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Purpose: To investigate the effect of a newly developed hand rim in wheelchair tennis players from a lab and field perspective. Methods: Nine wheelchair tennis players performed a set of field and lab tests with the new rim (NR) and regular rim on the racket side. Each player had a 60- to 120-minute regular training session with the NR. Three wheelchair tennis field tests (20-m sprint, Illinois, spider) were completed on a hard court using inertial measurement units. The inertial measurement units enabled analysis of linear/rotational velocity and acceleration. In the lab, two 4-minute submaximal tests (at 1.5 and 2 m/s, 0.2 W/kg), followed directly by a 5-second sprint, on a wheelchair ergometer were completed. Force and velocity were measured continuously throughout all tests. Mixed linear models investigated the effect between the 2 hand rims. Results: During the spider test, mean rotational velocity to the racket side (−2%, P =.005) was lower in the NR, and end times were similar between hand-rim conditions. No differences were observed in the 20-m sprint and Illinois field tests. In the lab, contact angle (+6%, P =.04), cycle time (+12%, P =.007), and work per push (+13%, P =.005) were higher in the NR during submaximal propulsion. Work per push (+13%, P =.007), peak velocity (+3%, P <.001), and distance covered (+4%, P =.02) were higher with the NR during the 5-second sprint test. Conclusions: The NR seems slightly favorable compared with the regular rim during performance testing on a wheelchair ergometer in wheelchair tennis players. A longer practice time might show more insights between the hand-rim types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Spiroergometry is important for modern performance diagnostics, and reference values have been evaluated for bicycle and treadmill ergometers. The aim of this study is to assess the comparability of bicycle and hand-crank spiroergometry and its associated parameters, as hand-crank spiroergometry can be used during rehabilitation in patients with definitive or temporally impairment of the lower extremity. Methods: Thirty-seven healthy volunteers completed 2 exhausting performance diagnostics on hand-crank and bicycle spiroergometry. Participants' anthropometric characteristics, maximum power, multiple exertion criteria, maximum aerobic capacity, and maximum heart rate were detected, and ventilatory and metabolic thresholds were determined. Results: The maximum power, maximum heart rate, maximum aerobic capacity, and ventilatory thresholds were significant higher on the bicycle ergometer (P <.001). The metabolic thresholds occurred on higher lactate values on the hand-crank ergometer. Equations for calculating maximum aerobic capacity from the maximum power measured in either hand-crank or bicycle ergometer could be found through regression analysis. Conclusions: Although there are problems in interpreting results of different ergometries due to severe physiology differences, the equations can be used for patients who are temporally unable to complete the established ergometry due to a deficit in the lower extremity. This could improve training recommendations for patients and para-athletes in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this placebo-controlled, triple-blind, balanced crossover study was to assess the acute effects of phenylcapsaicin (PC) intake (2.5 mg) on intraocular pressure (IOP), ocular perfusion pressure (OPP), and heart rate (HR) during a 30-min cycling task performed at 15% of the individual maximal power. Twenty-two healthy young adults performed the cycling task 45 min after ingesting PC or placebo. IOP was measured with a rebound tonometer before exercise, during cycling (every 6 min), and after 5 and 10 min of recovery. OPP was assessed before and after exercise. HR was monitored throughout the cycling task. We found an acute increase of IOP levels related to PC consumption while cycling (mean difference = 1.91 ± 2.24 mmHg; p =.007, η p 2 =.30), whereas no differences were observed for OPP levels between the PC and placebo conditions (mean difference = 1.33 ± 8.70 mmHg; p =.608). Mean HR values were higher after PC in comparison with placebo intake (mean difference = 3.11 ± 15.87 bpm, p =.019, η p 2 =.24), whereas maximum HR did not differ between both experimental conditions (p =.199). These findings suggest that PC intake before exercise should be avoided when reducing IOP levels is desired (e.g., glaucoma patients or those at risk). Future studies should determine the effects of different ergogenic aids on IOP and OPP levels with other exercise configurations and in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to determine whether the initial levels of aerobic fitness and hematological variables in young female road cyclists are related to their athletic performance development during their careers. Methods: Results of graded exercise tests on a cycle ergometer and total hemoglobin mass (tHb-mass) measurements were analyzed in 34 female road cyclists (age 18.6 [1.9] y). Among them, 2 groups were distinguished based on their competitive performance (Union Cycliste Internationale world ranking) over the following 8 years. Areas under the curve in receiver-operating-characteristic curves were calculated as indicators of elite-performance prediction. Results: Initial graded exercise test variables (peak power, peak oxygen uptake, and power at 4 mmol/L blood lactate) were not significantly different in elite (n = 13) versus nonelite (n = 21) riders. In contrast, elite riders had higher tHb-mass expressed either in absolute measures (664 [75] vs 596 [59] g, P =.006) or normalized to body mass (11.2 [0.8] vs 10.3 [0.7] g/kg, P =.001) and fat-free mass (14.4 [0.9] vs 13.1 [0.9] g/kg, P <.001). Absolute and relative erythrocyte volumes were significantly higher in elite subjects (P ranged from <.001 to.006). Of all the variables analyzed, the relative tHb-mass had the highest predictive ability to reach the elite level (area under the curve ranged from.82 to.85). Conclusion: Measurement of tHb-mass can be a helpful tool in talent detection to identify young female road cyclists with the potential to reach the elite level in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To (1) establish extensive physiological profiles of highly trained CrossFit® athletes using gold-standard tests and (2) investigate which physiological markers best correlate with CrossFit Open performance. Methods: This study encompassed 60 participants (30 men and 30 women), all within the top 5% of the CrossFit Open, including 7 CrossFit semifinalists and 3 CrossFit Games finalists. Isokinetic dynamometers were employed to measure maximum isometric and isokinetic leg and trunk strength. Countermovement-jump height and maximum isometric midthigh-pull strength were assessed on a force plate. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) was measured by a cardiopulmonary exercise test, and critical power and W′ were evaluated during a 3-minute all-out test, both on a cycle ergometer. Results: Male and female athletes' median (interquartile range) VO2peak was 4.64 (4.43, 4.80) and 3.21 (3.10, 3.29) L·min−1, critical power 314.5 (285.9, 343.6) and 221.3 (200.9, 238.9) W, and midthigh pull 3158 (2690, 3462) and 2035 (1728, 2347) N. Linear-regression analysis showed strong evidence for associations between different anthropometric variables and CrossFit Open performance in men and women, whereas for markers of cardiorespiratory fitness such as VO2peak, this was only true for women but not men. Conventional laboratory evaluations of strength, however, manifested minimal evidence for associations with CrossFit Open performance across both sexes. Conclusions: This study provides the first detailed insights into the physiology of high-performing CrossFit athletes and informs training optimization. Furthermore, the results emphasize the advantage of athletes with shorter limbs and suggest potential modifications to CrossFit Open workout designs to level the playing field for athletes across different anthropometric characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: An inspiratory muscle warm-up (IMW) improves inspiratory muscle function, but the effects of high-intensity exercise are inconsistent. We aimed to determine the effects of high-intensity IMW on high-intensity exercise performance and muscle oxygenation. Methods: Ten healthy men (maximal oxygen uptake [ V ˙ O 2 max ] 52.2 [5.0] mL·kg–1·min–1) performed constant-load exercise to exhaustion on a cycle ergometer at V ˙ O 2 max under 2 IMW conditions: a placebo condition (PLA) and a high-intensity IMW condition (HIGH). The inspiratory loads were set at 15% and 80% of maximal inspiratory pressure, respectively. Maximal inspiratory pressure was measured before and after IMW. Oxyhemoglobin was measured in the vastus lateralis by near-infrared spectroscopy during exercise. Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) for a leg was measured after 1 and 2 minutes of exercise. Results: Exercise tolerance was significantly higher under HIGH than PLA (228 [49] s vs 218 [49] s, P =.003). Maximal inspiratory pressure was significantly increased by IMW under HIGH (from 125 [20] to 136 [25] cm H2O, P =.031). Oxyhemoglobin was significantly higher under HIGH than PLA at 80% of the total duration of exercise (P =.048). RPE for the leg was significantly lower under HIGH than PLA after 2 minutes of exercise (P =.019). Conclusions: Given that oxyhemoglobin is an index of local oxygen supply, the results of this study suggest that high-intensity IMW increases the oxygen supply to active limbs. It may also reflect a reduction in RPE in the leg. In addition, high-intensity IMW may improve exercise performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Flossing is still a relatively new technique that has yielded varied results in the research literature; therefore, it requires further investigation. Previous research has shown that thigh tissue flossing might improve performance in countermovement jump, sprint time, maximum voluntary contraction, and rate of force development. Design. The present study aims to investigate the effect of the floss band on performance during the Wingate test (30-WAT), muscle oxygen saturation (SpO2), and total hemoglobin in vastus lateralis. Methods: Twenty-two students of physical education and sport (11 men and 11 women) were randomly selected to complete either the Wingate test with the application of a floss band in warm-up or the Wingate test without the use of a floss band, followed by the alternative 24 hours apart. Results: Throughout the testing, the floss band did not affect performance values during the Wingate test (relative peak power, relative average power, and fatigue index). However, there was a medium to large effect difference during 1 minute prior to 30-WAT (PRE), during the 30-WAT, and 10-minute recovery (REC) in values of SpO2 and total hemoglobin. Use of floss band displayed a higher SpO2 during PRE, 30-WAT, and REC by ~13.55%, d<2; ~19.06%, d = 0.89; and ~8.55%, d = 0.59, respectively. Conclusion: Collectively, these findings indicate that the application of thigh flossing during warm-up has no effect on 30-WAT performance; however, SpO2 was significantly increased in all stages of testing. This could lead to potential improvement in repeated anaerobic exercise due to increased blood flow. Increased muscle oxygen saturation can also lead to improved tissue healing as oxygen supply is essential for tissue repair, wound healing, and pain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the energetic contribution and pacing in 2000- and 1500-m maximal rowing-ergometer performances. Methods: On separate visits (>48 h apart, random order), 18 trained junior (16.7 [0.4] y) male rowers completed 3 trials: a 7 × 4-minute graded exercise test, a 2000-m time trial (TT2000), and a 1500-m TT (TT1500). Respiratory gases were continuously measured throughout each trial. The submaximal power-to-oxygen-consumption relationship from the graded exercise test was used to determine the accumulated oxygen deficit for each TT. Differences in mean power output (MPO), relative anaerobic contribution, percentage of peak oxygen uptake, pacing index, maximum heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, and blood lactate concentration were assessed using linear mixed modeling. Results: Compared to TT2000 (324 [24] W), MPO was 5.2% (3.3%) higher in TT1500 (341 [29 W]; P <.001, η p 2 =.70). There was a 4.9% (3.3%) increase (P <.001, η p 2 =.71) in anaerobic contribution from 17.3% (3.3%) (TT2000) to 22.2% (4.3%) (TT1500). Compared to TT1500, maximum heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, and blood lactate concentration were all greater (P <.05) in TT2000. The pacing index was not different between trials. Percentage increase in MPO from TT2000 to TT1500 was negatively associated with pacing variance in TT1500 (R2 =.269, P =.027). Conclusions: Maximal ergometer performance over 1500 m requires a significantly greater anaerobic contribution compared with 2000 m. Junior male athletes adopt a consistent pacing strategy across both distances. However, those who experienced greater percentage increases in MPO over the shorter test adopted a more even pacing strategy. To prepare for 1500-m performance, greater emphasis should be placed on developing capacity for work in the severe domain and completing race simulations with a more even pacing strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the interference effects of various resistance-training (RT) protocols on rowing ergometer performance. Methods: Fourteen semiprofessional male rowers randomly completed 5 protocols in separate sessions: (1) control—no RT session was performed, (2) upper-body high-fatigue—4 sets to failure during the bench pull exercise, (3) upper-body low-fatigue—4 sets of 6 repetitions during the bench pull exercise, (4) lower-body high-fatigue—4 sets to failure during the leg-press exercise, and (5) lower-body low-fatigue—4 sets of 6 repetitions during the leg-press exercise. All sets were performed against the 12-repetition-maximum load with 2 minutes of interset rest. Following the completion of the protocols, subjects performed an all-out 1000-m rowing ergometer test. Results: Compared with the control condition, rowing ergometer performance was not significantly affected after the low-fatigue RT protocols (upper body: P ≥.487; Δ = 0.0%–0.2%; lower body: P ≥.200; Δ = −0.2%–0.5%), while it significantly declined following high-fatigue RT protocols (upper body: P ≤.001; Δ = 1.0%–2.0%; lower body: P ≤.002; Δ = 2.1%–2.5%). The average heart rate was significantly lower for the control condition compared with all RT protocols (P ≤.043; Δ = 1.0%–1.5%). Conclusions: To minimize interference on rowing performance, coaches should prioritize the level of effort in RT protocols over specific exercises, specifically avoiding high-fatigue protocols that lead to failure before rowing practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a powerful global trend toward deeper integration of digital twins into modern life driven by Industry 4.0 and 5.0. Defense, agriculture, engineering, manufacturing, and urban planning sectors have thoroughly incorporated digital twins to great benefit across their respective product lifecycles. Despite clear benefits, a digital twin framework for health and medical sectors is yet to emerge. This paper proposes a digital twin framework for precision neuromusculoskeletal health care. We build upon the International Standards Organization framework for digital twins for manufacturing by presenting best available computational models within a digital twin framework for clinical application. We map a use case for modeling Achilles tendon mechanobiology, highlighting how current modeling practices align with our proposed digital twin framework. Similarly, we map a use case for advanced neurorehabilitation technology, highlighting the role of a digital twin in control of systems where human and machine are interfaced. Future work must now focus on creating an informatic representation to govern how digital data are passed to, from, and within the digital twin, as well as specific standards to declare which measurement systems and modeling methods are acceptable to move toward widespread use of the digital twin framework for precision neuromusculoskeletal health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Repeated-sprint training in hypoxia (RSH) is an effective way of improving physical performance compared with similar training in normoxia. RSH efficiency relies on hypoxia severity, but also on the oxidative–glycolytic balance determined by both sprint duration and exercise-to-rest ratio. This study investigated the effect of 2 types of RSH sessions during a classic altitude camp in world-class female rugby sevens players. Methods: Sixteen players performed 5 RSH sessions on a cycle ergometer (simulated altitude: 3000 m above sea level [asl]) during a 3-week natural altitude camp (1850 m asl). Players were assigned to 2 different protocols with either a high (RSH1:3, sprint duration: 8–10 s; exercise-to-rest ratios: 1:2–1:3; n = 7) or a low exercise-to-rest ratio (RSH1:5, sprint duration: 5–15 s; exercise-to-rest ratios: 1:2–1:5; n = 9). Repeated-sprint performances (maximal and mean power outputs [PPOmax, and PPOmean]) were measured before and after the intervention, along with physiological responses. Results: PPOmax (962 [100] to 1020 [143] W, P =.008, Cohen d = 0.47) and PPOmean (733 [71] to 773 [91] W, P =.008, d = 0.50) increased from before to after. A significant interaction effect (P =.048, d = 0.50) was observed for PPOmean, with a larger increase observed in RSH1:3 (P =.003). No interaction effects were observed (P >.05) for the other variables. Conclusion: A classic altitude camp with 5 RSH sessions superimposed on rugby-sevens-specific training led to an improved repeated-sprint performance, suggesting that RSH effects are not blunted by prolonged hypoxic exposure. Interestingly, using a higher exercise-to-rest ratio during RSH appears to be more effective than when applying a lower exercise-to-rest ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerebral hemodynamics have been quantified during exercise via transcranial Doppler ultrasound, as it has high-sensitivity to movement artifacts and displays temporal superiority. Currently, limited research exists regarding how different exercise modalities and postural changes impact the cerebrovasculature across the cardiac cycle. Ten participants (4 females and 6 males) ages 20–29 completed three exercise tests (treadmill, supine, and upright cycling) to volitional fatigue. Physiological data collected included middle cerebral artery velocity (MCAv), blood pressure (BP), heart rate, and respiratory parameters. Normalized data were analyzed for variance and effect sizes were calculated to examine differences between physiological measures across the three exercise modalities. Systolic MCAv was greater during treadmill compared to supine and upright cycling (p < 0.001, (large) effect size), and greater during upright versus supine cycling (p < 0.017, (large)). Diastolic MCAv was lower during treadmill versus cycling exercise only at 60% maximal effort (p < 0.005, (moderate)) and no differences were observed between upright and supine cycling. No main effect was found for mean and diastolic BP (p > 0.05, (negligible)). Systolic BP was lower during treadmill versus supine cycling at 40% and 60% intensity (p < 0.05, (moderate–large)) and greater during supine versus upright at only 60% intensity (p < 0.003, (moderate)). The above differences were not explained by partial pressure of end-tidal carbon dioxide levels (main effect: p = 0.432). The current study demonstrates the cerebrovascular and cardiovascular systems respond heterogeneously to different exercise modalities and aspects of the cardiac cycle. As physiological data were largely similar between tests, differences associated with posture and modality are likely contributors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exogenous nitrate ingestion can improve exercise performance. This study investigated whether an isotonic beetroot drink could improve jump and sprint performance in active individuals. Twenty-three physically active participants (17 males, 6 females) (mean ± SD; age: 26 ± 4 years; body mass index: 22.4 ± 1.9 kg/m2) completed a double-blind, randomized, cross-over study where they consumed 570mL of either beetroot juice drink (BR) or isotonic beetroot juice drink (ISO-BR) three hours before performing countermovement (CMJ) and standing broad jump (SBJ) tests and a 30-second all-out sprint on a cycle ergometer. Both drinks contained equal nitrate (12.9 mmol) and carbohydrate (6.1g per 100mL) content but differed in osmolality (BR: 420 mOsm/kg vs. ISO-BR: 315 mOsm/kg). Salivary total nitrate and nitrite concentrations (NOx) 3 hours post-ingestion were significantly higher after consuming ISO-BR than BR. ISO-BR significantly improved peak power output compared to BR by 3.9% (ISO-BR: 11.4 ± 2.5 W/kg vs. BR: 11.0 ± 2.3 W/kg, p =.04) but not time to peak power (ISO-BR: 2.8 ± 1.7 s vs. BR: 2.9 ± 1.6 s, p =.62) or mean power output (ISO-BR: 7.3 ± 1.5 W/kg vs. BR: 7.3 ± 1.5 W/kg, p =.37). There were no significant differences in CMJ or SBJ between trials (p >.05). Sensory evaluation indicated that ISO-BR was preferred by 91% (n = 21) of participants compared with BR (average score; ISO-BR: 5.52 vs. BR: 3.52, p <.05). An ISO-BR drink improved peak power output during sprint cycling but not jump performance compared with BR alone, potentially via increased NOx. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The value of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2MAX) is a key health indicator. Usually, VO2MAX is determined with cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), which is cumbersome and time-consuming, making it impractical in many testing scenarios. The aim of this study is to validate a novel seismocardiography sensor (Seismofit®, VentriJect DK, Hellerup, Denmark) for non-exercise estimation of VO2MAX. Methods: A cohort of 94 healthy subjects (52% females, 48.2 (8.7) years old) were included in this study. All subjects performed an ergometer CPET. Seismofit® measurements were obtained 10 and 5 min before CPET in resting condition and 5 min after exhaustion. Results: The CPET VO2MAX was 37.2 (8.6) mL/min/kg, which was not different from the two first Seismofit® estimates at 37.5 (8.1) mL/min/kg (p = 0.28) and 37.3 (7.8) mL/min/kg (p = 0.66). Post-exercise Seismofit® was 33.8 (7.1) mL/min/kg (p < 0.001). The correlation between the CPET and the Seismofit® was r = 0.834 and r = 0.832 for the two first estimates, and the mean average percentage error was 11.4% and 11.2%. Intraclass correlation coefficients between the first and second Seismofit® measurement was 0.993, indicating excellent test-retest reliability. Conclusion: The novel Seismofit® VO2MAX estimate correlates well with CPET VO2MAX, and the accuracy is acceptable for general health assessment. The repeatability of Seismofit® estimates obtained at rest was very high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The single-inhaler triple combination of beclometasone dipropionate, formoterol fumarate, and glycopyrronium (BDP/FF/G) is available for maintenance therapy of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Cardinal features of COPD are lung hyperinflation and reduced exercise capacity. TRIFORCE aimed to evaluate the effect of BDP/FF/G on lung hyperinflation and exercise capacity in patients with COPD. Methods: This double-blind, randomised, active- and placebo-controlled, crossover study recruited adults with COPD aged ≥ 40 years, who were hyperinflated and symptomatic, and were receiving mono- or dual inhaled maintenance COPD therapy. In the three treatment periods, patients were randomised to receive BDP/FF/G, BDP/FF, or placebo, each for 3 weeks, with a 7–10-day washout between treatment periods. Assessments included slow inspiratory spirometry (for resting inspiratory capacity [IC]) and constant work-rate cycle ergometry (for dynamic IC and exercise endurance time). The primary objective was to compare BDP/FF/G and BDP/FF vs. placebo for resting IC at Week 3. Key secondary objectives were to compare BDP/FF/G and BDP/FF vs. placebo for dynamic IC and exercise endurance time during constant work rate cycle ergometry at Week 3. Results: Of 106 patients randomised, 95 completed the study. Resting IC adjusted mean differences vs. placebo were 315 and 223 mL for BDP/FF/G and BDP/FF, respectively (p < 0.001 for both). Adjusted mean differences vs. placebo for the key secondary endpoints were: 245 mL for dynamic IC (p < 0.001) and 69.2 s for exercise endurance time (nominal p < 0.001) with BDP/FF/G, and 96 mL (p = 0.053) and 70.1 s (nominal p < 0.001) with BDP/FF. Differences between BDP/FF/G and BDP/FF for resting and dynamic IC were 92 and 149 mL (p < 0.01 for both). All three treatments were generally well tolerated, with 27.3%, 25.3% and 19.0% of patients reporting adverse events with BDP/FF/G, BDP/FF and placebo, respectively, all mild or moderate. Conclusions: In patients with COPD, BDP/FF/G provided significant and clinically relevant improvements vs. placebo and BDP/FF in static and dynamic hyperinflation, with an improvement vs. placebo in exercise endurance. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05097014), registered 27th October 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In giant slalom, the ability to apply a high amount of force in the radial direction is essential for performance. A race is characterized by repeated turns performed at high velocity, potentially inducing fatigue. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effect of fatigue on performance, trajectory characteristics, and force production capacities onto the snow. Twelve skiers ran a 4-turn section with (FATIGUE) and without pre-induced fatigue (CONTROL). Knee extensor maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) was performed before the experiment and after both conditions. Section time, energy dissipation, path length, total force output, force application effectiveness, and EMG activity of the main lower-limb muscles were compared between conditions. Multiple linear regressions were used to understand whether interindividual variability in the kinematic, kinetic and EMG between conditions explains variability in performance changes with fatigue. MVC was lower after FATIGUE (−19.1 ± 6.4%, p < 0.001) but did not change after CONTROL. FATIGUE was associated with longer section times (+0.21 ± 0.11 s, p < 0.001), energy dissipation (−0.78 ± 1.05 J.s.kg.m−1, p = 0.026), path length (+1.1 ± 1.6 m, p = 0.033) and lower force application effectiveness (−0.1 ± 0.1, p = 0.017). This study experimentally demonstrates that fatigue in giant slalom results in lower force application effectiveness, inducing over-dissipation of mechanical energy and longer path length, leading to lower performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While pre-post differences in immune cell mobilization after acute aerobic exercise are well investigated, less is known about when and to what extent immune cells are mobilized during acute aerobic exercise. This experimental trial aimed to investigate the detailed kinetics of circulating immune cells in twelve healthy adults (n=6 females) who completed a 40-min aerobic exercise bout at 60% of the participantsʼ V̇O2peak on a bicycle ergometer. Cellular inflammation markers and sex-dependent differences in circulating immune cells were analyzed. Blood samples were taken immediately before, after warm-up, during exercise after 5 min, 10 min, 15 min, 30 min, 40 min (cessation), and 60 min post exercise. Significant increases in leukocytes (p<0.001), lymphocytes (p<0.001), neutrophils (p=0.003) and platelets (p=0.047) can be observed after 5 min of exercise. The cellular inflammation markers show significant alterations only post exercise. Significant sex differences were observed for neutrophils (p=0.049) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (p=0.007) one hour post exercise. These results indicate that i) leukocytes are already mobilized after 5 min of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic exercise, ii) the magnitude of exercise induced leukocyte mobilization is dependent on exercise duration, iii) integrative cellular inflammation markers are only altered after exercise cessation, and iv) the observed effects might be sex-dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the influence of the CYP1A2 c.-163 A > C (rs762551) polymorphism on the effect of oral caffeine intake on fat oxidation during exercise. Methods: Using a pilot randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled trial, 32 young and healthy individuals (women = 14, men = 18) performed an incremental test on a cycle ergometer with 3-min stages at workloads from 30 to 70% of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). Participants performed this test after the ingestion of (a) placebo; (b) 3 mg/kg of caffeine; (c) 6 mg/kg of caffeine. Fat oxidation rate during exercise was measured by indirect calorimetry. The influence of the CYP1A2 c.-163 A > C polymorphism in the effect of caffeine on fat oxidation rates during exercise was established with a three-way ANOVA (substance × genotype × intensity). Results: Eight participants were genotyped as AA, 18 participants were CA heterozygotes, and 6 participants were CC. There was a main effect of substance (F = 3.348, p = 0.050) on fat oxidation rates during exercise with no genotype effect (F = 0.158, p = 0.959). The post hoc analysis revealed that, in comparison to the placebo, 3 and 6 mg/kg of caffeine increased fat oxidation at 40–50% VO2max in AA (all p < 0.050) and 50–60% VO2max in CA and CC participants (all p < 0.050). Conclusion: Oral intake of 3 and 6 mg/kg of caffeine increased fat oxidation rate during aerobic exercise in individuals with AA, CA and CC genotypes. This suggests that the effect of caffeine to enhance fat oxidation during exercise is not influenced by the CYP1A2 c.-163 A > C polymorphism. Trial registration: The study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov with ID: NCT05975489. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Despite all the improvements in surgical and anesthetic techniques, this procedure is still associated with pulmonary and cardiovascular complications in the postoperative period, and early rehabilitation, done through the use of cycloergometer, can minimize such complications, besides reducing the length of hospital stay. Objective. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the impact of cardiovascular exercise on lung function, respiratory muscle strength, and functional capacity in elderly patients after heart bypass surgery. Methods. To this purpose, a randomized and controlled clinical trial was conducted. Research participants were randomized to the cycle ergometer group (CEG) or to the control group (CG). The CG was managed based on the institution's protocol. The CEG also carried out all the activities of the control group, but there was the inclusion of cycle ergometry through a device built by the researchers. Pulmonary function (vital capacity (VC) and peak expiratory flow (PEF)), ventilatory muscle strength (maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP)), and functional capacity (six‐minute walk test) were evaluated before surgery, at ICU, and hospital discharge. Results. During the research period, 122 patients were evaluated, 61 in each group. The MIP of the cycle ergometry group was higher at discharge from the ICU 95% CI 8 (5.46 to 10.54) and at hospital discharge 95% CI 14 (16.89 to 11.11). MEP was higher in the cycle ergometry group at discharge from the ICU with 95% CI 6 (8.18 to 3.82) and at hospital discharge with 95% CI 9 (11.69 a 6.31). Vital capacity at ICU discharge with 95% CI 6 (7.98 to 4.02) and at hospital discharge with 95% CI 7 (8.98 to 5.02), as well as peak flow at ICU discharge with 95% CI 43 (75.27 to 10.73), showed relevance, being higher in the group that used the cycle ergometer. The CEG showed improvement in functional capacity at the time of hospital discharge with a 95% CI 56 (30.37 to 81.63). Conclusion. We conclude that application of cycloergometry after CABG decreases the loss of pulmonary function, muscle strength, and functional capacity. This trial is registered with RBR-39yrht6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to conduct a biophysical comparison of angular (Biorower) and linear (Concept2) rowing ergometers across a wide spectrum of exercise intensities. Sixteen (eleven male) skilled rowers, aged 29.8 ± 8.6 and 23.6 ± 1.5 years, with international competitive experience, performed 7 × 3 min bouts with 30 W increments and 60 s intervals, plus 1 min of all-out rowing on both machines with 48 h in between. The ventilatory and kinematical variables were measured breath-by-breath using a telemetric portable gas analyzer and determined using a full-body markerless system, respectively. Similar values of oxygen uptake were observed between ergometers across all intensity domains (e.g., 60.36 ± 8.40 vs. 58.14 ± 7.55 mL/min/kg for the Biorower and Concept2 at severe intensity). The rowing rate was higher on the Biorower vs. Concept2 at heavy and severe intensities (27.88 ± 3.22 vs. 25.69 ± 1.99 and 30.63 ± 3.18 vs. 28.94 ± 2.29). Other differences in kinematics were observed across all intensity domains, particularly in the thorax angle at the finish (e.g., 19.44 ± 4.49 vs. 27.51 ± 7.59° for the Biorower compared to Concep2 at heavy intensity), likely due to closer alignment of the Biorower with an on-water rowing technique. The overall perceived effort was lower on the Biorower when compared to the Concept2 (14.38 ± 1.76 vs. 15.88 ± 1.88). Rowers presented similar cardiorespiratory function on both rowing ergometers, while important biomechanical differences were observed, possibly due to the Biorower's closer alignment with an on-water rowing technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The safest and most effective exercise stress tests (EST) modalities for long QT syndrome (LQTS) are currently unknown. The main objective was to explore the effects of EST on the corrected QT interval (QTc) in patients with LQTS, and to compare the effects of different EST modalities (cycle ergometer vs treadmill). Data Sources: Systematic searches were performed in September 2022 in accordance with the PRISMA statement through PubMed, Medline, EBM Reviews, Embase, and Web of Science. Main Results: A total of 1728 patients with LQTS, whether congenital or acquired, without any age restrictions (pediatric age#18 years and adult age.19 years), and 2437 control subjects were included in the 49 studies. The QT interval data were available for 15 studies. Our analyses showed that the QT interval prolonged in a similar manner using either a cycle ergometer or a treadmill (standardized mean difference [SMD] 5 1.89 [95% CI, 1.07-2.71] vs SMD 5 1.46 [95% CI, 0.78-2.14], respectively). Therefore, it seems that either modality may be used to evaluate patients with LQTS. Conclusions: The methodology for the measurement of the QT interval was very heterogeneous between studies, which inevitably influenced the quality of the analyses. Hence, researchers should proceed with caution when exploring and interpreting data in the field of exercise and LQTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The effect of eccentric exercise--induced muscle damage (EIMD) on cycling efficiency is unknown. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of EIMD on gross and delta efficiency and the cardiopulmonary responses to cycle ergometry. Methods: Twenty-one recreational athletes performed cycling at 70%, 90%, and 110% of the gas exchange threshold (GET) under control conditions (Control) and 24 h following an eccentric damaging protocol (Damage). Knee extensor isometric maximal voluntary contraction, potentiated twitch (Qtw,pot), and voluntary activation were assessed before Control and Damage. Gross and delta efficiency were assessed using indirect calorimetry, and cardiopulmonary responses were measured at each power output. Electromyography root-mean-square (EMGRMS) during cycling was also determined. Results: Maximal voluntary contraction was 25%± 18%lower for Damage than Control (P < 0.001). Gross efficiency was lower for Damage than Control (P < 0.001) by 0.55% ± 0.79%, 0.59% ± 0.73%, and 0.60% ± 0.87% for 70%, 90%, and 110% GET, respectively. Delta efficiency was unchanged between conditions (P = 0.513). Concurrently, cycling EMGRMS was higher for Damage than Control (P = 0.004). An intensity-dependent increase in breath frequency and ... was found, which were higher for Damage only at 110% GET (P ≤ 0.019). Conclusions: Thus, gross efficiency is reduced following EIMD. The concurrently higher EMGRMS suggests that increases in muscle activation in the presence of EIMD might have contributed to reduced gross efficiency. The lack of change in delta efficiency might relate to its poor reliability hindering the ability to detect change. The findings also show that EIMD-associated hyperventilation is dependent on exercise intensity, which might relate to increases in central command with EIMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the development of fatigability during a moderate-intensity cycling exercise between women with fibromyalgia (FM) and control women (CON) after acute ingestion of caffeine and placebo. Methods: Ten FM and 10 CON women performed a 30-min moderate-intensity cycling exercise 1 h after the ingestion of a capsule containing either caffeine or a placebo. Fatigability and its central and peripheral determinants were determined via changes from pre- to post-15 and post-30 min of exercise in maximal voluntary isometric contractions, voluntary activation (VA), and quadriceps potentiated twitch torque (Qtw-pot), respectively. Heart rate, muscle oxygen saturation, perceptive responses, mood state, localized and widespread pain, and sleepiness were also monitored during and after exercise. Results: There was a time versus group interaction for maximal voluntary isometric contraction and VA (P < 0.001) but not for Qtw-pot (P = 0.363), indicating a greater rate of fatigability development, mainly caused by central mechanisms, in the FM than in the CON group. There was also a main effect of condition for VA (P = 0.011), indicating that caffeine attenuates central mechanisms of fatigability in both groups. Caffeine ingestion also increased muscle oxygenation, perceived vigor, and energy, and decreased leg muscle pain, sleepiness, and perceived fatigue in both groups. However, caffeine improved perceived pleasure/displeasure and exercise adherence likelihood only in the FM group. Conclusions: Compared with CON, women with FM present a greater rate of fatigability during exercise, mainly of central origin. Caffeine seems to be a promising bioactive to counteract the central mechanisms of fatigability and improve the exercise experience among FM women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effect of the MC and endogenous sex hormone concentrations on performance-determining variables in three distinctMC phases in endurance-trained females. Methods: Twenty-one eumenorrheic trained/highly trained endurance athletes completed a standardized test battery during the early follicular phase (EFP), ovulatory phase (OP), and midluteal phase (MLP) for either one (n = 7) or two test cycles (n = 14). MC phases were determined using calendar-based counting, urinary ovulation testing, and verified with serum hormone analysis. MCs were retrospectively classified as eumenorrheic or disturbed. Disturbed MCs were excluded from analysis. The test battery consisted of 4-6 x 5-min submaximal stages with stepwise speed increases, a 30-s all-out double-poling ski ergometer test, and a maximal incremental treadmill running test. Results: At a group level, there was no effect of MC phase or the serum concentrations of estrogen and progesterone on peak oxygen uptake (...), oxygen uptake at 4 mmol⋅L-1 blood lactate concentration, time to exhaustion, running economy, or mean 30-s power output (MPO30s). Serum testosterone concentration was positively associated with MPO30s (P = 0.016). Changes in ... from EFP to MLP were inconsistent between individuals and across cycles. Conclusions: None of the measured performance-determining variables were influenced by MC phase or serumestrogen or progesterone concentrations. Although some individual patterns could be observed, there was no indication that any single MC phase is consistently associated with improved or impaired ... on a group level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Femoral catheters are commonly viewed as a barrier to Burn ICU mobility progression due to anatomical location and potential risk of complications. The purpose of this review was to examine outcomes and complication rates following implementation of femoral catheter mobilization guidelines, as well as determine safety and feasibility of mobilization with femoral catheters in place within the burn population. A retrospective review was completed on 17 patients prior to and following the implementation of new femoral catheter mobility guidelines, 34 patients total. Burn therapy