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Background This study aimed to determine the efficacy of functional training with and without blood flow restriction (BFR) on muscle hypertrophy indices and strength in older men. Methods Thirty older adults (67.7 ± 5.8 years) were randomly assigned to three groups: functional training (FT), functional training with BFR (FTBFR), and control (C). Participants in experimental groups were trained in three sessions per week for six weeks. They performed 11 whole body exercises, in 2–4 sets of 10 repetitions. FTBFR group wore pneumatic cuffs on their extremities that began with 50% of estimated arterial occlusion pressure which increased by 10% every two weeks. Blood samples were obtained, and static strength tests were evaluated at baseline and after the training program. A One-Way Analysis of Covariance was used to interpret the data. Results A significant increase in follistatin levels (p = 0.002) and reduction in myostatin levels (p = 0.001) were observed in FT and FTBFR groups; there was a considerable increase in the F:M ratio in both training groups (p = 0.001), whereas it decreased in C group. These changes were accompanied by significant improvements in handgrip (p = 0.001) and shoulder girdle (p = 0.001) strength in both experimental groups, especially in the FTBFR group. However, the levels of irisin were not statistically changed following interventions (p = 0.561). Conclusion The findings showed that FT was effective in increasing circulating biomarkers involved in hypertrophy in older adults while adding BFR to FT had a slight increase in these biomarkers but had a tremendous increase in muscle strength.

هدف: فوتسال بهعنوان یکی از ورزشهای حرفهای، از حساسیت خاصی برخوردار است و بدنسازی نوین اینورزش اهمیت دارد. هدف این مطالعه بررسی شاخصهای عصبی ) IEMG و RMS ( و عملکردی، پس از 3 هفتهبازی در زمینهای کوچک ) SSG ( همراه با محدودیت جریان خون ) BFR ( مداوم و متناوب است.روشها: 18 فوتسالیست )میانگین سن 14 / 1 ± 67 / 22 سال( در سه گروه بدون 6( BFR نفر(، 6( BFR نفر( و BFRمتناوب ) 6 نفر( قرار گرفتند. تمام شرکتکنندگان در پژوهش سههفتهای به بازی در زمینهای کوچک همراه بامحدودیت جریان خون پرداختند. از دستگاه الکترومیوگرافی و دستگاه ایزوکینتیک بهمنظور جمعآوری دادههایمربوط به فعالیت الکتریکی و متغیرهای ایزوکینتیکی استفاده شد.نتایج: در حرکت لانگز فعالیت الکتریکی عضات راست رانی و دوسر رانی فقط در گروههای دارای محدودیتجریان خون ) BFR و BFR متناوب( افزایش معنادار بینگروهی نشان داد ) 05 / P>0 (. متغیر شوت افزایش معناداربینگروهی و درونگروهی نداشت ) 05 / p 0نتیجهگیری: ا گرچه نتایج پژوهش حاضر، افزایش شاخصهای مرتبط با فعالسازی عصبی و عملکردی را درفوتسالیستهایی که جریان خون محدودی در پروتکل تمرین داشتند، نشان داد، برای توصیۀ آن به مربیان وفوتسالیستها به پژوهش بیشتری در زمینۀ BFR + SSG نیاز است.

Background: Long-term and intensive physical exercise can change the function of different cells in the immune system in athletes, predisposing them to viral infections such as coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The purpose of this brief report was to provide protocols related to the immune system in athletes to prevent infectious diseases. Methods: To examine immune system responses to sports activities, articles were collected from all databases: Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Springer, Google Scholar, SID, and the most recent articles were selected. Results: High-intensity and long-term physical exercise can be effective in suppressing immune responses. Therefore, moderate-intensity exercise can be an effective strategy. Maintaining the function of the immune system in athletes was dependent on nutritional strategies, sleep control, stress management, and strict adherence to proper exercise principles and health protocols. Athletes are more prone to viral infections in the early hours after strenuous, prolonged physical exercise; and they should be limited in contact with people who may increase their risk of infectious diseases. We should mention that moderate-intensity physical exercise can improve the function of immunoglobulins, anti-inflammatory cytokines, neutrophils, natural killer cells, cytotoxic T cells, and immature B cells. Maintaining social distance, especially immediately after strenuous exercise, is also recommended for athletes due to the increased risk of infectious diseases. The immune system has been considered an effective part of sports activities in athletes in recent years. The prevalence of viral diseases such as COVID-19 has not been and will not be for the first and last time in life. Therefore, using questionnaires and initial monitoring (adherence to diets, corona testing, adherence to health protocols) can be the first step. Conclusion: Finally Due to the pandemic of coronary heart disease and its unknowingness, providing some health and nutrition guidelines for starting exercises and sports competitions to prevent the transmission of this disease is on the agenda of this article.

