Physical exercise and cognition in older adults, a scientific approach scanty reported in Latin America and Caribbean populations

The advancement of public services, including the increased accessibility of health services, has led to a rise in life expectancy globally. As a result, aging populations are becoming more prevalent, raising concerns about cognitive decline. Fortunately, non-pharmacological methods, such as physical exercise, have been shown to mitigate the effects of aging on the brain. In this perspective article, we examined meta-analyses on the impact of physical exercise on cognition in older adults. The results indicate that combined exercise (i.e., aerobic plus strength training), has a significant positive effect on overall cognition and executive function. However, we found a lack of scientific studies on this topic in Latin American and Caribbean countries. Therefore, there is a pressing need for research to identify the feasibility of physical exercise interventions to improve cognitive skills in older adults from these regions.

Effect of exercise-induced body fluid redistribution on body composition in males using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry

We studied the effect of exercise-induced body fluid redistribution on dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) body composition scores. Thirty males completed 30-min of upper-body exercise (UBE), lower-body exercise, and seated non-exercise control (NEC). ANOVA determined interactions between experimental conditions and measurements on body composition variables. For UBE, mean pre to post differences were found on tissue fat (M = 0.35 ± 0.12%; CI95%diff = 0.10 to 0.59%; p = 0.007), region fat (M = 0.32 ± 0.11%; CI95%diff = 0.09 to 0.55%; p = 0.008), lean mass (M = 0.27 ± 0.01 kg; CI95%diff = 0.18 to 0.37 kg; p ≤ 0.0001), and total mass (M = 0.27 ± 0.05 kg; CI95%diff = 0.17 to 0.36 kg; p ≤ 0.0001). Mean tissue pre to post differences were found for the total body in the NEC (M = 0.10 ± 0.04 kg; CI95%diff = 0.03 to 0.18 kg; p = 0.008), UBE (M = 0.19 ± 0.03 kg; CI95%diff = 0.14 to 0.24 kg; p ≤ 0.0001), and LBE (M = 0.31 ± 0.04 kg; CI95%diff = 0.24 to 0.39 kg; p ≤ 0.0001) conditions. High absolute reliability was found within experimental conditions. These findings have practical implications for technicians, since acute exercise elicited small changes in body composition scores using DXA.

The Effect of a Compression Bandage on Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry Body Composition Scores

BACKGROUND

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) measures are affected by the noise produced by external factors such as textile compression found in loose clothing. The study aimed to determine the effect of a compression bandage (CB) on body composition (BC) assessed by DXA.

METHODS

Sixty volunteers (age=21.4±4.7yr.) underwent full-body DXA scans on a control (CTRL) condition and after wearing a 30-mmHg CB on the trunk, legs, and arms. ANOVA (2 genders by 2 experimental conditions) determined mean interactions in BC variables tissue body fat% (BF%), region body fat% (RBF%), body tissue (BT), fat mass (FM), lean mass (LM), bone mineral content (BMC), and total mass (TM). Absolute reliability in BC scores was studied by the typical error of the measurement (TEM), the coefficient of variability (CV), and Bland-Altman plots.

RESULTS

ANOVA interactions were found on tissue total BF% (p=0.049), RBF% (p=0.048), android lean mass (p=0.004), and android total mass (p=0.019). The CV was small for tissue BF% (2.61±0.93%, CI95%=0.79, 4.43%), RBF% (2.66±1.78%, CI95%=-0.83, 6.15%), BT (4.82±2.19%, CI95%=0.54, 9.10kg), FM (4.17±2.25%, CI95%=-0.24, 8.58kg), LM (3.25±2.44%, CI95%=-1.53, 8.04kg), BMC (4.81±2.96%, CI95%=-0.99, 10.62kg), and TM (2.84±2.80%, CI95%=-2.65, 8.33kg). Bland-Altman plots showed random error for BF%, LM, and BMC. A bias of 0.5% was observed on BF% in males.

CONCLUSION

A CB worn during a full-body DXA scan elicited similar BC scores than not wearing it. The variation in scores was <10% for most BC variables, and a trivial bias of 0.5% in BF% was detected in male scores.

