After the outbreak of the novel SARS-COV-2 coronavirus, in the Chinese province of Wuhan that spread rapidly across the world, the Government of the Republic of Serbia introduced protection measures in March 2020, to prevent the spread of... more
After the outbreak of the novel SARS-COV-2 coronavirus, in the Chinese province of Wuhan that spread rapidly across the world, the Government of the Republic of Serbia introduced protection measures in March 2020, to prevent the spread of the infectious disease COVID-19 in Serbia. All gatherings indoors (sport, cultural and other events), as well as in parks and public places intended for recreation and sports, were prohibited. Shortly after, a lockdown took place which prohibited leaving home with the exception of basic needs, work from home was recommended and online schooling was introduced. The World Health Organization has recommended the use of online resources to maintain basic physical activity. In these circumstances of social distancing, this study examines the prevalence of physical activity supported by social networks and mobile applications during the COVID-19 lockdown in Serbia. The study was conducted as a cross-sectional study, using questionnaire distributed throug...
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Objective: The relationship between body weight excess and hypertension has been widely demonstrated. Also, it is well known that athletes have specific body composition as a result of morphological optimization to different sport... more
Objective: The relationship between body weight excess and hypertension has been widely demonstrated. Also, it is well known that athletes have specific body composition as a result of morphological optimization to different sport disciplines. To date, no data have been reported concerning relationship between body fat percentage (BF%) and blood pressure (BP) and cardiorespiratory functional capacity in elite athletes. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of the body composition to the resting BP values and cardiorespiratory functional capacity in elite athletes. Design and method: A total of 815 men elite athletes from a variety of sports were examined. According to World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation for general population BF% levels were divided in 3 groups: (group low: < =8, group optimal: 9–19% and group over weight: > =20%). Anthropometric measurements (height, weight, body mass index (BMI), BF%) were performed. Systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP)...
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Objective: We sought to investigate the prevalence of smoking and lung function in the large cohort of elite athletes. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 804 athletes competing at international level who were consecutively... more
Objective: We sought to investigate the prevalence of smoking and lung function in the large cohort of elite athletes. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 804 athletes competing at international level who were consecutively examined from January to December 2017. Elite athletes were classified in four groups of sport disciplines (skill, power, endurance and mixed): skill (n = 141), power (n = 107), endurance (n = 105) and mixed sport disciplines (n = 451). All participants underwent pre-participation screening, including spirometry. Results: Study included 745 (92.7%) non-smokers, 20 (2.5%) former smokers and 39 (4.8%) active smokers. The percentage of body fat was higher and the percentage of muscle was lower in active smokers than in non-smokers and former smokers. Active smokers were more prevalent among skill and mixed than in power and endurance sports. FEV1 and FVC, as well as FEV1/FVC ratio, were significantly lower in active smokers than in non-smokers. There was no...
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It is known that physical activity undoubtedly exhibits positive effects, decreasing the incidence of many chronic diseases. But, at present, physical activity is consider a pre-analytical factor/error related to the sampling process.... more
It is known that physical activity undoubtedly exhibits positive effects, decreasing the incidence of many chronic diseases. But, at present, physical activity is consider a pre-analytical factor/error related to the sampling process. Namely, different types of physical activity as well as its different intensity may influence a broad array of laboratory variables. The amount of extracellular release and clearance from blood of most of these biomarkers is markedly influenced by the biological characteristics of the molecule(s), level of training, type, intensity and duration of exercise, and time of recovery after training. It is therefore noteworthy to have the anamnestic information about these specific characteristics of physical activity and to understand the "physiologic" effects of exercise on laboratory results and when the threshold to pathological effects has been crossed. There are a lot of research data about the influence of physical activity on laboratory test...
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Internet addiction is a novel and relatively uninvestigated form of dependence that is fairly common in adolescent population. Previous research has indicated that it may be associated with other mental health problems, such as dysthymic... more
Internet addiction is a novel and relatively uninvestigated form of dependence that is fairly common in adolescent population. Previous research has indicated that it may be associated with other mental health problems, such as dysthymic mood and narcissistic behavior. In our study, we tested the existence and strength of relationship between Internet addiction, self-esteem and narcissism in a student population. On a sample of 244 students, we also investigated social networking activities, such as number of self-portrait photographs ("selfies"), and their potential connection with self-esteem and narcissism. Each participant completed a questionnaire consisting of Young Internet Addiction Test, Rosenberg Self-Esteem scale, and Narcissistic Personality Inventory. There was a statistically significant negative correlation between internet addiction score and self-esteem. Internet addiction increased as self-esteem decreased and vice versa. On the other hand, there was a po...
