Search

Doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity in chemotherapy is a major treatment drawback. Clinical trials on the cardioprotective effects of exercise in cancer patients have not yet been published. Thus, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies for to assess the efficacy of exercise training on DOX-induced cardiomyopathy. We included studies with animal models of DOX-induced cardiomyopathy and exercise training from PubMed, Web of Sciences and Scopus databases. The outcome was the mean difference (MD) in fractional shortening (FS, %) assessed by echocardiography between sedentary and trained DOX-treated animals. Trained DOX-treated animals improved 7.40% (95% CI 5.75–9.05, p vs. an echocardiography after over 4 weeks. Modality and duration of exercise, gender and cumulative DOX dose did were not individually associated with changes on FS. Exercise training is a cardioprotective approach in rodent models of DOX-induced cardiomyopathy. Exercise prior to DOX exposure exerts greater effect sizes on FS preservation.

Background Aerobic exercise improves endothelial function and arterial stiffness after myocardial infarction (MI), but the effects of isometric exercise on cardiovascular parameters are still uncertain. We aimed to assess the effects of one session of aerobic or isometric exercise on flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and pulse wave velocity (PWV) in post-MI volunteers undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods Twenty post-MI patients undergoing PCI were randomized to aerobic (AE, n = 10) or isometric (IE, n = 10) exercise groups. We evaluated cardiac structure and function (echocardiographic); carotid plaque presence (ultrasound). FMD and PWV were measured 10 min before and 10 min after the intervention: a single session of moderate-intensity AE (30 min; ratings 12–14 on Borg’s scale or 50–60% HRreserve) or handgrip IE (four two-minute bilateral contractions; 30% maximal voluntary contraction; 1-min rest). Generalized estimating equations (Bonferroni post-hoc) was used to assess differences (p ≤ 0.050). Results FMD improved only in the AE group (Δ = 4.9%; p = 0.034), with no difference between groups after exercise. Even after adjustment (for baseline brachial artery diameter) the effectiveness of AE remained (p = 0.025) with no change in the IE group. PWV was slightly reduced from baseline in the AE group (Δ = 0.61 m/s; p = 0.044), and no difference when compared to the IE group. Peripheral vascular resistance decreased in AE versus IE (p = 0.050) and from baseline (p = 0.014). Conclusions Vascular measurements (FMD and PWV) improved after a single session of AE. There are apparently no benefits following a session of IE. Trial registration http://www.clinicaltrials.gov and ID number NCT04000893.

Insulin resistance is associated with cardiometabolic risk factors, and exercise training can improve insulin-mediated glucose uptake. However, few studies have demonstrated the reversibility of exercise-induced benefits. Thus, the authors examine the time–response effects of exercise training and detraining on glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) content, insulin-dependent and insulin-independent pathways in cardiac and gastrocnemius muscle tissues of spontaneously hypertensive rats. Thirty-two male spontaneously hypertensive rats, 4 months old, were assigned to (n = 8/group): T (exercise training: 10-week treadmill exercise, 50–70% maximum effort capacity, 1 hr/day, 5 days/week); D2 (exercise training + 2-day detraining), D4 (exercise training + 4-day detraining); and S (no exercise). The authors evaluated insulin resistance, maximum effort capacity, GLUT4 content, p-IRS-1Tyr1179, p-AS160Ser588, p-AMPKα1Thr172, and p-CaMKIIThr286 in cardiac and gastrocnemius muscle tissues (Western blot). In response to exercise training, there were improvements in insulin resistance (15.4%; p = .010), increased GLUT4 content (microsomal, 29.4%; p = .012; plasma membrane, 27.1%; p p p p = .009; plasma membrane, 55.5%; p p = .018), p-AS160 (76.0%; p p = .026), and p-CaMKII (30.0%; p = .040) in the gastrocnemius tissue. In D4 group, the exercise-induced increase in GLUT4 was reversed (plasma membrane, −21.3%; p = .027), p-IRS1 (−37.1%; p = .008), and p-AS160 (−82.6%; p p = .034) was reduced in the gastrocnemius. In conclusion, the cardiac tissue is more susceptible to exercise adaptations in the GLUT4 content and signaling pathways than the gastrocnemius muscle. This finding may be explained by particular characteristics of insulin-dependent and insulin-independent pathways in the muscle tissues studied.

To evaluate the effect of preventive aerobic exercise training on sympathovagal function, cardiac function, and DNA repair capacity in a preclinical model of doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiomyopathy. Forty male Wistar-Kyoto rats were allocated into four groups (n = 10/group): D (DOX-treated) and C (controls) remained sedentary, and DT (DOX-trained) and CT (control-trained) performed aerobic training 4 days/week, during 4 weeks before exposure to DOX (4 mg/kg/week during 4 weeks) or saline solution. We evaluated cardiac function (echocardiography), hemodynamic and sympathovagal modulation (artery-femoral cannulation), cardiac troponin T levels, and DNA repair capacity (comet assay). Exercise training preserved ejection fraction (D: − 14.44% vs. DT: − 1.05%, p 2, p