notes were reviewed for burn admissions with at least 1 femoral catheter in place, including arterial, central, and dialysis catheters. Demographic data, admission statistics, line placement timelines, and active mobility achieved during therapy sessions were recorded for both the nonmobilization group (NMG) and mobilization group (MG). The 34 patients reviewed had 99 total lines placed (30 NMG, 69 MG). Change in mobility protocols for the MG resulted in more therapy sessions (n = 516 vs 281) and a significant increase in active mobility sessions (n = 83 vs 5, P <.001), including 146 total mobility activities such as transitions to chairs, tilt table, sitting edge of bed, standing, active chair transfers, ambulation, and cycle ergometry. No catheter-associated adverse events occurred during active mobility sessions and no complications were associated with participation in mobility. This review supports that the presence of femoral catheters alone should not limit the progression of mobility interventions with the use of clinical judgment in specialty-trained burn therapists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Laboratory assessment of maximal oxygen uptake ( V ˙ O 2 max) is physically and mentally draining for the athlete and requires expensive laboratory equipment. Indirect measurement of V ˙ O 2 max could provide a practical alternative to laboratory testing. Purpose: To examine the relationship between the maximal power output (MPO) in an individualized 7 × 2-minute incremental test (INCR-test) and V ˙ O 2 max and to develop a regression equation to predict V ˙ O 2 max from MPO in female rowers. Methods: Twenty female club and Olympic rowers (development group) performed the INCR-test on a Concept2 rowing ergometer to determine V ˙ O 2 max and MPO. A linear regression analysis was used to develop a prediction of V ˙ O 2 max from MPO. Cross-validation analysis of the prediction equation was performed using an independent sample of 10 female rowers (validation group). Results: A high correlation coefficient (r =.94) was found between MPO and V ˙ O 2 max. The following prediction equation was developed: V ˙ O 2 max (mL·min−1) = 9.58 × MPO (W) + 958. No difference was found between the mean predicted V ˙ O 2 max in the INCR-test (3480 mL·min−1) and the measured V ˙ O 2 max (3530 mL·min−1). The standard error of estimate was 162 mL·min−1, and the percentage standard error of estimate was 4.6%. The prediction model only including MPO, determined during the INCR-test, explained 89% of the variability in V ˙ O 2 max. Conclusion: The INCR-test is a practical and accessible alternative to laboratory testing of V ˙ O 2 max. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The primary objective was to assess the performance benefits of caffeine (CAF) supplementation in habitual users. Importantly, this investigation was designed to account for the potential confounding effects of CAF withdrawal (CAFW), which are inherent and common in previous work. Methods: Ten CAF-consuming (394 [146] mg·d−1) recreational cyclists (age 39.1 [14.9] y; maximum oxygen consumption 54.2 [6.2] mL·kg–1·min–1) completed four 10-km time trials (TTs) on a cycle ergometer. On each trial day, 8 hours before reporting to the laboratory, subjects consumed 1.5 mg·kg–1 CAF to prevent withdrawal (no withdrawal [N]) or a placebo (PLA; withdrawal [W]). Then, 1 hour prior to exercise, they received either 6 mg·kg–1 CAF or PLA. These protocols were repeated 4 times, employing all combinations of N/W and CAF/PLA. Results: CAFW did not impair TT power output (PLAW vs PLANP =.13). However, preexercise CAF only improved TT performance when compared to PLA in the W condition (CAFN vs PLAWP =.008, CAFW vs PLAWP =.04), not when W was mitigated (PLAN vs CAFNP =.33). Conclusions: These data indicate that preexercise CAF only improves recreational cycling performance when compared to bouts preceded by CAF abstinence, suggesting that habitual users may not benefit from 6 mg·kg–1 of CAF and that previous work may have overstated the value of CAF supplementation for habitual users. Future work should examine higher doses of CAF for habitual users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute ketone monoester (KE) supplementation can alter exercise responses, but the performance effect is unclear. The limited and equivocal data to date are likely related to factors including the KE dose, test conditions, and caliber of athletes studied. We tested the hypothesis that mean power output during a 20-min cycling time trial (TT) would be different after KE ingestion compared to a placebo (PL). A sample size of 22 was estimated to provide 80% power to detect an effect size dz of 0.63 at an alpha level of.05 with a two-tailed paired t test. This determination considered 2.0% as the minimal important difference in performance. Twenty-three trained cyclists (N = 23; peak oxygen uptake: 65 ± 12 ml·kg−1 min−1; M ± SD), who were regularly cycling >5 hr/week, completed a familiarization trial followed by two experimental trials. Participants self-selected and replicated their diet and exercise for ∼24 hr before each trial. Participants ingested either 0.35 g/kg body mass of (R)-3-hydroxybutyl (R)-3-hydroxybutyrate KE or a flavor-matched PL 30 min before exercise in a randomized, triple-blind, crossover manner. Exercise involved a 15-min warm-up followed by the 20-min TT on a cycle ergometer. The only feedback provided was time elapsed. Preexercise venous [β-hydroxybutyrate] was higher after KE versus PL (2.0 ± 0.6 vs. 0.2 ± 0.1 mM, p <.0001). Mean TT power output was 2.4% (0.6% to 4.1%; mean [95% confidence interval]) lower after KE versus PL (255 ± 54 vs. 261 ± 54 W, p <.01; dz = 0.60). The mechanistic basis for the impaired TT performance after KE ingestion under the present study conditions remains to be determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regular physical exercise is known to lower the incidence of age-related eye diseases. We aimed to assess the acute chorioretinal alterations in older adults following intense physical strain. Seventeen senior elite athletes were recruited who underwent an aerobic exercise on a cycle ergometer and macular scanning by optical coherence tomography. A significant thinning of the entire retina was observed 1 min after exercise, followed by a thickening at 5 min, after which the thickness returned to baseline. This trend was similar in almost every single retinal layer, although a significant change was observed only in the inner retina. Choroidal thickness changes were neither significant nor did they correlate with the thickness changes of intraretinal layers. The mechanism of how these immediate retinal changes chronically impact age-related sight-threatening pathologies that, in turn, result in a substantially reduced quality of life warrants further investigation on nontrained older adults as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Patellar tendinopathy (PT) is a common injury involving inadequate eccentric (ECC) knee extensor contractions during dynamic sports activities. However, any discrepancies in ECC power output between Olympic athletes with and without PT utilizing a flywheel ergometer squat remain to be determined. OBJECTIVE: To compare peak ECC power, concentric (CON) power, the ECC/CON power ratio, and performance speed in female and male athletes with and without PT, respectively. METHODS: Forty Olympic athletes with and without PT were included and analyzed for ECC power, CON power, ECC/CON power ratio, and performance speed (m/s) under varying load conditions, with analyses separated by gender. RESULTS: The ECC power, ECC/CON power ratio, and performance speed of the PT group were significantly lower than those of the non-PT (NPT) group in both genders. ECC and CON power significantly increased with higher inertial loads in the NPT groups, whereas the speed significantly decreased as the inertial load increased in both PT and NPT groups. CONCLUSIONS: Dynamic flywheel ergometer assessments may help in the quantitative diagnosis of athletes with PT under differing dynamic squat conditions. This assessment may be used to create standardized guidelines for squat performance testing, strengthening, conditioning, and rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To optimize the recovery phase between heats in ski-mountaineering sprint competitions, this study investigated whether an active recovery protocol on an ergocycle could improve subsequent performance compared with a self-selected recovery strategy. Methods: Thirteen elite ski mountaineers (9 men and 4 women) performed 3 sprints with 2 different recovery conditions (Ergo vs Free) in a randomized order. The Ergo condition involved a 10-minute constant-intensity exercise on an ergocycle performed at 70% of maximum heart rate. For the Free condition, the athlete was asked to self-select modality. At the end of the third sprint, a passive recovery (seated) was prescribed for both protocols. Sprint performance (time) and physiological parameters (lactate concentration [La], heart rate [HR], and rating of perceived exertion [RPE]) were recorded from each sprint and recovery phase. Results: In the Ergo vs Free protocols, sprint times (177 [24] s vs 176 [23] s; P =.63), recovery average HR (70% [2.9%] vs 71% [5.2%] of maximal HR), and RPE (16.7 [1.5] vs 16.8 [1.5]; P =.81) were not significantly different. However, [La] decreased more after Ergo (−2.9 [1.8] mmol·L−1) and Free (−2.8 [1.8] mmol·L−1) conditions compared with passive recovery (−1.1 [1.6] mmol·L−1; P <.05). Conclusions: The use of an ergocycle between heat sprints in ski mountaineering does not provide additional benefits compared with a recovery strategy freely chosen by the athletes. However, active conditions provide a faster [La] reduction compared with passive recovery and seem to be a more suitable strategy between multiple-heat sprints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Although there is potential for the menstrual cycle to impact psychophysiological responses to exercise, there has been a paucity of studies investigating this aspect, specifically in the context of high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Purpose: This exploratory study aimed to examine the psychophysiological responses to HIIT over the menstrual cycle. Methods: Twenty-three healthy and physically active young women were