Gold-Nanolayer-Derived Zincophilicity Suppressing Metallic Zinc Dendrites and Its Efficacy in Improving Electrochemical Stability of Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries.

Herein, an Au-coating layer adjusted on the surface of a Zn metal electrode that effectively suppresses the dendrite growth as well as the mechanisms underlying the dendrite suppression as a result of the zincophilic character of Au is introduced. For the Au-coated Zn metal symmetric cell, uniform deposition of Zn-derived compounds was revealed by operando synchrotron tomography. Microscopic studies demonstrate that the Au-coating layer is induced to form a new Zn-Au alloy during the initial Zn deposition, resulting in stabilized long-term stripping/plating of Zn via the 'embracing effect' that intimately accommodates Zn deposition for further cycles. This property supports the successful operation of symmetrical cells up to 50 mA cm-2 . According to Zn electrodeposition simulation, it is verified that the suppression of dendrite growth is responsible for the electro-conducting Au nanolayer that uniformly distributes the electric field and protects the Zn electrode from corrosion, ultimately promoting uniform Zn growth. The compatibility of the Au-coating layer for full cell configuration is verified using NaV3 O8 as a cathode material over 1 000 cycles. This finding provides a new pathway for the enhancement of the electrochemical performance of ZIBs by suppressing the dendritic growth of Zn by means of a zincophilic Au nanolayer.

Exploiting High-Voltage Stability of Dual-Ion Aqueous Electrolyte Reinforced by Incorporation of Fiberglass into Zwitterionic Hydrogel Electrolyte.

Rechargeable zinc aqueous batteries are key alternatives for replacing toxic, flammable, and expensive lithium-ion batteries in grid energy storage systems. However, these systems possess critical weaknesses, including the short electrochemical stability window of water and intrinsic fast zinc dendrite growth. Hydrogel electrolytes provide a possible solution, especially cross-linked zwitterionic polymers that possess strong water retention ability and high ionic conductivity. Herein, an in situ prepared fiberglass-incorporated dual-ion zwitterionic hydrogel electrolyte with an ionic conductivity of 24.32 mS cm-1 , electrochemical stability window up to 2.56 V, and high thermal stability is presented. By incorporating this hydrogel electrolyte of zinc and lithium triflate salts, a zinc//LiMn0.6 Fe0.4 PO4 pouch cell delivers a reversible capacity of 130 mAh g-1 in the range of 1.0-2.2 V at 0.1C, and the test at 2C provides an initial capacity of 82.4 mAh g-1 with 71.8% capacity retention after 1000 cycles with a coulombic efficiency of 97%. Additionally, the pouch cell is fire resistant and remains safe after cutting and piercing.

Bio-Derived Surface Layer Suitable for Long Term Cycling Ni-Rich Cathode for Lithium-Ion Batteries.

Since Ni-rich cathode material is very sensitive to moisture and easily forms residual lithium compounds that degrade cell performance, it is very important to pay attention to the selection of the surface modifying media. Accordingly, hydroxyapatite (Ca5 (PO4 )3 (OH)), a tooth-derived material showing excellent mechanical and thermodynamic stabilities, is selected. To verify the availability of hydroxyapatite as a surface protection material, lithium-doped hydroxyapatite, Ca4.67 Li0.33 (PO4 )3 (OH), is formed with ≈10-nm layer after reacting with residual lithium compounds on Li[Ni0.8 Co0.15 Al0.05 ]O2 , which spontaneously results in dramatic reduction of surface lithium residues to 2879 ppm from 22364 ppm. The Ca4.67 Li0.33 (PO4 )3 (OH)-modified Li[Ni0.8 Co0.15 Al0.05 ]O2 electrode provides ultra-long term cycling stability, enabling 1000 cycles retaining 66.3% of its initial capacity. Also, morphological degradations such as micro-cracking or amorphization of surface are significantly suppressed by the presence of Ca4.67 Li0.33 (PO4 )3 (OH) layer on the Li[Ni0.8 Co0.15 Al0.05 ]O2 , of which the Ca4.67 Li0.33 (PO4 )3 (OH) is transformed to CaF2 via Ca4.67 Li0.33 (PO4 )3 F during the long term cycles reacting with HF in electrolyte. In addition, the authors' density function theory (DFT) results explain the reason of instability of NCA and why CaF2 layers can delay the micro-cracking during electrochemical reaction. Therefore, the stable Ca4.67 Li0.33 (PO4 )3 F and CaF2 layers play a pivotal role to protect the Li[Ni0.8 Co0.15 Al0.05 ]O2 with ultra-long cycling stability.