Resumo Fundamento: A hipertensão sustentada pode levar ao remodelamento vascular e lesão das células endoteliais, o que pode explicar a disfunção endotelial encontrada em hipertensos. O treinamento físico pode melhorar a saúde vascular em indivíduos com risco cardiovascular, mas pouco se sabe sobre seus efeitos em pré-hipertensos e hipertensos. Objetivo: Revisar a literatura mostrando evidências de alterações da função endotelial em resposta a diferentes modalidades de treinamento físico em pré-hipertensos e hipertensos. Métodos: Realizamos uma revisão sistemática de estudos nas bases de dados MEDLINE, Cochrane, LILACS, EMBASE e SciELO seguindo tanto as diretrizes PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes) quanto a estratégia PICO (paciente/população, intervenção, comparação e resultados). Os ensaios clínicos randomizados (ECRs) publicados até abril de 2019 foram selecionados e avaliados por quatro revisores independentes. A qualidade metodológica foi avaliada por meio da escala PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database). Resultados: Nossa busca rendeu 598 resumos, e 10 estudos foram elegíveis para revisão. Todos eles apresentaram qualidade metodológica aceitável pela escala PEDro. Dos 10 estudos, 7 envolveram treinamento aeróbico, 1 treinamento resistido isométrico e 2 treinamento aeróbico e treinamento resistido dinâmico separadamente. Sete estudos usaram dilatação fluxo-mediada (DFM) para avaliar a saúde vascular, e três usaram pletismografia. A maioria dos protocolos de treinamento envolveu indivíduos hipertensos e consistiu em exercícios de baixa e moderada intensidade. Conclusão: Nossa revisão sistemática mostrou que o treinamento aeróbico contínuo moderado é eficaz para melhorar a saúde vascular em indivíduos hipertensos. Em pré-hipertensos, o treinamento aeróbico intervalado vigoroso parece ser uma alternativa para benefícios à saúde vascular. O treinamento físico resistido isométrico ou dinâmico pode ser usado como alternativa secundária, mas ainda requer mais investigação. Abstract Background: Sustained high blood pressure can lead to vascular remodeling and endothelial cell injury, which may explain the endothelial dysfunction found in hypertensive individuals. Exercise training can improve vascular health in individuals with cardiovascular risk, but little is known about its effects in prehypertensive and hypertensive individuals. Objective: To review the literature showing evidence of changes in endothelial function in response to different modalities of exercise training in prehypertensive and hypertensive individuals. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of studies in the MEDLINE, Cochrane, LILACS, EMBASE, and SciELO databases following both the PRISMA guidelines (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and the PICO framework (patient/population, intervention, comparison and outcomes). Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published up to April 2019 were selected and assessed by four independent reviewers. The methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database) scale. Results: Our search yielded 598 abstracts, and 10 studies were eligible for review. All of them had acceptable methodological quality by PEDro scale. Of the 10 studies, 7 involved aerobic training, 1 isometric resistance training, and 2 aerobic training and dynamic resistance training separately. Seven studies used flow-mediated dilation (FMD) to assess the vascular health, and three used plethysmography. Most training protocols involved hypertensive individuals and consisted of low and moderate-intensity exercise. Conclusion: Our systematic review showed that moderate continuous aerobic training is effective to improve vascular health in hypertensive individuals. In prehypertensive individuals, vigorous interval aerobic training seems to be an alternative to determine vascular health benefits. Resistance exercise training, either isometric or dynamic, can be used as a secondary alternative, but still requires further investigation.

BackgroundSystemic arterial hypertension (HTN) is the leading risk factor of cardiovascular disease death. Lifestyle changes are key for the prevention and management of HTN. Regular aerobic exercise training is recommended as part of the management of HTN; and dynamic resistance exercise should be prescribed as an adjuvant to aerobic training. Recent evidence points to potential benefits of isometric resistance training in reducing blood pressure (BP). Yet, the hypotensive effect of isometric exercise in pre-hypertensive and hypertensive individuals is not fully understood. Thus, we will examine the effect of isometric exercise in pre-hypertensive and hypertensive individuals through a systematic review and meta-analysis. MethodsOur systematic review study will include randomized clinical trials (RCTs) selected from the electronic databases MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane, LILACS, EMBASE and PEDro published in English, Spanish and Portuguese language. We will follow the PRISMA guidelines and PICOS framework. Our search will involve studies with both male and female participants aged 18 years or more diagnosed with prehypertension or HTN performing one session of isometric exercise (acute effect) or isometric exercise training (chronic effect) compared to a control group (no exercise). We will use Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool to evaluate the quality of the studies and RStudio software (v1.3.959 for Windows) for statistical analyses. DiscussionA meta-analysis of a homogeneous sample of pre-hypertensive and hypertensive individuals involving isometric handgrip exercise alone can further support previous findings and improve our understanding and recommendations for the management of these populations. Systematic review registrationThe study protocol for this review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (CRD 42020213081).

To examine the acute effects of aerobic exercise (AE), resistance exercise (RE) or combined exercise (CE) on flow-mediated dilation (FMD), progenitor cells (PCs), endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), oxidative stress markers and endothelial-cell derived microvesicles (EMVs) in patients with hypertension. This is a randomized, parallel-group clinical trial involving an intervention of one session of three different modalities of exercise. Thirty-three males (43 ± 2y) were randomly divided into three groups: a session of AE (n = 11, 40 min, cycle ergometer, 60% HRR); a session of RE (n = 11, 40 min, 4 × 12 lower limb repetitions, 60% 1-RM); or a session of CE (n = 11, 20-min RE + 20-min AE). FMD was assessed 10 min before and 10, 40 and 70 min post-intervention. Blood samples were collected at the same time points (except 40 min). FMD were similar in all groups and from baseline (within each group) after a single exercise bout (AE, RE or CE). At 70 min, RE group showed higher levels of PCs compared to the AE (81%) and CE group (60%). PC levels were reduced from baseline in all groups (AE: 32%, p = 0.037; RE: 15%, p = 0.003; CE: 17%, p = 0.048). The levels of EPCs, EMVs and oxidative stress were unchanged. There were no acute effects of moderate-intensity exercise on FMD, EPCs, EMVs and oxidative stress, but PCs decreased regardless of the exercise modality. Individuals with controlled hypertension do not seem to have impaired vascular function in response to a single exercise bout.

