Resistance Band Exercise Training Prevents the Progression of Metabolic Syndrome in Obese Postmenopausal Women.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is classified as a combination of risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD), and postmenopausal women are specifically at an increased risk for MetS, in part due to the hormonal and metabolic changes that occur at the menopause transition. It is crucial to combat the components of MetS with appropriate lifestyle interventions in this population, such as exercise. This study aimed to examine the effects of a resistance band exercise training program in obese postmenopausal women with MetS. A total 35 postmenopausal women were randomly assigned to either a control group (CON, n = 17) or a resistance band exercise training group (EX, n = 18). Participants in the EX group trained 3days/week. Levels of blood glucose, insulin, homeostatic model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), blood lipid profile, anthropometrics, and blood pressure (BP) were measured at baseline and after the exercise intervention. There were significant group by time interactions (p < 0.05) for blood glucose (Δ-4.5 mg/dl), insulin (Δ -1.3 µU/ml), HOMA-IR (Δ -0.6), triglycerides (Δ -9.4 mg/dl), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(Δ -10.8 mg/dl), systolic BP(Δ -3.4 mmHg), body fat percentage (Δ -3.0 %), and waist circumference (Δ -3.4 cm), which significantly decreased (p < 0.05), and lean body mass (Δ 0.7 kg) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (Δ 5.1 mg/dl), which significantly increased (p < 0.05) after EX compared to no change in CON. The present study indicates that resistance band exercise training may be an effective therapeutic intervention to combat the components of MetS in this population, potentially reducing the risk for the development of CVD.

Combined anthocyanins and bromelain supplement improves endothelial function and skeletal muscle oxygenation status in adults: a double-blind placebo-controlled randomised crossover clinical trial.

Anthocyanins and bromelain have gained significant attention due to their antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. Both have been shown to improve endothelial function, blood pressure (BP) and oxygen utility capacity in humans; however, the combination of these two and the impacts on endothelial function, BP, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and oxygen utility capacity have not been previously investigated. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impacts of a combined anthocyanins and bromelain supplement (BE) on endothelial function, BP, TAC, oxygen utility capacity and fatigability in healthy adults. Healthy adults (n 18, age 24 (sd 4) years) received BE or placebo in a randomised crossover design. Brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD), BP, TAC, resting heart rate, oxygen utility capacity and fatigability were measured pre- and post-BE and placebo intake. The BE group showed significantly increased FMD, reduced systolic BP and improved oxygen utility capacity compared with the placebo group (P < 0·05). Tissue saturation and oxygenated Hb significantly increased following BE intake, while deoxygenated Hb significantly decreased (P < 0·05) during exercise. Additionally, TAC was significantly increased following BE intake (P < 0·05). There were no significant differences for resting heart rate, diastolic BP or fatigability index. These results suggest that BE intake is an effective nutritional therapy for improving endothelial function, BP, TAC and oxygen utility capacity, which may be beneficial to support vascular health in humans.

Functional, proteomic and bioinformatic analyses of Nrf2- and Keap1- null skeletal muscle.

KEY POINTS: Nrf2 is a master regulator of endogenous cellular defences, governing the expression of more than 200 cytoprotective proteins, including a panel of antioxidant enzymes. Nrf2 plays an important role in redox haemostasis of skeletal muscle in response to the increased generation of reactive oxygen species during contraction. Employing skeletal muscle-specific transgenic mouse models with unbiased-omic approaches, we uncovered new target proteins, downstream pathways and molecular networks of Nrf2 in skeletal muscle following Nrf2 or Keap1 deletion. Based on the findings, we proposed a two-way model to understand Nrf2 function: a tonic effect through a Keap1-independent mechanism under basal conditions and an induced effect through a Keap1-dependent mechanism in response to oxidative and other stresses. ABSTRACT: Although Nrf2 has been recognized as a master regulator of cytoprotection, its functional significance remains to be completely defined. We hypothesized that proteomic/bioinformatic analyses from Nrf2-deficient or overexpressed skeletal muscle tissues will provide a broader spectrum of Nrf2 targets and downstream pathways than are currently known. To this end, we created two transgenic mouse models; the iMS-Nrf2flox/flox and iMS-Keap1flox/flox , employing which we demonstrated that selective deletion of skeletal muscle Nrf2 or Keap1 separately impaired or improved skeletal muscle function. Mass spectrometry revealed that Nrf2-KO changed expression of 114 proteins while Keap1-KO changed expression of 117 proteins with 10 proteins in common between the groups. Gene ontology analysis suggested that Nrf2 KO-changed proteins are involved in metabolism of oxidoreduction coenzymes, purine ribonucleoside triphosphate, ATP and propanoate, which are considered as the basal function of Nrf2, while Keap1 KO-changed proteins are involved in cellular detoxification, NADP metabolism, glutathione metabolism and the electron transport chain, which belong to the induced effect of Nrf2. Canonical pathway analysis suggested that Keap1-KO activated four pathways, whereas Nrf2-KO did not. Ingenuity pathway analysis further revealed that Nrf2-KO and Keap1-KO impacted different signal proteins and functions. Finally, we validated the proteomic and bioinformatics data by analysing glutathione metabolism and mitochondrial function. In conclusion, we found that Nrf2-targeted proteins are assigned to two groups: one mediates the tonic effects evoked by a low level of Nrf2 at basal condition; the other is responsible for the inducible effects evoked by a surge of Nrf2 that is dependent on a Keap1 mechanism.