High-Voltage Stability in KFSI Nonaqueous Carbonate Solutions for Potassium-Ion Batteries: Current Collectors and Coin-Cell Components.

Cu, Al, and 316L stainless steel are the main components of the current collectors and coin-type cells used in the characterization of potassium-ion battery (KIB) materials and are expected to be electrochemically inactive. Herein, their electrochemical stabilities in a nonaqueous potassium-bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (KFSI)-based electrolyte are investigated. In dynamic- and transient-mode polarization, passivation of each metal is observed to occur below 3.9, 3.8, and 4.05 V versus K+/K for Cu, Al, and 316L stainless steel, respectively, which are considered the threshold potentials. The composition of the passive layers of each metal is determined using time-of-flight secondary-ion mass spectrometry. The passive layers of Cu and Al consist of Cu-O (CuO or Cu2O) and Al-O (Al2O3), respectively, and 316L stainless steel is passivated with an outermost Cr-F (CrF3) layer and an inner Cr-O (Cr2O3) layer. Above the threshold potentials, however, severe corrosion of each metal occurs accompanied by the dissolution of metal ions, which could affect the reliability of experimental results for KIBs using KFSI-based electrolytes.

Effects of leucine-enriched essential amino acid supplementation on muscular fatigue and inflammatory cytokines in wheelchair basketball players.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of leucine-enriched essential amino acid (LEAA) supplementation on muscle fatigue and the level of inflammatory cytokines in wheelchair basketball players after a basketball game and interval training. METHODS: Of the ten recruited wheelchair basketball players (aged 34.5±8.9 years; lean body mass of 34.3±10.0 kg) who had spinal cord injury (SCI) and had undergone amputation, nine participated in the final test. These nine athletes received LEAA supplements (3 times 4.0 g/day) or placebo treatment in a double-blind, randomized, crossover study. We measured variables related to muscular fatigue and inflammatory response before the intense exercise and 4 days after recovery. RESULTS: The significant effect of LEAA supplementation was inhibition of circulating IL-6 levels in the LEAA-treated group compared with the placebo group (P < .05). However, no changes were observed in the TNF-α and creatinine kinase levels. Moreover, analysis of variance analysis showed no significant difference in the relative values of muscle soreness. However, the effect size analysis with Cohen's d reported a significant improvement in the relative values of whole body and back muscle soreness. CONCLUSION: Our results revealed that LEAA supplementation before and after intense exercise could help reduce muscle soreness and IL-6 levels in wheelchair basketball players.

Effects of 8-week Pilates training program on hamstring/quadriceps ratio and trunk strength in adolescent baseball players: a pilot case study.

The purpose of this pilot case study is to investigate the effects of Pilates training on hamstring/quadriceps ratio, trunk strength, shoulder strength, and body composition in adolescent baseball players. Eight adolescent baseball players, 15 years of age, participated in Pilates program (supervised training, 50 min per session for three times a week for 8 weeks) using reformer and Cadillac. The intensity of the program was progressively increased by applying beginner level for 1-2 weeks, intermediate level for 3-6 weeks, and advance level for 7-8 weeks. To verify the effect of the Pilates program on hamstring/quadriceps ratio, trunk strength, shoulder strength and body composition, participants performed bioelectrical impedance analysis and isokinetic testing at pre- and posttraining. After the Pilates training, there were significant increases in body weight (P<0.01), left arm muscle mass (P<0.01), and trunk muscle mass (P<0.01). In addition, there were significant increases in left and right knee flexion peak torque (P<0.01 and P<0.05, respectively), right knee extension peak torque (P<0.05), left and right hamstring/quadriceps ratio (both P<0.01), trunk flexion peak torque (P<0.05) and shoulder flexion peak torque (P<0.05) after 8 weeks of training. Therefore, Pilates training increased muscle mass, hamstring/quadriceps ratio, trunk and shoulder strength, suggesting that it may help baseball players do better performance and prevent future injuries in adolescent players.

