Journal of Exercise & Organ Cross Talk

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of endurance, resistance, and Concurrent endurance and resistance training on fat oxidation and fatigue levels in obese diabetic rats. A total of forty overweight rats (average weight of 380 ± 50 g) were randomly assigned to five distinct groups. Diabetes was induced through peritoneal administration of Streptozotocin at a dosage of 55 mg/kg body weight. Endurance training was conducted via moderate-intensity treadmill running (50%-70% of maximum running capacity) for a duration of eight weeks, with sessions lasting one hour per day, five days a week. Resistance training involved ladder climbing at 50-70% of maximum load, also for eight weeks, with five sessions per week, comprising 15 climbs per session and a one-minute rest interval between climbs. The Concurrent training regimen alternated between treadmill and ladder exercises. Levels of CPT1 and CPT2 were quantified using rat CPT1 and CPT2 ELISA kits, both prior to and 48 hours following the training period. Fatigue indices were assessed as well. All three training modalities significantly influenced CPT1 levels (F=93.35, P=0.001) and led to a notable increase in CPT2 levels (F=26.76, P=0.001). Additionally, significant alterations in fatigue indices were observed (F=26.12, P=0.001). The findings suggest that aerobic, resistance, and Concurrent training regimens can enhance metabolic function and prolong the duration until fatigue in elderly diabetic rats. Nonetheless, the extent of these improvements is somewhat contingent upon the specific type of exercise performed, with aerobic and Concurrent training demonstrating a more pronounced effect compared to resistance training.

Abstract We investigate the effect of 6 weeks of aerobic training and probiotic supplementation on glycemic index and the correlation between glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and interleukin 15 (IL-15) in rats fed a high-fat diet. 40 male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups (8 each): healthy control, high-fat diet (HFD), HFD+ aerobic exercise (Tr), HFD+ probiotic supplement (Sup) and HFD+Tr+Sup. Rats in the HFD group received a special high-fat diet for 2 months before the main protocol. The rats in the training groups ran on a rodent treadmill for 6 weeks, 5 days a week. Lactobacillus bifidus supplement was gavage to the rats of the supplemented groups in the amount of 10⁹ CFU/ml after each round of training. The results of the statistical test showed that the HFD groups had a significant decrease in GPX compared to the healthy control group (p<0.05). However, only the HFD+Tr+Sup group showed a significant increase in GPX compared to the HFD and HFD+Tr groups (p<0.05). In contrast, HFD+Sup showed a significant increase in IL-15 gene expression compared to the healthy control group. Compared to the HFD group, the HFD+Tr and HFD+Tr+Sup groups showed a decrease and the HFD+Sup group showed a significant increase in IL-15 gene expression (p<0.05). The correlation between GPX and IL-15 was not confirmed (p<0.05). It seems that exercise training and lactobacillus supplementation are effective in regulating glucose, GPX and IL-15 indices after HFD. However, more studies should be done for the relationship and cross talk between antioxidant indices and IL-15.

Abstract Exercise training is known to enhance lipolysis in response to hormonal challenges, but the impact of different exercise modalities on fat metabolism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of eight weeks of interval training on enzymes and hormones involved fat breakdown in rats with metabolic syndrome, focusing on the expression of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) and adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL), as well as plasma levels of glucagon and epinephrine. Thirty-five male rats were randomly divided into five groups (7 rats/group): Experimental Group1 (6 weeks of fructose solution), Experimental Group2 (6 weeks of fructose+8 weeks of interval training), Experimental Group3 (14 weeks of fructose), Control Group1 (6 weeks without intervention), and Control Group2 (14 weeks without intervention). Western blot analysis assessed HSL and ATGL expression, while ELISA measured plasma glucagon and epinephrine levels. Fructose consumption for 6 and 14 weeks induced metabolic syndrome in male rats, leading to a significant reduction in HSL and ATGL protein expression (P = 0.024 and P = 0.034, respectively). Interval training for 8 weeks significantly increased HSL and ATGL levels (P = 0.011 and P = 0.025, respectively), indicating enhanced fat tissue breakdown. Moreover, interval training significantly decreased glucagon levels (P = 0.015), though it did not affect epinephrine levels (P = 0.159). Interval training effectively reverses some metabolic syndrome-associated impairments in fat metabolism, specifically increasing key lipolytic enzymes and reducing glucagon levels. This suggests a potential therapeutic role for interval training in managing metabolic syndrome.