This study aimed to determine the magnitude of correlation between the repeated curve sprint test (RCST), the running-based anaerobic sprint test (RAST) and the Wingate anaerobic test (WAnT) in elite male futsal players to determine whether the field test can be a futsal-specific alternative assessment tool compared to the other tests. Fifteen trained futsal players (20±3 yrs) performed the RCST, RAST and WAnT in a crossover design over three weeks. Peak power (PP), average power (AP) and the fatigue index (FI) were obtained from the tests. Finger-prick blood-lactate measurements were performed before and after the tests, and heart rate loading was recorded. To assess the magnitude and direction of the relationship between variables the Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) was calculated. In respect of AP, there was a significant correlation between the RCST and both the WAnT (r=0.63, p=0.012) and the RAST (r=0.67, p=0.006). In respect of PP, the RCST only correlated with the RAST (r=0.71, p=0.003). In respect of the FI, the RCST did not correlate with either the RAST or the WAnT (p>0.05). Post-test heart rate values in the RCST correlated with those in both the WAnT (r=0.88, p=0.001) and the RAST (r=0.77, p=0.001). Also, post-test blood-lactate levels in the RCST correlated with those in both the RAST (r=0.58, p=0.025) and the WAnT (r=0.54, p=0.039). In conclusion, the RCST can be a valid and practical field test for measuring anaerobic fitness in competitive futsal players.

This study aimed to examine the effects of lower limb blood flow restriction (BFR) performed during 3-a-side futsal game training on aerobic and anaerobic performance of futsal players. Twelve male futsal players were randomized into two groups (n = 6); both groups performed ten sessions of the 3-a-side game every other day in half of a futsal court; but one group trained under BFR conditions. Pneumatic cuffs used for the BFR group were inflated to 110% leg systolic blood pressure and increased by 10% after each two completed sessions. Before and after the training sessions subjects completed a series of tests to assess aerobic and anaerobic performances along with changes in blood lactate and anabolic and catabolic hormones. All aerobic and anaerobic performance variables improved in both group after training, however improvements in mean power (12.2%, p = 0.03), run time to fatigue (TTF), (7.1%, p = 0.02) and running economy (RE), (-22.7%, p = 0.01) were significantly greater in the BFR group. There were also significant increases in growth hormone (p = 0.01), testosterone to cortisol ratio at first session (p = 0.01) and rate of lactate removal (p = 0.01) at last session in the BFR group compared to the non-BFR group. Small-sided game (SSG) training with the addition of BFR because of accumulated metabolites and hormonal changed leads to substantially greater increases in performance than SSGs training alone.

Fasting is defined as the abstinence from consuming food and/or beverages for different periods of time. Both traditional and modern healthcare systems recommend fasting as a therapeutic intervention for the management of several chronic, non-infectious diseases. Exercising during a fasting state increases lipolysis in adipose tissue while also stimulating peripheral fat oxidation, resulting in increased fat utilization and weight loss. A key focus of this review is to assess whether endurance training performed while fasting induces specific training adaptations, where increased fat oxidation improves long-term endurance levels. Fasting decreases body weight, lean body and fat content in both trained and untrained individuals. Several studies indicate a broader impact of fasting on metabolism, with effects on protein and glucose metabolism in sedentary and untrained subjects. However, there are conflicting data regarding the effects of fasting on glucose metabolism in highly trained athletes. The effects of fasting on physical performance indicators also remain unclear, with some reporting a decreased performance, while others found no significant effects. Differences in experimental design, severity of calorie restriction, duration, and participant characteristics could, at least in part, explain such discordant findings. Our review of the literature suggests that there is little evidence to support the notion of endurance training and fasting-mediated increases in fat oxidation, and we recommend that endurance athletes should avoid high intensity training while fasting.

