Effects of short-duration and long-duration exercise on lipoprotein(a)

Effect of training on physiological and biochemical variables of soccer players of different age groups

Purpose

To find out the effect of training on selected physiological and biochemical variables of Indian soccer players of different age groups.

Methods

A total of 120 soccer players volunteered for the study, were divided (n = 30) into 4 groups: (i) under 16 years (U16), (ii) under 19 years (U19), (iii) under 23 years (U23), (iv) senior (SR). The training sessions were divided into 2 phases (a) Preparatory Phase (PP, 8 weeks) and (b) Competitive Phase (CP, 4 weeks). The training program consisted of aerobic, anaerobic and skill development, and were completed 4 hrs/day; 5 days/week. Selected physiological and biochemical variables were measured at zero level (baseline data, BD) and at the end of PP and CP.

Results

A significant increase (P < 0.05) in lean body mass (LBM), VO_2max, anaerobic power, grip and back strength, urea, uric acid and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C); and a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in body fat, hemoglobin (Hb), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were detected in some groups in PP and CP phases of the training when compare to BD. However, no significant change was found in body mass and maximal heart rate of the players after the training program.

Conclusion

This study would provide useful information for training and selection of soccer players of different age groups.

Exercise as a Treatment to Enhance Sleep

The prevalence of sleep-related complaints and the limited efficacy of pharmacological treatments make nonpharmacological alternatives essential. Physical exercise is one such alternative that is inexpensive and affects numerous health systems simultaneously. This article reviews putative mechanisms that have guided exercise and sleep research, including exercise’s antidepressant effects, restorative functions, and circadian effects, and concludes that a number of mechanisms are plausible and likely active in explaining the effects of exercise on sleep. The empirical literature is reviewed, with special emphasis given to randomized controlled trials and experimental studies that help to inform for whom (eg, age, fitness characteristics), under what conditions (eg, light exposure, time of day), and by what means (eg, type, intensity, duration) exercise optimally affects sleep. The review also includes the emerging research using exercise as a treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome. The current literature indicates that moderate amounts of exercise, which can be obtained through a variety of means such as brisk walking and resistance training, are sufficient to improve sleep quality. Additional research is warranted in this area, particularly randomized controlled trials that target subgroups at risk for poor sleep such as older adults and persons with sleep disorders.

Responses of blood lipids and lipoproteins to extended-release niacin and exercise in sedentary postmenopausal women

Niacin and exercise positively alter blood lipids and lipoproteins via different mechanisms. However, the effects of niacin combined with exercise on blood lipid and lipoprotein profiles have not been investigated in sedentary postmenopausal women. The current study examined the responses of blood lipids and lipoproteins to niacin and exercise in 18 sedentary postmenopausal women, who underwent four conditions: no-niacin rest, no-niacin exercise, niacin rest, and niacin exercise. Participants ingested 1,000 mg/day of extended-release niacin for 4 weeks during the niacin condition. As an exercise treatment, participants performed a single bout of exercise on a treadmill at 60% heart rate reserve until 400 kcal were expended. Extended-release niacin without the exercise intervention significantly (p < .001) increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein-2 cholesterol by 12.4% and 33.3%, respectively, and decreased the total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio by 14.8%. Thus, 4 weeks of 1,000 mg/day of extended-release niacin can improve the blood lipid and lipoprotein profiles in sedentary postmenopausal women.

Beneficial effects of recreational football on the cardiovascular risk profile in untrained premenopausal women

