of repetitions were noted under AS compared with PR (p < 0.05). Significant increases on latissimus dorsi (p = 0.002) and biceps brachii (p = 0.001) muscle activity were noted inter-sets under the AS compared with the PR condition. Therefore, the AS adopted during the inter-set rest period may enhance repetition performance and activation of agonist muscles in an acute manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethanol extract and fractions obtained from leaves of Solanum lycocarpum were examined in order to determine their phenolic composition, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic potential. High performance liquid chromatography coupled with DAD analysis indicated that the flavonoids apigenin and kaempferol were the main phenolic compounds present in dichloromethane and ethyl acetate fractions, respectively The antioxidant activity was significantly more pronounced for dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and hydroethanol fractions than that of the commercial antioxidant 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol. The hexane and dichloromethane fractions were more active against the tested bacteria. The hydroethanol fraction exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity at the dose of 75 and 150 mg/kg in the later phase of inflammation. However, the antiedematogenic effect of the higher dose of the ethyl acetate fraction (150 mg/kg) was more pronounced. The ethyl acetate fraction also presented a less cytotoxic effect than the ethanol extract and other fractions. These activities found in S. lycocarpum leaves can be attributed, at least in part, to the presence of phenolic constituents such as flavonoids. This work provided the knowledge of phenolic composition in the extract and fractions and the antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activities of leaves of S. lycocarpum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of topical retinoids to treat skin disorders and ageing can induce local reactions, while oral retinoids are potent teratogens and produce several unwanted effects. This way, efforts to explore complementary care resources should be supported. Based on this, we evaluate the antiageing effects of a supercritical CO2 extract from Bidens pilosa L. (BPE-CO2A) containing a standardized multicomponent mixture of phytol, linolenic, palmitic, linoleic, and oleic acids. BPE-CO2A was assessed for its effects on human dermal fibroblasts (TGF-β1 and FGF levels using ELISA; collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan by colorimetric assays, and mRNA expression of RXR, RAR, and EGFr by qRT-PCR) and human skin fragments (RAR, RXR, collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan by immunohistochemical analysis). Levels of extracellular matrix elements, TGF-β1 and FGF, and EGFr gene expression were significantly increased by BPE-CO2A. The modulation of RXR and RAR was positively demonstrated after the treatment with BPE-CO2A or phytol, a component of BPE-CO2A. The effects produced by BPE-CO2A were similar to or better than those produced by retinol and retinoic acid. The ability to stimulate extracellular matrix elements, increase growth factors, and modulate retinoid and rexinoid receptors provides a basis for the development of preparation containing BPE-CO2A as an antiageing/skin-repair agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The utilisation of bioelectrical impedance analysis ( BIA) in heart failure can be affected by many factors and its applicability remains controversial. The present study aimed to verify the adequacy of single-frequency BIA ( SF- BIA) and multifrequency BIA ( MF- BIA) compared to dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry ( DEXA) for evaluating body composition in outpatients with heart failure. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 55 patients with stable heart failure and left ventricle ejection fraction ≤45% were evaluated for fat mass percentage, fat mass and fat-free mass by DEXA and compared with the results obtained by SF- BIA (single frequency of 50 kHz) and MF- BIA (frequencies of 20 and 100 kHz). Results MF- BIA and DEXA gave similar mean values for fat mass percentage, fat mass and fat-free mass, whereas values from SF- BIA were significantly different from DEXA. Both SF- BIA and MF- BIA measures of body composition correlated strongly with DEXA ( r > 0.8; P < 0.001), except for fat mass assessed by SF- BIA, which showed a moderate correlation ( r = 0.760; P < 0.001). MF- BIA also showed a better agreement with DEXA by Bland-Altman analysis in all measurements. However, both types of equipment showed wide limits of agreement and a significant relationship between variance and bias (Pitmans's test P > 0.05), except MF- BIA for fat-free mass. Conclusions Compared with DEXA, MF- BIA showed better accuracy than SF- BIA, although both types of equipment showed wide limits of agreement. The BIA technique should be used with caution, and regression equations might be useful for correcting the observed variations, mainly in extreme values of body composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzed the body composition and bone mineral density of elite Brazilian soccer players and compared its differences according to the player position. Eighty-two soccer players competing at Brazilian first division were split according to their field positions: Goalkeepers (GK, n= 10), Backfielders (BF, n= 10), Lateral-midfielders (LM, n= 15), Central-midfielders (CM, n= 25), Forwards (FW, n= 22), and a Control Group (CG, n= 72) of university students. To estimate fat free mass (FFM), fat mass (FM), percentage of body fat (%FM), fat free mass of legs (FFM-Legs) and bone mineral density (BMD), a DEXA was selected. The positions LM (10.5 ± 5.2), CM (9.7 ± 4.0) and FW (9.9 ± 4.4) had lower values of FM and %FM than the GK (17.3 ± 6.0) and the control group (15.0 ± 5.3). Compared to the other positions, FFM was higher in the GK (68.2 ± 10.9) and BF (64.6 ± 6.8) (p< 0.05). All the soccer players were different from the CG (p< 0.05). Soccer players have an FFM, FFM-Legs and BMD significantly higher and FM and %FM lower than the control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which compared the relation between body composition and autonomic modulation in swimmers and non-athletes. Topics include heart rate variability (HRV), fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM) and muscle mass. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) and the methodology of the study are also discussed.