P2-Na2/3MnO2 by Co Incorporation: As a Cathode Material of High Capacity and Long Cycle Life for Sodium-Ion Batteries.

The P2-Na2/3MnO2 compound is one of the attractive cathodes for sodium-ion batteries due to its high initial capacity and abundance of Na and Mn elements in nature. The existence of Mn3+ Jahn-Teller ion, however, impedes electrode performance for long term. Here, we challenge to minimize the effect of the Jahn-Teller distortion caused by Mn3+ in the structure, via substitution of Mn3+ by Co3+ in P2-Na2/3[Mn1-xCox]O2 (x = 0-0.3). The P2-Na2/3[Mn0.8Co0.2]O2 compound substantializes the electrochemical performance with a capacity of about 175 mAh g-1 (26 mA g-1) and retained over 90% of its initial capacity for 300 cycles at 0.1 C (26 mA g-1) and 10 C (2.6 A g-1). The operando X-ray diffraction study indicates that a single-phase reaction is associated with the insertion of sodium ions into the structure, accompanied by a small volume change of approximately 3%. Furthermore, ex situ X-ray diffraction and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy results show that the crystal structure remained after 300 continuous cycles. It is believed that such good electrode performances attribute to the structural stabilization assisted by the presence of Co3+ in the crystal structure. Our finding provides a way to take advantage of low-cost Mn-rich cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries.

Effects of aerobic exercise training on the risk factors for liver diseases in elderly women with obesity and impaired fasting glucose: A pilot study.

PURPOSE: In the present pilot study, we aimed to investigate the effects of the Silverrobics exercise program, which is similar to aerobic dance, on the factors related to glucose metabolism and liver enzymes. METHODS: Eight elderly women with obesity and impaired fasting glucose participated in the Silverrobics exercise program (60 minutes per session for five times a week for 8 weeks). The program was conducted at 50-60% of the heart rate reserve at 1 to 2 weeks and at 60-80% of the heart rate reserve at 3 to 8 weeks. To verify the effect of this 8-week exercise program on glucose metabolism and liver enzymes, blood analysis at pre- and post-training was performed. RESULTS: After the Silverrobics exercise program, there were significant decreases in the glucose (p<0.05), glycated hemoglobin A1c (p<0.05), 1,5-anhydroglucitol (p<0.05), and insulin levels (p<0.01) and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance score (p<0.05). However, there were no significant effects on the liver enzymes, except for alkaline phosphatase. The alkaline phosphatase level increased after the Silverrobics exercise program (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Although the Silverrobics exercise program had no beneficial effects on the liver enzymes, it may play an important role in preventing liver diseases considering the effects on glucose metabolism.

Posterior Epidural Migration of a Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Fragment Resembling a Spinal Tumor: A Case Report.

Posterior epidural migration of a lumbar intervertebral disc fragment (PEMLIF) is uncommon because of anatomical barriers. It is difficult to diagnose PEMLIF definitively because of its relatively rare incidence and the ambiguity of radiological findings resembling spinal tumors. This case report describes a 76-year-old man with sudden-onset weakness and pain in both legs. Electromyography revealed bilateral lumbosacral polyradiculopathy with a mass-like lesion in L2-3 dorsal epidural space on lumbosacral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The lesion showed peripheral rim enhancement on T1-weighted MRI with gadolinium administration. The patient underwent decompressive L2-3 central laminectomy, to remove the mass-like lesion. The excised lesion was confirmed as an intervertebral disc. The possibility of PEMLIF should be considered when rim enhancement is observed in the epidural space on MRI scans and electrodiagnostic features of polyradiculopathy with sudden symptoms of cauda equina syndrome.

Effect of Spatone Supplement on Endurance Capacity and Inflammatory Cytokines in a Rapid Weight Control Program in University Wrestlers: A Pilot Study.