The present study examined the cardiovascular health effects of 16 weeks of recreational football training in untrained premenopausal women in comparison with continuous running training. Fifty healthy women were matched and randomized to a football (FG, n=25) or a running (RG, n=25) group and compared with a control group with no physical training (CO, n=15). Training was performed for 1 h twice a week. After 16 weeks, systolic and diastolic blood pressure was reduced (P<0.05) in FG (7+/-2 and 4+/-1 mmHg) and systolic blood pressure was lowered (P<0.05) in RG (6+/-2 mmHg). After 16 weeks, resting heart rate was lowered (P<0.05) by 5+/-1 bpm both in FG and RG, and maximal oxygen uptake was elevated (P<0.05) by 15% in FG and by 10% in RG (5.0+/-0.7 and 3.6+/-0.6 mL/min/kg, respectively). Total fat mass decreased (P<0.05) by 1.4+/-0.3 kg in FG and by 1.1+/-0.3 kg in RG. After 16 weeks, pulse pressure wave augmentation index (-0.9+/-2.5 vs 4.2+/-2.4%), skeletal muscle capillarization (2.44+/-0.15 vs 2.07+/-0.05 cap/fib) and low-density lipoprotein/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio were improved (P<0.05) in FG, but not altered in RG. No changes were observed in CO. In conclusion, regular recreational football training has significant favorable effects on the cardiovascular risk profile in untrained premenopausal women and is at the least as efficient as continuous running.

An elevated level of physical activity is associated with normal lipoprotein(a) levels in individuals from Maracaibo, Venezuela

Coronary artery disease is the main cause of death worldwide. Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], is an independent risk factor for coronary artery disease in which concentrations are genetically regulated. Contradictory results have been published about physical activity influence on Lp(a) concentration. This research aimed to determine associations between different physical activity levels and Lp(a) concentration. A descriptive and cross-sectional study was made in 1340 randomly selected subjects (males = 598; females = 712) to whom a complete clinical history, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and Lp(a) level determination were made. Statistical analysis was carried out to assess qualitative variables relationship by chi2 and differences between means by one-way analysis of variance considering a P value <0.05 as statistically significant. Results are shown as absolute frequencies, percentages, and mean +/- standard deviation according to case. Physical activity levels were ordinal classified as follows: low activity with 24.3% (n = 318), moderate activity with 35.0% (n = 458), and high physical activity with 40.8% (n = 534). Lp(a) concentration in the studied sample was 26.28 +/- 12.64 (IC: 25.59-26.96) mg/dL. Lp(a) concentration according to low, moderate, and high physical activity levels were 29.22 +/- 13.74, 26.27 +/- 12.91, and 24.53 +/- 11.35 mg/dL, respectively, observing statistically significant differences between low and moderate level (P = 0.004) and low and high level (P < 0.001). A strong association (chi2 = 9.771; P = 0.002) was observed among a high physical activity level and a normal concentration of Lp(a) (less than 30 mg/dL). A lifestyle characterized by high physical activity is associated with normal Lp(a) levels.

Apoprotein(A) Isoforms and Plasma LP(A) Concentration in Members of Four Families

Apoprotein(a) is a multikringle protein which shows a genetically inherited size polymorphism. The APO(a) gene is located at the telomeric region of chromosome 6q2.6-q 2.7. Apo(a) size polymorphism is a major determinant of Lp(a) levels. The aim of this study is to describe the influence of apo(a) size polymorphism on the plasma Lp(a) levels in the members of four families. K3EDTA plasma was obtained from every subject after over-night fast. Apo(a) isoforms were determined by 3-15% SDS-PAGE followed by Western immunoblot technique. Plasma Lp(a) level was de - termined with immunonephelometric method. Every child inherited one isoform from its mother and the other from its father. The children from the first family had Lp(a) levels similar to those measured in their parents. The daughters from the second and fourth family inherited the dominant S3 apo(a) isoform from their mothers and also mother's high Lp(a) levels (0.365 g/L - daughter from the second, and 0.465 g/L and 0.446 g/L - daughter from the fourth family respectively). The elder daughter from the third family, carrier of double banded S4S1 apo(a) isoform, had the highest Lp(a) level among the children from all four families. We found out a generation decrease of the Lp(a) level in two families. On the basis of our findings we concluded that the inheritance of the apo(a) isoforms in the members of all four families is in accordance with the simple Mendelian's model and that the apo(a) size polymorphism influences the Lp(a) level in the blood of the examined subjects.