Abstract The present study will investigate the changes and correlation between the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the expression of interleukin 10 (IL-10) in rats fed a high-fat diet (HFD) after 6 weeks of aerobic exercise supplemented with the probiotic Lactobacillus bifidus. 40 male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups (8 each): healthy control, high-fat diet (HFD), HFD+aerobic exercise (Tr), HFD+probiotic supplementation (Sup), and HFD+Tr+Sup. The rats in the HFD group received a special high-fat diet for 2 months prior to the main protocol. The rats in the exercise groups ran on a rodent treadmill for 6 weeks, 5 days a week. Lactobacillus bifidus supplementation was gavaged at a dose of 1 cc to the rats in the supplementation groups after each exercise session. Finally, the rats were sacrificed, and the IL-10 variable was measured using the Real-Time PCR method. The results of the present study indicated that the high-fat diet increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels (p<0.05). The HFD and HFD+Sup groups showed a significant decrease in SOD compared to the healthy control group (p<0.05). All treatment groups demonstrated a significant increase in SOD compared to the HFD group (p<0.05). The HFD+Tr and HFD+Tr+Sup groups showed a significant increase in IL-10 compared to the HFD group (p<0.05). However, the correlation between SOD and IL-10 was not confirmed (p>0.05). There was no correlation between the antioxidant enzyme and IL-10. Nevertheless, exercise and Lactobacillus bifidus were able to regulate the lipid profile, SOD, and IL-10 after a high-fat diet.

Abstract The aim of this study was to considering the correlation between the muscle fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5), blood and heart level of Irisin in exercise-trained rats with Nano selenium supplementation after intraperitoneal injection of cigarette smoke extract induced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). To this end, 49 male Wistar rats (8 weeks old) were divided into seven groups: control, SeNPs (2.5 mg/kg b.w by oral gavage, 3 days/week, 6 weeks), AIT (49 min/day, 5 days/week for 6 weeks, interval), SeNPs+AIT, CSE (150 µL by IP injection, 1 day/week for 6 weeks), CSE+AIT, and CSE+SeNPs+AIT. The results of the present study showed that CSE injection caused inflammation and damage to lung tissue, especially alveoli, compared to the healthy group. In other words, based on the histological examination of cigarette smoke extract, it was able to cause lung tissue damage similar to COPD, and doing exercise and taking nanoselenium antioxidant supplement could control these lung tissue damage. Pearson's correlation method was used to investigate the relationship between muscle FNDC5, serum and heart Irisin, and the results of this correlation were not significant in different groups (p>0.05). It seems that exercising and taking nanoselenium supplements can increase Irisin levels in serum and heart tissue by expanding muscle contraction and increasing muscle FNDC5. However, the relationship of this factor in muscle and heart crosstalk should be investigated more closely.

Abstract Training is one of the most effective therapy options for improving the control of type 2 diabetes. FGF21 (fibroblast growth factor) has been identified as a novel metabolic regulating factor with substantial anti-diabetic effects in animal models and humans. The goal of this study was to investigate how four weeks of aerobic and resistance exercise affected fasting blood glucose (FBS) and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) levels in the cardiac tissue of male Wistar rats with diabetes. In this study, 24 male Wistar rats aged 10 to 12 weeks and weighing 200250 grams were made diabetic with STZ and separated into three groups: diabetes + aerobic exercise (n=6), diabetes + resistance training (n=6), and sham (n=6) and healthy (n=6) were divided. The training lasted four weeks, with the aerobic group working out five days per week and the resistance group working out six days per week. Blood samples and cardiac tissue were collected for analysis before and after 48 hours of the previous exercise and 12 hours of fasting. To conduct statistical analysis, the SPSS version 26 program was employed. We saw an increase in FGF21 in the training groups compared to the sham group, which was significant in the resistance training group (p=0.008) and also in the healthy group (p=0.02). The results showed that resistance trainings can have a bigger influence on sugar indicators and anti-diabetic cardiac factors like FGF21, and will play an effective role in minimizing the consequences of diabetes.