Breasts as a perceived barrier to physical activity in Mexican women: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Scarce evidence exists on barriers to physical activity in Mexican women. Despite evidence from other countries, no research has investigated the influence of the breast on PA in this population.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association between the breast and physical activity in Mexican women.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional observational study.

METHODS

Volunteers were 279 Mexican women from Veracruz, Durango, and Baja California states, who completed a paper survey of their demographics, brassiere characteristics, breast pain, and frequency and amounts of weekly physical activity.

RESULTS

The first barrier to physical activity was time constraints, followed by breast-related issues. Breast pain was reported by 47.1% of women, and the breast as a barrier to physical activity participation was reported by 30.6%. Responses, such as "I am embarrassed by excessive breast movement" and "My breasts are too big" were the most frequently reported breast-related barriers to physical activity. Breast pain was associated with the menstrual cycle and exercise. Breast health knowledge and pain intensity were unrelated to moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity. The 36.4% and 6.7% of women did not meet weekly moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity guidelines, respectively. Weekly moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity was similar between women reporting breast pain and those who did not.

CONCLUSIONS

Because the breast was the second most significant barrier to physical activity, it is imperative to increase breast health knowledge in Mexican women to reduce impediments to physical activity.

An examination of the validity of neuropsychological and physical testing batteries in Latin-American adults aged over 55 years

BACKGROUND

Valid and reliable measurements are necessary to understand and monitor age-related changes.

AIMS

To describe the factor structure and provide validity evidence of a neuropsychological and a physical testing batteries using factor analysis.

METHODS

We performed a secondary analysis of data from the Epidemiology and Development of Alzheimer's Disease (EDAD) project. Community-dwelling adults aged 55 to 85 years underwent comprehensive physical and neuropsychological assessments. An exploratory factor analysis was performed on both assessment batteries. The models were later confirmed with a random subsample using confirmatory factor analysis.

RESULTS

Data from 238 adults (163 females and 75 males) was included. The neuropsychological model revealed a four-factor structure formed by "Executive Functioning", "Verbal Memory", "Logical Memory", and "Labeling And Reading" (Extraction Sums of Squared Loadings [ESSL] = 56.41% explained variance; Standardized Root Mean Square Residual [SRMSR] = 0.06; Comparative Fit Index [CFI] = 0.98). The physical model was formed by a two-factor structure including "Health-related Fitness and "Functional Fitness" (ESSL = 50.54% explained variance; SRMSR = 0.07; CFI = 0.93).

DISCUSSION

To our knowledge, this is the first study to analyze the structure of comprehensive testing batteries for the Latin-American older adults. Our analysis contributes to the understanding of theoretical constructs that are evaluated in the EDAD project.

CONCLUSION

Our findings provide validity evidence for simplified and reduced testing batteries, which imply shorter testing times and fewer resources.

The effect of chronic high-intensity interval training programs on glycaemic control, aerobic resistance, and body composition in type 2 diabetic patients: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes is an increasing health problem worldwide. HIIT has been proposed as an exercise alternative to be part of integral type 2 diabetes treatment.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine the effect of different types of chronic HIIT on glycaemic control, aerobic resistance, and body composition in individuals above 18 years with T2D.

DESIGN

This meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement and was registered with PROSPERO on November 21st, 2021.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic literature search of the following databases: EbscoHost (Academic Search Ultimate, Fuente Académica Plus, MEDline and SportDiscus), Web of Science, PubMed, and EMBASE between April of 2021 and April of 2023 was conducted.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES

Eligibility criteria included (1) participants aged ≥ 18 years with a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, (2) an HIIT protocol with detailed description, (3) control group and/or continuous aerobic training comparison group, (4) report of pre-test and post-test values for at least one of the studied variables (from glycaemic control, aerobic resistance, and/or body composition), and (5) experimental or quasi-experimental intervention design.

ANALYSES

Meta-analysis was made by a pre-post-test between-group analysis following the inverse variance heterogeneity model for each variable, and then, a subgroup analysis by type of HIIT was conducted.