A healthy and active lifestyle should start from an early age, as habits learned in childhood are more likely to endure. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of child-designed games and teacher-designed games on the physical fitness and creativity of children aged 8-10 years. Thirty children participating in a sports club were randomly divided into two groups: teacher-designed games (TDG) and child-designed games (CDG). Subjects practiced two sessions per week for eight weeks, each session lasting 60 min. Fitness factors, such as strength, muscle endurance, aerobic fitness, agility, speed, and creativity were assessed by valid tests before and after the protocols. A repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to analyze the data. The TDG intervention led to a significant improvement in KTK (37.1% vs. -3.2%) and agility (-3.7% vs. -0.4%) compared to CDG intervention, while CDG intervention was associated with a significant improvement in aerobic capacity (10.1% vs. 3.6%) and in the elaboration of creativity test (23.3% vs. 8.6%). Both groups demonstrated substantial improvements in handgrip strength, static balance, long jump, flexibility, core endurance, and creativity tests, with no significant difference between groups. There were no significant changes in anthropometric features following the intervention. The implementation of combined teacher-designed and child-designed approaches in children's classrooms, in addition to promoting all aspects of physical fitness, may be effective in enhancing physical fitness and creativity.

Background. Some studies have established a relationship between obesity and the autophagic process in adipose tissue. This study aimed to investigate the effect of exercise training on the autophagic process in white adipose tissue (WAT) of high fat diet-induced obese mice.Methods and Results. C57BL/6 mice were assigned into three groups included: 1) Control 2), High-Fat Diet-induced Obesity (HFD-Ob), and 3) High-Fat Diet with Exercise Training (HFD-Ex). The subjects of HFD-Ob were fed a high-fat diet for 14 weeks. The mice of HFD-Ex had eight weeks of endurance training on a treadmill in addition to having the HFD. The Real-Time–PCR and western blot methods were used to measure the mRNA and protein levels of markers of the autophagic process. HFD caused an upregulation in the factors of the autophagosome formation, including ATG5 and ATG7, LC3, and the exercise training could augment the upregulation. Further, the training program prevented the change in LAMP2 expression (a marker of autophagolysosome), which being reduced by HFD. The lysosomal clearance factors (CTSB and CTSL) were raised in HFD-Ob and differently changed in HFD-Ex.Conclusion. HFD-induced obesity promoted the early and last steps of autophagy whereas defected the intermediate-step of it. Interestingly, the exercise training enhanced the early phase of autophagy, which being increased by HFD. Further, the training program could modify the rising effect of HFD on the last step of autophagy. It seems that a part of the protective effect of exercise training on obesity-related complications may be mediated by modulating the autophagic process in white adipose tissue.

Background Resistance training with blood flow restriction (BFR) results in hypertrophy, and its magnitude depends on various training variables. This study aimed to compare the long-term effect of passive recovery (PR) and active recovery (AR) during low-intensity resistance training with BFR on hormonal levels and performance in young men. Methods In the randomized clinical trial, 20 men were randomly divided into PR and AR groups during resistance training with BFR. The intervention consisted of six upper and lower body movements with 30% of one maximum repetition (1RM), three sessions per week for six weeks. Both groups wore pneumatic cuffs on the proximal part of thighs and arms. The cuff pressure was 60% of the calculated arterial blood occlusion and increased 10% every two weeks. The AR group performed seven repetitions in 30 s break between sets by one second for concentric and eccentric phases and two seconds rest, and the other group had passive rest. The blood samples and a series of performance tests were gathered before and after the intervention. A repeated measure ANOVA was used to analyze data. Results AR and PR interventions significantly improved the C-reactive protein (CRP) (− 38% vs. − 40%), Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (− 11% vs. − 3%), Sargent jump (9% vs. 10%), peak power (20% vs.18%), and average power (14% vs. 14%), upper 1RM (8% vs. 8%) and no significant differences were observed between groups. The AR intervention significantly increased growth hormone (GH) (423% vs. 151%, p = 0.03), lower body 1RM (18% vs. 11%) and muscle endurance (34% vs. 22% for the upper body, p = 0.02 and 32% vs. 24% for the lower body, p = 0.04) than the PR group. The PR intervention further increased the minimum power than the AR group (19% vs. 10%). There were no significant changes in testosterone (p = 0.79) and cortisol (p = 0.34) following interventions. Conclusion The findings indicated that by increasing muscle activation and higher metabolic load, AR during resistance training with BFR might cause more remarkable improvements in serum GH, muscle strength, and endurance. Thus, to gain further benefits, AR during training with BFR is recommended. Trial registration: IRCT20191207045644N1. Registration date: 14/03/2020. URL: https://www.irct.ir/search/result?query=IRCT20191207045644N1