Impacts of prolonged sitting with mild hypercapnia on vascular and autonomic function in healthy recreationally active adults.

Prolonged sitting, which is known to impair peripheral vascular function, often occurs in spaces (e.g., offices) with mild hypercapnic atmospheres. However, the effects of prolonged sitting in hypercapnic conditions on vascular function are unknown. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of prolonged sitting in mild hypercapnic conditions on vascular and autonomic function in humans. Twelve healthy young adults participated in two experimental visits that consisted of sitting for 2.5 h in a control condition [normal atmospheric conditions sitting (PSIT)] or a mild hypercapnic condition (HCAP; CO2 = 1,500 ppm). During each visit, heart rate variability (HRV), blood pressure (BP), pulse wave velocity (PWV), augmentation index (AIx), brachial and popliteal artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD), and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) were assessed before and after prolonged sitting. Sitting significantly decreased AIx in both groups (P < 0.05). Brachial and popliteal FMD were reduced with sitting (P < 0.05), and the reduction in popliteal FMD was amplified by HCAP (P < 0.05). Baseline microvascular oxygenation was decreased following sitting in both groups (P < 0.05). However, microvascular reoxygenation upon cuff release was slower only in HCAP (P < 0.05). HRV, HR, BP, and PWV did not significantly change with sitting in either group (P > 0.05). We conclude that prolonged sitting attenuated both brachial and popliteal endothelial function and was associated with perturbed microcirculation. Additionally, mild hypercapnic conditions further impaired peripheral endothelial and microvascular function. Together, these findings suggest that prolonged sitting is accompanied by a host of deleterious effects on the vasculature, which are exacerbated by mild hypercapnia.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The results of this study reveal that prolonged sitting attenuates endothelial function and microvascular function. Additionally, prolonged sitting with mild hypercapnia, which is similar to everyday environments, further exacerbates peripheral endothelial function and microvascular function.

Acute mitochondrial antioxidant intake improves endothelial function, antioxidant enzyme activity, and exercise tolerance in patients with peripheral artery disease.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a manifestation of atherosclerosis in the leg arteries, which causes claudication. This may be in part due to vascular mitochondrial dysfunction and excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. A mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant (MitoQ) has been shown to improve vascular mitochondrial function that, in turn, led to improved vascular function in older adults and animal models. However, the roles of vascular mitochondria in vascular function including endothelial function and arterial stiffness in patients with PAD are unknown; therefore, with the use of acute MitoQ intake, this study examined the roles of vascular mitochondria in endothelial function, arterial stiffness, exercise tolerance, and skeletal muscle function in patients with PAD. Eleven patients with PAD received either MitoQ or placebo in a randomized crossover design. At each visit, blood samples, brachial and popliteal artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD), peripheral and central pulse-wave velocity (PWV), blood pressure (BP), maximal walking capacity, time to claudication (COT), and oxygen utility capacity were measured pre- and-post-MitoQ and placebo. There were significant group by time interactions (P < 0.05) for brachial and popliteal FMD that both increased by Δ2.6 and Δ3.3%, respectively, and increases superoxide dismutase (Δ0.03 U/mL), maximal walking time (Δ73.8 s), maximal walking distance (Δ49.3 m), and COT (Δ44.2 s). There were no changes in resting heart rate, BP, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity, PWV, or oxygen utility capacity (P > 0.05). MitoQ intake may be an effective strategy for targeting the vascular mitochondrial environment, which may be useful for restoring endothelial function, leg pain, and walking time in patients with PAD.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The results of this study reveal for the first time that acute oral intake of mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant (MitoQ, 80 mg) is effective for improving vascular endothelial function and superoxide dismutase in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Acute MitoQ intake is also effective for improving maximal walking capacity and delaying the onset of claudication in patients with PAD. These findings suggest that the acute oral intake of MitoQ-mediated improvements in vascular mitochondria play a pivotal role for improving endothelial function, the redox environment, and skeletal muscle performance in PAD.

Habitual Combined Exercise Protects against Age-Associated Decline in Vascular Function and Lipid Profiles in Elderly Postmenopausal Women.