In this pilot study, we investigated the effect of spatone, a naturally occurring mineral water supplement, on endurance capacity and inflammatory cytokines in wrestlers undergoing a rapid weight control program. Nine amateur university wrestlers participated and were randomly divided into placebo- and spatone-treated groups. The study used a crossover design, including a 4-week washout period. The rapid weight control program was focused on body weight loss, while maintaining their athletic performance (muscular strength and cardiovascular endurance). The initial body weight was 87.19 ± 2.45 kg in the spatone-treated group and 86.60 ± 3.01 kg in the placebo group. After the rapid weight control program, the body weight decreased to 83.56 ± 2.71 kg (4.21% decrease) in the spatone-treated group and 82.95 ± 2.97 kg (4.16% decrease) in the placebo group. However, there were no significant differences in body weight or body composition between placebo- and spatone-treated groups. Endurance capacity improved significantly in terms of VO2max and lactate accumulation after spatone supplement. The interleukin (IL)-10, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and IL-6 concentrations were not altered with spatone treatment or placebo in the rapid weight-loss condition; however, a positive relationship (R = 0.643, P = .023) was observed between the change in IL-6 and VO2max. Thus, our results are consistent with prior studies in that spatone supplementation could protect against iron loss induced by intense training, considering that spatone affects the modulation of inflammatory cytokines and exercise capacity. These preliminary results serve to facilitate the planning for the nutritional application of spatone with their exercise program for wrestlers.

Resistance training increases fibroblast growth factor-21 and irisin levels in the skeletal muscle of Zucker diabetic fatty rats.

PURPOSE: Although the fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21) and irisin roles are well demonstrated in metabolic disease, there have been no reports investigating the effect of resistance exercise on FGF-21 and irisin levels in diabetic skeletal muscles. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the change of FGF-21 and irisin levels in various skeletal muscles, and their association with muscle strength, following 8 weeks of resistance training using Zucker diabetic fatty rats (type 2 diabetic animal models). METHODS: Twenty-four male lean (Zucker lean control, ZLC) and diabetic (Zucker diabetic fatty, ZDF) rats (age, 8 weeks old) were separated into 3 groups, lean control (ZLC-Con, n=8), diabetic control (ZDF-Con, n=8), and diabetic exercise-trained groups (ZDF-Ex, n=8). The rats in ZDF-Ex were trained to climb a 1-m vertical (85 degrees inclined) ladder with weights. Resistance training was performed with 10 repetitions/day for 12 weeks (3 days/week). The skeletal muscle levels of FGF-21 and irisin were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. RESULTS: The levels of FGF-21 in the soleus (SOL) and extensor digitorum longus muscles of ZDF-Ex were higher (p<0.05) compared to levels in ZDF-Con. Additionally, we found a significantly higher irisin level in the SOL muscles of ZDF-Ex compared to that in ZDF-Con. Moreover, we found that the levels of FGF-21 (R=0.532, p=0.02) and irisin (R=0.498, p=0.03) had significant correlations with grip strength. CONCLUSION: Based on these results, resistance training may be an efficient intervention for increasing FGF-21 and irisin levels in type 2 diabetic (T2DM) skeletal muscles.

Efficacy of Intensive Neurodevelopmental Treatment for Children With Developmental Delay, With or Without Cerebral Palsy.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of intensive neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT) on gross motor function for the children having developmental delay (DD), with or without cerebral palsy (CP). METHODS: Forty-two children had intensive NDT three times weekly, 60 minutes a day, for 3 months, immediately followed by conventional NDT once or twice a week, 30 minutes a day, for another 3 months. We assessed Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) over three time points: before conventional NDT, before and after intensive NDT, and after 3 months of additional conventional NDT. RESULTS: The GMFM score in DD children significantly improved after intensive NDT, and the improvement maintained after 3 months of conventional NDT (p<0.05). The children were further divided into two groups: DD with CP and DD without CP. Both groups showed significant improvement and maintained the improvements, after intensive NDT (p<0.05). Also, there was no significant difference in treatment efficacy between the two groups. When we calculate the absence rate for comparing the compliance between intensive and conventional NDT, the absence rate was lower during the intensive NDT. CONCLUSION: Intensive NDT showed significantly improved gross motor function and higher compliance than conventional NDT. Additionally, all improvements were maintained through subsequent short-term conventional NDT. Thus, we recommend the intensive NDT program by day-hospital centers for children with DD, irrespective of accompanying CP.