Background This study aimed to examine the effect of yoga training combined with vitamin D supplementation on the expression of survival-related genes in leukocytes and psycho-physical status in breast cancer survivors. Methods Thirty breast cancer survivor women (age, 48 ± 8 yrs) were randomly assigned into three groups: high dose (4000 IU) of vitamin D supplementation (HD) (n = 10); yoga training with a high dose of vitamin D (Y + HD); (n = 10); yoga training with a low dose (2000 IU) of vitamin D (Y + LD) (n = 10). Participants performed the Hatha yoga style twice a week. Blood samples and a battery of psychological and physical tests were taken before and after the completion of interventions. Expression of p53, NF-κB, Bcl2, and Bax genes was measured in leukocytes. Results Body fat percentage (ηp2 = 0.36), shoulder flexibility (ηp2 = 0.38), Rockport walk tests (ηp2 = 0.49), and anxiety (ηp2 = 0.52) were significantly improved in both the Y + HD and Y + LD groups compared to the HD group (p Conclusion yoga training combined with low and high doses of VD improved physical fitness and psychological measures while only in combination with a high dose of VD positively modified the leukocytes cell survival-related gene expression.

Background This study aimed to examine the effect of a combination of yoga training with high vitamin D dose supplementation on expression and systemic levels of inflammatory cytokines and psychophysical status of breast cancer survivors. Methods Thirty volunteered breast cancer survivors (48 ± 8 yrs.) were randomly allocated to a high dose (4000 IU) of vitamin D supplementation (HD) group (n = 10), yoga with a high dose of vitamin D (YHD) group (n = 10), and yoga with a low dose (2000 IU) of vitamin D (YLD) group (n = 10). Participants performed the Hatha yoga style for 12 weeks, twice a week. Blood samples, quality of life (Qol) questionnaire, and physical performance tests were taken before and after the intervention Results Body fat percentage (ηp2 = 0.36), handgrip strength (ηp2 = 0.41), and Qol indicators include global health (ηp2 = 0.54), functional scales (ηp2 = 0.49), and symptoms scales (ηp2 = 0.50) were significantly improved in the both YHD and YLD groups compared to the HD group (p

Purpose: To examine the validity and reliability of a novel futsal special performance test (FSPT) as a measure of futsal performance and skills. Methods: Thirty-six futsal players with different levels of experience were recruited and divided into 2 groups (elite and nonelite). Players participated in 4 sessions (at least 7 d apart): (1) familiarization session, (2) anaerobic power (Wingate test), (3) FSPT trial 1, and (4) FSPT trial 2. The FSPT was carried out on a futsal court (wooden sprung floor) and skills such as dribbling, rotation, long and short passing, and shooting were examined. Content validity was assessed by 6 experienced futsal coaches and instructors. Results: There was a significant correlation between FSPT and various aspects of anaerobic power (r = .5–.91; P ≤ .001). Moreover, significant large correlations were observed between test and retest of FSPT (r = .77; 95% confidence interval [CI], .56–.98; P ≤ .001). All instructors and coaches confirmed the content validity. There was high interrater reliability of the FSPT (r = .89; 95% CI, .85–.93; P P = .001), penalty time (P = .022), and performance time (P = .001) were superior in elite relative to nonelite players. Anaerobic power was greater in elite players (P Conclusion: The results support the use of the FSPT to assess futsal players’ performance in conjunction with skill and anaerobic fitness.

The aim of this study was to compare a 6-week conditioning training program based on Small Sided and conditioning game (SSG) and based on traditional and generic fitness the aerobic capacity, anaerobic power and agility of young futsal players. It was also aim of this study to compare the variations on the internal load markers (heart rate and perceived exertion) between both training programs. Twenty youth players (age: 18.6 ± 0.5 years old) were randomly assigned to SSG (n = 12) and generic fitness training (GFT) group (n = 8). Each group performed workouts with equal duration and intensities. Participants completed a VO2max treadmill test, the Wingate test and an agility test pre and post training period. Training heart rate and Rate Perceived Exertion (RPE) were used as internal load markers during the training program. There was a significant difference in training load (RPE) between two groups in all types of training but not in the heart rate. Despite significant improvements (p .05) from pre to post tests in all measured indicators except minimum power, there was no significant changes between groups for agility, anaerobic, and aerobic parameters (p .05). SSG-based program provided a similar heart rate stimulus on players comparing to GFT program and both programs meaningfully improved the fitness parameters of the young futsal players. Moreover, SSG-based program also resulted in better technical performance, thus representing an effective alternative to generic fitness training for the development of aerobic capacity and anaerobic power in futsal.