The article reports on research which was conducted to compare the cardiorespiratory responses of young women at first ventilatory threshold (VT1), second ventilatory threshold (VT2) and at maximum effort (MAX) who performed water aerobic exercises or used a treadmill. Researchers evaluated 20 women. They found that at MAX intensity, oxygen uptake was higher with the treadmill than with water aerobics.

Copyright of Brazilian Journal of Kineanthropometry & Human Performance is the property of Brazilian Journal of Kineanthropometry & Human Performance and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Brazilian Journal of Kineanthropometry & Human Performance is the property of Brazilian Journal of Kineanthropometry & Human Performance and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: Evidence suggests that plasma retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) and insulin resistance are related to body fat (BF). We aimed to assess the relationship between RBP4 and insulin resistance with obesity in a mixed (skin color) cohort of the Brazilian population. Methods: A nested case-control study was conducted in 227 schoolchildren aged 7-14 years. Schoolchildren with a high BF percentage (% BF, ≥ 30 for girls and ≥ 25 for boys) were identified as the obese group ( n = 137), and those with lower values were identified as the non-obese group ( n = 90). Percentage of body fat (% BF) was determined by tetrapolar bioimpedance (Quantum II, RJL System), RBP4 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Immunology Consultants Laboratory), plasma fasting insulin by chemiluminescent immunoassay (Access Immunoassay System) and insulin resistance by the homeostasis model insulin resistance (IR) index. Serum lipid profile and arterial blood pressure were evaluated. Results: The significant independent risk factors associated with obesity were as follows: male sex, increased serum LDL-C, RBP4 and IR. Among children with higher RBP4, the association with obesity increased significantly (from 3.1 to 8.5) in the presence of insulin resistance, when compared to higher RBP4 and non-insulin resistance. Conclusion: IR and RBP4 showed significant associations with obesity and traditional CVD risk factors. They might therefore be used as a marker for CVD risk and have clinical implications in the development of comorbidities associated with obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of two dietary patterns in which carbohydrates and proteins were eaten mostly at lunch or dinner on body weight and composition, energy metabolism, and biochemical markers in overweight/obese men. Methods: Fifty-eight men (30.0 ± 7.4 years; 30.8 ± 2.4 kg/m) followed a covert hypocaloric balanced diet (−10 % of daily energy requirements) during 8 weeks. Subjects were randomly assigned to three groups: control diet (CT); diurnal carbohydrate/nocturnal protein (DCNP); and nocturnal carbohydrate/diurnal protein (NCDP). Main analyzed outcomes were weight loss, body composition, diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT), and glucose/lipid profile. Results: In all groups, a significant decrease in body weight, BMI, and fat mass (kg and %) was verified, without differences between groups. Interestingly, within group analyses showed that the fat-free mass (kg) significantly decreased in NCDP and in CT after 8-week intervention, but not in DCNP. A detrimental increase in fasting glucose, insulin, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA) was verified only in DCNP, while NCDP and CT groups presented a non-significant reduction. Moreover, significant differences between DCNP and the other groups were detected for fasting insulin and HOMA. After the adjustments, NCDP presented a significantly higher DIT and energy expenditure after lunch, compared with DCNP, but after dinner, there were no differences among groups. Conclusion: Eating carbohydrates mostly at dinner and protein mostly at lunch within a hypocaloric balanced diet had similar effect on body composition and biochemical markers, but higher effect on DIT compared with control diet. Moreover, eating carbohydrates mostly at lunch and protein mostly at dinner had a deleterious impact on glucose homeostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research is presented that examined the effects of a 21-week competitive season on 34 child soccer players' salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA) response and upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) symptoms. The study found that the demands of training and competition affected the children's mucosal immune responses.

