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Journal of Medical Internet Research Mar 2023Despite increasing interest in the effects of exergaming on cognitive function, little is known about its effects on older adults with dementia. (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
BACKGROUND
Despite increasing interest in the effects of exergaming on cognitive function, little is known about its effects on older adults with dementia.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this is to investigate the effects of exergaming on executive and physical functions in older adults with dementia compared to regular aerobic exercise.
METHODS
In total, 24 older adults with moderate dementia participated in the study. Participants were randomized into either the exergame group (EXG, n=13, 54%) or the aerobic exercise group (AEG, n=11, 46%). For 12 weeks, EXG engaged in a running-based exergame and AEG performed a cycling exercise. At baseline and postintervention, participants underwent the Ericksen flanker test (accuracy % and response time [RT]) while recording event-related potentials (ERPs) that included the N2 and P3b potentials. Participants also underwent the senior fitness test (SFT) and the body composition test pre- and postintervention. Repeated-measures ANOVA was performed to assess the effects of time (pre- vs postintervention), group (EXG vs AEG), and group×time interactions.
RESULTS
Compared to AEG, EXG demonstrated greater improvements in the SFT (F=7.434, P=.01), reduction in body fat (F=6.476, P=.02), and increase in skeletal mass (F=4.525, P=.05), fat-free mass (F=6.103, P=.02), and muscle mass (F=6.636, P=.02). Although there was a significantly shorter RT in EXG postintervention (congruent P=.03, 95% CI 13.581-260.419, incongruent P=.04, 95% CI 14.621-408.917), no changes occurred in AEG. EXG also yielded a shorter N2 latency for central (Cz) cortices during both congruent conditions compared to AEG (F=4.281, P=.05). Lastly, EXG presented a significantly increased P3b amplitude compared to AEG during the Ericksen flanker test (congruent: frontal [Fz] F=6.546, P=.02; Cz F=5.963, P=.23; parietal [Pz] F=4.302, P=.05; incongruent: Fz F=8.302, P=.01; Cz F=15.199, P=.001; Pz F=13.774, P=.001).
CONCLUSIONS
Our results suggest that exergaming may be associated with greater improvements in brain neuronal activity and enhanced executive function task performance than regular aerobic exercise. Exergaming characterized by both aerobic exercise and cognitive stimulation can be used as an effective intervention to improve cognitive and physical functions in older adults with dementia.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
Clinical Research Information Service KCT0008238; https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/detailSearch.do/24170.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Exergaming; Exercise; Cognition; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Dementia; Ketamine
PubMed: 36881445
DOI: 10.2196/39993 -
Nature Communications May 2022Exercise and diet are treatments for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and prediabetes, however, how exercise and diet interventions impact gut microbiota in... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
Exercise and diet are treatments for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and prediabetes, however, how exercise and diet interventions impact gut microbiota in patients is incompletely understood. We previously reported a 8.6-month, four-arm (Aerobic exercise, n = 29; Diet, n = 28; Aerobic exercise + Diet, n = 29; No intervention, n = 29) randomized, singe blinded (for researchers), and controlled intervention in patients with NAFLD and prediabetes to assess the effect of interventions on the primary outcomes of liver fat content and glucose metabolism. Here we report the third primary outcome of the trial-gut microbiota composition-in participants who completed the trial (22 in Aerobic exercise, 22 in Diet, 23 in Aerobic exercise + Diet, 18 in No Intervention). We show that combined aerobic exercise and diet intervention are associated with diversified and stabilized keystone taxa, while exercise and diet interventions alone increase network connectivity and robustness between taxa. No adverse effects were observed with the interventions. In addition, in exploratory ad-hoc analyses we find that not all subjects responded to the intervention in a similar manner, when using differentially altered gut microbe amplicon sequence variants abundance to classify the responders and low/non-responders. A personalized gut microbial network at baseline could predict the individual responses in liver fat to exercise intervention. Our findings suggest an avenue for developing personalized intervention strategies for treatment of NAFLD based on host-gut microbiome ecosystem interactions, however, future studies with large sample size are needed to validate these discoveries. The Trial Registration Number is ISRCTN 42622771.