recruited. Each woman completed a cycle ergometer HIIT session in the menstrual, follicular, and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle in a random order. Psychophysiological variables of interest were collected at baseline, and during and after exercise. Primary variables of interest were anxiety, mood, motivation, enjoyment, arousal, affect, and menstrual distress. Results: Higher pain, water retention, behavior change (related to social interactions, eating habits, and self-performance), and autonomic reactions (consisting of nausea, dizziness, hot flashes, and cold sweats) were observed before HIIT during the menstrual phase compared with the follicular phase (P < 0.05). Participants exhibited worse psychological responses to HIIT sessions during the menstrual phase, followed by the luteal phase. Findings also noted participants arrived to the laboratory with lower motivation to initiate HIIT sessions during the luteal and menstrual phases compared with the follicular phase. This difference was observed before and during HIIT. Motivation and depressive symptoms showed a significant reduction from pre-HIIT to post-HIIT (P < 0.05), regardless of menstrual phase. Conclusions: The findings revealed that the menstrual cycle had a significant impact on psychophysiological responses. Moreover, HIIT could be adopted to improve motivation and depressive symptoms; however, further research is needed to explore the effects of HIIT across the menstrual cycle in women with clinical depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The upper body Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT) is a 30-smaximal effort sprint against a set load (percentage of body mass). However, there is no consensus on the optimal load and no differential values for males and females, even when there are well-studied anatomical and physiological differences in muscle mass for the upper body. Our goal was to describe the effects of load, sex, and crank position on the kinetics, kinematics, and performance of the upper body WAnT. Methods: Eighteen participants (9 females) performed threeWAnTs at 3%, 4%, and 5%of body mass. Arm crank forces, 2D kinematics, and performance variables were recorded during eachWAnT. Results: Our results showed an increase of ~49% effective force, ~36%peak power, ~5° neck flexion, and ~30° shoulder flexion from 3% to 5% load (P < 0.05). Mean power and anaerobic capacity decreased by 15%, with no changes in fatigue index (P < 0.05). The positions of higher force efficiency were at 12 and 6 o'clock. The least force efficiency occurred at 3 o'clock (P < 0.05). Sex differences showed that males produced 97% more effective force and 109% greater mean power than females, with 11.7%more force efficiency (P < 0.001). Males had 16° more head/neck flexion than females, and females had greater elbow joint variability with 17°morewrist extension at higher loads. Males cycled ~32%faster at 3%versus 5%WAnT load with a 65%higher angular velocity than females. Grip strength, maximal voluntary isometric contraction, mass, and height positively correlated with peak and mean power (P < 0.001). Conclusions: In conclusion, load, sex, and crank position have a significant impact on performance of theWAnT. These factors should be considered when developing and implementing an upper body WAnT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to ascertain the optimal test duration to elicit the highest maximal lactate formation rate ( V ˙ Lamax), whilst exploring the underpinning energetics, and identifying the optimal blood lactate sampling period. Methods: Fifteen trained to well-trained males (age 27 ± 6 years; peak power: 1134 ± 174 W) participated in a randomised cross-over design completing three all-out sprint cycling tests of differing test durations (10, 15, and 30 s). Peak and mean power output (W and W.kg−1), oxygen uptake, and blood lactate concentrations were measured. V ˙ Lamax and energetic contributions (phosphagen, glycolytic, and oxidative) were determined using these parameters. Results: The shortest test duration of 10 s elicited a significantly (p = 0.003; p < 0.001) higher V ˙ Lamax (0.86 ± 0.17 mmol.L−1.s−1; 95% CI 0.802–0.974) compared with both 15 s (0.68 ± 0.18 mmol.L−1.s−1; 95% CI 0.596–0.794) and 30 s (0.45 ± 0.07 mmol.L−1.s−1; 95% CI 0.410–0.487). Differences in V ˙ Lamax were associated with large effect sizes (d = 1.07, d = 3.15). We observed 81% of the PCr and 53% of the glycolytic work completed over the 30 s sprint duration was attained after 10 s. BLamaxpost were achieved at 5 ± 2 min (ttest 10 s), 6 ± 2 min (ttest 15 s), and 7 ± 2 min (ttest 30 s), respectively. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated a 10 s test duration elicited the highest V ˙ Lamax. Furthermore, the 10 s test duration mitigated the influence of the oxidative metabolism during all-out cycling. The optimal sample time to determine peak blood lactate concentration following 10 s was 5 ± 2 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Sportswear manufactured from hygroscopic fibres can absorb moisture during activity or intermittent exercise and may change the thermal management of clothing. This change in the thermal behaviour of the fabric can lead to buffer the post-exercise chill. During activity in a moderately cold environment clothing made of 100% wool fibre helps wearers to slow down evaporative and conductive cooling, which can provide more thermal and comfort sensation compared to 100% cotton, 100% viscose, and 100% polyester. Twelve males performed cycling in a controlled climate chamber of temperature: 15 ± 0.5 °C, and relative humidity (RH):50 ± 5% followed by a drying phase in a windy environment by wearing full-sleeve t-shirts. Wool shirt was observed to hold a greater torso skin temperature (p < 0.05) than the other fibre types. Participants were asked a range of comfort-related questions at varying intervals. The temperature sensation was found (p < 0.05) significant for wool clothing. Moreover, participants rated wool shirt significantly (p < 0.05) as more comfortable during the post-exercise phase. Both clothing and physiological responses were investigated during exercise and post-exercise periods for male participants while wearing full-sleeve sportswear made of wool, cotton, viscose, and polyester. Wool clothing maintained a higher skin microclimate temperature and a warmer sensation, helping buffer the post-exercise chill. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic performance diagnostics in athletes relies on accurate measurements of blood lactate concentration and the calculation of blood lactate accumulation resulting from glycolytic processes. In this study, we investigated the impact of pedaling frequency on blood lactate accumulation during 10-second maximal isokinetic cycling sprints. Thirteen trained males completed five 10-second maximal isokinetic cycling sprints on a bicycle ergometer at different pedaling frequencies (90 rpm, 110 rpm, 130 rpm, 150 rpm, 170 rpm) with continuous power and frequency measurement. Capillary blood samples were taken pre-exercise and up to 30 minutes post-exercise to determine the maximum blood lactate concentration. Blood lactate accumulation was calculated as the difference between maximal post-exercise and pre-start blood lactate concentration. Repeated measurement ANOVA with Bonferroni-adjusted post hoc t-tests revealed significant progressive increases in maximal blood lactate concentration and accumulation with higher pedaling frequencies (p<0.001; η2 +>+0.782). The findings demonstrate a significant influence of pedaling frequency on lactate accumulation, emphasizing its relevance in anaerobic diagnostics. Optimal assessment of maximal lactate formation rate is suggested to require a pedaling frequency of at least 130 rpm or higher, while determining metabolic thresholds using the maximal lactate formation rate may benefit from a slightly lower pedaling frequency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Whether functionally relevant strength assessments, such as the isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), can be used either bilaterally or unilaterally to evaluate and guide rehabilitation progress in those with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is under-researched. This study assessed changes in peak force (PF) and asymmetry across 3 phases for bilateral and unilateral IMTP assessments in patients with ACLR. Peak isometric force from the IMTP was compared to peak torque from isokinetic dynamometry as well as against a cohort of healthy, uninjured individuals. Method: Participants (ACLR, n = 15) completed bilateral and unilateral IMTP assessments at weeks 12 (baseline), 16 (phase 3), and 20 (phase 4) of rehabilitation to evaluate changes in PF and asymmetry. Asymmetry was evaluated using the asymmetry angle. Isometric data from the IMTP were compared to that from an isokinetic dynamometer as well as against a cohort of healthy, uninjured participants (n = 63) allowing for a detailed analysis of limb-specific force production. Results: The PF during the bilateral IMTP increased for both the injured (0.94 N/kg) and uninjured (0.26 N/kg) limbs from baseline to phase 4, whereas the PF of the injured limb increased by 1.5 N/kg during the unilateral IMTP in the same time frame. Asymmetry values systematically reduced by ~1% and ~0.5% for the bilateral and unilateral IMTP tests from baseline to phase 4. Significant differences in PF of the injured limb were evident between those with ACLR and healthy controls across all phases (p = 0.022-0.001). The rate of progression in PF capacity was dependent on test type, amounting to 0.1 and 0.2 body weights per week for the bilateral and unilateral IMTP respectively. Small-to-large correlations (r = 0.12-0.88) were evident between IMTP PF and peak torque from the isokinetic dynamometer as well as beween asymmetry metrics from both tests. Conclusion: The findings suggest that IMTP PF has potential for monitoring changes in PF and asymmetry during the ACLR rehabilitation progress. Both injured limb and uninjured limb show improvement in force-generating capacity, implying a positive adaptation to rehabilitation protocols. The findings highlight that ACLR is a unilateral injury that requires bilateral rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine in trained females and males i) the agreement between the gas exchange threshold (GET), lactate threshold 1 (LT1), and heart rate variability threshold 1 (HRVT1), as well as between the respiratory compensation point (RCP), lactate threshold 2 (LT2), and heart rate variability threshold 2 (HRVT2), and ii) the reproducibility of HRVT1 and HRVT2 during 2-min incremental step protocols. Methods: Fifty-seven trained participants (24 females) completed a 2-min step incremental test to task failure. Nineteen participants (eight females) completed a second test to evaluate reproducibility. Gas exchange and ventilatory responses, blood lactate concentration, and RR time series were recorded to assess the oxygen consumption (...) and heart rate (HR) associated with the GET, RCP, LT1, LT2, HRVT1, and HRVT2. Results: /-GET versus ...