Research Interests: Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Psychiatry, Photography, Addiction, and 15 moreSocial Networking, Personality Disorders, Medicine, Students, Humans, Female, Narcissism, Male, Self Concept, Cross Sectional Studies, Internet, Self Esteem, Surveys and Questionnaires, Psychology and Cognitive Sciences, and Medical and Health Sciences
Recent studies demonstrated that current European Respiratory Society/American Thoracic Society spirometric reference equations, used in general population, may not be applicable in population of elite athletes. Althought it is well known... more
Recent studies demonstrated that current European Respiratory Society/American Thoracic Society spirometric reference equations, used in general population, may not be applicable in population of elite athletes. Althought it is well known that physical activity may affect lung volumes, the effect of sporting activity on pulmonary function testing indices was never examined. The aim of this study was to examine the differences in functional respiratory parameters in various types of sports by measuring lung volumes and to extend the existing factors as well as sport disciplines which affect respiratory function the most. A total of 1639 elite male athletes, aged 18-35 years were divided in 4 groups according to the predominant characteristics of training: skill, power, mixed and endurance athletes. They performed basic anthropometric measurements and spirometry. Groups were compared, and Pearson's simple correlation was performed to test the relation between anthropometric and sp...
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The main purpose of this study was to evaluate specifically, ingestive behavior and blood-borne indicators of metabolic status, after daily intracerebroventricular (ICV) ghrelin injections, in rats of different ages. Four age ranges were... more
The main purpose of this study was to evaluate specifically, ingestive behavior and blood-borne indicators of metabolic status, after daily intracerebroventricular (ICV) ghrelin injections, in rats of different ages. Four age ranges were tested: peripubertal (~38 days), young (~2 months), adult (~7 months) and middle-aged (~11 months). Multiple variables were measured, including body weight (BW), food and water intake (F,WI), and terminal blood levels of triglycerides (Tg), cholesterol (Chol), free fatty acids (FFA) and glucose (Glu). Five daily ICV injections of ghrelin or saline were administered (n = 8/group, 0.15 nmol of ghrelin in 5 μL) to rats of different ages. After 5 days of treatment, ICV ghrelin resulted in an increased (p<0.05) absolute and relative BW, FI, WI and in elevated blood levels of Chol, Tg, and FFA as well, while blood Glu levels were decreased (p<0.05) within each of the four age-matched groups. Differences (p<0.05) in ghrelin effects over the ages i...
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Substantial data confirm the benefits of physical activity, but it is necessary to prescribe exercise correctly in regard to aerobic capacity of each patient. When undertaking investigation of a great number of people, it is necessary to... more
Substantial data confirm the benefits of physical activity, but it is necessary to prescribe exercise correctly in regard to aerobic capacity of each patient. When undertaking investigation of a great number of people, it is necessary to apply a simple, fast, reliable and inexpensive test. The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity of a new step-test in physically active subjects. Thirty-eight male athletes (mean age 16.6 +/- 0.3 years) and 38 nonathletes of the same age, underwent Astrand cycle-ergometer test and a new ergometric step-test. In the ergometric step-test a fixed workload (W) of 12 kJ was used, whereas the bench height (h in cm) was determined according to body mass of each subject (h = W/2.g.n) (W = workload in kJ; BM = body mass in kg; n = step rate, 25 steps + min-1). The step-test lasted 6 minutes. Values of maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) were determined using a nomogram, according to workload and heart rate (HR). Comparing data concerning VO2 max in ...
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The aim of this study was to describe qualitatively and quantitatively dietary supplements (DS) and medication use in elite athletes. Athletes (n=912; age 23.9±6 years; 72% male) reported medications and DSs taken within 3 days before... more
The aim of this study was to describe qualitatively and quantitatively dietary supplements (DS) and medication use in elite athletes. Athletes (n=912; age 23.9±6 years; 72% male) reported medications and DSs taken within 3 days before doping control. We analyzed data collected from 2006 to 2008, indentified and classified substances. Total of 74.6% athletes reported use of at least one substance, 61.2% took DS (3.17 per user) and 40.6% took medications. Among users, 21.2% reported the use of six and more different products, and one took 17 different products at the same time. Majority of medication users took non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAID) (24.7%), and 22.2% used more than one NSAID. We found no gender differences in DS use (P=0.83). Individual sport athletes used more DS (P<0.01). Our study showed widespread use of DS and drugs by elite athletes. Consumption of DS with no evident performance or health benefits, demonstrated the need for specific educational progra...