Topics: Diet; Exercise; Humans; Liver; Microbiota; Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; Prediabetic State
PubMed: 35538056
DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29968-0 -
International Journal of Environmental... Oct 2021Impairment of vascular function, in particular endothelial dysfunction and large elastic artery stiffening, represents a major link between ageing and cardiovascular... (Review)
Review
Impairment of vascular function, in particular endothelial dysfunction and large elastic artery stiffening, represents a major link between ageing and cardiovascular risk. Clinical and experimental studies identified numerous mechanisms responsible for age-related decline of endothelial function and arterial compliance. Since most of these mechanisms are related to oxidative stress or low-grade inflammation, strategies that suppress oxidative stress and inflammation could be effective for preventing age-related changes in arterial function. Indeed, aerobic physical activity, which has been shown to improve intracellular redox balance and mitochondrial health and reduce levels of systemic inflammatory markers, also improves endothelial function and arterial distensibility and reduces risk of cardiovascular diseases. The present paper provides a brief overview of processes underlying age-related changes in arterial function, as well as the mechanisms through which aerobic exercise might prevent or interrupt these processes, and thus attenuate vascular ageing.
Topics: Arteries; Endothelium, Vascular; Exercise; Vascular Stiffness
PubMed: 34682413
DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182010666 -
Journal of Physical Activity & Health Jan 2021Aerobic exercise is recommended for reducing blood pressure; however, recent studies indicate that stretching may also be effective. The authors compared 8 weeks of... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
BACKGROUND
Aerobic exercise is recommended for reducing blood pressure; however, recent studies indicate that stretching may also be effective. The authors compared 8 weeks of stretching versus walking exercise in men and women with high-normal blood pressure or stage 1 hypertension (ie, 130/85-159/99 mm Hg).
METHODS
Forty men and women (61.6 y) were randomized to a stretching or brisk walking exercise program (30 min/d, 5 d/wk for 8 wk). Blood pressure was assessed during sitting and supine positions and for 24 hours using a portable monitor before and after the training programs.
RESULTS
The stretching program elicited greater reductions than the walking program (P < .05) for sitting systolic (146 [9] to 140 [12] vs 139 [9] to 142 [12] mm Hg), supine diastolic (85 [7] to 78 [8] vs 81 [7] to 82 [7] mm Hg), and nighttime diastolic (67 [8] to 65 [10] vs 68 [8] to 73 [12] mm Hg) blood pressures. The stretching program elicited greater reductions than the walking program (P < .05) for mean arterial pressure assessed in sitting (108 [7] to 103 [6] vs 105 [6] vs 105 [8] mm Hg), supine (102 [9] to 96 [9] vs 99 [6] to 99 [7] mm Hg), and at night (86 [9] to 83 [10] vs 88 [9] to 93 [12] mm Hg).
CONCLUSIONS
An 8-week stretching program was superior to brisk walking for reducing blood pressure in individuals with high-normal blood pressure or stage 1 hypertension.
Topics: Adult; Blood Pressure; Exercise; Female; Heart Rate; Humans; Hypertension; Male; Middle Aged; Muscle Stretching Exercises; Treatment Outcome; Walking
PubMed: 33338988
DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2020-0365 -
Journal of the International Society of... Jan 2020The ergogenic effects of supplemental carbohydrate on aerobic exercise performance at high altitude (HA) may be modulated by acclimatization status. Longitudinal... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
BACKGROUND
The ergogenic effects of supplemental carbohydrate on aerobic exercise performance at high altitude (HA) may be modulated by acclimatization status. Longitudinal evaluation of potential performance benefits of carbohydrate supplementation in the same volunteers before and after acclimatization to HA have not been reported.
PURPOSE
This study examined how consuming carbohydrate affected 2-mile time trial performance in lowlanders at HA (4300 m) before and after acclimatization.
METHODS
Fourteen unacclimatized men performed 80 min of metabolically-matched (~ 1.7 L/min) treadmill walking at sea level (SL), after ~ 5 h of acute HA exposure, and after 22 days of HA acclimatization and concomitant 40% energy deficit (chronic HA). Before, and every 20 min during walking, participants consumed either carbohydrate (CHO, n = 8; 65.25 g fructose + 79.75 g glucose, 1.8 g carbohydrate/min) or flavor-matched placebo (PLA, n = 6) beverages. A self-paced 2-mile treadmill time trial was performed immediately after completing the 80-min walk.
RESULTS
There were no differences (P > 0.05) in time trial duration between CHO and PLA at SL, acute HA, or chronic HA. Time trial duration was longer (P < 0.05) at acute HA (mean ± SD; 27.3 ± 6.3 min) compared to chronic HA (23.6 ± 4.5 min) and SL (17.6 ± 3.6 min); however, time trial duration at chronic HA was still longer than SL (P < 0.05).