Background and aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of six weeks high intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate intensity continuous training on health status in over weight males with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Materials and Methods: Thirty overweight males with NAFLD were randomly divided into three groups included control (n=10), HIIT group (n=10), continuous training (CT) group (n=10). The HIIT included four sets of two minutes running with a 90-95% heart rate reserve and 3 minutes of active rest between each set; every week, a repeat was added to the workout. Continuous aerobic training included 20 minutes of running with an intensity of 70-85% heart rate reserve, which every week was added five minutes to the workout. Aerobic power, liver enzymes and lipid profiles were measured in serum by valid tools and data analyzed by co-variancetest. Results: After six weeks of training program, the serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP, lipid profiles and degree of fatty liver sonography improved significantly in the experimental groups compared to the control group (P< 0/05). Increased HDL and decreased LDL, total Cholesterol, AST and ALT levels in HIIT group were significantly than the CT group (P

This study aimed to investigate the effect of 12 weeks of dual-task training on cognitive status, physical performance, and brain oscillation of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Twenty-six AD patients were randomly assigned to two groups, the training group (TG) and control group (CG). TG executed progressive combined exercises with visual stimulation twice a week for 12 weeks. Training included muscle endurance, balance, flexibility, and aerobic exercises with eyes closed and opened. Brain oscillation on electroencephalography (EEG) and a series of physical, cognitive, and mental tests were taken before and post-intervention. There was a significant improvement after training protocol in cognitive function, particularly in short-term and working memory, attention, and executive function (p < 0.01). Besides, there were substantial improvements in depression status (GDS scale), aerobic fitness (6 min walking), flexibility (chair sit and reach) functional ability (chair stand, timed up and go test), strength (knee extensions, preacher biceps curl, handgrip) in TG compared to CG. These signs of progress were associated with a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the frequency of brain oscillation and a decrease in the theta/alpha ratio. In addition to physical performance, the regular combined training with visual stimulation improves brain health as indicated by improving cognitive function and reducing the theta/alpha ratio.Clinical Trial Registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) https://www.irct.ir/, identifier IRCT20190504043468N1—August 5, 2020.

Background: This study aimed to investigate the effect of a 12-week period dual-task training on cognitive status, physical performance and brain waves of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods: Twenty-six AD patients were randomly assigned to two groups, training group (TG) and control group (CG). TG executed progressive combined exercises with visual stimulation twice a week for 12 weeks. Training included muscle endurance, balance, flexibility and aerobic exercises with eyes closed and opened. Brain waves on EEG and a series of physical, cognitive and mental tests were taken prior and post intervention. Results: There was a significant improvement after training protocol in cognitive function, particularly in short-term memory, attention, working memory and executive function (ppConclusions: In addition to physical performance, the regular combined training with visual stimulation improve brain health as indicated by improving cognitive function and reducing the theta/alpha ratio. Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials, IRCT20190504043468N1.

Objectives This study aimed to determine if functional training with blood flow restriction (BFR) has a greater effect on muscle quality indices and performance of older men when compared to functional training without BFR. Materials and methods Thirty men (67.7 ± 5.8 years) were randomly assigned to one of the following three groups: functional training (FT), functional training with blood flow restriction (FTBFR), and control (C). Participants in both experimental groups trained three sessions per week for six weeks. The training program included eleven body exercises, which were performed in 2–4 sets of 10 repetitions. FTBFR group wore pneumatic cuffs on their extremities that begun with 50 % of estimated arterial occlusion pressure and increased by 10 % every 2 weeks. Before and after the intervention period, subjects completed a series of tests to assess physical performances along with changes serum muscle quality indices. Results A significant decrease in serum C-terminal Agrin Fragment (CAF) levels were observed in FT and FTBFR groups (p ≤ 0.05). In addition, the levels of CAF in FTBFR group was significantly lower compared to control group. Moreover, the circulatory levels of N-terminal propeptide type III collagen (P3NP) were reduced significantly in FT and C groups (p ≤ 0.05) but did not statistically differ from baseline in FTBFR group (p > 0.05). These changes were accompanied by significant improvements in dynamic strength, flexibility, static, and dynamic balance in both training groups (p ≤ 0.01). Conclusions The finding showed greater improvements in muscle quality indices and functional performance of older men when exercises performed with BFR.

