Exploring the Preliminary Effects of Resistance Training on Total Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Levels in Elderly Individuals: A Pilot Study

Background: Studies have shown that exercise modulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, and resistance training, in particular, has received increasing attention for its potential to enhance BDNF production. Most studies investigating exercise-induced BDNF changes have focused on free or mature BDNF, while the measurement of total BDNF, encompassing both proBDNF and mature BDNF, may provide a more comprehensive understanding of BDNF regulation. This pilot study aimed to explore the preliminary effects of resistance training on total BDNF levels in elderly individuals participating in a resistance training program. Methods: A small sample of participants (n=6) was recruited and engaged in a structured resistance training program for 12 weeks, with 6 participants in a control group. Total BDNF levels were measured at baseline and post-intervention using reliable laboratory assessments. Additionally, an isokinetic dynamometer was used to determine muscle strength to explore the effect of the resistance training program on muscle performance. Results: The findings revealed a significant increase in total BDNF levels following the 12 week resistance training intervention (p<0.05). However, improvements in physical performance measures, knee extension peak torque and isometric maximal voluntary contraction, were not observed. Conclusion: In conclusion, this pilot study provides preliminary evidence of the positive effects of a 12 week resistance training intervention on total BDNF levels. The measurement of total BDNF levels serves as an important marker in assessing the response to resistance training. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer intervention periods is warranted to further explore the relationship between resistance training and total BDNF levels and to confirm these preliminary findings. Understanding the impact of resistance training on total BDNF levels can have implications for optimizing training programs and potentially improving exercise-related outcomes. Keywords: muscle strength, exercise, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, neuroplasticity, healthy ageing

Accuracy of a Basketball Indoor Tracking System Based on Standard Bluetooth Low Energy Channels (NBN23®)

The present study aims to identify the accuracy of the NBN23((R)) system, an indoor tracking system based on radio-frequency and standard Bluetooth Low Energy channels. Twelve capture tags were attached to a custom cart with fixed distances of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 1.8 m. The cart was pushed along a predetermined course following the lines of a standard dimensions Basketball court. The course was performed at low speed (10.0 km/h and 20.0 km/h). Root mean square error (RMSE) and percentage of variance accounted for (%VAF) were used as accuracy measures. The obtained data showed acceptable accuracy results for both RMSE and %VAF, despite the expected degree of error in position measurement at higher speeds. The RMSE for all the distances and velocities presented an average absolute error of 0.30 +/- 0.13 cm with 90.61 +/- 8.34 of %VAF, in line with most available systems, and considered acceptable for indoor sports. The processing of data with filter correction seemed to reduce the noise and promote a lower relative error, increasing the %VAF for each measured distance. Research using positional-derived variables in Basketball is still very scarce; thus, this independent test of the NBN23((R)) tracking system provides accuracy details and opens up opportunities to develop new performance indicators that help to optimize training adaptations and performance.This research was funded by Project Project NanoSTIMA: Macro-to-Nano Human Sensing: Towards Integrated Multimodal Health Monitoring and Analytics, NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000016, Fundo Europeu de Desenvolvimento Regional (FEDER)-NORTE 2020

The effect of repeated sprint ability on physiological and physical profiles of young basketball players. [El efecto de esprines repetidos en los perfiles fisiológicos y físicos de jóvenes jugadores de baloncesto].

The purpose of this study was to describe the dynamics of a repeated sprint ability (RSA) cycling protocol in young elite basketball players. Twenty-two elite male basketball players (aged 18.3±0.6 years; training years 9.1±1.3 years) performed 3 bouts of a repeated sprint ability (RSA) protocols, consisting of 5 x 6-s cycling sprints with a 24-s rest interval between sprints. The work decrement during the first trial was high (14.1±4.8%) and after 5-minute rest did not change significantly. The total work decreased by 5.5% in the second work interval and by 2.9% in the third interval. During the 5-minute passive rest, young basketball players’ peak power recovered about 90% of the initial levels. It is suggested that rest intervals are sufficient to continue the game with adequate performance potential. A reduction in work decrement, while maintaining the capacity of all sprints, is needed to achieve a higher repeated sprint ability. Resumen El propósito de este estudio fue describir la dinámica de un protocolo de esprines repetidos en jóvenes jugadores de baloncesto. Veintidós jugadores de baloncesto masculino (con edades comprendidas entre 18,3 ± 0,6 años, años de entrenamiento de 9,1 ± 1,3 años) realizaron 3 series de un protocolo de esprín repetido, consistiendo en 5 esprines en cicloergometro de 6-s con de descanso de 24-s entre esprints. La disminución del trabajo durante la primera serie fue alta (14.1 ± 4.8%) y después de 5 minutos de descanso no cambió significativamente. El trabajo total disminuyó en un 5.5% en la segunda serie y en un 2.9% en la tercera. Durante el descanso pasivo de 5 minutos, la potencia máxima de los jóvenes jugadores de baloncesto recuperó aproximadamente hasta un 90% de los niveles iniciales. Se sugiere que los intervalos de descanso sean suficientes para continuar el juego con un potencial de rendimiento adecuado. Se necesita una reducción en el decremento del trabajo, mientras se mantiene la capacidad de todos los esprines, para optimizar esta capacidad de rendimiento tan importante en baloncesto