This study investigated the acute blood pressure (BP) effects of different exercise modalities in older adults with hypertension. Sixty volunteers were randomly assigned (n = 15/group) into different exercise protocols: resistance, bike, water-based exercise (WE), and a control session—all for ∼45 min. Clinic BP measurements were taken before, immediately after, and 15 and 30 min after protocols. The data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance; generalized estimating equations, following Bonferroni post hoc (p p p

Background Arterial hypertension has a direct association with endothelial dysfunction and major cardiovascular events. There is evidence showing the benefits of aerobic exercise on flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in hypertensive individuals but little is known about the effect of autonomic nervous system (ANS) activation on FMD of the brachial artery in response to different types of exercise in this specific population. This study aims to examine the effects of ANS activation on FMD of the brachial artery in response to exercise in hypertensive individuals following a session of different types of exercise including aerobic exercise (AE), resistance exercise (RE), or combined exercise (CE). Methods Thirty-nine hypertensive volunteers aged 35 to 55 years will be randomly assigned to two exercise sessions: AE (40 min on a cycle ergometer at 60% of HR reserve), RE (4 lower limb sets with 12 repetitions at 60% 1-RM for 40 min), or CE (RE for 20 min + AE for 20 min). Each exercise group will be randomized to receive either an α1-adrenergic blocker (doxazosin 0.05 mg/kg−1) or placebo. Ultrasound measurement of FMD is performed 10 min before and 10, 40, and 70 min after exercise. ANS activation is monitored using a Finometer and measurements are taken during 10 min before each FMD assessment. Arterial stiffness is assessed by pulse wave velocity (PWV) analysis using a Complior device. Discussion We expect to demonstrate the effect of ANS activation on FMD of the brachial artery in hypertensive individuals in response to different types of exercise. This study may give some insight on how to improve exercise prescription for hypertension management. Trial registration https://clinicaltrials.gov and ID "NCT04371757". Registered on May 1, 2020.

Endothelial dysfunction is a characteristic of systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) and an early marker of atherosclerosis. Aerobic exercise training (AT) improves endothelial function. However, the effects of resistance training (RT) and combined training (CT) on endothelial function remain controversial in individuals with SAH. We determined the effects of AT, RT, and CT on endothelial function and systolic (SBP)/diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in individuals with prehypertension or hypertension. Forty-two participants (54 ± 11 y, resting SBP/DBP 137 ± 9/86 ± 6 mmHg) were randomly allocated into AT (n = 14, 40 min of cycling, 50–75% heart rate reserve), RT (n = 14, 6 resistance exercises, 4 × 12 repetitions, 60% maximum strength) and CT (n = 14, 2 × 12 repetitions of RT + 20 min of AT). All participants performed a 40-minute exercise session twice a week for 8 weeks. Endothelial function was evaluated by brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD). Blood pressure was evaluated through ambulatory monitoring for 24 hours. After 8 weeks of exercise training, blood pressure was reduced in all 3 groups: −5.1 mmHg in SBP (95%CI –10.1, 0.0; p = 0.003) in AT; −4.0 mmHg in SBP (95%CI −7.8, −0.5; p = 0.027) in RT; and −3.2 mmHg in DBP (95%CI −7.9, 1.5; p = 0.001) in CT. All 3 exercise training modalities produced similar improvements in FMD: + 3.2% (95%CI 1.7, 4.6) (p

BACKGROUND Hypertension can be prevented and modified with lifestyle interventions that include regular exercise. Aquatic exercise is widely recommended for older adults for a variety of health benefits, but few studies have assessed the immediate ambulatory blood pressure (BP) response to aquatic exercise, a response termed postexercise hypotension (PEH). Thus, we assessed PEH after a session of aquatic exercise in physically active, older women with hypertension. METHODS Twenty-four women 70.0 ± 3.9 years with a resting systolic (SBP)/diastolic (DBP) BP of 124.0/72.3 mm Hg and body mass index of 29.8 ± 4.1 kg/m2 were randomly assigned to participate in a 45-minute session of moderate intensity, water-based exercise (WATER) and a 45-minute land control session (CONTROL). All experimental sessions started at 9 am sharply with 7 days between them. Subjects left the experiments wearing an ambulatory BP monitor for the next 21 hours. RESULTS SBP was lower by 5.1 ± 1.0 mm Hg after WATER than CONTROL over 21 hours (P < 0.001), over awake hours by 5.7 ± 1.1 mm Hg (P < 0.001), and sleep hours by 4.5 ± 0.4 mm Hg (P = 0.004). DBP was lower following WATER compared to CONTROL: 1.2 ± 0.3 mm Hg over 21 hours (P = 0.043); 0.9 ± 0.6 mm Hg over awake hours (P = 0.101); and 1.4 ± 0.9 mm Hg over sleep hours (P = 0.039). CONCLUSIONS Aquatic exercise elicited PEH (~5 mm Hg) over 21 hours, BP reductions that are comparable in magnitude to land aerobic exercise. The immediate antihypertensive benefits of acute aquatic exercise should continue to be explored in future studies.