Effects of exercise-induced apelin levels on skeletal muscle and their capillarization in type 2 diabetic rats.

INTRODUCTION: Exercise-induced apelin as a myokine is believed to play a role in the improvement of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and capillarization. In this study, we evaluated the association between exercise-induced apelin and muscle capillarization. METHODS: Zucker rats underwent a treadmill exercise program. Body composition, muscle strength, muscle size, muscle capillarization, and insulin resistance (homeostatic model assessment [HOMA-IR]) were measured. Apelin levels of skeletal muscle and plasma were then analyzed. RESULTS: Exercise improved body composition (P < 0.05), HOMA-IR (P < 0.05), and grip strength (P < 0.001). In the soleus, the fiber size of T2DM was decreased (P < 0.001), but it increased in fiber size and capillarization after exercise (P < 0.001) occurred. We identified an increase in plasma apelin (P < 0.05) and a decrease in soleus apelin (P < 0.01), as well as an association between soleus apelin and angiogenesis (P < 0.01). DISCUSSION: A role for exercise-induced apelin in improving metabolism indicates the possibility of a new drug target for the treatment of metabolic diseases and repairing skeletal muscle damage. Muscle Nerve 56: 1155-1163, 2017.

Effect of elastic band-based high-speed power training on cognitive function, physical performance and muscle strength in older women with mild cognitive impairment.

AIM: The effectiveness of resistance training in improving cognitive function in older adults is well demonstrated. In particular, unconventional high-speed resistance training can improve muscle power development. In the present study, the effectiveness of 12 weeks of elastic band-based high-speed power training (HSPT) was examined. METHODS: Participants were randomly assigned into a HSPT group (n = 14, age 75.0 ± 0.9 years), a low-speed strength training (LSST) group (n = 9, age 76.0 ± 1.3 years) and a control group (CON; n = 7, age 78.0 ± 1.0 years). A 1-h exercise program was provided twice a week for 12 weeks for the HSPT and LSST groups, and balance and tone exercises were carried out by the CON group. RESULTS: Significant increases in levels of cognitive function, physical function, and muscle strength were observed in both the HSPT and LSST groups. In cognitive function, significant improvements in the Mini-Mental State Examination and Montreal Cognitive Assessment were seen in both the HSPT and LSST groups compared with the CON group. In physical functions, Short Physical Performance Battery scores were increased significantly in the HSPT and LSST groups compared with the CON group. In the 12 weeks of elastic band-based training, the HSPT group showed greater improvements in older women with mild cognitive impairment than the LSST group, although both regimens were effective in improving cognitive function, physical function and muscle strength. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that elastic band-based HSPT, as compared with LSST, is more efficient in helping older women with mild cognitive impairment to improve cognitive function, physical performance and muscle strength. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 765-772.

Effects of an integrated health education and elastic band resistance training program on physical function and muscle strength in community-dwelling elderly women: Healthy Aging and Happy Aging II study.

AIM: In the present study, we determined the effect of an integrated health education and elastic band resistance training program on body composition, physical function, muscle strength and quality in community-dwelling elderly women. METHODS: We recruited participants with eligibility inclusion criteria, and randomly assigned them to either the control group (n = 19) or the intervention group (n = 19). The integrated intervention program comprised of health education and individual counseling, and elastic band training for 18 weeks (8 weeks of supervised training and 10 weeks of self-directed training). We assessed body composition, muscle strength and quality, and physical function at pre-, after 8 weeks (mid-) and 18 weeks (post-training). RESULTS: After the intervention, there were no significant changes in skeletal muscle index, fat free mass, total lean mass and total fat mass for both the control group and intervention group. However, the interaction effect was significantly different in SPPB score (P < 0.05), isokinetic strength (60 deg/s, P < 0.001; 120 deg/s; P < 0.05) and muscle quality (P < 0.05) after 18 weeks of intervention relative to the baseline of the control and intervention groups. The supervised elastic band training of 8 weeks did not improve short physical performance battery score and isokinetic strength, whereas there was a significant increase of those outcomes (10.6% improvement, 9.8~23.5% improvement) after 10 weeks of following self-directed exercise compared with the baseline. CONCLUSIONS: These results show the effectiveness of following self-directed resistance training with health education after supervised training cessation in improvement of short physical performance battery and leg muscle strength. This intervention program might be an effective method to promote muscle strength and quality, and to prevent frailty in elderly women. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 825-833.