The present study investigated the efficacy of recovery by foam rolling (FR) on performance, psychological, and physiological parameters of futsal players in a simulated futsal tournament. In this randomized controlled trial design, four youth teams from Iran's national premier league participated in a simulated futsal tournament (five days, three matches). Sixteen youth futsal players from two teams (age: 19.1 ± 1.3 years old) were randomly distributed into two groups: (i) passive recovery (PR); and (ii) FR recovery. The FR recovery protocol consisted of five repetitions of 40 s separated by 20 s of rest on calf, quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteus muscles 5 min after each match. The other group rested passively during the same period. The Yo-Yo intermittent recovery level 2, repeated sprint ability, vertical jump, and PRO agility tests were assessed pre- and post-tournament. Also, Hooper index (HI) and blood lactate concentrations were measured throughout matchdays. Data were analyzed by a repeated measure ANOVA and ANCOVA. Substantial improvements in HI on the second (ES:0.6) and third (ES:0.4) matchdays and faster lactate removal on the third (ES:0.3) matchday were observed in the FR group when compared to the PR group (p0.05). Although FR recovery was slightly beneficial when compared to PR attenuated decrements in aerobic (-1.6%vs-9.7%) and anaerobic performance (-4.5%vs-1.3%), vertical jump (-1.6%vs-3.0%), and change of direction (-2.1%vs-4.3%), these effects were not statistically significant (p0.05). The finding showed using FR during compact competitions expedites physical performance recovery, increases blood lactate clearance and leads to regenerate psychological characteristics. Therefore, along with other desirable recovery strategies, the use of FR could be recommended in short-term compacted futsal tournaments.

Fasting is defined as the abstinence from consuming food and/or beverages for different periods of time. Both traditional and modern healthcare systems recommend fasting as a therapeutic intervention for the management of several chronic, non-infectious diseases. Exercising during a fasting state increases lipolysis in adipose tissue while also stimulating peripheral fat oxidation, resulting in increased fat utilization and weight loss. A key focus of this review is to assess whether endurance training performed while fasting induces specific training adaptations, where increased fat oxidation improves long-term endurance levels. Fasting decreases body weight, lean body and fat content in both trained and untrained individuals. Several studies indicate a broader impact of fasting on metabolism, with effects on protein and glucose metabolism in sedentary and untrained subjects. However, there are conflicting data regarding the effects of fasting on glucose metabolism in highly trained athletes. The effects of fasting on physical performance indicators also remain unclear, with some reporting a decreased performance, while others found no significant effects. Differences in experimental design, severity of calorie restriction, duration, and participant characteristics could, at least in part, explain such discordant findings. Our review of the literature suggests that there is little evidence to support the notion of endurance training and fasting-mediated increases in fat oxidation, and we recommend that endurance athletes should avoid high intensity training while fasting.

Background and Aim: Low-volume, high-intensity interval training (HIT) increase skeletal muscle aerobic capacity, yet little is known about the potential mechanisms in improvement of this adaptability. The purpose of present study was to examine the effect of four weeks of HIT on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) protein contents in skeletal muscle of active men. Materials and Methods: Eight active male students voluntarily and purposefully participated in this study. One week before the experiment started; subjects were familiar with protocol of research. Needle biopsy samples vastus lateralis were obtained 48 h before training and 72 h after the final training session. HIT protocol consisted of 11-15 bouts of 1 min cycling at ∼85-90% of reserve heart rate separated by 1 min of active recovery between each, 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks. Variables were measured by ELISA. All data were analyzed using paired t-test and at the level of significance of p ≤ 0.05. Findings: Results of study showed the four weeks of HIT lead to significant increase in PGC-1α and VEGF (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that activation of VEGF from PGC-1α pathway is part of cellular-molecular mechanisms of high-intensity interval training. So, probably angiogenesis in skeletal muscle is one of the most important factors in improving of aerobic performance, which requires more studies.