In acute myocardial infarction (AMI), reactive oxygen species may cause irreversible damage to the heart tissue. Physical training is capable of enhancing antioxidant capacity, acting as a cardioprotective factor. We assessed the preventive effects of physical training on the antioxidant and functional responses of the heart of Wistar Kyoto rats after AMI. Wistar Kyoto rats (n = 12) were allocated to sedentary (SED) or trained (EXE—aerobic training on a treadmill) groups. Echocardiographic exams were performed 48 hr before and 48 hr after the induction of AMI. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, and total glutathione (GSH) were measured in vitro in the heart tissue. After AMI, the EXE group showed higher left ventricular shortening fraction (29%; p = .004), higher cardiac output (37%; p = .032) and reduced myocardial infarction size (16%; p = .007) than SED. The EXE group showed a higher nonenzymatic antioxidant capacity (GSH, 23%; p = .004), but the SOD and CAT activities were higher in SED (23% SOD; p = .021 and 20% CAT; p = .016). In addition, the SOD activity was positively correlated with myocardial infarction size and inversely correlated with cardiac output. Physical training partially preserved cardiac function and increased intracellular antioxidant response in cardiac tissue of animals after AMI.

Stem cell therapy is a promising strategy for recovering of injured cardiac tissue after acute myocardial infarction. The effects promoted by preventive physical training, beneficial for regeneration, are not yet understood on stem cell homing. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of preventive physical training on cell homing activation and associated mechanisms after acute myocardial infarction and therapy with adipose-derived stem cells in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Forty female SHR were allocated in sedentary (S), sedentary SHAM (S-SHAM), sedentary AMI (S-AMI), sedentary with cell therapy (S-ICT), aerobically trained (T), trained SHAM (T-SHAM), trained AMI (T-AMI) and trained with cell therapy (S-ICT) groups. Cell therapy was performed through the infusion of 2 × 105 ADSC/0.05 mL at the moment of AMI. Molecular markers of cell homing (SDF-1/CXCR4), inflammatory response (myeloperoxidase and cardiac expression of iNOS, gp91phox and NFkB), vasoconstrictor agents (Ang II and ET-1) and an angiogenesis inducer (VEGF) were measured. Functional capacity and echocardiographic parameters were also evaluated. Preventive physical training associated with cell therapy was able to reduce left ventricle ejection fraction losses in infarcted animals. Results demonstrated activation of the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis by physical training, besides a reduction in vasoconstrictor and systemic inflammatory responses. Physical training prior to AMI was able to induce a cardioprotective effect and optimize the reparative mechanism of cell therapy in an animal model of hypertension.

Elevated serum retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) levels were previously described in insulin-resistance states. Exercise training can improve insulin sensitivity and RBP4, but the time-response effect of exercise detraining on RBP4 has not been studied. Thus, we examined the effects of exercise training and short-term detraining on insulin resistance, serum RBP4 levels, and GLUT4 expression in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Thirty-two male SHR, 4 months old, were submitted to 10-week treadmill training, 5 times/week or kept sedentary, followed by a 2- and 4-day detraining period. Body weight, insulin tolerance test, maximum speed in a maximal exercise test, serum RBP4 (ELISA), and epididymal fat GLUT4 expression (Western blot) were measured. Although all rats gained weight (43%, p=0.004) only the trained group showed a reduction (p0.001) of epididymal fat weight. Detraining did not change these parameters. Exercise training increased insulin sensitivity (26%, p=0.001) and maximum exercise capacity (80%, p0.001), benefits not lost after detraining. RBP4 levels were reduced in response to exercise training (45%, p0.001); detraining did not change these benefits. Trained rats had increased GLUT4 expression (microsomal, ~226%; p0.001 and plasma membrane, ~55%; p=0.011). A slight reduction in GLUT4 expression in the plasma membrane (~28%, p=0.041), but not in the microsomal fraction, was observed after 4 days of detraining. Exercise training is associated with reduced RBP4 levels, increased insulin sensitivity, and epididymal fat GLUT4 expression. Even short periods of detraining (4 days) were shown to be associated with reversal of higher plasma membrane GLUT4.

Background: Cardiac rehabilitation with aerobic exercises is the first strategy as a non-pharmacological treatment in the postoperative period of individuals undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) to improve functional capacity and vascular health. However, other exercise modalities remain uncertain as to the same benefits. Purpose: To evaluate the effect of different modalities of exercise, such as early cardiac rehabilitation, on subjects submitted to CABG on the percentage of flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery and vascular resistance. Methods: A randomized clinical trial in which 15 patients (62.7±6.5 years) underwent CABG were randomly assigned to the following groups: isometric (IG, Handgrip Jamar Ò), ventilatory muscle training (VG, PowerBreathe Ò) and control (CG, conventional respiratory and motor physiotherapy). All patients received physical attendance twice a day (20 minutes/session) for a consecutive week after the CABG (hospital admission). Endothelial function was assessed through the technique FMD before and after (∼7 days) admission to CABG. The doppler ultrasound videos were analyzed by CardiovascularSuite Ò software to measure %FMD. Statistics: Generalized estimation equation, followed by Bonferroni post-hoc (p < 0.05). Results: Systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressure (SBP/DBP/MAP, respectively) was of 133, 76, 95 mmHg. The groups presented %FMD before and after intervention of: IG 9,2 - 2,7% p = 0,71; VG 9,7 - 10,9% p = 0,82; CG 10,4 - 2,9% p = 0,15 and medium flow of: IG 245,5 - 207,6 mL/min p = 0,84; VG 83,7 - 58,7 mL/min p = 0,04; CG 94,6 - 101,2 mL/min p = 0,89. Conclusions: Different protocols for early cardiac rehabilitation modulate the vascular function of individuals undergoing CABG.