The reliability and validity of gait speed with different walking pace and distances against general health, physical function, and chronic disease in aged adults.

PURPOSE: Gait speed is an important objective values associated with several health-related outcomes including functional mobility in aging people. However, walking test methodologies and descriptions are not standardized considering specific aims of research. This study examine the reliability and validity of gait speed measured at various distances and paces in elderly Koreans. METHODS: Fifty-four female participants ≥70 years of age were recruited from a local retirement community. Gait speed was assessed at 4, 6 and 10 meters, and at usual- and fast-pace walking mode. The short physical performance battery (SPPB) that estimates senior fitness includes three tests of lower-body function. Data concerning for the chronic conditions and self-perceived health of the participants was collected using questionnaires. Concurrent validity of gait speed using the aforementioned test protocols was determined by calculating the Pearson correlation coefficients. RESULTS: Significant positive correlations were evident between skeletal muscle mass and maximal pace walking regardless of distance (r=.301~.308; p<.05), but not with body fat. All gait tests significantly positively correlated with self-rated health (normal pace r=.328~.346, p<.05; maximal pace r=.427~.472, p<.001) and depression (normal pace r=.279~.430, p<.05; maximal pace r=.413~.456, p<.001). CONCLUSION: Walking test at the normal pace appears suitable for estimating physical function and deterioration due to chronic disease. Walking test at a maximum pace might be useful for estimating subjective general health and skeletal muscle mass.

Effects of exercise and L-arginine intake on inflammation in aorta of high-fat diet induced obese rats.

PURPOSE: In the present study, we investigated the effect of exercise and arginine on the inflammatory makers and Cu-Mn superoxide dismutase (SOD) expression in the aortas of high-fat-induced obese rats. METHODS: Fifty 6-month-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned as follows: HF-Con: high-fat diet, HF-Ex: high-fat diet and exercise, HF-Ex+A: high-fat diet and combined exercise and arginine, HF-A: high-fat diet and arginine. The high-fat diet was fed for 12 weeks following 1 week of environmental adaptation with mixed solid chow. The rats performed treadmill exercise 6 times per week for 12 weeks at20 m/min for 60 min. L-argininewas mixed with saline and orally administered at 150 mg/kg once a day. Expressions of inflammatory markers (including NF- κB, TNF-α, COX-2) and SOD were evaluated using western blotting. RESULTS: NF-κB expression decreased significantly (p<0.05) in the HF-Ex group compared with HF-Con group, and we found additional effects(p<0.01) on NF-κB expression in HF-EX+A compared withHF-Ex. TNF-α expression decreased significantly (p<0.01) in HF-Ex, FH-Ex+A, and FH-A compared with HF-Con. In a similar trend with NF-κB expression, COX-2 expression decreased significantly in HF-Ex compared withHF-Con. In Cu-Mn SOD expression, there was no difference between HF and HF-Ex, but significant increases (p<0.01) inCu-Mn SOD werefound in HF-Ex+A and HF-A. CONCLUSION: Based on our results, treatment that combines exercise and arginine might be effective for modulatingvascular inflammation and oxidative stress in obesity.

Effect of resistance ladder training on sparc expression in skeletal muscle of hindlimb immobilized rats.