Abstract We investigate the effect of exercise training in different stages of growth on protein synthesis (4E-BP1) and proliferation of heart cells (S6K1) in male rats. 30 male Wistar rats were prepared in three age groups of 2 weeks, 8 weeks, and 90 weeks (10 in each group), and each age group was divided into two control and training groups (5 in each group). In the exercise training group, the animals performed the resistance and aerobic training program every day (interval). The amount of overload for the resistance-training program was determined based on the body weight of the animals. For the aerobic training group, the training intensity increased from 50% of maximum speed in the first week to 80% in the last week. The results showed that there is no significant difference between the control and training groups in each age, as well as between the training groups in the three age (p>0.05). In contrast, the 2-week exercise groups (p=0.022) showed a significant increase and the 90 weeks control group (p=0.002) showed a significant decrease in S6K1 protein in cardiac tissue compared to the 2-week control groups. In the analysis of gene expression, it was also found that the 2-week training group showed a significant increase in S6K1 gene expression compared to the 2-week control group (p=0.018). It seems that doing combined exercise at different ages, especially childhood, has a greater effect on the proliferation index of heart cells (S6K1). However, studies with longer training durations should also be considered.

Abstract The present study aimed to investigate the effect of 4 weeks of high-intensity interval training on the amounts of metabolic proteins like Sarcolipine, PGC1α and FNDC5 in SOL and EDL muscles of male Wistar rats. In the present study, 14 adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into experimental (n = 7) and control (n = 7) groups. The training group performed high-intensity interval training for 4 weeks and 5 sessions per week, including high-intensity (90% vVO2max) and low-intensity (45% vVO2max) two-minute intervals. Finally, the SOL and EDL muscles of the research groups were extracted, and also independent statistical t-test (p <0.05) was used for statistical analysis. The results showed that the amounts of SLN, PGC1α, and FNDC5 proteins in the experimental group were significantly different from the control group in SOL muscle, but the amounts of FNDC5 protein in the EDL muscle of the HIIT group were not significantly different from the control group. The results showed that by observing the changes in the amounts of regulatory proteins related to cellular metabolism due to high-intensity interval training, this training method could be suggested to increase metabolism and improve the lipid oxidation process in a short time.

Abstract Physical activity performance of patients during and after breast cancer treatment is common and is associated with increased toxicity from treatment, shorter time to tumor progression, and decreased survival. Exercise is a potential intervention to maintain or increase physical performance. We conducted a meta-analysis review of the 1-year tailored exercise training, according to cytokine levels and immune function with emphasis on IL-6 in breast cancer patients. A comprehensive search was performed in September 2022 for randomized controlled trials reporting the effects of structured exercise training on breast cancer effect with cytokine levels and immune function with an emphasis on IL-6 during or after cancer treatment. A random-effects meta-analysis was completed using the absolute net difference in the change between intervention and control groups as the outcome measure. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were also performed. Data from 18 studies involving 1833 breast cancer survivors were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, there was a significant benefit of exercise training compared with the control (I2 = 71.3%, 95% CI = 38.4% to 77.6%, P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed positive effects for resistance training and aerobic training and for exercise training conducted during or after cancer treatment. Compared with usual care, exercise training has a beneficial effect on in women with breast cancer, both during and after cancer treatment. Given the physiological and functional importance of women with breast cancer, oncologists should encourage their patients to engage in regular exercise training, with particular emphasis on resistance training.