Aims: We aimed to discuss a case of strength training athlete who competes in international competitions regarding cardiac (dimension and function), vascular (endothelium and vascular resistance), hemodynamic (blood pressure), given limited evidence supporting these cardiovascular adaptations as well as concerning endothelial function in long-term high-intensity strength training. Methods: We assessed heart structure and function (echocardiography); systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP); endothelium-dependent vasodilation (flow-mediated dilation, FMD); maximum force tested in the squat, bench press, and deadlift; and maximum oxygen consumption (spirometry). Results: powerlifter’s cardiac dimensions (interventricular septum 13 mm; posterior wall thickness 12 mm; LV diastolic diameter 57 mm; left ventricle mass 383 g; LV mass adjusted by body surface area 151.4 g/m2) are above the proposed cutoff values beyond which pathology may be considered. Moreover, cardiovascular function systolic (ejection fraction by Simpson’s rule, 71%) is preserved and FMD measure is fairly close and above normal; however, a mild increase in systolic and diastolic blood pressure was observed (130/89 mmHg, respectively). Conclusion: Cardiac remodeling cannot be viewed as either pathological or harmful to the cardiovascular system. Furthermore, we showed an improvement in endothelial function.

Background: Cardiac remodeling is a specific response to exercise training and time exposure. We hypothesized that athletes engaging for long periods in high-intensity strength training show heart and/or vascular damage. Objective: To compare cardiac characteristics (structure and function) and vascular function (flow-mediated dilation [FMD] and peripheral vascular resistance [PVR]) in powerlifters and long-distance runners. Methods: We evaluated 40 high-performance athletes (powerlifters [PG], n = 16; runners [RG], n = 24) and assessed heart structure and function (echocardiography), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP), FMD, PVR, maximum force (squat, bench press, and deadlift), and maximal oxygen uptake (spirometry). A Student’s t Test for independent samples and Pearson’s linear correlation were used (p < 0.05). Results: PG showed higher SBP/DBP (p < 0.001); greater interventricular septum thickness (p < 0.001), posterior wall thickness (p < 0.001) and LV mass (p < 0.001). After adjusting LV mass by body surface area (BSA), no difference was observed. As for diastolic function, LV diastolic volume, wave E, wave e’, and E/e’ ratio were similar for both groups. However, LA volume (p = 0.016) and BSA-adjusted LA volume were lower in PG (p < 0.001). Systolic function (end-systolic volume and ejection fraction), and FMD were similar in both groups. However, higher PVR in PG was observed (p = 0.014). We found a correlation between the main cardiovascular changes and total weight lifted in PG. Conclusions: Cardiovascular adaptations are dependent on training modality and the borderline structural cardiac changes are not accompanied by impaired function in powerlifters. However, a mild increase in blood pressure seems to be related to PVR rather than endothelial function. Resumo Fundamento: Remodelamento cardíaco é uma resposta específica ao tempo e modalidade de treinamento. Nós hipotetizamos que atletas de treinamento de força de alta intensidade, por longo tempo, mostram dano à estrutura cardíaca e/ou vascular. Objetivo: Comparar as características cardíacas (estrutura e funcionalidade) e função vascular (dilatação fluxo-mediada, FMD e resistência vascular periférica, PVR) em powerlifters e corredores. Métodos: Nós avaliamos 40 atletas de alto-desempenho (powerlifters [PG], n = 16; corredores [RG], n = 24). Mensuramos estrutura e funcionalidade cardíaca (ecocardiografia), pressão arterial (SBP/DBP), FMD, PVR, força máxima (agachamento, supino e levantamento terra) e consumo máximo de oxigênio (ergoespirometria). Foi utilizado teste T de Student e correlação linear de Pearson (p < 0,05). Resultados: PG mostrou maior SBP/DBP (p < 0,001), espessura de septo interventricular (p < 0,001), parede posterior (p < 0,001) e massa do VE (p < 0,001); após ajuste pela superfície corporal (BSA), não houve diferença na massa do VE. O volume do VE, onda E, onda e’, e a razão E/e’ foram similares entre os grupos. O volume do AE (p = 0,016), mesmo ajustado pela BSA (p < 0,001) foi menor no PG. A função sistólica (volume sistólico final e fração de ejeção) e FMD foram similares nos grupos. Contudo, foi observada maior PVR no PG (p = 0,014). Houve uma correlação direta entre as alterações cardíacas e a carga total levantada no PG. Conclusões: As adaptações cardiovasculares são dependentes da modalidade e os valores encontrados na estrutura do coração não são acompanhados por prejuízo na funcionalidade. Entretanto, um leve aumento na pressão arterial pode estar associado com maior PVR e não com a função endotelial.

We assessed the effects of a diet with flaxseed or soy nuts versus estradiol on the lipid profile, insulin sensitivity, and glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) expression in ovariectomized female rats. Forty-four female Wistar rats (90 days old) underwent ovariectomy and were divided into 4 groups: C (standard diet), E (standard diet + subcutaneous 17β-estradiol pellets), L (standard diet + flaxseed + subcutaneous placebo pellets), and S (standard diet + soy nuts + subcutaneous placebo pellets). Customized diets and the insertion of pellets were started 21 days after ovariectomy and were continued for another 21 days. We measured body mass, insulin tolerance, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and GLUT4 (in cardiac and adipose tissues). We found a lower body mass and a lower Lee index in group E and a trend toward improved insulin sensitivity in group S (p = 0.066). Groups L and S showed a better lipid profile when compared with group C. Microsomal GLUT4 increased in group L (in cardiac and adipose tissues), and plasma membrane GLUT4 increased in groups E, L, and S (in both tissues). We conclude that flaxseed and soy nuts as dietary supplements improve lipid profile and increase GLUT4 expression.