Myokines as mediators of exercise-induced cognitive changes in older adults: protocol for a comprehensive living systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundThe world’s population is aging, but life expectancy has risen more than healthy life expectancy (HALE). With respect to brain and cognition, the prevalence of neurodegenerative disorders increases with age, affecting health and quality of life, and imposing significant healthcare costs. Although the effects of physical exercise on cognition in advanced age have been widely explored, in-depth fundamental knowledge of the underlying mechanisms of the exercise-induced cognitive improvements is lacking. Recent research suggests that myokines, factors released into the blood circulation by contracting skeletal muscle, may play a role in mediating the beneficial effect of exercise on cognition. Our goal in this ongoing (living) review is to continuously map the rapidly accumulating knowledge on pathways between acute or chronic exercise-induced myokines and cognitive domains enhanced by exercise.MethodRandomized controlled studies will be systematically collected at baseline and every 6 months for at least 5 years. Literature search will be performed online in PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, SportDiscus, LILACS, IBECS, CINAHL, SCOPUS, ICTRP, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Risk of bias will be assessed using the Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool (ROB 2). A random effects meta-analysis with mediation analysis using meta-analytic structural equation modeling (MASEM) will be performed. The primary research question is to what extent exercise-induced myokines serve as mediators of cognitive function. Secondarily, the pooled effect size of specific exercise characteristics (e.g., mode of exercise) or specific older adults’ populations (e.g., cognitively impaired) on the relationship between exercise, myokines, and cognition will be assessed. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023416996).DiscussionUnderstanding the triad relationship between exercise, myokines and cognition will expand the knowledge on multiple integrated network systems communicating between skeletal muscles and other organs such as the brain, thus mediating the beneficial effects of exercise on health and performance. It may also have practical implications, e.g., if a certain myokine is found to be a mediator between exercise and cognition, the optimal exercise characteristics for inducing this myokine can be prescribed. The living review is expected to improve our state of knowledge and refine exercise regimes for enhancing cognitive functioning in diverse older adults’ populations.RegistrationSystematic review and meta-analysis protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) on the 24th of April 2023 (registration number CRD42023416996)

Exploring the preliminary effects of resistance training on total brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in elderly individuals: a pilot study

Background: Studies have shown that exercise modulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, and resistance training, in particular, has received increasing attention for its potential to enhance BDNF production. Most studies investigating exercise-induced BDNF changes have focused on free or mature BDNF, while the measurement of total BDNF, encompassing both proBDNF and mature BDNF, may provide a more comprehensive understanding of BDNF regulation. This pilot study aimed to explore the preliminary effects of resistance training on total BDNF levels in elderly individuals participating in a resistance training program. Methods: A small sample of participants (n=6) was recruited and engaged in a structured resistance training program for 12 weeks, with 6 participants in a control group. Total BDNF levels were measured at baseline and post-intervention using reliable laboratory assessments. Additionally, an isokinetic dynamometer was used to determine muscle strength to explore the effect of the resistance training program on muscle performance. Results: The findings revealed a significant increase in total BDNF levels following the 12 week resistance training intervention (p<0.05). However, improvements in physical performance measures, knee extension peak torque and isometric maximal voluntary contraction, were not observed. Conclusion: In conclusion, this pilot study provides preliminary evidence of the positive effects of a 12 week resistance training intervention on total BDNF levels. The measurement of total BDNF levels serves as an important marker in assessing the response to resistance training. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer intervention periods is warranted to further explore the relationship between resistance training and total BDNF levels and to confirm these preliminary findings. Understanding the impact of resistance training on total BDNF levels can have implications for optimizing training programs and potentially improving exercise-related outcomes. Keywords: muscle strength, exercise, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, neuroplasticity, healthy ageing

Effect of acute strength training on the posture control during dual tasking and executive function in older adults. A randomized controlled study

Background: It is well known that aging negatively affects the ability to perform a dual-task due to impaired motor and executive functions. Any method to improve posture stability and cognitive func - tioning in old adults is acceptable. Methods: 30 old-aged men performed dual-tasks before and after intervention. They were randomly divided into control and experimental groups. The experimental group performed squats with a bar - bell, while control group had a rest. Results: Elimination of visual feedback increased sway activity (p < 0.05) during single and dual tasks. There was no significant effect of the dual-task and strength training on sway activity. Dual-task and acute strength training did not affect executive functions during dual task (DT). Conclusion: Our research suggests that acute strength training might be an effective intervention to improve cognitive functions in old adults. Unfortunately, we did not find any effect of intervention on motor – cognitive function interaction during dual-task, we found only a tendency of improvement