Abstract Dear Editor-in-Chief
Lactate can be a key factor in cancer tumor progression
One of the clear indicators of cancerous tumors is an uneven distribution of oxygen, resulting in the presence of both hypoxic and normoxic areas within the tumor (Goodwin et al., 2015). Consequently, these conditions can contribute to the acidity of the tumor environment (Goodwin et al., 2015). The significant increase in lactate levels observed in cancerous tumors is primarily attributed to the heightened activity of the glycolysis cycle (Goodwin et al., 2015), a phenomenon identified by Otto Warburg in 1927, known as the Warburg effect (Pérez-Tomás & Pérez-Guillén, 2020). Despite the common misconception that lactate is a waste molecule, emerging evidence suggests that lactate may actually play a role in promoting cancer progression, particularly in support of cancer cells (Lavín-Pérez et al., 2023; Pérez-Tomás & Pérez-Guillén, 2020). Therefore, there is strong evidence to support the notion that lactate serves as the primary fuel to fulfill the anabolic requirements of cancer cells, potentially serving as a key factor in cancer growth (Lavín-Pérez et al., 2023; Pérez-Tomás & Pérez-Guillén, 2020). Given the complex physiological conditions associated with cancer, it raises the question of whether exercise is appropriate for cancer patients or not.
Lactate, exercise, and cancer
Considering these complex physiological conditions, whether exercise in cancer patients can be appropriate (Lavín-Pérez et al., 2023).  Several studies have investigated the effect of exercise during cancer with different mechanisms that have reported the positive effect of exercise to improve psychological or immunological effects (Lavín-Pérez et al., 2023). However, the special concentration of exercise, lactate, and its relationship with tumor growth has yet to be specifically  investigated. Physiologically, exercise with any intensity can increase lactate (Stallknecht et al., 1998). One of the factors that can have a significant effect on increasing lactate is the intensity of training (Stallknecht et al., 1998). According to Brooks et al., lactate is the largest myokine in concentration and dynamic range and the most diverse in metabolic and physiological regulation (Stallknecht et al., 1998). In the past, lactate was believed to be produced in anaerobic conditions. However, in recent years, the theory has been proposed that lactate is also produced in completely aerobic conditions (Stallknecht et al., 1998). Therefore, aerobic and anaerobic training will increase lactate (Stallknecht et al., 1998). As the intensity of training increases, the ratio of NAD+ to NADH increases. As a result, fat oxidation decreases, focuses on the glycolysis cycle, and increases lactate (A factor that can be harmful to cancer (Stallknecht et al., 1998). Also, common research supports the hypothesis that lactate increase during exercise can lead to angiogenesis and is one of the key factors of this process (Ahmadi Hekmatikar et al., 2019; Hubbard, 1973; Khoramipour et al., 2020). It seems that lactate can 1) through its effect on factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor and 2) as an important cardiac fuel and metaboreflex regulation leading to greater cardiac output for angiogenesis. On the other hand, considering that there is hyperlactatemia in cancer and the long history of cancerous tumors absorbing lactate, researchers are looking to prevent lactate transport in tumors by blocking MCTs. Accordingly, the development of therapies that limit lactate exchange and signaling within and between cancer cells should be a priority in cancer research, contrary to the physiological effects of exercise.
Finally, the hypothesis that lactate could be suitable for cancer patients during cancer seems false, given the strong results. Both directly, as an energy source, and indirectly, as a gluconeogenic precursor, lactate plays a major role in the bioenergetics and self-sufficiency of cancer cells. Acutely and chronically, exercise has positive physiological effects that cannot be suitable for cancer patients. On the other hand, the tumor environment is such that lactate is one of its key fuels for aggressiveness and growth. On the other hand, lactate itself induces angiogenesis. Physiological changes that occur due to exercise can increase lactate, angiogenesis, and lactate transporters, which can benefit the tumor. Physiological changes that occur due to exercise can increase lactate, angiogenesis, and lactate transporters, which can benefit the tumor. However, this study suggests that researchers should focus on exercise and the effects of lactate on cancerous tumors in future studies.

Abstract Eccentric contractions predispose muscles to damage. Type II muscle fibers are more susceptible than type I, so it seems that contraction velocity interferes in mechanical stress and thus muscle damage. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of contraction velocity of acute dominant knee extensor eccentric exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) on running economy and metabolic responses in trained young females. Twenty-one trained young females were randomly assigned into two groups: high-velocity contraction eccentric exercise (240°s-1) and low-velocity (60°s-1). To induce muscle damage subjects, in high and low-velocity groups performed 20 and 5 sets of 15 repetitions, respectively, with a load equal to 150٪ of the maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) torque of knee extensors with a dominant limb. Then; MVIC of knee extensors was recorded before, one and 48 h after EIMD, and running economy (submaximal Steady-state vo2), and metabolic responses were recorded at 60, 70, and 80% of pre-determined vVO2max, 24 h before and 48 h after EIMD. Both exercise bouts resulted in significant changes in MVIC of knee extensor (p<0.05) with no significant difference between the two groups. No significant difference was found in running economy and metabolic responses in three different intensities following both exercise conditions between the two groups. Results of the analysis showed that a four-fold difference in contraction velocity of eccentric exercise-induced muscle damage was not sufficient to induce a difference in muscle damage, running economy, and metabolic responses when the knee extensor muscle tension duration was equalized.

