The Effects of Testosterone Therapy Combined with Swimming Exercise on Adipose Tissue and Biochemical Parameters in Male Obese Wistar Rats.

Context: Exercise and anabolic steroids are anticipated to promote fat mass reduction and so to decrease the number of comorbidities related to excessive weight. Objective: The aim of this study was to verify the influence of aerobic exercise and the use of steroids on the accumulation of adipose tissue and on the biochemical limitations of Wistar rats nourished by a hypercaloric diet. Methods: Forty, young male Wistar rats were split into four groups: obese control (n=10), obese under treatment (n=10), obese under aerobic exercise (n=10) and obese under aerobic exercise and treatment (n=10). All animals were fed with a hypercaloric diet and animals under treatment received intramuscular testosterone. Body (weight and visceral fat) and blood (lipidogram, glucose, and liver enzymes) parameters were assessed. Results: The group treated with aerobic exercise and testosterone revealed a reduction in body weight and visceral, perirenal, retroperitoneal and epididymal fats, accompanied by the blood levels of glucose, lactate, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, and lactate dehydrogenase; following high-intensity physical activity. Conclusion: The results support the theory that the combination of steroids and physical activity reduces the side-effects of androgenic-anabolic hormones and conveys benefits to some constraints.

Observation hip.

"Observation Hip" is a provisional diagnosis. Although transient arthritis is the most frequent pathology, it is important to establish a diagnostic routine to consider the various types of hip pathology. Physical examination and clinical evolution are the most important factors in making a specific diagnosis.

Articular cartilage changes mechanically induced "in vivo". An experimental method approach in animals.

A machine designed upon the principles of a crank lever mechanism was built to produce excessive use of the joints of small animals by means of continuous flexion-extension movements. Articular cartilage changes could be consistently produced after 5 to 10 days of exercise. Histochemical studies of the articular cartilage demonstrated a decrease in proteoglycan and an increase in acid phosphatase. These findings suggest that this animal model may be of value for the analysis of the earliest degenerative stages of the articular cartilage.

[Electrical strain gage method for measurements of "in vivo" deformations. Preparation and implantation of the units (author's transl)]. / Extensômetros elétricos para medidas de deformacões "in vivo" (técnicas de preparo e implante das unidades).

Measurements of strain in live bone have been done through the use of the electrical strain gage method. For this purpose these transducers must be prepared to become electrically insulated, water proofing and biologically compatible. A technique which permit to use these devices in experimental animals as well as in human beings is described.

Measurements of stress and strain in live bone by electrical strain gage method.

Measurements of stress and strain in parts of musculokeletal system has been extensively studied in recent years. "In vitro" tests have contributed important information. The present study is an attempt to assess "in vivo" measurements using electrical extensometers attached to the bone with biocompatible adhesives permitting accurate measurements of strain over long periods of time. Even though its seems to be an adequate method there are some limitations to be considered. The problem involving tissue reaction, protections and isolation of the measuring unit, validity of measurements and determination of the principal directions of the strain are discussed. When adequately used the method may contribute to the knowledge and understanding of biomechanics of the musculokeletal system.