AIM To examine the interference of β-blockers with the chemokine stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) found in cell homing receptors, C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR-4) and CXCR-7, and regulatory proteins of homing pathways, we administered atenolol, carvedilol, metoprolol, and propranolol for 30 days using an orogastric tube to hypertensive rats. METHOD We collected blood samples before and after treatment and quantified the levels of SDF-1 with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). On day 30 of treatment, the spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were euthanized, and heart, liver, lung, and kidney tissues were biopsied. Proteins were isolated for determining the expression of CXCR-4, CXCR-7, GRK-2 (G protein-coupled receptors kinase 2), β-arrestins (β1-AR and β2-AR), and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB). RESULTS We found that the study drugs modulated these proteins, and metoprolol and propranolol strongly affected the expression of β1-AR (P = .0102) and β2-AR (P = .0034). CONCLUSION β-blockers modulated tissue expression of the proteins and their interactions following 30 days of treatment. It evidences that this class of drugs can interfere with proteins of cell homing pathways.

Background: We assessed the effect of acute and chronic dietary supplementation of ω-3 on lipid metabolism and cardiac regeneration, through its influence on the Stromal Derived Factor-1 (SDF-1) and its receptor (CXCR4) axis in normotensive and hypertensive rats. Methods: Male Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were allocated in eight groups (of eight animals each), which received daily orogastric administration of ω-3 (1 g) for 24 h, 72 h or 2 weeks. Blood samples were collected for the analysis of the lipid profile and SDF-1 systemic levels (ELISA). At the end of the treatment period, cardiac tissue was collected for CXCR4 expression analysis (Western blot). Results: The use of ω-3 caused a reduction in total cholesterol levels (p = 0.044), and acutely activated the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis in normotensive animals (p = 0.037). In the presence of the ω-3, after 72 h, SDF-1 levels decreased in WKY and increased in SHR (p = 0.017), and tissue expression of the receptor CXCR4 was higher in WKY than in SHR (p = 0.001). Conclusion: The ω-3 fatty acid supplementation differentially modulates cell homing mediators in normotensive and hypertensive animals. While WKY rats respond acutely to omega-3 supplementation, showing increased release of SDF-1 and CXCR4, SHR exhibit a weaker, delayed response.

Endothelium-aggressive factors are associated with the development of atherosclerosis. Exercise training can either prevent or attenuate this process, but little is known about the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in adolescents. Thus, we assessed the effects of HIIT on endothelial function, lipid profile, body composition and physical fitness in normal-weight and overweight-obese adolescents. Thirty-eight participants aged 14-17 years who were physically inactive (IPAq) were divided in two groups: normal weight (NW, n = 13) and overweight-obese (OW, n = 25). Body composition, lipid profile, physical fitness and endothelial function (flow-mediated dilation, FMD) were assessed before and after undergoing the study protocol consisting of 12-week HIIT (∼15 min) + sport activities (30 min, 3×/week) + no diet. The differences were tested by GEE, Bonferroni post-hoc, p 0.05. There were no changes in body composition after training period, but the OW group showed a reduction in waist (4.8 cm; p = 0.044) and abdominal circumference (3.7 cm; p = 0.049). We found improved physical fitness (cardiorespiratory endurance, explosive strength, abdominal muscle endurance and flexibility) in both groups. Lower endothelial function was found in the OW compared to NW (p = 0.042) at baseline. FMD increased (p 0.001) in both groups from baseline (NW Δ4.1%; Cohen's effect size 0.64; OW Δ4.5%; Cohen's effect size 0.73) with no significant difference between the groups. In conclusion, a HIIT program even without any dietary changes can improve physical fitness and endothelial function among adolescents. These findings are clinically relevant because they support a reduction in endothelial damage that precedes the development of atherosclerosis.

Introduction: Açaí-juçara is a fruit with a antioxidant content that can modify the vascular environment and attenuate the effects of obesity. Objective: To evaluate the effect of açaí-juçara on pulse pressure parameters in overweight or obese individuals. Methods: Randomized clinical trial with 23 individuals of both sexes, 37.7 ± 1.5 y, body weight 85.0 ± 4.8 kg, BMI 32.4 kg/m2. The volunteers were randomly assigned to: control group (C, n = 10) and açaí-juçara group (AJ, n = 13). Both received hypocaloric diets, representing 20% below the total energy value. AJ received, in the composition of the diet, 200 g of açaí-juçara for daily consumption. The intervention was 12 weeks and the follow-up was performed with weekly meetings. We analyzed parameters of peripheral blood pressure: systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP); parameters of central blood pressure: central pulse pressure (PPc), central systolic blood pressure (SBPc) and pulse wave velocity (PWV) with the oscillometric method (Mobil-O-Graph). Descriptive statistics (mean ± standard deviation) were performed and normality of the data was tested by Shapiro-Wilk. Possible differences were tested by ANOVA of repeated measures (Bonferroni post-hoc) with significance level of 5%. Results: After 12 weeks of intervention, body weight decreased in both groups (C: Δ3.2 kg; p = 0.050; AJ: Δ5.2 kg; p = 0.001). The peripheral SBP, PPc and PWV was lower in both groups (C: Δ3.8 mmHg, p = 0.040, AJ:Δ7.1mmHg, p = 0.031); (C: Δ5.5 unit, p = 0.044; AJ:Δ7.8 unit, p < 0.001); (p = 0.047) with greater effect in the AJ group (Δ0.4 unit; p = 0.006). Both groups reduced SBPc with more effect in the AJ group (Δ6.3 mmHg, p = 0.034). Conclusion: AJ showed benefits on peripheral SBP, PPc, PWV and SBPc when compared to the control group.