RESULTS

Of the 2817 records obtained, 180 records were included for meta-analysis. Significant improvements were found in the most part of the variables when HIIT was compared to control group, while fat-free mass kept without changes. HIIT vs. continuous aerobic training results showed and advantage in favor of HIIT for fasting blood glycemia. Subgroup analysis refers a possible advantage of SI-HIIT and SIT-HIIT in the improvement of fasting glycemia and SIT-HIIT advantage in HOMA 1-IR decrease.

CONCLUSIONS

HIIT improves glycaemic control, aerobic resistance, and % fat and waist circumference, and kept fat-free mass unchanged in individuals with T2D. SI-HIIT and SIT-HIIT could be better than the other types of HIIT. HIIT benefit is similar to continuous aerobic training except for fasting blood glycemia.

Exploring Handgrip Strength as a Cross-cultural Correlate of Body Composition and Upper Body Strength in Older Adults from Costa Rica and Kansas

Sarcopenia and disability in older adults are often characterized by body composition measurements; however, the gold standard of body composition measurement, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), is expensive to acquire and maintain, making its use in low and middle income countries (LMIC) it out-of-reach in developing nations. Because these LMIC will bear a disproportionate amount of chronic disease burden due to global aging trends, it is important that reliable, low-cost surrogates need to be developed. Handgrip strength (HGS) is a reliable measure of disability in older adults but has not been used widely in diverse populations. This study compared HGS to multiple measurements of body composition in older adults from the US (Kansas) and a middle-income country (Costa Rica) to test if HGS is a cross-culturally appropriate predictive measure that yields reliable estimates across developed and developing nations. Percent body fat (%BF), lean tissue mass index (LTMI), appendicular lean soft tissue index (ALSTI), body fat mass index (BFMI), bone mineral density (BMD), and HGS were measured in older Costa Ricans (n = 78) and Kansans (n = 100). HGS predicted lean arm mass with equal accuracy for both samples (p ≤ 0.05 for all groups), indicating that it is a reliable, low-cost and widely available estimate of upper body lean muscle mass. Older adults from Costa Rica showed different body composition overall and HGS than controls from Kansas. Handgrip operates equivalently in the US and Mesoamerica and is a valid estimate of lean arm muscle mass as derived by the more expensive DEXA.

Low-Intensity Resistance Training Improves Flow-Mediated Dilation in Young Hispanic Adults

ABSTRACT

Briceño-Torres, JM, Carpio-Rivera, E, Solera-Herrera, A, Forsse, J, Grandjean, PW, and Moncada-Jiménez, J. Low-intensity resistance training improves flow-mediated dilation in young hispanic adults. J Strength Cond Res 37(2): 298-304, 2023-The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of 2 resistance exercise training (RET) intensities on brachial artery flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) in sedentary males. Thirty-four men (age = 20.6 ± 1.8 years, height = 171.3 ± 5.2 cm, body mass = 65.2 ± 10.6 kg, and DXA fat mass = 22.3 ± 7.4%) were randomly assigned to a control group (no exercise CTRL, n = 12), RET at 50% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM) (RET50%, n = 12), and RET at 80% 1RM (RET80%, n = 10). The RET program was performed twice per week for 8 weeks; subjects performed the same RET exercises at similar total workloads (1920 arbitrary units [AUs] for the RET80% and 1950 AUs for the RET50%). The FMD% was measured before and after 8 weeks by ultrasound. Mixed factorial analysis of variance (3 groups × 2 measurements), effect size (ES), and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were computed for FMD%. The level of significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. A significant increase ( p = 0.001) was found on post-test FMD% in RET50% (mean = 9.9 ± 3.7%, ES = 1.9, and 95% CIs = 2.8-0.9) compared with CTRL (mean = 5.7 ± 1.7%, ES = 0.2, and 95% CIs = -0.4 to 0.8), and there were no significant differences found between RET50% and RET80% and between RET80% and CTRL. Results support the concept of training specificity and provide preliminary evidence that lower resistance and higher repetition RET elicit greater short-term reduced endothelium dysfunction than higher intensity RET at similar training volume.