Objective: to compare the ability and performance of Basic Activities of Daily Living of dependent elderly individuals cared for in a geriatric healthcare center. Method: cross-sectional, observational study with quantitative approach. The Functional Independence Measure (FIM) was applied in 109 elderly individuals cared for in a geriatric healthcare center. Of these, 60 individuals were classified as dependent in the case of basic activities of daily living described according to the International Classification of Functionality, Disability and Health (ICF). The process of triangulation reinforced reliability of data, which included information provided by patients and caregivers and that contained in medical files and objective assessment. Results: the average age was 81.0±7.1 with a predominance of women. The difference between ability and performance was statistically significant (p<0.05) in most daily tasks. Conclusion: the contribution of this study in using ICF was semi-quantitatively interpreting its qualifiers, which enabled more objective comparisons and inferences, and revealed a clear distance between the performance and ability of these individuals in most of the assessed activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Teas from the husk fiber of Cocos nucifera are used in the folk medicine to treat arthritis and other inflammatory processes. Some works show that some varieties have biological activities. However, one of the main variety of the species, C. nucifera var. typica, known in Brazil as “gigante”, was not studied yet. Thus, this study evaluates if this variety has the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities already reported in other varieties. Methods: C. nucifera aqueous crude extract (10, 50, and 100 mg/kg) and the reference drugs morphine (1 mg/kg) and acetylsalicylic acid (100 mg/kg) were evaluated in models of inflammation (formalin-induced licking and subcutaneous air pouch). The antioxidant activity was evaluated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) photometric assay and compared with those of the standards (quercetin, rutin, and ascorbic acid). The extract was also screened against Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), in the agar diffusion method. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined by the broth micro-dilution assay. Activities of combinations of the extract and antibiotics (methicillin or vancomycin) against MRSA were evaluated using checkerboard assays. Results: The extract significantly inhibited the time that the animals spent licking the formalin-injected paws (second phase). The extract also inhibited the inflammatory process induced by subcutaneous carrageenan injection by reducing cell migration, protein extravasation, and TNF-α production. Additionally, the extract showed an antioxidant potential in vitro as good as standards in their antioxidant activity. The extract was active only against S. aureus and MRSA. MIC and the bactericidal concentrations were identical (1,024 μg/ml). The extract and methicillin acted synergistically against the clinical MRSA isolate, whereas an indifferent effect was detected when the extract was combined with vancomycin. Conclusions: The extract exhibits anti-inflammatory activity through the inhibition of the cell migration. The mixture of extract constituents and methicillin could lead to the development of a new combination antibiotic against MRSA infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses research conducted to compare the effects passive warm-up (PW), whole-body vibration (WBV), and control (C) had on high-intensity performance during sprint cycle exercise. Researchers evaluated six men. They found that peak power, relative power, relative work, time of peak power, and pedaling cadence were significantly higher in the WBV compared with that for C and that WBV was an effective way to increase in performance during sprint cycle exercise.

Abstract: A stimulatory effect of apigenin-6-C-β-fucopyranoside (1) on glucose uptake was observed when rat soleus muscle was incubated with 1, 10 and 100μM of this flavonoid glycoside. The presence of specific insulin signaling inhibitors, such as wortmannin, an inhibitor of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), RO318220, an inhibitor of protein kinase C (PKC), PD98059, an inhibitor of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK), and HNMPA(AM)3, an insulin receptor tyrosine kinase activity inhibitor showed that apigenin-6-C-β-fucopyranoside triggers different metabolic pathways in skeletal muscle. The oral administration of crude extract, fractions and isolated flavonoids (apigenin-6-C-β-fucopyranoside (1) and apigenin-6-C-(2″-O-α-rhamnopyranosyl)-β-fucopyranoside (2)) from Averrhoa carambola leaves exhibited a potential hypoglycemic activity in hyperglycemic normal rats. Additionally, both flavonoids significantly increased the muscle and liver glycogen content after an acute treatment. The results indicate that A. carambola can be regarded as a potent antihyperglycemic agent with insulin secretagogue and insulin mimetic properties. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article reports on research which was conducted to investigate and compare partial range of motion vs. full range-of motion upper-body resistance training on strength and muscle thickness (MT) in young men. Researchers evaluated 40 male subject. They found that while muscle strength and MT can be improved with both full and partial resistance training, full resistance may lead to greater strength gains.