Considering the similarity between structural, hemodynamic, and functional changes of obesity-related renal disease and diabetic nephropathy, we hypothesized that renal glucose transporter changes occur in obesity as in diabetes. The aim of the work was to evaluate GLUT1 and GLUT2 in kidneys of an animal model of metabolic syndrome. Neonate spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), n=15/group, were treated with monosodium glutamate (5 mg/g) (MetS) for 9 days and compared with saline-treated Wistar-Kyoto (C) and SHR (H) rats. Lee index, systolic arterial pressure (SAP), glycemia, insulin resistance, triglycerides, and HDL cholesterol were evaluated at 3 and 6 months. Medullar GLUT1 and cortical GLUT2 were analyzed by Western blot. MetS vs. C and H rats had the highest Lee index (p

We assessed cardiac function (echocardiographic) and glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) expression (Western blot) in response to 10 weeks of aerobic training (treadmill) prior to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) by ligation of the left coronary artery in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Animals were allocated to sedentary+sham, sedentary+AMI, training+sham, and training+AMI. Aerobic training prior to AMI partially preserves heart function. AMI and/or aerobic training increased GLUT4 expression. However, those animals trained prior to AMI showed a greater increase in GLUT4 in cardiomyocytes.

Water aerobics exercise is widely recommended for elderly people. However, little is known about the acute effects on hemodynamic variables. Thus, we assessed the effects of a water aerobic session on blood pressure in hypertensive elderly women. Fifty hypertensive elderly women aged 67.8 ± 4.1 years, 1.5 ± 0.6 m high and BMI 28.6 ± 3.9 kg/m2, participated in a crossover clinical trial. The experiment consisted of a 45-minute water aerobics session (70%-75% HRmax adjusted for the aquatic environment) (ES) and a control session (no exercise for 45 minutes) (CS). Heart rate was monitored using a heart rate monitor and systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) measurements were taken using a semi-automatic monitor before and immediately after the sessions, and at 10, 20 and 30 minutes thereafter. It was using a generalized estimating equation (GEE) with Bonferroni's post-hoc test (p < 0.05). At the end of the experimental session, ES showed a rise in SBP of 17.4 mmHg (14.3%, p < 0.001) and DBP of 5.4 mmHg (7.8%, p < 0.001) compared to CS. At 10 minutes after exercise, BP declined in ES by a greater magnitude than in CS (SBP 7.5 mmHg, 6.2%, p = 0.005 and DBP 3.8 mmHg, 5.5%, p = 0.013). At 20 minutes after exercise and thereafter, SBP and DBP were similar in both ES and CS. In conclusion, BP returned to control levels within 10-20 minutes remaining unchanged until 30 minutes after exercise, and post-exercise hypotension was not observed. Besides, BP changed after exercise was a safe rise of small magnitude for hypertensive people.

OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the effects of aerobic exercise training without dietary changes on cardiovascular and metabolic variables and on the expression of glucose transporter Type 4 in rats with metabolic syndrome. METHODS: Twenty male spontaneously hypertensive rats received monosodium glutamate during the neonatal period. The animals were allocated to the following groups: MS (sedentary metabolic syndrome), MS-T (trained on a treadmill for 1 hour/day, 5 days/week for 10 weeks), H (sedentary spontaneously hypertensive rats) and H-T (trained spontaneously hypertensive rats). The Lee index, blood pressure (tail-cuff system), insulin sensitivity (insulin tolerance test) and functional capacity were evaluated before and after 10 weeks of training. Glucose transporter Type 4 expression was analyzed using Western blotting. The data were compared using analysis of variance (ANOVA) (p

Metabolic syndrome has been defined as a group of risk factors that directly contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and/or type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance seems to have a fundamental role in the genesis of this syndrome. Over the past years to the present day, basic and translational research has used small animal models to explore the pathophysiology of metabolic syndrome and to develop novel therapies that might slow the progression of this prevalent condition. In this paper we discuss the animal models used for the study of metabolic syndrome, with particular focus on cardiovascular changes, since they are the main cause of death associated with the condition in humans.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the unilateral strength in knee flexion and extension, and the Hamstring/Quadriceps Ratio (H/Q Ratio), in dominant and non-dominant lower limbs in professional dancers. This was a cross-sectional study, carried out with 12 health adults (27.5±1.27years, 66.6±3.11kg, 173±0.02cm, 22.1±0.51kg/m2), professional dancers of a national company. The volunteers, after physical measurements, were submitted to a 1 Repetition Maximum (1RM) test, unilaterally, in both lower limbs at Flexor and Extensor Bench seat exercises. After 1 week, a 1RM retest was carried out to confirm the real total load for each limb. The torque and H/Q Ratio were calculated unilaterally. In knee extension, the dominant limb presented strength 18.77% higher than non-dominant limb (p