This study investigated the effects of an eight-week dual-task training with and without blood flow restriction (BFR) on muscle quality (MQ) biomarkers, physical and cognitive functions in older women. Twenty-four healthy volunteers (62.9 ± 3.1years) were randomly assigned into either dual-task (DT), DT with blood flow restriction (DTBFR), or control (C) group. The experimental groups performed cognitive tasks while walked on a treadmill at 45% of heart rate reserve (HRR), 20 min per session, three sessions per week for eight weeks. The cuff pressure for the DTBFR group was 50% of the calculated arterial blood occlusion and was increased by 10% every 2 weeks. Pre and post-training intervention, biomarkers of MQ and cognitive functions, body composition, maximal strength, and psychological status were measured. There was a significant interaction effect on BDNF, CAF, P3NP, body mass, BMI, fat percentage, visceral fat mass, and total fat mass (p0.05). Furthermore, a significant interaction effect on knee extension, 30-s stand-up test, 6-min walk test, timed upgo test, and QOL was observed. There was a significant effect of time on MMSE, sleep quality, and mood score. These findings suggested that including BFR to DT training result in greater physiological and psychological responses and should be considered a training method to combat undesired changes associated with increasing age.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of leg blood flow restriction (BFR) applied during a 3-a-side futsal game on strength-related parameters. Twelve male futsal players were randomly assigned into two groups (n = 6 for each group) during 10 training sessions either with or without leg BFR. Prior to and post-training sessions, participants completed a series of tests to assess anabolic hormones and leg strength. Pneumatic cuffs were initially inflated to 110% of leg systolic blood pressure and further increased by 10% after every two completed sessions. In comparison with baseline, the resting post-training levels of myostatin (p = 0.002) and IGF-1/MSTN ratio (p = 0.006) in the BFR group changed, whereas no change in the acute level of IGF-1 and myostatin after exercise was observed. Peak torque of knee extension and flexion increased in both groups (p < 0.05). A trend of increased neural activation of all heads of the quadriceps was observed in both groups, however, it was statistically significant only for rectus femoris in BFR (p = 0.02). These findings indicated that the addition of BFR to normal futsal training might induce greater neuromuscular benefits by increasing muscle activation and augmenting the hormonal response.

Background: Aging is a process in which the body’s physiological capacity continuously decreases after the age of 30. However, interventions such as physical activity can play an important role in the prevention of aging. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of eight weeks of combined training (endurance and resistance) in different orders on inflammatory factors and adipokines among elderly females. Patients and Methods: The design of this study was quasi-experimental. Forty healthy females were selected purposely and randomly assigned to one of four groups including strength after endurance training (E + S, n = 9), strength prior to endurance training (S + E, n = 10), circulation combined (CI, n = 12), and control (n = 9) groups. The training program was performed for eight weeks, three times per week. Within-group differences were analyzed using a paired samples t-test and between-group differences were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: The data analysis showed that the between group comparison did not influence the adaptive response of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α (P = 0.80), high sensitivity-C reactive protein (hs-CRP) (P = 0.55), adiponectin (P = 0.33), chemerin (P = 0.56), omentin (P = 0.51), leptin (P = 0.10) and vaspin (P = 0.70) levels, yet the within group comparison showed a significant difference in the chemerin concentration in the E+S group (P = 0.03). Conclusions: The results indicated that three different combined trainings (strength and endurance) had no positive effect on inflammatory factors and adipokines among aged females. However, the different combined trainings, independent of order, were effective training methods in reducing body fat and body mass index (BMI) in aged females.

Aims MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are the targeting signal-transduction pathways that can mediate tumorigenesis via their down and/or up-regulation. For example, miR-21 and miR-206 can effect on the tumor angiogenesis as an oncomir and a tumor suppressor, respectively. Materials and methods The present study is aimed to investigate the effects of the interval exercise training in combination with tamoxifen and/or letrozole on miR-21, miR-206 and let-7 as well as their underlying pathways in regard to tumor angiogenesis in sixty four mice with breast tumor. ELISA, immunohistochemistry, qRT-PCR assays were performed accomplish the study. Key findings The results showed that the tumor size was significantly declined in the exercise training, tamoxifen and letrozole groups compared to tumor group. Mir-206 and let-7 were up-regulated, and mir-21 expression was down-regulated in the exercise training compared to tumor group. Exercise training decreased the expression of ER-α, HIF-α, VEGF, CD31 and Ki67 in tumor tissue. The combination tamoxifen and/or letrozole with the exercise training could down-regulate the expression of ERα, miR-21, HIF-1α, TNF-α, CD31, Ki67 and VEGF, and up-regulate the expression of miR-206, PDCD-4, let-7 and IL-10 that led to reducing the angiogenesis and tumor growth. Significance Our results showed that miR-21, miR-206 and let-7a pathways may involve in the anti-angiogenesis effects of the interval exercise training with hormone therapy in mice model of breast tumor.