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ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to describe structural and functional characteristics of elite Serbian basketball players and to evaluate whether players in different positional roles have different physical and physiological... more
ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to describe structural and functional characteristics of elite Serbian basketball players and to evaluate whether players in different positional roles have different physical and physiological profiles. Five men&#39;s basketball teams participated in the study and competed in the professional First National League. Physiological measurements were taken of 60 players during the final week of their preparatory training for competition. According to positional roles, players were categorized as guards (n = 20), forwards (n = 20), and centers (n = 20). Guards were older (p &lt; 0.01) and more experienced (p &lt; 0.01) as compared with both forwards and centers. Centers were taller and heavier than guards and forwards (p &lt; 0.01), whereas forwards had significantly higher height and weight than guards (p &lt; 0.01). Centers had more body fat (p &lt; 0.01) as compared with forwards and guards. Also, centers had significantly lower estimated [latin capital V with dot above]O2max values (p &lt; 0.01) compared with forwards and guards. In addition, the highest heart rate frequencies during the last minute of the shuttle run test were lower in guards (p &lt; 0.01) as compared with forwards and centers. Vertical jump power was significantly higher in centers (p &lt; 0.01) as compared with guards. The results of the present study demonstrate that a strong relationship exists between body composition, aerobic fitness, anaerobic power, and positional roles in elite basketball.
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Physical abilities decline with age, but regular physical exercise in the third age can significantly slow down these changes. The objective of this research is to determine and compare physical abilities of the two different groups of... more
Physical abilities decline with age, but regular physical exercise in the third age can significantly slow down these changes. The objective of this research is to determine and compare physical abilities of the two different groups of women of the third age, only one ...
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ABSTRACT Please cite this article in press as: Djelic M, et al. Carbohydrate and fatty acid metabolism responses to a graded maximal exercise test and recovery period in athletes and sedentary subjects. Sci sports (2015), Summary... more
ABSTRACT Please cite this article in press as: Djelic M, et al. Carbohydrate and fatty acid metabolism responses to a graded maximal exercise test and recovery period in athletes and sedentary subjects. Sci sports (2015), Summary Objective. — Was to investigate glucose and free fatty acid (FFA) responses to a graded maximal exercise test and recovery period in athletes and sedentary subjects. Subjects and methods. — Twelve trained man (TG) and twelve untrained men (UTG) performed an incremental maximal treadmill test. Blood samples were taken from all subjects in the morning before, at the end of the test and after 30 minutes of recovery. Insulin, glucose and FFA levels were determined at these points in time. Results. — Glucose concentration did not differ between TG and UTG at rest. Glucose levels increased steadily during exercise in both groups, but this increase was significant only in UTG at the end of the exercise test (+18.71%; P &lt; 0.05) and after 30 min of recovery (+12.05%; P &lt; 0.05) compared to basal levels. FFA concentrations at rest were significantly higher in TG than UTG (P &lt; 0.05). FFA concentration initially significantly decreased during exercise in TG (—50.00%; P &lt; 0.05), and increased during recovery period, but stayed significantly lower than rest values (—25.00%; P &lt; 0.05). In UTG, FFA levels insignificantly decreased (P &gt; 0.05) during exercise and Please cite this article in press as: Djelic M, et al. Carbohydrate and fatty acid metabolism responses to a graded maximal exercise test and recovery period in athletes and sedentary subjects. Sci sports (2015), http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scispo.2015.02.011 ARTICLE IN PRESS +Model SCISPO-2947; No. of Pages 7 2 M. Djelic et al. recovery period. Insulin concentration significantly increased during exercise in both groups (+23.89% in TG and +47.64% in UTG, P &lt; 0.05), and stayed significantly higher in recovery period in UTG (+60.82%; P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion. — The data presented indicate that chronic physical training markedly influences serum FFA profile in trained group. Our findings also indicate that metabolic response to one bout of maximal-intensity exercise test depends on training status of the subjects and that trained subjects (athletes) could have higher substrate flexibility under high energy demand. Résumé Objectifs. — Étudier les réponses de glucose et d&#39;acides gras libres (AGL) lors d&#39;un test d&#39;effort maximal et durant la période de récupération chez des sportifs et des sujets sédentaires. Sujets et méthodes. — Douze sujets entraînés (SE) et douze sujets non entraînés (SNE) ont effec-tué un test maximal incrémental