Abstract The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of six weeks of intermittent exercise and curcumin consumption on plasma Apo A and Apo B concentrations in male Wistar rats. 30 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (5 rats in each group): control, diabetic, healthy intermittent exercise, intermittent exercise diabetes, curcumin diabetes and curcumin exercise diabetes. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin poison (50 mg/kg). Intermittent training consisted of 5-12 bouts of intense work (75 to 100% of maximum speed) of 60 seconds with active rest intervals of 75 seconds, six days a week for six weeks. Curcumin was fed to animals by gavage at a dose of 50 mg per kilogram of body weight. The results demonstrated that diabetes induction significantly decreased plasma Apo A concentration (p≤0.01) and increased plasma Apo B concentration (p≤0.01). Intermittent training caused a significant increase in Apo A and a significant decrease in Apo B plasma in diabetic rats. Also, it was found that six weeks of curcumin consumption significantly increased the concentration of Apo A in plasma and decreased the concentration of Apo B and the ratio of Apo B to Apo A (p≤0.01). At end, the results of the present study showed that intermittent exercise, curcumin and the combination of two interventions improve the disorders caused by diabetes in apolipoproteins.

Abstract Fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO) is directly associated with increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The purpose of current study was to investigate the effect of 12 weeks of resistance training (RT) on FTO expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue, glucose, and insulin levels in T2DM rats. Sixteen males Wistar rats (220±10 gr) with T2DM induced by streptozotocin-nicotinamide injection were randomly assigned into resistance training (RT; n=8) and control (Con; n=8) groups. RT was performed for 12 weeks, 5 days per week. FTO expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue, fasting blood glucose (FBS), insulin and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were measured 48 hours after the last exercise training session.   After the exercise training intervention, the FTO expression (p=0.004) and FBS (p=0.001) were significantly lower in the RT compared to the Con group while the insulin in the RT was significantly higher than that in the Con group (p=0.001). There was no significant difference in the insulin resistance between the two groups (p˃0.05). According to findings, it seems that RT can decrease FBS and FTO expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue of T2DM rats. Improved blood glucose in diabetic rats might be partially attributed to reduced FTO expression in response to RT.   

Abstract The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of six weeks of intermittent exercise and curcumin consumption on the lipid profile of diabetic male rats. In an experimental trial, 30 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (5 rats in each group): control, diabetic, healthy intermittent exercise, intermittent exercise +diabetes, curcumin +diabetes and curcumin+ exercise +diabetes. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin poison (50 mg/kg). Intermittent training consisted of 5-12 bouts of intense work (75 to 100% of maximum speed) of 60 seconds with active rest intervals of 75 seconds, six days a week for six weeks. Curcumin was fed to animals by gavage at a dose of 50 mg per kilogram of body weight. After six weeks, unconscious animals and blood samples were collected from their hearts. The data were analyzed using ANOVA statistical test and Bonferroni post hoc test. Induction of diabetes caused an increase in cholesterol, TG and LDL levels (P=0.01). Intermittent training and curcumin, each alone, caused them to decrease (P=0.01). In addition, diabetes decreased HDL while intermittent exercise increased it, but curcumin supplementation did not have a significant effect. The effect of combining interval training with curcumin supplement was significant only for TG and did not have a significant effect on other data. Exercise training and curcumin can have an anti-inflammatory effect with reducing lipid profile and increasing HDL in diabetic animal.

Abstract High-intensity exercise training is one of the effective strategies to improve the performance of athletes to achieve excellent physical fitness. In the meantime, a look at the history of sports immunology reveals the idea of window theory, which has been of great concern. According to the history of exercise immunology, high-intensity exercise training can suppress the immune system leading to respiratory infections. It has recently been shown that high-intensity exercise training has no effect on suppressing the immune system. In this review, a new perspective on the immune system and high-intensity exercise training was presented to readers. Moreover, a new look at the history of high-intensity exercise training and the immune system and recent review studies was provided and some suggestions are offered.

Abstract Omicron, a new type of SARS-CoV-2 was first reported by South Africa to the World Health Organization (WHO) on November 24, 2021. Two days after Africa was reported to the World Health Organization, the Omicron was identified as a global threat. Omicron has many genetic mutations, the potential effects of which are more dangerous than other SARS-CoV-2 genetic mutations. With the increase in vaccination in the world, the amount of physical activity to improve the functioning of the immune system decreased. Relying on vaccines alone cannot guarantee an improvement in the functioning of the immune system and the people of the world, given the lack of knowledge about the prevalence of omicron and its potential dangers, should look for ways to boost the immune system. In this study, we highlight the importance of increasing physical activity at the time of omicron outbreaks, along with the proposed protocols.