-HRVT1 and HR-GET versus HR-HRVT1 were statistically different for females (29.5 ± 4.0 vs 34.6 ± 6.1 mL⋅kg-1⋅min-1; 154 ± 11 vs 166 ± 12 bpm) and for males (33.9 ± 4.2 vs 42.7 ± 4.6 mL⋅kg-1·min-1; 145 ± 11 vs 165 ± 9 bpm; P < 0.001). ... and HR at HRVT1 were greater than at LT1 (P < 0.05). ...-RCP versus ...-HRVT2 and HR-RCP versus HR-HRVT2 were not statistically different for females (40.1 ± 4.7 vs 39.5 ± 6.7 mL⋅kg-1⋅min-1; 177 ± 9 vs 176 ± 9 bpm) and males (48.4 ± 5.4 vs 47.8 ± 4.8mL⋅kg-1⋅min-1; 176 ± 8 vs 175 ± 9 bpm; P > 0.05). ... and HR responses at LT2 were similar to HRVT2 (P > 0.05). Intraclass correlation coefficient for .-HRVT1, HR-HRVT1, ...-HRVT2, and HR-HRVT2 indicated good reproducibility when comparing the two different time points to standard methods. Conclusions: Whereas HRVT2 is a valid and reproducible estimate of the RCP/LT2, current approaches for HRVT1 estimation did not show good agreement with outcomes at GET and LT1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of plant- versus animal-based food intake before exercise on arterial function and subsequent aerobic exercise capacity. Eleven healthy adult males (mean age, 22.6 ± 1.8 years) participated in this study. A plant- or animal-based randomized meal type crossover comparison was conducted on separate days with a uniform protein, fat, and carbohydrate balance. Both carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV), femoral–ankle pulse wave velocity (faPWV), and brachial artery flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) were measured as indexes of aortic and peripheral arterial stiffness and vascular endothelial function, respectively, before and at 120 min after the meal. After these measurements, maximal oxygen uptake was assessed using a graded power test on an electronically braked cycle ergometer. The results revealed that cfPWV was significantly lower, whereas FMD was significantly higher, at 120 min after compared with before the plant-based meal (p = 0.01 and 0.02, respectively). By contrast, cfPWV and FMD did not change at 120 min after compared with before the animal-based meal. In addition, faPWV did not change at 120 min after compared with before the meal for either meal type. Maximal oxygen uptake was higher in the plant- than in the animal-based meal type (p = 0.02). These results suggest that pre-exercise plant-based food intake may improve central arterial stiffness and vascular endothelial function, which may have favorable implications for aerobic exercise capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non‐intoxicating phytocannabinoid which has been proposed to possess anti‐inflammatory and analgesic properties. Given the potential for perceptions of pain to limit exercise performance, the aim of the present study was to investigate if 3 weeks of daily CBD supplementation (150 mg day−1) improved performance in a 10‐min performance‐trial on a cycle ergometer. In a randomized, double‐blind and placebo‐controlled study, 22 healthy participants (n = 11 male and n = 11 female) completed two 10‐min performance trials on a WattBike cycle ergometer interspersed with a 3‐week supplementation period. Supplementation involved either 150 mg day−1 oral CBD or 150 mg day−1 of a visually identical placebo (PLA). During trials, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE [6–20]), heart rate (HR) and blood lactate (BLa) were collected every 2 min. Mean power (W) was also taken throughout the exercise at each time point. All data were analyzed using two‐way ANOVAs. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) between CBD or PLA groups for mean power (W) during the 10‐min performance trial. There were also no significant differences (P > 0.05) in any of the physiological or perceptual parameters (HR, BLa and RPE) between conditions. Three weeks supplementation of a broad‐spectrum CBD supplement did not improve performance via any change in RPE during a 10‐min time trial on a cycle ergometer, and as such, this evidence does not support the claim that broad‐spectrum CBD supplements could be performance‐enhancing in this exercise modality. Highlights: 3 weeks supplementation of 150 mg/day broad‐spectrum cannabidiol (CBD) does not influence perceived exertion during a 10‐min aerobic performance trial.3 weeks supplementation of 150 mg/day broad CBD does not improve physical performance in a 10‐min aerobic performance trialAthletes should continue abstinence of "Off‐the‐shelf" CBD supplements to avoid anti‐doping rule violations from The World Anti‐Doping Agency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates how different recovery periods after high-intensity interval training (HIIT) affects strength and ex- plosive performance during a power training (PT) session. Fifteen female elite ice hockey players (22.5 ± 5.2 years) performed PT, including 6 sets of 2 repetitions (reps) of isometric leg press (ILP) and 6 sets of 3 reps of countermovement jump (CMJ), following a rested state and 10 minutes, 6 hours, or 24 hours after HIIT (3 sets of B * 20 : seconds at 115% of power output at maximal oxygen consumption on a cycle ergometer). Peak force (PF) and peak rate of force development (pRFD) were measured during the ILP. Peak jump height (PJH), concentric phase duration (ConDur), eccentric phase duration, total duration, peak power (PP), velocity at peak power (V@PP), and force at peak power were measured during CMJ. The following variables were significantly reduced when only a 10-minute recovery period was allowed between HIIT and PT: PF was reduced by 7% (p < 0.001) pRFD by 17% (p < 0.001), PJH by 4% (p < 0.001), ConDur by 4% (p = 0.018), PP by 2% (p = 0.016), and V@PP by 2% (p = 0.007) None of the measured variables were reduced when PT was performed 6 and 24 hours after HIIT. We conclude that strength and explosive performance of elite female ice hockey players is reduced 10 minutes after HIIT but not negatively affected if a rest period of at least 6 hours is provided between HIIT and PT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban green spaces benefit physical, mental health, and reduses the risk of cardiovascular disease. A study in Kaunas, Lithuania collected health data from 100 patients with symptomatic heart failure (HF) during 2006–2009. Residential greenness was measured by the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). We assessed the impact of greenness on health indicators and on changes in health markers after 6 months. Higher greenness levels based on the NDVI 1-km radius were related to higher mean values of heart rate (HR) and ejection fraction and lower left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic diameter index (LV EDDI), LV end-systolic volume (ESV), left atrium size (LAS), and right atrium size (RAS) at baseline. After 6 months, a decrease in DBP and HR and an improvement in spiroergometric parameters were associated with exposure to high levels of greenness. The long-term rehabilitation group experienced significant changes in spiroergometric indicators. The results confirm that the greenness of the residential environment can improve health indicators in patients with HF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a case of a 21-year-old male, African American Division I basketball player with a fibula stress fracture. The athlete initially reported pain, without distinct injury and was diagnosed with a stress fracture. After a short period of immobilization in a walking boot, this individual opted to undergo surgical intervention consisting of an intramedullary screw inserted in his left fibula. This was in consultation with the orthopedic team physician and orthopedic trauma surgeon. After a brief period of rest and continued immobilization in a walking boot, weight bearing as tolerated, the patient was able to start rehabilitation. He continued rehabilitation and progressive return to activity and was able to return to limited practice approximately 4 weeks. He played 13 min of a game in under 5 weeks (31 days). Stress fractures are not uncommon in basketball players, but a fibula stress fracture is one not often seen, and there is a paucity of data in the literature regarding this injury. A nonoperative approach to treatment of a fibula stress fracture typically yields good results but may lead to longer return than a surgical intervention. Providing athletes options for treatment may result in a quicker recovery. This case demonstrates a novel treatment option resulting in a quicker return to play. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our study aims to compare the effects of an 8-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) vs. moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on cardiometabolic risk factors and on serum leptin levels in overweight and obese individuals. Our quasi-experimental study involved 36 students who were assigned to HIIT, MICT or the control group. Using a bicycle ergometer, participants in the HIIT group performed 25 min of HIIT and those in the MICT group performed 35 min of moderate-intensity continuous exercise for three days a week for 8 weeks. Body composition estimated by bioimpedance analysis, blood lipids and serum leptin were measured pre-exercise and 8 weeks post-exercise. After 8 weeks of exercise, the participants in the MICT group showed a significant reduction in weight (p<0.01) and body mass index (BMI) (p<0.05). In the HIIT group, although weight reduction was noticed, the difference was not statistically significant compared to the pre-exercise values. In the control group, participants had a significant increase in their weight, BMI, and total body fat (p<0.05). On performing an inter-group comparison of the magnitude of change in body weight and BMI over 8 weeks of exercise, no difference was seen between the HIIT and MICT groups. No difference was observed in body fat indices and levels of random blood glucose, blood lipids and serum leptin pre and 8 weeks post-exercise. On comparing the change in body weight and BMI over 8 weeks, no significant difference was found between the HIIT and MICT groups. However, HIIT was notably more time efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Critical illness requiring invasive mechanical ventilation can precipitate important functional disability, contributing to multidimensional morbidity following admission to an intensive care unit (ICU). Early in-bed cycle ergometry added to usual physiotherapy may mitigate ICU-acquired physical function impairment. Methods: We randomly assigned 360 adult ICU patients undergoing invasive mechanical ventilation to receive 30 minutes of early in-bed Cycling + Usual physiotherapy (n=178) or Usual physiotherapy alone (n=182). The primary outcome was the Physical Function ICU Test-scored (PFIT-s) at 3 days after discharge from the ICU (the score ranges from 0 to 10, with higher scores indicating better function). Results: Cycling began within a median (interquartile range) of 2 (1 to 3) days of starting mechanical ventilation; patients received 3 (2 to 5) cycling sessions for a mean (±standard deviation) of 27.2 ± 6.6 minutes. In both groups, patients started Usual physiotherapy within 2 (2 to 4) days of mechanical ventilation and received 4 (2 to 7) Usual physiotherapy sessions. The duration of Usual physiotherapy was 23.7 ± 15.1 minutes in the Cycling + Usual physiotherapy group and 29.1 ± 13.2 minutes in the Usual physiotherapy group. No serious adverse events occurred in either group. Among survivors, the PFIT-s at 3 days after discharge from the ICU was 7.7 ± 1.7 in the Cycling + Usual physiotherapy group and 7.5 ± 1.7 in the Usual physiotherapy group (absolute difference, 0.23 points; 95% confidence interval, -0.19 to 0.65; P=0.29). Conclusions: Among adults receiving mechanical ventilation in the ICU, adding early in-bed Cycling to usual physiotherapy did not improve physical function at 3 days after discharge from the ICU compared with Usual physiotherapy alone. Cycling did not cause any serious adverse events. (Funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and others; ClinicalTrials.gov numbers, NCT03471247 [full randomized clinical trial] and NCT02377830 [CYCLE Vanguard 46-patient internal pilot].) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the handball game players occupied specific position which requires unique physiological and physical attributes relating to technical and tactical requirements of each position in order to maximize sport performance on the court. The aim of this study was to quantify anthropometrical and physiological characteristics in elite Macedonian handball players and compare them regarding four different playing positions. In this study were included55handball players, different nationality, from RNM, participated in ergometry testing with Bruce protocol and body mass analysis with bioelectrical impedance analyzer, InBody 720. The players were divided in four groups according to playing position: wings (W), backs (B), pivots (P) and goalkeepers (G). Anthropometric parameters for all players were following: mean height was 186.3±7.1 cm, weight =85.37±13.7 kg, skeletal muscle mass (SMM) = 42.04 ± 6.2 kg; BMI = 24.54±2.8; BF%=13.4 ± 4.75 and WHR = 0.85± 0.06. Regarding the position, B/W/P/G for height were: 187.14 cm/180.0 cm/191.77 cm/186.8 cm; weight: 85.72 kg/72.67 kg/99.67 kg/85.33 kg; body fat percent: 12.26 %/11.92 %/16.3 %/14.7 %. The mean values for maximal oxygen consumption for B/W/P/G were 48.86/44.31/44.09/47.78 ml/kg/min. The BIA parameters of body composition in handball players regarding the playing position, showed statistically significant differences for all lean body mass parameters and obesity diagnose parameters, except for the body fat percent. According the cardio-physiological parameters derived from Bruce protocol handball players at different playing position had similar aerobic capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine the biomechanical demands of manual wheelchair propulsion, it is crucial to determine the wheelchair user's (WCU) force for propulsion technique parameter calculation. When using a pushrim-activated power-assisted wheelchair (PAPAW) on a wheelchair ergometer, a combined propulsion force from the WCU and PAPAW is exerted. To understand PAPAW's assistance and distinguish the WCU's force application from the force exerted by the PAPAW, both propulsion components must be assessed separately. In this study, a calibration of the PAPAW on an ergometer was developed to achieve this separation. The calibration consists of five steps: (I) Collecting data on force and velocity measured from the ergometer, along with electrical current and velocity from the PAPAW. (II) Synchronizing the velocity signals of the wheelchair ergometer and PAPAW using cross-correlation. (III) Calibrating the PAPAW's electromotors to convert electrical current (mA) to force (N). A product-specific motor constant of 0.30, provided an average ICC of 0.563, indicating a moderate agreement between the raw ergometer data (N) and the motor constant-converted drive-rim (PAPAW) data (from mA to N). (IV) Subtracting the PAPAW's force signal from the ergometer's measured force to isolate forces generated by the WCU. (V) Using markerless motion capture to determine and validate the phase of hand contact with the handrim. This technical note provides an example of PAPAW calibration for researchers and clinicians. It emphasizes the importance of integrating this calibration into the development of PAPAW devices to reveal the complex interaction between PAPAW and WCU during wheelchair propulsion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Inflammation and metabolic disorders of cardiomyocytes are undoubtedly important pathogenetic links in the development of coronary heart disease and its complications. Our study assessed the effect of various combined treatment regimens on cycle ergometry performance and plasma concentrations of pro- and anti-inflammatory interleukins in patients with stable effort angina, functional classes II-III. Materials and Methods: The clinical study included 120 patients diagnosed with coronary heart disease: stable effort angina, functional classes II-III, and 40 healthy participants who met the inclusion criteria. Further, four groups were randomly formed: a group receiving the standard treatment; a group receiving Mexicor for 10 days in addition to the standard treatment; a group receiving Mexicor and Phosphogliv for 10 days in an addition to the standard treatment; and a group receiving Mexicor and Polyoxidonium for 10 days in addition to the standard treatment. After the treatment, cycle ergometry performance and plasma concentrations of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines were assessed in the patients. Mathematical statistical analysis was carried out using Statistica 10.0 software. The statistical significance of differences between the qualitative indicators was assessed using the χ2 test. The results of the statistical analysis were considered statistically significant at p<0.05. Results: The combined treatment with using the above-mentioned pharmacological agents resulted in a statistically significant improvement in cycle ergometry indicators: Mexicor made it possible to increase the threshold load power by 43.0% and the total load power - by 70.3%. In the groups of patients with coronary heart disease who had received Mexicor and Phosphogliv or Mexicor and Polyoxidonium, there was an increase in the load duration by an average of 69.0% and in the rate-pressure product - by 25%, respectively. When analyzing the dynamics of plasma concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines, it was found that a statistically significant decrease in the concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-a, interleukin-1ß, interleukin-6 and interleukin-10 was registered only in the groups receiving Mexicor and Phosphogliv or Mexicor and Polyoxidonium in addition to the standard treatment. Conclusion: Applying the combined treatment regimens using Mexicor and Phosphogliv or Polyoxidonium results in the most effective improvement of the cycle ergometry performance and the dynamics of plasma concentrations of pro- and anti-inflammatory interleukins in patients with stable effort angina, functional classes II-III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrate-rich beetroot juice (NRBRJ) can potentially enhance exercise performance and improve cardiovascular function, leading to an increased use of NRBRJ over the years. However, the combined effects of NRBRJ supplementation and exercise on cardiovascular function remain unclear. Therefore, this study compared cardiovascular function responses to submaximal exercise with either placebo (PLA) or NRBRJ supplementation in healthy men. Twelve healthy men (aged 25.2 ± 2.3 years) completed the 30-min submaximal cycle ergometer exercise trials corresponding to 70% maximal heart rate (HRmax) with either PLA or NRBRJ supplementation in a random order. The mean exercise load, heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and total peripheral resistance (TPR) were measured during exercise. The brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and flow-mediated dilation (FMD) were measured before and after exercise. NRBRJ supplementation was more effective than PLA in increasing the mean exercise load and decreasing DBP and MAP during submaximal exercise. Furthermore, baPWV decreased in the NRBRJ trial and was considerably lower after exercise in the NRBRJ-supplemented group than in the PLA-supplemented group. FMD significantly increased in the PLA and NRBRJ trials; however, NRBRJ supplementation demonstrated a significantly higher FMD before and after exercise than PLA supplementation. In conclusion, acute NRBRJ supplementation and exercise were more effective than PLA supplementation and exercise in improving aerobic exercise capacity and cardiovascular function in healthy men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]