Body Composition Profiles of Applicants to a Physical Education and Sports Major in Southeastern Mexico

This study aimed to determine the body composition profile of candidates applying for a Physical Education and Sports major. 327 young adults (F: 87, M: 240) participated in this cross-sectional study. Nutritional status and body composition analysis were performed, and the profiles were generated using an unsupervised machine learning algorithm. Body mass index (BMI), percentage of fat mass (%FM), percentage of muscle mass (%MM), metabolic age (MA), basal metabolic rate (BMR), and visceral fat level (VFL) were used as input variables. BMI values were normal-weight although VFL was significantly higher in men (<0.001; η² = 0.104). MA was positively correlated with BMR (0.81 [0.77, 0.85]; p < 0.01), BMI (0.87 [0.84, 0.90]; p < 0.01), and VFL (0.77 [0.72, 0.81]; p < 0.01). The hierarchical clustering analysis revealed two significantly different age-independent profiles: Cluster 1 (n = 265), applicants of both sexes that were shorter, lighter, with lower adiposity and higher lean mass; and, Cluster 2 (n = 62), a group of overweight male applicants with higher VFL, taller, with lower %MM and estimated energy expended at rest. We identified two profiles that might help universities, counselors and teachers/lecturers to identify applicants in which is necessary to increase physical activity levels and improve dietary habits.

The Molecular Effects of BDNF Synthesis on Skeletal Muscle: A Mini-Review

The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a member of the nerve growth factor family which is generated mainly by the brain. Its main role involve synaptic modulation, neurogenesis, neuron survival, immune regulation, myocardial contraction, and angiogenesis in the brain. Together with the encephalon, some peripheral tissues synthesize BDNF like skeletal muscle. On this tissue, this neurotrophin participates on cellular mechanisms related to muscle function maintenance and plasticity as reported on recent scientific works. Moreover, during exercise stimuli the BDNF contributes directly to strengthening neuromuscular junctions, muscle regeneration, insulin-regulated glucose uptake and β-oxidation processes in muscle tissue. Given its vital relevance on many physiological mechanisms, the current mini-review focuses on discussing up-to-date knowledge about BDNF production in skeletal muscle and how this neurotrophin impacts skeletal muscle biology.

Association between Body Mass Index with Sugar-Sweetened and Dairy Beverages Consumption in Children from the Mexico-USA Border

The consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages has been associated with the onset of cardiometabolic diseases. The aim of this study was to describe consumption patterns of sugar-sweetened and dairy beverages and to evaluate their correlation with the body mass index in children residing at the Mexico−USA border. A total of 722 (370 girls, 352 boys) elementary school children aged 9 to 12 years from Tijuana, Mexico, participated in the study. Anthropometric measures were recorded, and a beverage intake questionnaire was completed by the children’s parents. Significant age by sex interactions were found on body mass index Z-scores (p < 0.01). Boys showed higher sugar intake (p < 0.05) and total relative energy consumption from sugar (p < 0.05) than girls. The energy consumption from sugar-sweetened and dairy beverages was similar between sexes (p > 0.05). Sugar intake from beverages was higher than the limit recommended by the World Health Organization in boys (66%) and girls (44%). A high frequency of consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and similar intake of dairy beverages were found in children from the Mexico−USA border. The high consumption of sugar exceeds international recommendations and should be carefully monitored.

Unhealthy Dieting During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Opinion Regarding the Harmful Effects on Brain Health

Since 2020, the world has been suffering from a pandemic that has affected thousands of people regardless of socio-economic conditions, forcing the population to adopt different strategies to prevent and control the advance of the disease, one of which is social distancing. Even though social distancing is a safe strategy to reduce the spread of COVID-19, it is also the cause of a rising sedentary behavior. This behavior develops an excess of fat tissue that leads to metabolic and inflammatory disruption related to chronic diseases and mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and sleep issues. Furthermore, the adoption of dietary patterns involving the consumption of ultra-processed foods, higher in fats and sugars, and the reduction of fresh and healthy foods may play a role in the progress of the disease. In this perspective, we will discuss how an unhealthy diet can affect brain function and, consequently, be a risk factor for mental health diseases.