Abstract Performing aerobic exercise in different disease conditions can regulate cardiac homeostasis and reduce cardiac apoptosis caused by the disease. In brain cancer, other tissues, including cardiac tissue, can also be affected. Since exercise training causes organ crosstalk, in this study, the effects of aerobic exercise training (AET) on cardiac apoptosis in Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) rats are evaluated. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups (n=8 in each) of healthy control, GBM, and GBM+AET. Glioblastoma was injected into the frontal cortex of rats. The training group (AET) performed aerobic exercises on the treadmill for 4 weeks, 3 days a week at a speed of 18 meters per minute, for 25-40 minutes. In the end, the rats were sacrificed and caspase-3 and caspase-7 were analyzed from the myocardium by Real-time PCR method. Considering H&E image, the GBM group showed necrosis and apoptosis in cardiac tissue compared to the healthy group. Compared to the healthy control group, GBM significantly increased caspase-3 and caspase-7 mRNA in the myocardium (p<0.05). However, in contrast to the GBM group, the GBM+AET showed a significant decrease in caspase-3 and caspase-7 mRNA at the myocardium (p<0.05). Since tumor formation in the body can affect other distant tissues in an endocrine manner, it is suggested to prioritize aerobic exercise to control the damage caused by GBM on heart tissue. However, more studies are needed, especially on human samples.

Abstract Green tea polyphenols have been suggested to exert anti-inflammatory actions in in vivo and in vitro studies. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of green tea extract (GTE) supplementation on pro-inflammatory cytokines during a single bout of resistance exercise (RE) in obese men. Participants were ten obese men who participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled (PL) crossover study, administered 14-day GTE (500 mg/day) supplementation and PL with a 14-day washout period. After the supplementation periods, the participants performed the RE protocol, consisting of three sets of six exercises, to failure at 75% of one repetition maximum (1RM) and 2 min rest between sets. The serum samples were collected pre- and post-RE and analyzed for TNF-α, IL-1α, and IFN-γ. RE significantly increased TNF-α and IL-1α in obese men by 15% (p=0.043) and 18.71% (p=0.003) above the pre-RE values in the PL condition, respectively. However, GTE supplementation inhibited acute RE-induced increases in the TNF-α and IL-1α levels in obese men. Moreover, changes in the IFN-γ level during RE tended to be lower in GTE compared to the PL condition. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that 14-day GTE supplementation offers protection against RE-induced increases in pro-inflammatory cytokines in obese men. These immunomodulatory effects of GTE may be, in part, due to the anti-inflammatory properties of GTE in obese men that can be considered as a potential therapeutic factor to ameliorate obesity-associated inflammation.

Abstract The effectiveness of EMS on muscle and physical performance has been demonstrated in various populations, including healthy young adults. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of an electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) session on changes in endostatin and vascular endothelial growth factor in inactive men. In this quasi-experimental research, 16 inactive healthy men (age, 20-30 years; BMI, 18 - 24.9 kg/m2) from Tehran were selected and randomly assigned to two EMS stimulation (n=8) and control (n=8) groups. The subjects performed the exercise (squat, lunge, crunch and plank) with WB-EMS clothes for 20 minutes; frequency 80 Hz, pulse 5 seconds and pulse pause 3 seconds. The levels of VEGF and endostatin in plasma were measured using kit and ELISA method. The data were analyzed using independent and correlated t-test at the P<0.05. The results showed that intragroup changes of endostatin and VEGF were significant after an EMS training session (P≤0.05), but not significant change was observed in the control group (P≥0.05). Also, the inter-group changes of endostatin showed no significant differences between the two groups in the post-test (P=0.1). However, the intergroup changes of VEGF indicated significant difference between the two groups in the post-test (P=0.001). It seems that in inactive people, EMS stimulation increases vascular endothelial growth factor as the most important positive regulator of the angiogenesis process and decreases endostatin as one of the most important negative regulators of the angiogenesis process.