sur tapis roulant. Des échantillons de sang ont été prélevés chez tous les sujets au repos le matin, à la fin de l&#39;exercice et après 30 minutes de récupération. L&#39;insuline, le glucose et les AGL ont été mesurés lors de ces prélèvements. Résultats. — La glycémie ne différait pas entre SE et SNE au repos. Elle augmentait régulière-ment au cours de l&#39;exercice dans les deux groupes, mais cette augmentation n&#39;était significative que chez les SNE à la fin de l&#39;épreuve d&#39;effort (+18,71 % ; p &lt; 0,05) et après 30 minutes de récupération (+12,05 % ; p &lt; 0,05) par rapport aux valeurs de repos. Les concentrations d&#39;AGL au repos étaient significativement plus élevées chez les SE que chez les SNE (p &lt; 0,05). Les AGL diminuaient fortement au cours de l&#39;exercice chez les SE (—50,00 % ; p &lt; 0,05), et augmentaient pendant la période de récupération, mais en demeurant nettement inférieurs aux valeurs de repos (—25,00 % ; p &lt; 0,05). Chez les SNE, la baisse des AGL n&#39;était pas significative (p &gt; 0,05) au cours de l&#39;exercice et de la période de récupération. La concentration d&#39;insuline augmentait significativement au cours de l&#39;exercice dans les deux groupes (+23,89 % chez les SE et +47,64 % chez les SNE, p &lt; 0,05). Elle restait significativement plus élevée dans la période de récupération chez les SNE (+60,82 % ; p &lt; 0,05). Conclusion. — Ces données indiquent que l&#39;activité physique régulière influence nettement le profil des AGL chez les sujets entraînés. Nos résultats indiquent également que la réponse métabolique à un exercice maximal est influencée par l&#39;état d&#39;entraînement des sujets et que les sujets entraînés (sportifs) sembleraient avoir une plus grande flexibilité métabolique en cas de demande énergétique importante.
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This study aimed to explore the relationship between different forms and intensities of sports activities and the prevalence of overweight in primary school children. Using International Obesity Task Force BMI criteria, we have identified... more
This study aimed to explore the relationship between different forms and intensities of sports activities and the prevalence of overweight in primary school children. Using International Obesity Task Force BMI criteria, we have identified body weight status in a group of 2893 children aged 9–15 years participating in 27 different sports and within a group of 4987 non-active children of the same age. We have compared the prevalence of overweight and obesity between these groups, as well as between genders and different forms and intensities of sports, within the group of active children. We have found lower prevalence of overweight (Χ2 = 41.689, DF = 1, p < 0.001), as well as prevalence of obesity (Χ2 = 175.184, DF = 1, p < 0.001) in physically active children compared with their non-active counterparts, as expected. Overweight (including obesity) had the highest prevalence in mixed sports of the Classification of Sports of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology, in ...
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Introduction Yoga is complete health system particularly suitable for people over 50. There are many advantages of Yoga: prevention of disorders and alignments, maintenance of health and fitness in daily life, flexible muscles, supple... more
Introduction Yoga is complete health system particularly suitable for people over 50. There are many advantages of Yoga: prevention of disorders and alignments, maintenance of health and fitness in daily life, flexible muscles, supple joints, relaxed and tension-free body and efficiently functioning vital organs such as the heart, lungs, endocrine glands, live, pancreas and good balance between various functions. The aim of this study is to investigate what influences on the hematological parameters exercises, in this case of Yoga, have, and to determine the difference, if existing, between the two types of life style: elderly women practicing Yoga and elderly women occupied with painting and with no active exercises.
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Although there is no doubt that physical exercise and competitive sport are healthy, improving quality of life and life expectancy, a number of tragic sudden deaths involving young competitive athletes were reported in the press in recent... more
Although there is no doubt that physical exercise and competitive sport are healthy, improving quality of life and life expectancy, a number of tragic sudden deaths involving young competitive athletes were reported in the press in recent years. Underlying cardiac disorders are the most common cause of sudden death during sports activities. Left ventricular remodeling is associated with a long-term athletic training. Echocardiography is an easy, non-invasive and efficient way to the precise distinction between these exerciseinduced changes, called “physiological” hypertrophy, that revert after detraining, and those of cardiac disorders or “pathological” hypertrophy. The identification of a cardiac disease in an athlete usually leads to his disqualification in an attempt to reduce the risk. On the other hand, a false diagnosis of a cardiac disease in an athlete may also lead to disqualification, thus depriving him of the various benefits from sports participation. Pronounced left ven...
