No abstract

Non-Hispanic blacks and Hispanics were more inactive during their leisure time than were non-Hispanic whites. Social class but not occupational physical activity seems to moderate the relationship between race/ethnicity and leisure-time physical inactivity.

Purpose: To conduct a pilot randomized trial testing an exercise program specifically adapted for post-bariatric patients. Methods: A total of 51 post-bariatric patients, 6-24 months post-surgery, were randomly assigned to usual care control (n = 25) or the exercise intervention (n = 26). The intervention included twice weekly 60 minute group exercise classes with functional strength, flexibility, and aerobic activities; at least three days per week of self-directed exercise; daily pedometer; recording of steps and activities; and weekly telephone counseling. There was also a six month maintenance period. Results: Patients were 49 ± 12 years old, 84% female, 59% non-Hispanic white, with a BMI of 32.9 ± 5.7 kg/m2 and percent excess BMI loss since surgery of 56% ± 35%. Patients were 14 ± 5 months post-surgery. A total of 44 patients (86%) completed both phases of the program and all assessments. The following measures improved significantly for intervention participants with no significant change in control participants: yards walked in six minutes, seconds for 8-foot up-and-go, number of arm curls, and distance in inches for chair sit-and-reach. Intervention changes remained after six months of maintenance. Conclusions: When compared to patients in usual care, a specially adapted exercise program for post-bariatric patients resulted in significant improvements in objectively monitored health outcomes. This program was delivered in a clinical setting and could be implemented in a variety of settings to improve health outcomes for post-bariatric patients.

The oxidative burst of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) phagocytes was previously found to be differentially modulated by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and the catecholamine receptor agonists phenylephrine and isoproterenol. From data obtained using both luminol-enhanced chemiluminescence (LECL) and ferricytochrome C (cyt C) reduction to measure oxidative burst kinetics, we postulated that the observed modulation was mediated by affects on enzymes responsible for the production and metabolism of superoxide anion. Using exogenous superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase as scavengers, nitroprusside to poison endogenous SOD, and an assay for hydrogen peroxide, we have tested our postulates by exploiting the differences with which various reactive oxygen intermediates influence LECL and cyt C reduction. The ability of ACTH to potentiate both assays of the oxidative burst appears due to its enhancing influence on the production of superoxide. Phenylephrine, an alpha-adrenergic receptor agonist, appears to enhance the activity of endogenous SOD, whereas isoproterenol, a beta-adrenergic receptor agonist, may suppress SOD activity. This work reveals how components of the natural immune system may be regulated by products of the neuroendocrine system. Also, lymphocyte-derived ACTH may provide a novel pathway for lymphoid regulation of inflammation.

The purpose of this study was to determine total and regional bone mineral density (BMD) in highly competitive young adult and master male cyclists. Three groups of men were studied: older cyclists (51.2+/-5.3 years, n=27); young adult cyclists (31.7+/-3.5 years, n=16); and 24 non-athletes matched by age (+/-2 years) and body weight (+/-2 kg) to the master cyclists. All of the master cyclists had been training and racing for a minimum of 10 years (mean 20.2+/-8.4 years) and engaging in little to no weight-bearing exercise. The younger cyclists also engaged in little weight-bearing exercise and had been training and racing for 10.9+/-3.2 years. Age-matched controls were normally active. The History of Leisure Activity Questionnaire was used to determine the influence on BMD of self-reported total and weight-bearing exercise during three periods of life: 12-18 years, 19-34 years, and 35-49 years. BMD (measured by DXA) of the spine (L2-L4) and total hip was significantly (P<0.033) lower in the master cyclists compared to both age-matched controls and young adult cyclists. Total body BMD was lower in the master cyclists compared to the young-adults (P<0.033). Furthermore, four (15%) of the master cyclists, but none of the men in the other groups, had T-scores (spine and/or hip) lower than -2.5. Weight-bearing exercise performed during teen and young adult years did not appear to influence BMD, as there were no differences at any site between those within the upper and lower 50th percentiles for weight-bearing exercise during the 12-18, 19-34, or 35-49 year time periods. These data indicate that master cyclists with a long history of training exclusively in cycling have low BMD compared to their age-matched peers. Although highly trained and physically fit, these athletes may be at high risk for developing osteoporosis with advancing age.