Concurrent Training Increases Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Older Adults Regardless of the Exercise Frequency

Background

Human brain function declines with aging. In this sense, exercise-based interventions has a promising effect on brain plasticity for older adults. Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a positive biomarker for brain neuroplasticity in healthy older adults also modified by exercise training. Selected features of the exercise prescription for improving brain health are missing; therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effects of concurrent exercise training frequency on serum BDNF levels in healthy older adults.

Methods

Nineteen volunteers (age: 65 ± 4 year; body mass index: 28.0 ± 4.5 kg/m²) completed either a three times/week (3-t/w) (n = 8) or five times/week (5-t/w) (n = 11) concurrent exercise program. The exercise program lasted 11 weeks and all exercise sessions were performed for 50 min at moderate intensity. Serum BDNF, body composition, cardiovascular, and physical fitness variables were assessed before and after the exercise training program.

Results

Regardless of the group, the serum BDNF increased following the intervention (p < 0.001), and there were no significant group (p = 0.827) or interaction (p = 0.063) effects. The maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) increased regardless of the group (p = 0.007), with a non-significant group (p = 0.722) or interaction (p = 0.223) effects. Upper- and lower-body strength increased in both groups (p = 0.003); however, there was no effect of the training frequency (p = 0.53). For the skeletal muscle mass, there was a trend in the interaction effect (p = 0.053). Finally, the body fat percentage was unchanged.

Conclusion

Eleven weeks of combined exercise training increased serum BDNF levels in healthy older adults, a response independent of the training frequency. The overall fitness level improved similarly in both exercise groups. These data reveal that a minimal dosage of concurrent exercise enhance functional capacity and a brain health biomarker in older adults.

The Effects of Acute and Chronic Exercise on Paraoxonase-1 (PON1): A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis

Purpose: To determine the acute and chronic effects of exercise on Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) concentration and activity. Methods: A literature search was performed using 16 electronic databases. Effect sizes (ES) were computed and two-tailed α values < .05 and non-overlapping 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were considered statistically significant. Heterogeneity, inconsistency (I²), and small-study effects using the LFK index were examined. Results: Eighteen studies (n = 377 participants) met the criteria for inclusion. The acute effects of exercise on PON1 concentration were trivial and non-significant (ES = -.03, 95%CI = -.39 to .34, p > .05), heterogeneous (p = .05), moderately inconsistent (I² = 48%), with minor asymmetry (LFK index = 1.34). The chronic effects of exercise on PON1 concentration were also trivial and non-significant (ES = -.04, 95%CI = -.53 to.45, p > .05), homogenous (p = .65), displayed low inconsistency (I² = 0%), and minor asymmetry (LFK index = -1.14). The acute effects of exercise on PON1 activity were trivial and non-significant (ES = .11, 95%CI = -.02 to.24, p > .05), homogenous (p = .85), showed low inconsistency (I² = 0%), and no asymmetry (LFK index = .82). The chronic effects of exercise on PON1 activity were trivial and non-significant (ES = .31, 95%CI = -.03 to.65, p > .05), homogenous (p = .17), moderately inconsistent (I² = 36%), with no asymmetry (LFK index = .60). Conclusion: Acute and chronic exercise training, overall, exerted a trivial effect on PON1 concentration and activity.

Improved Walk Test Performance and Blood Pressure Responses in Men and Women Completing Cardiac Rehabilitation: Implications Regarding Exercise Trainability