The purpose of this study was to compare repetition maximum performance and ratings of perceived exertion during resistance exercise sessions conducted at a low intensity (i.e., 20RM) and in different exercise orders. Twenty-one recreationally trained men performed two total body resistance exercise sessions in opposite orders; each exercise was performed for three sets with 2 minutes passive rest between sets and exercises. The results indicated significantly greater total repetitions for each exercise when performed near the beginning of a sequence and for the first set of each exercise, irrespective of the sequence. The ratings of perceived exertion, however, were not significantly different between sequences. In conclusion, repetition maximum performance for resistance exercise sessions conducted at a low intensity is significantly different based on exercise order. Therefore, when performing high repetitions with relatively low intensity loads, exercises should be prioritized based on individual needs and sports-specific movement patterns for greater volume and potential for the desired neuromuscular adaptations. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to assess the potential relationships between fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption and some oxidative stress markers in young adults, with particular emphasis on fibre and vitamin C intake. The study enrolled 246 healthy subjects (eighty-eight men and 158 women), with a mean age of 22 (sd 3) years and a mean BMI of 21·9 (sd 2·8) kg/m2. Dietary intake, anthropometry, blood pressure, lifestyle features and blood biochemical data were assessed with validated procedures. Those subjects in the highest tertile (T) of FV consumption ( ≥ 705 g/d) had statistically lower oxidised LDL (ox-LDL) concentrations as well as higher plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity (P for trend < 0·05), after adjusting for sex, age, energy intake, physical activity, smoking, BMI, vitamin supplement use and other confounding factors. Moreover, plasma ox-LDL concentrations showed a decreasing trend and TAC an increasing trend across tertiles of fibre (T3: ≥ 14 g/d) and vitamin C (T3: ≥ 150 mg/d) from FV intake, while GPx activity was positively associated with vitamin C intake (P for trend < 0·05). In conclusion, greater FV consumption was independently associated with reduced ox-LDL as well as increased TAC and GPx activity in healthy young adults, with dietary fibre and vitamin C from FV clearly being implicated in this beneficial relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article reports on research which was conducted to compare the internal load responses (session rating of perceived exertion [RPE] and salivary cortisol) in players between simulated and official basketball matches (SM and OM). Researchers evaluated 10 players. They found that there was a greater magnitude of cortisol and session RPE responses after OM as compared with that after SM.

AbstractCurrently, there is renewed interest in plant-based medicines and functional foods for the prevention and cure of obesity and its associated risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. In the search for potential anti-obesity compounds from natural sources, the effects of ursolic acid (UA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid widely found in medicinal herbs and fruits, was evaluated for its effects on blood glucose, lipids, and abdominal fat deposition in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Adult male Swiss mice treated or not with UA (0.05%, 50 mg/L, in drinking water) were fed HFD for 15 weeks. A sibutramine (SIB)-treated group (0.05% in drinking water) was included as the positive control. Weekly body weights and food and water consumption were measured, and at the end of the study period, the levels of blood glucose and lipids, the plasma hormones insulin, ghrelin, and leptin, and the abdominal fat accumulation were analyzed. Mice treated with UA and fed HFD showed significantly (P<.05) decreased body weights, visceral adiposity, and levels of blood glucose and plasma lipids relative to their respective controls not fed UA. Also, a significant increase was observed in plasma leptin with a decrease in ghrelin, as well as of amylase and lipase activities. The SIB-treated group also manifested effects similar to those of UA except for the blood glucose level, which was not different from the HFD control. These findings suggest that UA ameliorates abdominal adiposity and decreases the levels of blood glucose and plasma lipids in mice and thus manifests an anti-obesity potential through absorptive and metabolic targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]