Effects of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydride on physical and mental performance

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydride (NADH) on maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), maximal anaerobic running time, and mental performance. Eight men were exposed to a supplement treatment (30 mg NADH as ENACHI tablets per day) and to a placebo treatment, each of 4 weeks' duration, in a balanced, double-blind, and cross-over design. The two treatments were separated by a 14-week wash-out period. The results indicated that VO2max, maximal anaerobic running time, and the ability to concentrate were similar in the NADH and placebo conditions. There were also no differences in blood lactate, creatine kinase, reaction time or feelings of fatigue between the treatments. A counter-movement jump performed at rest and 2 min after the aerobic test differed significantly (P <or= 0.05) between the treatment conditions and was higher in the NADH group. In conclusion, the NADH supplementation for 4 weeks had no effects on VO2max, maximal anaerobic running time or mental performance.

Nine months aerobic fitness induced changes on blood lipids and lipoproteins in untrained subjects versus controls

Regular endurance exercise has favorable effects on cardiovascular risk factors. However, the impact of an exercise-induced change in aerobic fitness on blood lipids is often inconsistent. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of nine consecutive months of training on aerobic fitness and blood lipids in untrained adults. Thirty subjects 35-55 years of age (wt: 73.1 +/- 13.6 kg, height 171.1 +/- 9.0 cm, %body fat 24.6 +/- 6.3%, 14 males and 16 females) were randomly assigned to an exercise (EG) (N = 20) and control (CG) (N = 10) group. All subjects completed an incremental treadmill test, anthropometric measurements, and venous blood sample collection before and after the 9 months of exercise. Participants in the exercise group were supervised and adjusted for improvements in running performance, whereas no change was administered for the control group. One-way and multivariate ANOVA was conducted to determine significant differences in means for time and group in selected variables [body mass, % body fat, BMI; VO(2peak), km/h at 2.0 (v-LA2) and 4.0 (v-LA4) mmol l(-1) blood lactate (LA) concentration, km/h of the last load (v-max); TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, TG, Apo B, Apo A-1, and Lp (a)]. Correlation coefficients and multivariate regression analysis was used to determine the association between aerobic fitness and blood lipids. The exercise group improved significantly (P < 0.0001) in VO(2peak), v-LA2, v-LA4, v-max and exhibited a significant decrease in Apo B (P < 0.04) compared to the control group (NS). In 9 months, E achieved 24% increase in VO(2peak) and 18% reduction in Apo B, denoting the impact of cardiovascular fitness on cardiovascular risk.

Does smoking status influence the effect of physical exercise on fibrinolytic function in healthy volunteers?

Exercise has been reported to simultaneously trigger and protect against sudden death, the so-called "The Paradox of Exercise". Differences in fibrinolytic function appear to exist between chronic and acute exercise. The aim of the present study was to assess the fibrinolytic system after strenuous exercise in healthy people and explored the influence of smoking habit.

METHODS

23 healthy male volunteers were studied (14 non-smokers; 9 current smokers). Citrated plasma blood samples were taken before and 30 minutes after a maximal exercise treadmill test, and levels of tissue type plasminogen activator (t-PA) antigen, plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) antigen and lipoprotein-a, Lp(a), [all ELISA] were measured as indices of fibrinolytic function.

RESULTS

Smokers had higher body mass index and higher heart rate at baseline than non smokers (p = 0.046 and p = 0.001, respectively). At baseline, smokers showed increased plasma Lp(a) levels than non smokers (p = 0.04), with no differences in t-PA and PAI-1 antigen levels. Following the exercise treadmill test, smokers had a shorter exercise duration and lower exercise capacity than non smokers (p = 0.008 and p = 0.004, respectively). This was associated with a reduction in t-PA antigen levels in the whole study population, (p = 0.048) without differences in PAI-1 levels, with no significant differences between smokers and non smokers. Lp(a) levels were also significantly reduced (p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Acute exercise alters plasma tPA antigen and Lp(a) levels, but there was no significant effect of smoking status in healthy subjects.

Managing abnormal blood lipids: a collaborative approach

Current data and guidelines recommend treating abnormal blood lipids (ABL) to goal. This is a complex process and requires involvement from various healthcare professionals with a wide range of expertise. The model of a multidisciplinary case management approach for patients with ABL is well documented and described. This collaborative approach encompasses primary and secondary prevention across the lifespan, incorporates nutritional and exercise management as a significant component, defines the importance and indications for pharmacological therapy, and emphasizes the importance of adherence. Use of this collaborative approach for the treatment of ABL ultimately will improve cardiovascular and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality.