Purpose. To evaluate changes in walk test performance and blood pressure (BP) responses following a 12-week exercise-based outpatient cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program. Methods. Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) and resting systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), post-6MWT heart rate (HR), and post-6MWT BPs were measured before and after CR in 311 (237 men,74 women) patients. Using age as a covariate, 2 by 2 (Gender × Measurement) ANCOVAs were used to determine differences in 6MWT performance and hemodynamic variables. Results. After adjusting for age, men covered a greater 6MWT distance than women; pre-CR versus post-CR program values are as follows: men, 429.3 ± 94.6 versus 557.6 ± 90.7 m, P ≤ .001; women, 374.9 ± 100.7 versus 483.2 ± 82.9 m, P ≤ .001. Both genders reduced resting DBP following the CR program (men: 67.2 ± 9.8 vs 65.6 ± 8.5 mm Hg, P = .034; women: 69.2 ± 10.7 vs 65.0 ± 8.0 mm Hg, P = .001) and increased HR following the 6MWT after the CR program (men: 97.7 ± 16.8 vs 112.7 ± 21.3 bpm, P ≤ .001; women: 100.7 ± 20.8 vs 110.2 ± 22.0 bpm, P ≤ .001). Similarly, SBP increased immediately following the 6MWT (122.8 ± 18.5 vs 133.6 ± 20.7 mm Hg; P ≤ .001) in men but not in women. Conclusion. The present findings indicate similar relative improvements in 6MWT performance and BP responses in adherent men and women following an exercise-based CR program.

Predicting Exertion from Metabolic, Physiological and Cognitive Variables in Older Adults

Objective. To determine the association between perceived exertion (RPE) and physiological variables and to determine the predictive factors of RPE during submaximal and maximal exertion in older adults. Method. Older adults from Kansas (n = 100) and Costa Rica (n = 79) performed a submaximal and maximal stress test. RPE, education level and a total score of cognitive function (CFTS) were collected. Correlation and multiple regression analyses were computed using RPE as the criterion variable and oxygen consumption (VO2), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), CFTS and education level as predictors. Results. There was a significant correlation between VEP and RER (r = 0.22, p = 0.029) at maximal exertion. The RPE predictors for women were VO2, RER, and CFTS at different stages of the test. For men, VEP was predicted by RER, education level, and VO2 at different stages. Conclusion. Metabolic and physiological variables predicted RPE in older adults. Age, cognition, and heart rate were unrelated to RPE at maximal exertion, and RER predicted RPE scores during submaximal and maximal exertion.

Acute Systemic Response Of BDNF, Lactate and Cortisol to Strenuous Exercise Modalities in Healthy Untrained Women

Acute bouts of intense exercise increase lactate concentration, which in turn stimulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) production. Cortisol released during intense exercise might inhibit BDNF synthesis. This study examined the acute effects of 2 protocols of strenuous exercise on serum BDNF. Seventeen physically-active healthy females (Age = 20.0 ± 0.9 yr., BMI = 23.0 ± 2.6 kg/m²) performed a strenuous cycle-ergometer graded exercise test (GXT) and a high-intensity interval training session (HIIT). Serum BDNF, serum cortisol, cortisol: BDNF ratio and blood lactate (BLa) were recorded at baseline and immediately following exercise. Although non-statistically significant, the HIIT session elicited a higher magnitude of change from baseline for BDNF (d = 0.17) and cortisol (d = 1.18) than after the GXT (d = -0.26, and d = 0.82, respectively). An interaction was found between GXT and HIIT trials and measurements on BLa levels, with higher post-exertion values after HIIT than after GXT (p < 0.0001, η² = 0.650, 95%CI = 2.2, 5.2). The higher BLa levels did not raise circulating BDNF. The elevated cortisol levels may have overcome the effects of lactate on BDNF. However, the higher BLa induced by HIIT suggest that interval exercise modality on the long-term could be a feasible intervention to increase circulating peripheral BDNF, at least in untrained healthy women.

Impact of high-intensity interval training and sprint interval training on peripheral markers of glycemic control in metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes

Glycemic control is essential to reduce the risk of complications associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Aerobic and resistance exercise performed alone or in combination improve glycemic control in both conditions. However, perceived lack of time and commitment are considered principal barriers to performing exercise regularly. High intensity interval training (HIIT) and sprint interval training (SIT) can be performed in a fraction of the time required for continuous aerobic exercise. A substantial scientific evidence indicates that HIIT/SIT improve glycemic control to a similar or greater extent than aerobic exercise in populations without MetS or T2D. Likewise, growing evidence suggest that HIIT/SIT improve the glycemic control during MetS and T2D. The aim of this review is to discuss the effects of interval training protocols on peripheral markers of glucose metabolism in patients with MetS and T2D.