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We present here the improved design and development of optical sensor for non-invasive measurements of arterial blood flow waveform. The sensor is based on a physical principle of reflective photoplethysmography (PPG). As the light source... more
We present here the improved design and development of optical sensor for non-invasive measurements of arterial blood flow waveform. The sensor is based on a physical principle of reflective photoplethysmography (PPG). As the light source we used serially connected infrared diodes whereas NPN silicon phototransistors were used as light detectors. The electronic components were molded into square package and poured with silicone. Such preparation produced an elastic superficies that allowed excellent attachment of the sensor on the skin's surface. Moreover, a serial connection of infrared diodes and phototransistors completely eliminated signal artifacts caused by minor muscle contractions. The sensor recording performances were examined at the photoplethysmographic sites on three different arteries; the commune carotid, femoral and radial and, on each site the sensor demonstrated remarkable capability to make a consistent, reproducible measurements. Because of the advantageous p...
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Nutritional status is the condition of the body as a result of the food intake, absorption and the ability of body to maintain normal metabolic homeostasis. Creatinine is determined by the muscular mass, because it is non-enzymatically... more
Nutritional status is the condition of the body as a result of the food intake, absorption and the ability of body to maintain normal metabolic homeostasis. Creatinine is determined by the muscular mass, because it is non-enzymatically derived from creatinine, which is structural component of muscles. Previous studies showed that serum creatinine concentration correlate with body mass index (BMI) in both general and athletic population and proposed that the specific reference ranges should be used in athletes. In the similar manner, aminotransferases are released by activated muscles and could increase after physical exercise. Strong correlation with aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) with BMI was found in general population, but the data for athletes are still lacking. In addition, the percentage of Body Fat (%BF) has been shown to be more reliable indicator of nutritional status in athletes. The aim of this research was to examine the relationship of anthropometric parameters, BMI and the% BF, with the serum concentration of AST and ALT in male and female athletes (basketball players), and to assess if there are gender specific differences in the level of aminotransferases. The 84 male (22 ± 2 years) and 72 female basketball players (20 ± 2 years) were examined. All subjects had been practiced sports actively for minimum 5 years, at least 15 hours per week. Measured anthropometrical parameters and liver metabolic parameters were: body height (BH), body mass (BM), BMI,%BF (assessed by bioimpedance) and serum concentrations of AST and ALT after at least 12h of fasting and 24h without high intensity physical activity. The BMI was significantly higher (p < 0.01) in male group compared to female one. However, females had significantly higher percentage of the body fat (p < 0.01) in comparison with males. AST and ALT, were significantly higher in male athletes (p < 0.01) (Table 1). Strong positive correlation between BMI and%BF was observed in both groups. In male athletes, correlation was not found between BMI and AST and ALT, and%BF and AST and ALT. In female athletes a strong negative correlation was found between BMI and AST and ALT; and%BF and AST (Figure 1a) and ALT (Figure 1b). Abstract P-81 Table 1 Anthropometric and biochemical parameters in athletes Female group Male group p Age 20.0 (2.0) 22.0 (2.0) n.s Years of training 8.4 (3.2) 11.1 (3.9) n.s BM (kg) 68.4 (7.9) 90.2 (13.3) < 0.01 BH (cm) 183.4 (5.7) 195.9 (6.4) < 0.01 BMI (kg/m2) 20.8 (1.8) 24.7 (2.6) < 0.01 %BF 18.2 (2.5) 11.3 (3.5) < 0.01 AST (U/I) 22.6 (6.2) 26.5 (7.0) < 0.01 ALT (U/I) 17.0 (7.5) 24.9 (9.8) < 0.01 BM - Body Mass; BH - Body Height; BMI - Body Mass Index;% BF – Percentage of Body Fat; AST - Aspartate aminotransferase; ALT - Alanin aminotransferase. The values are the means (SD). Abstract P-81 Figure 1a, b Correlations between BMI and AST, and ALT levels Our study has showed that BMI and%BF do not correlate with AST and ASL in male athletes, while they strongly correlate in female athletes, therewith%BF correlate better with AST and ALT. As the correlation of BMI and%BF with ALT and AST was linear, future investigation are needed to explain the cause of the close relationship between%BF, AST and ALT obtained in the group of female athletes. References Banfi G, Colombini A, Lombardi G, Lubkowska A. Metabolic markers in sports medicine. Adv Clin Chem 2012;56:1–54. Banfi G, Morelli P. Relation between body mass index and serum aminotransferases concentrations in professional athletes. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2008;48(2):197–200. Bedogni G, Miglioli L, Masutti F, Castiglione A, Tiribelli C, Bellentani S. Accuracy of body mass index in detecting an elevated alanine aminotransferase level in adolescents. Annals of human biology 2004;31(5):570–77.