CONCLUSION
These data suggest that carbohydrate supplementation does not enhance aerobic exercise performance in lowlanders acutely exposed or acclimatized to HA.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
NCT, NCT02731066, Registered March 292,016.
Topics: Acclimatization; Altitude; Carbohydrates; Dietary Supplements; Exercise; Heart Rate; Humans; Longitudinal Studies; Male; Oxygen Consumption; Physical Exertion
PubMed: 31918720
DOI: 10.1186/s12970-020-0335-2 -
Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) Jan 2021Cold-water immersion (CWI) is one of the main recovery methods used in sports, and is commonly utilized as a means to expedite the recovery of performance during periods... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Cold-water immersion (CWI) is one of the main recovery methods used in sports, and is commonly utilized as a means to expedite the recovery of performance during periods of exercise training. In recent decades, there have been indications that regular CWI use is potentially harmful to resistance training adaptations, and, conversely, potentially beneficial to endurance training adaptations. The current meta-analysis was conducted to assess the effects of the regular CWI use during exercise training on resistance (i.e., strength) and endurance (i.e., aerobic exercise) performance alterations.
METHODS
A computerized literature search was conducted, ending on November 25, 2019. The databases searched were MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and SPORTDiscus. The selected studies investigated the effects of chronic CWI interventions associated with resistance and endurance training sessions on exercise performance improvements. The criteria for inclusion of studies were: (1) being a controlled investigation; (2) conducted with humans; (3) CWI performed at ≤ 15 °C; (4) being associated with a regular training program; and (5) having performed baseline and post-training assessments.
RESULTS
Eight articles were included before the review process. A harmful effect of CWI associated with resistance training was verified for one-repetition maximum, maximum isometric strength, and strength endurance performance (overall standardized mean difference [SMD] = - 0.60; Confidence interval of 95% [CI95%] = - 0.87, - 0.33; p < 0.0001), as well as for Ballistic efforts performance (overall SMD = - 0.61; CI95% = - 1.11, - 0.11; p = 0.02). On the other hand, selected studies verified no effect of CWI associated with endurance training on time-trial (mean power), maximal aerobic power in graded exercise test performance (overall SMD = - 0.07; CI95% = - 0.54, 0.53; p = 0.71), or time-trial performance (duration) (overall SMD = 0.00; CI95% = - 0.58, 0.58; p = 1.00).
CONCLUSIONS
The regular use of CWI associated with exercise programs has a deleterious effect on resistance training adaptations but does not appear to affect aerobic exercise performance.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
PROSPERO CRD42018098898.
Topics: Adaptation, Physiological; Cold Temperature; Exercise; Humans; Immersion; Resistance Training; Water
PubMed: 33146851
DOI: 10.1007/s40279-020-01362-0 -
Contemporary Clinical Trials Aug 2023As the global population ages, the prevalence of cognitive decline and dementia is expected to rise, creating a significant health and economic burden. The purpose of...
As the global population ages, the prevalence of cognitive decline and dementia is expected to rise, creating a significant health and economic burden. The purpose of this trial is to rigorously test, for the first time, the efficacy of yoga training as a physical activity intervention to mitigate age-related cognitive decline and impairment. We are conducting a 6-month randomized controlled trial (RCT) of exercise among 168 middle aged and older adults to compare the efficacy of yoga vs. aerobic exercise on cognitive function, brain structure and function, cardiorespiratory fitness, and circulating inflammatory and molecular markers. Using a single-blind, three arm RCT, 168 older adults ages 55-79 will be assigned to either: a Hatha yoga group, an aerobic exercise group or a stretching-toning active control group. Participants will engage in hour long group exercise 3x/week for 6-months. A comprehensive neurocognitive test battery, brain imaging, cardiovascular fitness test, and a blood draw will take place at baseline; end of the 6-month intervention, and at 12-month follow-up. Our primary outcomes of interest are brain regions, such as hippocampal volume and prefrontal cortex, and cognitive functions, such as episodic memory, working memory and executive functions, that are typically affected by aging and Alzheimer's disease. Not only will this RCT test whether yoga is a means to mitigate age-related cognitive decline, but it may also offer an alternative to aerobic exercise, which could be particularly appealing to older adults with compromised physical functioning. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04323163.