The effects of exercise training on systolic blood pressure (BP), insulin sensitivity, and plasma membrane GLUT4 protein content in spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats were compared. 16 SHR and 16 WKY male rats, aged 6 months, were randomized into sedentary and trained (treadmill running, 5 days/week, 60 min/day for 10 weeks) groups (n=8/group). At baseline, SHR had lower insulin sensitivity than WKY rats, however, there were no differences between WKY and SHR GLUT4 expression. The 10-week training reduced BP by ∼19% in SHR, improved insulin sensitivity by ∼24% in SHR, but not in WKY, and increased GLUT4 expression in both animal models. Compared to the sedentary group, there was an increase of GLUT4 in WKY rats by ∼25% in the heart, by ∼23% in the gastrocnemius, and by ∼15% in the fat tissue. Trained SHR presented an increase in GLUT4 of ∼21%, ∼20%, and ∼14%, in the same tissues, respectively. There were no differences between SHR and WKY rats in post-training GLUT4 expression. We conclude that training determined BP and insulin resistance reduction in SHR, and increased GLUT4 expression in both normotensive and hypertensive rats. However, considering the similar rise in GLUT4-induced training in SHR and WKY, it is possible that GLUT4 levels in plasma membrane fraction do not have a pivotal role in the exercise-induced improvement of insulin sensitivity in SHR.

Blood glucose changes response during and after exercise are modulated by the postabsorptive state, intensity and duration of exercise, and the level of physical fitness as well. This study focused on the idea that high-intensity interval exercise, as mini-trampoline class, can reduce blood glucose. Thus, we examined acute changes in blood glucose among trained normoglycemic adults during a mini-trampoline exercise session.Twenty-four normoglycemic adult subjects were enrolled in the study. After physical assessment they were randomly assigned to either the experimental (N.=12) or the control group (N.=12). The experimental group performed a 50-minute session of moderate-to-high intensity (70 to 85% HRmax) exercise on a mini-trampoline commonly used in fitness classes. The control group did not perform any exercise, and all procedures were otherwise similar to the experimental group. Capillary blood glucose was measured before and every 15 minutes during the exercise session. The effects of exercise on blood glucose levels (group; time; and group interaction) were estimated using a generalized estimating equation (GEE) followed by Bonferroni's post-hoc Test (P0.05).The experimental group showed a decrease in blood glucose levels from baseline (108.7 mg/dL): 26.1% reduction (15 min; P0.001), 24.2% (30 min; P0.001), and 15.7% (45 min; P0.001). Compared to the control group, blood glucose levels in the experimental group were reduced by 18.8% (15 min; P0.001), 14.3% (30 min; P0.001) and 6.9% (45 min; P=0.025).The study results provide good evidence that a prescribed exercise program on a mini-trampoline can be used for reducing blood glucose levels and thus can potentially control blood glucose.

One exercise training session such as walking, running, and resistance can lead to a decrease in blood pressure in normotensive and hypertensive individuals, but few studies have investigated the effects of exercise training in an aquatic environment for overweight and obese hypertensive individuals. We aimed to assess the acute effects of a water aerobics session on blood pressure changes in pharmacologically treated overweight and obese hypertensive women. A randomized crossover study was carried out with 18 hypertensive women, 10 of them were overweight (54.4 ± 7.9 years; body mass index: 27.8 ± 1.7 kg/m(2)) and eight obese (56.4 ± 6.6 years; body mass index: 33.0 ± 2.0 kg/m(2)). The water aerobics exercise session consisted of a 45-minute training at the intensity of 70%-75% of maximum heart rate adjusted for the aquatic environment. The control group did not enter the pool and did not perform any exercise. We measured systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) before, immediately after, and every 10 minutes up to 30 minutes after the aerobic exercise or control session. Overall (n = 18), DBP did not change after the water aerobic exercise and control session, and SBP decreased at 10 and 20 minutes postexercise compared to the control session. Among overweight women, SBP decreased at 10 and 20 minutes postexercise. In contrast, among obese women, SBP decreased only at 10 minutes postexercise. SBP variation was -2.68 mm Hg in overweight and -1.24 mm Hg in obese women. In conclusion, the water aerobics session leads to a reduction in SBP, but not in DBP, during 10 and 20 minutes postexercise recovery. Thus, it may be safely prescribed to overweight and obese women.

The adaptations of the human body resulting from the aging process especially loss of flexibility can increase the risk of falls and the risk of developing other health conditions. Exercise training, in particular the Pilates exercise method, has become an important form of physical activity that minimizes the deleterious effects of aging on flexibility. Few studies have evaluated the effect of this training method on body flexibility among elderly. We aimed to evaluate the effects of physical training using the Pilates method on body flexibility of elderly individuals. Eighteen elderly women and two elderly men (aged 70 ± 4 years) followed a 10-week Pilates training program. Individuals were recruited from the local community via open invitations. At study entry, none of them had limited mobility (walking requiring the use of walkers or canes). Furthermore, those with neurologic, muscular, or psychiatric disorders as well as those using an assistive device for ambulation were excluded secondary to limited participation. Flexibility assessment tests (flexion, extension, right and left tilt, and right and left rotation of the cervical and thoracolumbar spine; flexion, extension, abduction, and lateral and medial right and left rotation of the glenohumeral joint; flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and lateral and medial rotation of the right and left hip; and flexion of the right and left knee) were performed by a blinded evaluator using a flexometer before and after the training period. All assessments were carried out at the same time of day. There was an observed increase in flexion (22.86 %; p