Short-term high-Intensity interval training increases systemic brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in healthy women

BACKGROUND

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) increases neuronal viability and cognitive function, peripheral lipid metabolism and skeletal muscle repair. The primary purpose of this study was to determine the effect of short-term high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on serum BDNF concentrations in healthy young women.

METHODS

Seventeen women (age:22 ± 1 years); body mass index (BMI:24.2 ± 2.2 kg/m²), body fat percentage (% fat:25.8 ± 4.7) participated in the study. Participants were randomly assigned to a control (n = 8) or HIIT group (n = 9). All participants performed a graded exercise test (GXT) on an electronically-braked cycle ergometer to determine maximal aerobic power (MAP, Watts). HIIT was performed three days per week for four weeks. Each HIIT session consisted of three to five cycling bouts of 30 s each at 80% MAP, followed by four-minutes of recovery at 40% MAP. Forty-eight hours after the last bout of exercise, both groups performed a follow-up GXT. Non-fasting blood samples were collected before and immediately after each GXT. Mixed factorial (2 groups x 4 measures, and 2 groups x 2 measures) ANOVA was used to assess BDNF concentrations, performance and anthropometric variables.

RESULTS

Serum BDNF concentrations in the HIIT group (21.9 ± 1.3 ng/mL) increased compared to control (19.2 ± 2.8 ng/mL) (∼12%, P < 0.05) following HIIT. In contrast, circulating BDNF concentrations were reduced following the GXT (P < 0.05). The MAP and % Fat did not change with HIIT.

CONCLUSIONS

Twelve sessions of HIIT increases circulating BDNF concentrations in healthy young women despite no change in physical performance or % fat.

The Impact of High-Intensity Interval Training on Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Brain: A Mini-Review

The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a protein mainly synthetized in the neurons. Early evidence showed that BDNF participates in cognitive processes as measured at the hippocampus. This neurotrophin is as a reliable marker of brain function; moreover, recent studies have demonstrated that BDNF participates in physiological processes such as glucose homeostasis and lipid metabolism. The BDNF has been also studied using the exercise paradigm to determine its response to different exercise modalities; therefore, BDNF is considered a new member of the exercise-related molecules. The high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is an exercise protocol characterized by low work volume performed at a high intensity [i.e., ≥80% of maximal heart rate (HRmax)]. Recent evidence supports the contention that HIIT elicits higher fat oxidation in skeletal muscle than other forms of exercise. Similarly, HIIT is a good stimulus to increase maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max). Few studies have investigated the impact of HIIT on the BDNF response. The present work summarizes the effects of acute and long-term HIIT on BDNF.

Adult Perception Toward Videogames and Physical Activity Using Pokémon Go

Objective: The purpose of the study was to determine perception of videogames and the use Pokémon Go in Costa Rica. Materials and Methods: A national representative sample (n = 1059) of adults aged 18 years and older was chosen to complete a face-to-face survey on videogame perceptions and the use of Pokémon Go. Statistical analyses included 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) around the estimate, multiple regression, cluster, and factor analysis. Results: The 85.2% of the population (n = 866) were familiar with videogames, especially those in the 18- to 29-year age group (96.3%) and college education (94.8%). Perceptions about videogames were negative (Addictive = 89.6%, Violence = 75.5%, Bad for health = 51.3%) and positive (Stimulate mental abilities = 59.6%, Relaxing = 55.2%, Improve family communication = 49.4%); and 28.4% perceived that people without responsibilities played videogames. Perceptions were different by age group and educational level. Age and gender were significant predictors of attitudes toward videogame playing. Pokémon Go was played by 3.9% of those respondents who knew or had heard about videogames, who reported spending 6.7 h/week (95% CI = 3.9-9.5) playing the game, walking 24.7 km (95% CI = 12.5-36.9), and covering 70.4 km (95% CI = 45.3-95.5) by other transportation means. Conclusions: Positive and negative perceptions toward videogames mediated by age and education level were found in a Costa Rican sample. Age and gender predicted attitudes toward videogame playing. A small number of participants played Pokémon Go, which might suggest that this videogame was not engaging in this population.