Short and long-term effects of mobilization with movement and eccentric overload to hand pain and function in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis

Aim. To determine and compare short and long-term effects of mobilization with movement and eccentric overload to hand pain and function in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis. Problem of research & hypothesis. The eccentric overload exercises are one of the best methods in tendinopathy treatment. Mobilization with movement is largely used as an effective treatment method for lateral epicondylitis. Only the short-term effects of these methods in lateral epicondylitis are often evaluated, but no studies were found to use these methods in combination and to evaluate their long-term effects. Methods. The study included individuals (n=30) aged 30–54 years who had been diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis. Subjects were tested by assessing their perceived pain using the visual analogue scale (VAS); handgrip strength was assessed by a dynamometer. The QuickDASH questionnaire was used to assess hand function and perceived disability. Subjects were randomly divided into three groups: mobilization with movement group (n=10), eccentric overload group (n=10), and combined group (combined mobilization with movement and eccentric overload exercises) (n=10). All subjects got 10 physiotherapy procedures, short-term effect evaluated after 10 procedures of physiotherapy, long-term effect evaluated after 2, 6 and 12 weeks post treatment course. Results. Study results revealed that all treatment methods had a significant (p<0.05) effect on pain reduction, increase in handgrip strength as well as improvement in hand function and disability. In follow-up assessments at 2, 6 and 12 weeks after the treatment, the most altered indicators of pain intensity, pain-free handgrip strength and hand function were seen in the mobilization with movement group. Conclusions. An application of mobilization with movement in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis had the greatest positive effect on pain intensity, maximum handgrip strength and hand function and disability compared to mobilization with movement combined with eccentric overload and eccentric overload exercises alone. Keywords: lateral epicondylitis, mobilization with movement, eccentric overload, pain intensity, hand pain-free grip strength

Exploring how playing football with different age groups affects tactical behaviour and physical performance

The study aimed to compare footballers' performances when playing with teammates and opponents from the same age group with performances when playing with teammates and opponents of different age groups. Three football matches were played: i) under-15 (U15) players played with each other; ii) under-17 (U17) players played with each other; and iii) players under the age of 15 and 17 played with each other in two equivalent mixed age teams. The players' physical performance was measured using the distances covered at different speed categories and tactical behaviour was assessed using several positioning-derived variables. The results showed that, when playing in the mixed age condition, the U15 players increased the distance covered in sprinting intensity (18.1%; +/- 21.1%) and the U17 players increased the distance covered in jogging zones (6.8%; +/- 6.5%). The intra-team movement synchronization in longitudinal and lateral displacements was higher when U15 players confronted peers of the same age, in the first half (-13.4%; +/- 2.0%, -20.3%; +/- 5.7% respectively), and when U17 players confronting the mixed group, in both halves (-16.9%; +/- 2.5%, 9.8%; +/- 4.0% and 7.9%; +/- 5.7%, 10.6% +/- 4.4%, respectively). The differences between age groups and the mixed condition may be connected with the level of players' tactical expertise and adaptive positioning according to the dynamic environmental information. In general, these results suggest that mixing the age groups may be useful to promote a wider range of training session stimuli in these young football players

Keturgalvio šlaunies raumens jėgos bimodalinis atsigavimas po nepertraukiamo maksimalios valingos jėgos krūvio esant skirtingam raumens ilgiui

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that contractility of quadriceps femoris muscle during a 15-min period after a sustained maximum voluntary contraction for 1 min is determined by the interaction of posttetanic potentiation, metabolic fatigue, and nonmetabolic fatigue. Eleven healthy untrained men (age, 22.9±1.8 years; body weight, 77.5±5.2 kg) performed isometric 1-min maximum voluntary contraction at long (90° in knee joint) and short (135° in knee joint) muscle length at two different occasions. Contractility of quadriceps femoris muscle was monitored via the evoked contractions at 1, 10, 20, and 50 Hz and maximum voluntary contraction at short and long muscle length on both occasions. Force generating capacity was reduced immediately after 1-min maximum voluntary contraction at short and long muscle length, and then a bi-modal time-course of recovery was observed which consisted of (1) rapid recovery of all measured indexes at 3 min and (2) divergence in the changes of forces at low and high stimulation frequencies, as well as maximal voluntary contraction force at 7 and 15 min after exercising. The decline in force immediately after 1-min isometric load was caused by metabolic and nonmetabolic fatigue; however, factors related to the metabolic fatigue were prevalent. As the effect of metabolic fatigue was diminishing and posttetanic potentiation was still present, force generation capacity recovered at 3 minutes after exercising. Further dynamics of contractility can be explained by the fading influence of posttetanic potentiation and dominant effect of nonmetabolic fatigue

Fast and Slow Recovery of Low Frequency Fatigue of Quadriceps Muscle after Sustained Maximum Voluntary Contractions at Different Muscle Length

Bibliogr.: p. 69 (30 pavad.)Vytauto Didžiojo universitetasŽemės ūkio akademij