Postmenopausal status is associated with increased risks for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). This study investigated differences in vascular function, lipids, body composition, and physical fitness in elderly postmenopausal women active in combined resistance and aerobic exercise (CRAE) training for 1 year versus a sedentary cohort of similar-in-age counterparts. Elderly postmenopausal women performing habitual CRAE training for 1 year (age ~75 year; CRAE, n = 57) and elderly sedentary postmenopausal women (age ~78 year; SED, n = 44) were recruited. Arterial stiffness (brachial-to-ankle pulse-wave velocity, baPWV), blood pressure, blood lipids, anthropometrics, 2-min walking distance, and muscular strength were assessed for both groups. There were significant differences for baPWV, systolic blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein, and body fat percentage, which were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in CRAE vs. SED, and both 2 min walking distance and muscular strength were significantly greater (p < 0.05) in CRAE vs. SED. These results indicate that elderly postmenopausal women participating in habitual CRAE training may have better protection against risks for CVD and have better physical fitness compared to SED counterparts.

Correction to: The effects of a 12-week jump rope exercise program on abdominal adiposity, vasoactive substances, inflammation, and vascular function in adolescent girls with prehypertension.

The Following error was published on page 578. The incorrect IRB number under "Participants" section was accidently reported.

Effects of heated water-based versus land-based exercise training on vascular function in individuals with peripheral artery disease.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is an atherosclerotic disease that is associated with poor vascular function, walking impairment, and reduced quality of life. Land-based exercise therapy (LBET) is frequently recommended to improve walking and reduce symptoms. Recently, evidence has suggested that heated-water exercise therapy (HWET) is an effective intervention for PAD. However, the efficacy of LBET versus HWET in PAD patients had not been elucidated. Therefore, we sought to compare effects of LBET with HWET on cardiovascular function, exercise tolerance, physical function, and body composition in PAD patients. PAD patients (n = 53) were recruited and randomly assigned to a LBET group (n = 25) or HWET group (n = 28). The LBET group performed treadmill walking, whereas the HWET group performed walking in heated water for 12 wk. Leg (legPWV) and brachial-to-ankle arterial stiffness (baPWV), blood pressure (BP), ankle-brachial index (ABI), 6-min walking distance (6MWD), claudication onset time (COT), physical function, and body composition were assessed before and after 12 wk. There were significant group-by-time interactions (P < 0.05) for legPWV, BP, 6MWD, COT, body composition, and resting metabolic rate (RMR). Both groups significantly reduced (P < 0.05) legPWV, BP, and body fat percentage, and HWET measures were significantly lower than LBET measures. Both groups significantly increased 6MWD, COT, and RMR, and HWET group measures were significantly greater than LBET measures. A time effect was noted for baPWV reduction in both groups (P < 0.05). These results suggest that both LBET and HWET improve cardiovascular function, exercise tolerance, and body composition, and HWET showed considerably greater improvements compared with LBET in patients with PAD.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The results of this study reveal for the first time that although land-based exercise therapy is effective for reducing arterial stiffness and blood pressure in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD), heated-water exercise therapy demonstrates greater benefits on vascular function. The greater improvements in muscular strength, time to onset of claudication, and exercise tolerance after heated-water exercise therapy may have clinical implications for improving quality of life in patients with PAD. The heated-water exercise therapy intervention demonstrated relatively higher exercise training adherence (∼88%) compared with the land-based exercise intervention (∼81%).

Twelve weeks of resistance band exercise training improves age-associated hormonal decline, blood pressure, and body composition in postmenopausal women with stage 1 hypertension: a randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: Menopause is often accompanied by an age-associated hormonal decline, increased blood pressure (BP), and poor body composition, which may collectively increase risks for cardiovascular disease. It is important to combat the negative effects on age-associated hormonal decline, BP, and body composition by incorporating appropriate lifestyle interventions, such as exercise. We sought to examine the effects of a 12-week resistance band exercise training program on aging-related hormones including estradiol, growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), BP, and body composition in postmenopausal women with stage 1 hypertension. METHODS: Postmenopausal women with stage 1 hypertension (n = 20) were recruited and randomly assigned to a 12-week resistance band exercise training group (EX, n = 10) or control group (CON, n = 10). The EX group performed a total-body resistance band exercise training program. Levels of estradiol, GH, IGF-1, DHEA-S, as well as BP and body composition were assessed before and after 12 weeks. RESULTS: There were significant group by time interactions (P < 0.05) for estradiol, GH, IGF-1, DHEA-S, and lean body mass, which significantly increased (P < 0.05), and systolic BP, total body mass, body mass index, and body fat percentage, which significantly decreased (P < 0.05) after EX compared to no changes in CON. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in diastolic BP after 12 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that 12 weeks of resistance band exercise may be an effective, easily accessible, and cost-efficient intervention for improving age-associated hormonal decline, high BP, and poor body composition in postmenopausal women with stage 1 hypertension. : Video Summary: http://links.lww.com/MENO/A494.