Efficacy of a new Antihypertensive Agent (Indenolol) Assessed by Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring

The effects of two-week treatment periods with indenolol (I) and metoprolol (M) were examined by 24-hour mean blood pressure (BP) monitoring in control conditions and during exercise stress test in 7 patients with essential hypertension, using the Oxford method. Both drugs induced a significant reduction in mean BP and heart rate (HR) as compared to pretreatment values (mean BP: from 1173 mmHg to 1064 after I, p < 0.05 and to 1023 after M, p < 0.01; HR: from 782 bpm to 662 after I, p < 0.01 and to 672 after M, p < 0.01). I and M induced a significant reduction in systolic and diastolic BP throughout the day and most of the night. During bicycle ergometer the basal and peak values of systolic and diastolic BP were significantly lower after both treatments as compared to the pretreatment values (both p < 0.01). Our data suggest that I once a day possesses a substantial and consistent antihypertensive action, effective over most of the 24 hours.     

Effects of Electrical Stimulation,Exercise Training and Motor Skills Training on Strength of Children with Meningomyelocele: A Systematic Review

ABSTRACT.

This systematic review provides a critical synthesis of research regarding the effects of electrical stimulation, exercise training, and motor skills training on muscle strength in children with meningomyelocele. Nine databases were searched using terms related to meningomyelocele and physical therapy interventions. Of 298 potentially relevant citations, six met the inclusion criteria. Each was rated using the systematic review guidelines of the American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine. Two studies examined changes in quadriceps muscle torque following electrical stimulation, three investigated upper extremity exercise training, and one evaluated quadriceps strength after motor skills training. Although the limited evidence suggests improvements in strength when using these interventions, much of the evidence is of low methodological quality and all studies were published more than 10 years ago. Further research is needed regarding various strength-training interventions for children with meningomyelocele and the relationship between increased strength and improved activity and participation.     

Exercise Adoption Among Older,Low‐Income Women at Risk for Cardiovascular Disease

ABSTRACT Using an expanded Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) model, we hypothesized that self‐efficacy, outcome expectations, and exercise self‐definition would predict exercise adoption. This secondary analysis examined data from a prospective single‐group study of low‐income women who received a physician screen and referral to a community‐based, free exercise program. The sample included 190 older, low‐income women with a mean age of 64 years, the majority of whom were African American (66%) and had at least one cardiovascular risk factor (92%). Baseline values of self‐efficacy, outcome expectations, and exercise self‐definition were measured using instruments developed for the study. Exercise adoption was defined as the number of exercise sessions completed over 8 weeks. Our hypothesis was tested using hierarchical multiple regression. The mean number of exercise sessions completed over the 8‐week period was 5.7 out of a recommended 24. Value of Exercise scores, a subscale of the Exercise Self‐Definition scale, predicted exercise adoption. Self‐efficacy and outcome expectations were not predictive. The significance of Value of Exercise scores reinforces the importance of expanding SCT with additional variables such as exercise self‐definition. Future work should emphasize the social and environmental factors that form an important part of SCT.     

Could exercise be a new strategy to revert some patients with atrial fibrillation?

Background: This study is the result of the anecdotal observation that a number of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) had noted reversion to sinus rhythm (SR) with exercise. We aimed to evaluate the potential role of exercise stress test (EST) for the reversion of AF.
Methods: Patients with AF who were scheduled to undergo electrical cardioversion (DCR) underwent EST using a modified Bruce protocol.
Results: Eighteen patients (16 male); aged 36–74 years (mean 58 years) were studied. Five patients (27.7%) had successful reversion with exercise (group 1). Thirteen patients remained in AF (group 2). No patient who failed to revert with exercise did so spontaneously before DCR 3 h to 7 months later (median 20 days). Comparison between group 1 and group 2 did not reveal any significant difference
Conclusion: This small preliminary study suggests that in some patients it may be possible to revert AF to SR with exercise and avoid DCR and concomitant general anaesthesia. The authors suggest that a larger multicentre randomized trial is warranted to confirm or refute these initial results and if correct identify those who might benefit.     

Physiological Effects of Aquatic Exercise in Pregnant Women on Bed Rest

ABSTRACT

This pilot study examined the effectiveness of an Aquatic Exercise Program (AEP) provided by an occupational therapist for pregnant women on hospitalized bed rest. Researchers conducted a retrospective analysis of medical records of hospitalized pregnant women comparing those who attended an AEP (n = 19) to a control group who received no AEP (n = 12). Statistical tests were used to assess evidence of differences in length of gestation as well as blood pressure and amniotic fluid index (AFI) at discharge. Women who received an AEP had increased AFI and length of gestation compared to the control group. This study supports the use of an AEP as an intervention for pregnant women on prescribed bed rest. Further research is recommended to validate these findings with a larger sample.     

Exercise as an Adjunct Treatment for Opiate Agonist Treatment: Review of the Current Research and Implementation Strategies

ABSTRACT

Opiate dependence is a significant public health concern linked to poor quality of life, comorbid psychiatric disorders, and high costs to society. Current opiate agonist treatments are an effective but limited intervention. Adjunctive interventions could improve and augment opiate agonist treatment outcomes, including drug abstinence, quality of life, and physical health. This article reviews exercise as an adjunctive intervention for opiate agonist treatment, especially in regards to improving mood and overall quality of life, while reducing other substance use. Poor adherence and dropout frequently prevent many individuals from garnering the many physical and mental health benefits of exercise. Strategies for implementing an exercise intervention, including safety considerations, are discussed.