Immune Alterations, Lipid Peroxidation, and Muscle Damage Following a Hill Race

Hill races usually include large downhill running sections, which can induce significant degrees of muscle damage in a field setting. This study examined the link between muscle damage, oxidative stress, and immune perturbations following a 7-km mountainous hill race with 457 m of ascent and 457 m of descent. Venous blood samples were taken from 7 club level runners before, immediately after, and 48 hrs postrace. Samples were analysed for total and differential leukocyte counts, markers of muscle damage (CK), lipid peroxidation (MDA), and acute phase proteins (CRP; fibrinogen; α-1-ACT). The total antioxidant status (TEAC) and plasma levels of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α were also determined. Subjective pain reports, and plasma activities of CK, MDA, and circulatory monocytes reached peak values at 48 hrs postrace (p <  0.05). TEAC and the cytokine IL-8 increased immediately after the race (p <  0.05). Plasma TNF-α remained unchanged (p > 0.05). Despite the reports of muscle damage and soreness, no evidence of an acute phase response was observed (p > 0.05), which may be explained by the failure of the race to induce a plasma TNF-α response. Future studies should examine the link between muscle damage, oxidative stress, and the acute phase response following hill races of longer duration with larger eccentric components. Key words: acute phase response, cytokines, antioxidant capacity, creatine kinase, field study

Lipids, lipoproteins, and exercise

PURPOSE

Dose-response relationships between exercise training volume and blood lipid changes suggest that exercise can favorably alter blood lipids at low training volumes, although the effects may not be observable until certain exercise thresholds are met.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Plasma triglyceride reductions are often observed after exercise training regimens requiring energy expenditures similar to those characterized to increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Thresholds established from cross-sectional and longitudinal exercise training studies indicate that 15 to 20 miles/week of brisk walking or jogging, which elicit between 1,200 to 2,200 kcals of energy expenditure per week, is associated with triglyceride reductions of 5 to 38 mg/dL and HDL-C increases of 2 to 8 mg/dL. Exercise training seldom alters total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) unless dietary fat intake is reduced and body weight loss is associated with the exercise training program, or both. Thus, for most individuals, the positive effects of regular exercise are exerted on blood lipids at low training volumes and accrue so that noticeable differences frequently occur with energy expenditures of 1,200 to 2,200 kcals/week.

CONCLUSIONS

It appears that weekly exercise caloric expenditures that meet or exceed the higher end of this range are more likely to produce the desired lipid changes. Regarding hyperlipidemic disorders, the primary means for intervention is pharmacologic, whereas diet modification, weight loss, and exercise, although important, are viewed as adjunctive therapies. Because much is known about the exercise training-induced plasma lipid and lipoprotein modifications as well as the mechanisms responsible for these changes, rehabilitation professionals can better develop a comprehensive medical management plan that optimizes pharmacologic, reduced dietary fat intake, weight loss, and exercise interventions.

Exercise in the treatment of lipid disorders

As a result of scientific evaluation, we know that exercise has a positive impact on the lipid and lipoprotein profile, and we have a greater understanding for the necessary amount of exercise needed to cause these changes. In the case of hyperlipidemic disorders, we know the primary means for intervention is pharmacological, and that diet, weight loss, and exercise are viewed as adjunctive therapies. Because much is known about the exercise training-induced plasma lipid and lipoprotein modifications as well as the lipoprotein enzyme changes, future research should continue to focus on the molecular basis for these changes. For example by knowing a person's apo E genotype, we gain better comprehension as to why some individuals respond to exercise, while others do not. Another area for further investigation is the assessment of drug and exercise interaction. Presently, little is known regarding the use of lipid-lowering drugs and the impact of exercise. Finally, these investigations could provide new insights for better understanding the exercise CAD protective effects. The future challenge is to better understand the impact that regular exercise participation has in optimizing the lipid and lipoprotein profile with individuals with special lipid disorders.