Abstract Inflammation is a major component of almost all acute and chronic liver disorders, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This study aimed to investigate the effect of high-intensity interval training on IL-22 and STAT3 gene expression of liver tissue in steatosis animal model. In this experimental study, 32 rats (weighing 200-250 gr) were selected and randomly divided into 4 groups including healthy control, fatty liver, HIIT and fatty liver + HIIT group. Rats were infected with fatty liver by oral tetracycline at a dose of 140 mg/kg (soluble in 2 ml of water) for 7 days. The HIIT exercise program performed on treadmill five sessions per week for 5 weeks. The IL-22 and STAT3 gene expressions in the liver tissue of samples were measured by Real Time PCR. Data were analyzed by One-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests at significance level P <0.05. The results showed that the gene expression of IL-22 in liver tissue in HIIT group and fatty liver + HIIT was significantly lower than that in the fatty liver group (P = 0.001). Also, the gene expression of STAT3 in liver tissue in HIIT group and fatty liver + HIIT was significantly higher than that in the fatty liver group (P = 0.001). According to the results, the HIIT training program seems to help improve the liver steatosis.

Abstract The immune system is one of the main defenders of human health. The immune system can fight off viruses in the body and kill them. Therefore, keeping the components of the immune system healthy is very important. With age, the immune system ages, and its function decreases. This decline in immune function can easily lead to viral infections in the elderly. Evidence is accumulated that the best solution to maintain and enhance the immune system in the elderly is physical activity. Regular physical activity can lead to healthy aging of the immune system. Therefore, in this review study, we have discussed the changes in the immune system during aging and physical activity suggestions for healthy aging of the immune system. Finally, future research needs are reported.

Abstract Dear Editor-in-Chief
 
Performing intense exercise on the body's organs is associated with various risks. At the same time, it is necessary for athletes to be aware of the dangers of intense exercise, for this purpose, studies have shown that the health of the oral cavity helps improve the performance of athletes (Gallagher et al., 2020). On the other hand, the disorder in the oral cavity with intense exercise significantly impacts the quality of life of athletes.
One of the most common diseases of oral cavity diseases caused by exercise is dental caries (D’Ercole et al., 2016). Dental caries is a chronic disease among humans and is one of the most common oral diseases worldwide. It is an important oral and dental disease that prevents achieving and maintaining oral health in all age groups. Dental caries refers to the local destruction of sensitive dental hard tissues by acidic by-products resulting from the bacterial fermentation of carbohydrates food. This disease is caused by an ecological imbalance between dental minerals and oral biofilms (plaque) (Selwitz et al., 2007; Thean et al., 2007; Yadav et al., 2017).
According to statistics announced by international organizations related to dentistry, approximately 2.43 billion people (about 36% of the population) around the world have dental caries in their permanent teeth and it affects about 620 million people or 9% of the population in milk teeth (Yadav et al., 2017). The statistics of athletes suffering from dental caries show that oral and dental cavity disorders among athletes were first recognized during the 1958 World Cup in Sweden. So that one dentist performed 118 tooth extraction surgeries on 33 athletes from different countries (Soares et al., 2014). Dental caries has also been reported among athletes in Olympic competitions. However, in the 2004 Athens Olympics, the visit of athletes by dentists took the second place among the visits of athletes to different departments of the clinic. In the 2008 Beijing Olympics, 1.600 people visited the dental department of the clinic at the venue of the competition. Similarly, in the 2012 London Olympics, 55% of the athletes were suffering from tooth decay (Needleman et al., 2013; Vougiouklakis et al., 2008; Yang et al., 2011). Azeredo et al. (2020), in a review article, investigated the prevalence of dental caries in athletes. The findings showed that the prevalence of dental caries among athletes is 46.25% (Azeredo et al., 2020). Larson et al. (2015), in a study, evaluated the intervention of exercise and energy drink consumption with health risk behaviors among adults. Findings suggest that health care providers should differentiate energy drink consumption and exercise from other unhealthy behaviors when designing programs for adults (Larson et al., 2015).
Research conducted in the field of exercise shows that exercise plays a role in reducing PH and increasing blood CO2. On the other hand, the decrease in the PH of saliva is related to the level of Co2 in the blood and the level of Co2 in the blood increases after exercise, and as a result, a high concentration of Co2 in the blood is transferred to the oral saliva, which is effective in reducing the PHof the saliva. In the same context, when the PH of saliva drops below the value of 5.5 that is assumed as the “Critical PH”, hydroxyapatite crystals in enamel begin to dissolve and decalcified areas occur (Ceyhan et al., 2020; Farsi, 2008; Milosevic et al., 1997; Okada et al., 2012). Borchers et al. (2022), analyzed saliva in their study to monitor intense exercise among male ultra-marathon runners. In this study, 9 healthy men who finished the distance of 160 km were selected as the statistical population of the research. The salivary markers were compared with blood markers following acute exercise stress in ultra-marathon runners at three baselines, shortly after the ultramarathon competition and after recovery. The findings showed that different blood markers and salivary cortisol had significant changes after the ultra-marathon running (Borchers et al., 2022).
Thus, it is recommended that athletes should be aware of the biochemical variables and other factors leading to dental caries and observe the oral and dental hygiene requirements. Moreover, due to the fact that athletes of various sports are affected by oral cavity diseases, it is necessary that athletes of competitive sports such as football, swimming, track and field, etc., pay more attention to the health of their oral cavity.
 