Topics: Middle Aged; Humans; Aged; Yoga; Exercise; Cognition; Executive Function; Alzheimer Disease; Exercise Therapy; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
PubMed: 37244365
DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2023.107240 -
International Journal of Sports... Dec 2023Exercise with blood-flow restriction (BFR) is being increasingly used by practitioners working with athletic and clinical populations alike. Most early research combined...
BACKGROUND
Exercise with blood-flow restriction (BFR) is being increasingly used by practitioners working with athletic and clinical populations alike. Most early research combined BFR with low-load resistance training and consistently reported increased muscle size and strength without requiring the heavier loads that are traditionally used for unrestricted resistance training. However, this field has evolved with several different active and passive BFR methods emerging in recent research.
PURPOSE
This commentary aims to synthesize the evolving BFR methods for cohorts ranging from healthy athletes to clinical or load-compromised populations. In addition, real-world considerations for practitioners are highlighted, along with areas requiring further research.
CONCLUSIONS
The BFR literature now incorporates several active and passive methods, reflecting a growing implementation of BFR in sport and allied health fields. In addition to low-load resistance training, BFR is being combined with high-load resistance exercise, aerobic and anaerobic energy systems training of varying intensities, and sport-specific activities. BFR is also being applied passively in the absence of physical activity during periods of muscle disuse or rehabilitation or prior to exercise as a preconditioning or performance-enhancement technique. These various methods have been reported to improve muscular development; cardiorespiratory fitness; functional capacities; tendon, bone, and vascular adaptations; and physical and sport-specific performance and to reduce pain sensations. However, in emerging BFR fields, many unanswered questions remain to refine best practice.
Topics: Humans; Muscle, Skeletal; Regional Blood Flow; Muscle Strength; Resistance Training; Exercise
PubMed: 37777193
DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0135 -
Hypertension Research : Official... Mar 2020In Japan, there were an estimated 43 million patients with hypertension in 2010. The management of this condition is given the highest priority in disease control, and... (Review)
Review
In Japan, there were an estimated 43 million patients with hypertension in 2010. The management of this condition is given the highest priority in disease control, and the importance of lifestyle changes for the prevention and treatment of hypertension has been recognized in Japan. In particular, emphasis has been placed on increasing the levels of activities of daily living and physical exercise (sports). In this literature review, we examined appropriate exercise prescriptions (e.g., type, intensity, duration per session, and frequency) for the prevention and treatment of hypertension as described in Japanese and foreign articles. This review recommends safe and effective whole-body aerobic exercise at moderate intensity (i.e., 50-65% of maximum oxygen intake, 30-60 min per session, 3-4 times a week) that primarily focuses on the major muscle groups for the prevention and treatment of hypertension. Resistance exercise should be performed at low-intensity without breath-holding and should be used as supplementary exercise, but resistance exercise is contraindicated in patients with hypertension who have chest symptoms such as chest pain.
Topics: Exercise; Exercise Therapy; Humans; Hypertension; Japan; Life Style
PubMed: 31656311
DOI: 10.1038/s41440-019-0344-1 -
Advances in Experimental Medicine and... 2021The aim of this study was to assess the effects of different types of exercise interventions for treating sarcopenia compared to no specific treatment, a minimal... (Review)
Review
The aim of this study was to assess the effects of different types of exercise interventions for treating sarcopenia compared to no specific treatment, a minimal intervention (e.g., education), or another active treatment (nutritional supplements). A review was conducted of the recent English literature searching PubMed and ScienceDirect databases. Ten randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in this review, presenting the results of 671 sarcopenic patients. The exercise interventions were resistance training (four studies), a multimodal program (five studies, encompassing resistance training and additional exercises such as aerobic exercises, flexibility, balance and strength training), and a whole body vibration program (one study). Results show that exercise interventions could have beneficial effects in improving muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance in 3 months of intervention. Resistance training, added to an adequate nutrition and aerobic exercise, appeared to deliver the most positive outcome after 3 months of intervention. Types of exercise and dose-response parameters of exercise eliciting improvement warrant further investigation. Due to the significant heterogeneity in clinical trials, the current evidence provides limited guidance. Well-designed studies evaluating exercise interventions are needed before treatment guidelines can be developed.
Topics: Exercise; Exercise Therapy; Humans; Muscle Strength; Resistance Training; Sarcopenia
PubMed: 34972915
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-78771-4_31