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OBJECTIVE: To examine differences in lung function among sports that are of a similar nature and to determine which anthropometric/demographic characteristics correlate with lung volumes and flows. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional... more
OBJECTIVE: To examine differences in lung function among sports that are of a similar nature and to determine which anthropometric/demographic characteristics correlate with lung volumes and flows. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study involving elite male athletes (N = 150; mean age, 21 4 years) engaging in one of four different sports, classified according to the type and intensity of exercise involved. All athletes underwent full anthropometric assessment and pulmonary function testing (spirometry). RESULTS: Across all age groups and sport types, the elite athletes showed spirometric values that were significantly higher than the reference values. We found that the values for FVC, FEV1, vital capacity, and maximal voluntary ventilation were higher in water polo players than in players of the other sports evaluated (p < 0.001). In addition, PEF was significantly higher in basketball players than in handball players (p < 0.001). Most anthropometric/demographic parameters ...
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SummaryThere is compelling evidence that postexercise heart rate recovery (HRR) is a valid indicator of sympaticovagal balance. It is also used in prescription and monitoring of athletic training. The purpose of our study was to determine... more
SummaryThere is compelling evidence that postexercise heart rate recovery (HRR) is a valid indicator of sympaticovagal balance. It is also used in prescription and monitoring of athletic training. The purpose of our study was to determine HRR after maximal exercise among elite athletes with respect to age. A total of 274 elite male Caucasian athletes were randomly selected from the larger sample and divided into two groups: adolescent (group Y) and adult athletes (≥18 years; group A). They performed maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing on a treadmill. Heart rate recovery was calculated as the rate of decline of HR from peak exercise to rates 1, 2 and 3 min after cessation of exercise (HRR1, HRR2 and HRR3). A significantly higher HRR1 was found in group A (29·5 ± 15·6 versus 22·4 ± 10·8, P<0·001), but HRR3 was higher in group Y (82·7 ± 10·2 versus 79·9 ± 12·25; P = 0·04). Stepwise multivariate linear regression analysis showed that, among all subjects, the HRR1 alone was indep...
Research Interests: Cardiology, Adolescent, Medicine, Linear models, Electrocardiography, and 15 moreAutonomic Nervous System, Multivariate Analysis, Humans, Internal Medicine, Male, Heart rate, Heart, Medical Physiology, Athletes, Adult, Age Factors, Athletic performance, Exercise Test, Exercise Tolerance, and Elite Athletes
There is some evidence that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and metabolic syndrome may be related, perhaps through systemic inflammation, which is common to both. However, the association between these two conditions has not... more
There is some evidence that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and metabolic syndrome may be related, perhaps through systemic inflammation, which is common to both. However, the association between these two conditions has not yet been clearly shown. Methods: The study included 232 patients suffering from COPD with no signs of exacerbation and usage of corticosteroid therapy three months prior the examinations. Of the 232 patients, 60 patients had metabolic syndrome. The criteria for the identification of the metabolic syndrome included 3 or more of the following features: waist circumference exceeding 102 cm for men and 88 cm women, fasting triglycerides of 150 mg/dL or more (≥1.69 mmol/L), HDL-C less than 40 mg/dL (<1.0 mmol/L) for men and less than 50 mg/dL (<1.3 mmol/L) for women, blood pressure exceeding 130/85 mm Hg, and fasting plasma glucose levels of 110 mg/dL or more (≥6.1 mmol/L). The criteria for COPD were made by spirometry encompassing the following pa...
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Hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBO) could transiently reverse hypoxia during acute myocardial infarction (AMI). In order to evaluate whether early HBO can identify viable segments after AMI, improvement of wall motion score index (WMSI)... more
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBO) could transiently reverse hypoxia during acute myocardial infarction (AMI). In order to evaluate whether early HBO can identify viable segments after AMI, improvement of wall motion score index (WMSI) after HBO was compared to dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE). Thirty-one patients with first AMI treated with thrombolysis received 100% oxygen at 2 technical atmospheres for 1 h within 24 h of the onset of chest pain. All patients underwent echocardiography before and after HBO and during DSE. Improvements in WMSI after HBO, as well as during DSE were considered as proof of viability. Total of 186 akinetic segments were detected before HBO. Functional recovery was defined at 73 after HBO and 113 segments were fixed. Eighty-one segments improved contraction with DSE. WMSI improved before HBO compared to the one after HBO (1.79 vs. 1.65, p = 0.024) and DSE (1.79 vs. 1.60, p < 0.001). Close relationship between WMSI after HBO and DSE was found (...