INTRODUCTION: Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is associated with skeletal muscle atrophy. Here we examined possibility that resistance training could regulate SPARC expression in muscle atrophy in an immobilized hindlimb model. METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rats underwent resistance ladder training and hindlimb immobilization. Cross sectional area and grip strength were measured. SPARC protein levels in the plantaris and soleus, and serum after exercise and immobilization were then analyzed. RESULTS: Resistance training decreased body weight (P < 0.001) and increased muscle quality (P < 0.001). In the plantaris, muscle atrophy (31.82%) and up-regulated SPARC expression (P < 0.05) after immobilization were alleviated by resistance training. CONCLUSIONS: Resistance training led to suppression of SPARC expression in the plantaris and showed a pretraining effect in atrophied rat muscle. Thus, SPARC may play a pivotal role in muscle homeostasis. Muscle Nerve 53: 951-957, 2016.

Combined Low-Intensity Exercise and Ascorbic Acid Attenuates Kainic Acid-Induced Seizure and Oxidative Stress in Mice.

Physical exercise and vitamins such as ascorbic acid (ASC) have been recognized as an effective strategy in neuroprotection and neurorehabilitatioin. However, there is a need to find an efficient treatment regimen that includes ASC and low-intensity exercise to diminish the risk of overtraining and nutritional treatment by attenuating oxidative stress. In the present study, we investigated the combined effect of low-intensity physical exercise (EX) and ASC on kainic acid (KA)-induced seizure activity and oxidative stress in mice. The mice were randomly assigned into groups as follows: "KA only" (n = 11), "ASC + KA" (n = 11), "Ex + KA" (n = 11), "ASC + Ex + KA" (n = 11). In the present study, low intensity of swimming training period lasted 8 weeks and consisted of 30-min sessions daily (three times per week) without tail weighting. Although no preventive effect of low-intensity exercise or ASC on KA seizure occurrence was evident, there was a decrease of seizure activity, seizure development (latency to first seizures), and mortality in "ASC + Ex + KA" compared to "ASC + KA", "Ex + KA", and "KA only" group. In addition, a preventive synergistic coordination of low-intensity exercise and ASC was evident in glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activity compared to separate treatment. These results suggest that low-intensity exercise and ASC treatment have preventive effects on seizure activity and development with alternation of oxidative status.

Resistance exercise reduced the expression of fibroblast growth factor-2 in skeletal muscle of aged mice.

BACKGROUND: Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) protein level has been shown to be elevated in aged mice muscle compared to adult mice. It activates the satellite cell quiescence, which leads to satellite cell depletion and may accelerate aging process. The purpose of this study was to see the effect of resistance exercise on skeletal muscle FGF-2 protein level in aged mice. METHODS: This study included eight young adult control C57BL/6 male mice (age 12 weeks, YCON group) and 14 aged C57BL/6 male mice (age 19 months), randomly divided into two groups (old control, OCON, n = 7; old resistance exercise, ORT, n = 7). Resistance ladder climbing exercise was conducted 3 d/wk for 12 weeks. Soleus and tibialis anterior muscles were collected for body composition, relative grip strength, and muscle wet weight and for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay protein analysis. RESULTS: Relative soleus muscle wet weight and hindlimb lean mass showed a significant increase in ORT group compared to OCON group (p = 0.013 and p = 0.015, respectively). In relative grip strength, both OCON and ORT showed a significant decrease compared to YCON (p < 0.001 and p = 0.011, respectively). However, ORT showed a significant increase compared to OCON (p = 0.02). OCON showed a significant increase in skeletal muscle FGF-2 protein level compared to YCON in soleus (p = 0.035), and ORT showed a significant decrease compared to OCON in soleus muscle (p = 0.045). FGF-2 protein level was significantly decreased in tibialis anterior muscle in the ORT group compared to OCON (p = 0.022). Correlation analysis showed a negative correlation between FGF-2 protein level and soleus and tibialis anterior muscle weight (r2 = 0.514, p = 0.0035; r2 = 0.312, p = 0.025, respectively). CONCLUSION: Twelve weeks of resistance exercise reduced soleus and tibialis anterior muscle FGF-2 protein level in aged mice with improvement in appendicular lean mass and muscle strength. Thus, resistance exercise could be an efficient intervention for preventing age-related increase of FGF-2 in skeletal muscle.