Health-Related Quality of Life of Older Adults in Costa Rica as Measured by the Short-Form-36 Health Survey

Objective: To test the validity of a common measure of health-related quality of life (Short-Form-36 [SF-36]) in cognitively healthy older adults living in rural and urban Costa Rica. Method: Confirmatory factor analysis was applied to SF-36 data collected in 250 older adults from San Jose and Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Results: The best fitting model for the SF-36 was an eight first-order factor structure. A high correlation between the Mental Component Summary and Physical Component Summary scores was found. Region differences indicated that rural dwellers perceive a poorer health-related quality of life compared with the urban group. Discussion: Costa Rican older adults perceived health as a unidimensional construct. Age and urbanity of older adult Costa Ricans should be appreciated when trying to measure self-reported physical and mental health. Cultural context of the individuals should be considered when studying health-related quality of life.

The effect of exercise intensity and excess postexercise oxygen consumption on postprandial blood lipids in physically inactive men

Reductions in postprandial lipemia have been observed following aerobic exercise of sufficient energy expenditure. Increased excess postexercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) has been documented when comparing high- versus low-intensity exercise. The contribution of EPOC energy expenditure to alterations in postprandial lipemia has not been determined. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of low- and high-intensity exercise on postprandial lipemia in healthy, sedentary, overweight and obese men (age, 43 ± 10 years; peak oxygen consumption, 31.1 ± 7.5 mL·kg^-1·min^-1; body mass index, 31.8 ± 4.5 kg/m²) and to determine the contribution of EPOC to reductions in postprandial lipemia. Participants completed 4 conditions: nonexercise control, low-intensity exercise at 40%-50% oxygen uptake reserve (LI), high-intensity exercise at 70%-80% oxygen uptake reserve (HI), and HI plus EPOC re-feeding (HI+EERM), where the difference in EPOC energy expenditure between LI and HI was re-fed in the form of a sports nutrition bar (Premier Nutrition Corp., Emeryville, Calif., USA). Two hours following exercise participants ingested a high-fat (1010 kcals, 99 g sat fat) test meal. Blood samples were obtained before exercise, before the test meal, and at 2, 4, and 6 h postprandially. Triglyceride incremental area under the curve was significantly reduced following LI, HI, and HI+EERM when compared with nonexercise control (p < 0.05) with no differences between the exercise conditions (p > 0.05). In conclusions, prior LI and HI exercise equally attenuated postprandial triglyceride responses to the test meal. The extra energy expended during EPOC does not contribute significantly to exercise energy expenditure or to reductions in postprandial lipemia in overweight men.

Acute Effects of Exercise on Blood Pressure: A Meta-Analytic Investigation

Hypertension affects 25% of the world's population and is considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disorders and other diseases. The aim of this study was to examine the evidence regarding the acute effect of exercise on blood pressure (BP) using meta-analytic measures. Sixty-five studies were compared using effect sizes (ES), and heterogeneity and Z tests to determine whether the ES were different from zero. The mean corrected global ES for exercise conditions were -0.56 (-4.80 mmHg) for systolic BP (sBP) and -0.44 (-3.19 mmHg) for diastolic BP (dBP; z ≠ 0 for all; p < 0.05). The reduction in BP was significant regardless of the participant's initial BP level, gender, physical activity level, antihypertensive drug intake, type of BP measurement, time of day in which the BP was measured, type of exercise performed, and exercise training program (p < 0.05 for all). ANOVA tests revealed that BP reductions were greater if participants were males, not receiving antihypertensive medication, physically active, and if the exercise performed was jogging. A significant inverse correlation was found between age and BP ES, body mass index (BMI) and sBP ES, duration of the exercise's session and sBP ES, and between the number of sets performed in the resistance exercise program and sBP ES (p < 0.05). Regardless of the characteristics of the participants and exercise, there was a reduction in BP in the hours following an exercise session. However, the hypotensive effect was greater when the exercise was performed as a preventive strategy in those physically active and without antihypertensive medication.