Research Interests: Physiology, Cardiology, Medicine, Echocardiography, Humans, and 15 moreFemale, Pubmed, Male, Heart, Medical Physiology, Left Ventricular Dysfunction, Angiography, Middle Aged, Myocardial Infarction, Hyperbaric Oxygenation, Chest Pain, Thrombolytic Therapy, General Physiology, Thrombolysis, and Stress Physiological
Introduction. Venous thromboembolism is one of the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. The incidence of venous thromboembolism is estimated at 0.76 to 1.72 per 100.000 pregnancies which is four times as great as the risk in... more
Introduction. Venous thromboembolism is one of the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. The incidence of venous thromboembolism is estimated at 0.76 to 1.72 per 100.000 pregnancies which is four times as great as the risk in nonpregnant women. The purpose of this article is to raise awareness of this frequent problem in pregnancy and provide a practical approach for the diagnosis, management, and prevention of venous thromboembolism during pregnancy and delivery. Risk factors. A number of risk factors for the development venous thromboembolism have been identified. The two most important risk factors for venous thromboembolism in pregnancy are thrombophilia and previous venous thromboembolism. Deep venous thrombosis in the majority of cases occurs in the lower extremities and pelvis. Diagnosis. As the clinical diagnosis of venous thromboembolism is unreliable, the women who are suspected of having deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism should be examined promptly usi...
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The purpose of this article is to provide a historical background of medicine, science and sports with the focus on the development of modern sports medicine in European countries, with an accent on Eastern European countries that have a... more
The purpose of this article is to provide a historical background of medicine, science and sports with the focus on the development of modern sports medicine in European countries, with an accent on Eastern European countries that have a long sports medicine tradition. The development of modern sports medicine began at the end of 19th and the beginning of 20th century, and it has been associated with social and cultural changes in the world of medicine, science and sports. Advanced medical knowledge, skills and practices, and the progress of scientific achievements enabled sports people to improve their performance level. Increased popularisation and commercialisation of sports have resulted from urbanization and city lifestyle, leading to the lack of physical activity and increased psychological pressure. In addition, the growing need and interest in sports and successes in professional sports have become a symbol of international recognition and prestige for the nations.
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Introduction. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is the fourth leading cause of mortality worldwide. It is defined as a persistent airflow limitation usually progressive and not fully reversible to treatment. The diagnosis of chronic... more
Introduction. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is the fourth leading cause of mortality worldwide. It is defined as a persistent airflow limitation usually progressive and not fully reversible to treatment. The diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and severity of disease is confirmed by spirometry. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease produces electrical changes in the heart which shows characteristic electrocardiogram pattern. The aim of this study was to observe and evaluate diagnostic values of electrocardiogram changes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with no other comorbidity. Material and Methods. We analyzed 110 electrocardiogram findings in clinically stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients and evaluated the forced expiratory volume in the first second, ratio of forces expiratory volume in the first second to the fixed vital capacity, chest radiographs and electrocardiogram changes such as p wave height, QRS axis and voltage...
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Introduction. Our purpose was to review the literature on the subject of peritoneal closure and to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of this procedure. Experimental Studies. Experimental studies have proved that peritoneal defects... more
Introduction. Our purpose was to review the literature on the subject of peritoneal closure and to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of this procedure. Experimental Studies. Experimental studies have proved that peritoneal defects demonstrate mesothelial integrity (reperitonealization) 48-72 hours after injury and gross healing occurs within five days. A foreign body in the peritoneum causes tissue ischemia, necrosis, inflammation, and it stimulates numerous and dense adhesions. Surgery (General and Gynecological). The major advantage of peritoneal non-closure is a decreased adhesion formation, quicker return of bowel activity and reduced risk of bowel obstruction after surgery. Not only does peritoneal closure provide no immediate postoperative benefits, but it also prolongs surgical time, exposure to anesthesia and post-operative hospital stay unnecessarily, thus increasing surgery expenses. In summary, the existing data do not show advantages of this technique. Since many...