Abstract Overweight and obesity are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension and type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of two continuous aerobic training and high-intensity interval training on body weight, body mass index, waist to hip ratio, and body fat percentage in overweight and obese military people. In this quasi-experimental study, 30 overweight or obese military personnel stationed in a military center were divided into two equal groups of 15 subjects within continuous aerobic training group and high-intensity interval training group. The training protocol consisted of six weeks of continuous aerobic training and high intensity interval training performed every week for three sessions and each session for 60 minutes with equal intensity. The research variables included body weight, body mass index, waist to hip ratio and body fat percentage, which were measured in the same and standard conditions in two stages of pre-test and post-test. After 6 weeks of intervention, high-intensity interval training group showed a significant reduction in body mass index, waist-hip ratio and body fat percentage compared to the continuous aerobic training group(P<0.05). However, there was no significant change in the body weight of the subjects (P<0.05). The results of this study showed that the high-intensity interval training protocol had a greater effect on the body composition parameters of the subjects compared to the continuing aerobic exercise protocol, so it could be included in the training program for overweight or obese military persons.

Abstract Interval training and selenium is an effective way to strengthen the immune system. The purpose of this research was to investigate the effect of High intensity interval training and Nano selenium supplementation on the expression of IL-10 and IL-12 genes in the testicular tissue of mice under dexamethasone administration. 40 Wistar rats aged 10 weeks were randomly divided into 5 groups of 8 (healthy, dexamethasone induced (patient), High intensity interval training + patient, Nano selenium supplement + patient, High intensity interval training + Nano selenium supplement+ patient). the exercise training program consisted of 5-12 repetitions of 1-minute running on the rodent treadmill with an intensity of 24-30 m/min, equivalent to 75-100% of maximal oxygen consumption, with active rest intervals of 75 seconds. These trainings were performed six days a week for four weeks. The prepared selenium nanoparticle solution, 100 mg in 250 nm size, was given to mice by gavage every other day. One-way analysis of variance was used to determine the difference in variables between groups at a significant level (P<0.05). All statistical calculations were done using SPSS version 25 software. The obtained results showed that interval training and Nano selenium supplementation led to a significant decrease in IL-10 (P<0.05). Also, IL-12 gene expression increased significantly along with interval training and Nano selenium supplementation (P<0.05). According to the current research, it seems that High intensity interval training and Nano selenium supplementation lead to improved immune function and possibly the ability to develop antioxidant defenses and reduce cellular oxidative stress.

Abstract Hepatic steatosis is increasingly being recognized as an important pathological feature of disease that commonly reported in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. This study aimed to investigate the effects of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on the expression of interleukin-10 and Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) genes in intestinal tissue in an animal model of fatty liver. In this experimental study, 24 rats (weighing 200-250 gr) were selected and randomly divided into 3 groups including healthy control, fatty liver, and fatty liver + HIIT, groups. In order to induce fatty liver, oral tetracycline 140 mg/kg/day in 2 mL of water in form of a solution was given to the rats by gavage for 7 days. HIIT exercise program performed on treadmill five sessions per week for 5 weeks. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests. P<0.05 was considered significant. The results showed that IL10 gene expression in HIIT groups was significantly lower than in the fatty liver group (p<0.0001). Also, the expression of the STAT3 gene in intestinal tissue was significantly upper in HIIT groups than that in the fatty liver group (p<0.0001). Regulation of IL-10 and STAT3 gene expression in fatty liver-induced adipose tissue can be modulated by HIIT exercise. Therefore, intense interval training can be considered as a non-pharmacological strategy in the treatment of fatty liver.