Background: Breast cancer is widespread in Iran and exercise training is an adjuvant strategy for managing this illness. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of aerobic training on tumor growth and its relationship with changes in adiponectin, leptin, and ghrelin in mice with breast cancer. Materials and Methods: In this animal experimental study, which was conducted during year 2016 in Iran, 20 female BALB/c mice were randomly divided to two groups: Tumor Control (TC) and Exercise (E). The MC4L2 cancer cells were injected in the mice. The E group then performed progressive aerobic training for six weeks. Tumor volume, food intake, weight, and muscle endurance of all mice were measured weekly. At six weeks, the mice were sacrificed and tumor, gastrocnemius muscle, and heart weights were measured. Level of cytokines/hormones were quantified using the Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) methodology in tumor, serum, muscle, and adipose tissue. Results: Aerobic exercise training was associated with a significantly decreased growth rate and final weight of the tumor (1.11 versus 2.74 g) compared to the TC group (P < 0.05). Exercising mice also had greater food intake, muscle endurance, heart weight (0.12 versus 0.09 g), and muscle weight (0.078 versus 0.045 mg) when compared with the TC group (P < 0.05). In addition, the E group had significantly increased adiponectin in all sites except the tumor, decreased leptin in all sites, and increased ghrelin in serum compared to the TC group (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Aerobic exercise training in mice with breast cancer attenuated tumor burden and cachexia, and improved appetite, muscle size and function and fitness relative to non-exercising controls.

Exercise training has an anti-tumor effect and can reduce tumor growth; however, the exact underlying mechanisms of its protective effects are still obscure. MicroRNA (miR)-21 is a predictor in cancer survival, and has a potential use as an indicator of therapeutic outcome in breast malignancies. Forty-eight female BALB/c mice were equally divided into six groups to investigate the effects of interval exercise training with tamoxifen on miR-21 expression and its possible assumed mechanisms in an estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer model. ELISA, immunohistochemistry, western blot, qRT-PCR assays were performed at the end of the study. Tumor size was significantly declined in exercise training and tamoxifen groups compared to tumor group (P

Objective(s): The goal of this study was assessing the prophylactic effect of exercise and its role as an adjuvant therapy on level of cytokines involved in angiogenesis in estrogen-dependent breast cancer. Materials and Methods: Forty female BALB/c mice were randomly assigned to exercise-tumor-exercise (ETE), exercise-tumor-rest (ETR), rest-tumor-exercise (RTE) and rest-tumor-rest (RTR) groups. After orientation in the environment, two groups of mice performed continuous endurance exercise for 8 weeks, and thereafter estrogen-dependent MC4L2 cancer cells were injected to them. Then, one group of each of trained and non-trained mice performed endurance exercise 5 days per week for 6 weeks. Tumor volume was measured by a digital caliper weekly. Finally, the mice were sacrificed; tumor tissue was removed, immediately frozen and kept in -70°C. Tumor sample was homogenized; levels of cytokines were measured and quantified using ELISA. Results: There was significant reduction in the level of interlukin-6 (IL-6) (P=0.001), Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (P=0.0001) and tumor volume (P=0.0001) among the groups performing endurance exercise after malignancy (RTE and ETE) in comparison with groups not performing endurance exercise (ETR and RTR), and these results were in agreement with tumor growth rate. Conclusion: Exercise can cause reduction in levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in tumor tissue. Decreased IL-6 production could reduce the generation of VEGF, resulting in reduced intra-tumor angiogenesis. Due to reduction of the level of these cytokines in groups doing exercise before and after malignancy, exercise is presumed to be an adjuvant therapy in estrogen-receptor dependent tumors in addition to its effective prophylactic role.