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Introduction. Despite remarkable advances in medicine and sports, sudden cardiac death remains a significant problem. Incidence of sudden cardiac death. The incidence of sudden cardiac death varies in different studies and there are no... more
Introduction. Despite remarkable advances in medicine and sports, sudden cardiac death remains a significant problem. Incidence of sudden cardiac death. The incidence of sudden cardiac death varies in different studies and there are no systematic data about it. It varies in different types of sports, with age and sex. Sudden cardiac death and physical activity. Many changes in cardiac morphology and function represent an adaptive response to physical activity. As a result, the heart undergoes profound morphologic, functional and electro-physiological alterations. But as there are different kinds of physical activities, the degree of these morphological changes is highly variable. It is needless to say how important it is to know which changes in the heart due to physical activity are normal, and when they are pathological. Considering the results of many studies, the main cause of sudden cardiac death is hypertrophic cardiomiopathy. Conclusion. It is very important to distinguish ph...
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Introduction. Specific morphological and functional characteristics of athletes have a significant role in determining athletes? sports results and can be also used to assess the athlete?s individual potential. Objective. The aim of the... more
Introduction. Specific morphological and functional characteristics of athletes have a significant role in determining athletes? sports results and can be also used to assess the athlete?s individual potential. Objective. The aim of the study was to compare anthropometric characteristics and cardiovascular parameters in trained subjects to those of untrained subjects. Methods. A total number of 25 trained (17.30?0.83 years) and 21 (18.52?1.52 years) untrained male subjects participated in this study. Body weight and height were measured and these values were used to compute body mass index (BMI). The bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) method was used to estimate body fat percentage (%BF). Cardiovascular parameters were monitored in rest (rest heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure) during ergospirometric testing (maximal oxygen consumption, maximal heart rate) and in recovery (heart rate in the first and third minute of recovery). Results. Body mass, height and BMI (p...
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Etoposide is commonly used in the treatment of a variety of neoplasms. Hypersensitivity reactions to etoposide are infrequently reported and include hypotension, hypertension, flushing, diaphoresis, chest discomfort, dyspnea, bronchospasm... more
Etoposide is commonly used in the treatment of a variety of neoplasms. Hypersensitivity reactions to etoposide are infrequently reported and include hypotension, hypertension, flushing, diaphoresis, chest discomfort, dyspnea, bronchospasm and loss of consciousness. We report the case of a 39-year-old woman who experienced acute bronchospasm, tachycardia, hypoxia and hypotension. The symptoms resolved within an hour after administration of intravenous fluids, methylprednisolone, diphenhydramine and oxygen. Subsequently, the patient was given etoposide phosphate without incident.
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The effect of intensive long-term physical activity on phospholipid fatty acid (FA) composition has not been studied thoroughly. We determined plasma and erythrocyte phospholipid FA status of professional basketball and football players.... more
The effect of intensive long-term physical activity on phospholipid fatty acid (FA) composition has not been studied thoroughly. We determined plasma and erythrocyte phospholipid FA status of professional basketball and football players. Our results showed differences in plasma FA profile not only between sportsmen and sedentary subjects, but also between two groups of sportsmen. Plasma FA profile in basketball players showed significantly higher proportion of n-6 FA (20:3, 20:4, and 22:4) and total polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) than controls, while football players had higher palmitoleic acid (16:1) than basketball players and controls. Total PUFA and 22:4 were also higher in basketball than in football players. Erythrocyte FA profile showed no differences between football players and controls. However, basketball players had higher proportion of 18:0 than controls, higher saturated FA and lower 18:2 than two other groups, and higher 22:4 than football players. These findings suggest that long-term intensive exercise and type of sport influence FA profile.
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In the frame of a laboratory training course for medicine students, a new approach for laboratory exercises has been applied to teach the phenomena of circulation. The exercise program included measurements of radial artery blood flow... more
In the frame of a laboratory training course for medicine students, a new approach for laboratory exercises has been applied to teach the phenomena of circulation. The exercise program included measurements of radial artery blood flow waveform for different age groups using a noninvasive optical sensor. Arterial wave reflection was identified by measurements of blood flow waveforms before and after arterial branching. Students were able to distinguish between different waveforms of blood flow within different age groups. Furthermore, students were given the opportunity to explore the effect of aging on the elasticity of blood vessels. This exercise is an introduction to the fundamental physical laws of hemodynamics that can facilitate the learning and understanding of cardiovascular physiology to students of medicine.
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The aim of study was to estimate the effect of acute exercise on serum growth hormone (GH) and fatty acid (FFA) levels in elite water polo players. Twelve male water polo players (20.50 ? 2.02 years) and eleven non-athletic male subjects... more
The aim of study was to estimate the effect of acute exercise on serum growth hormone (GH) and fatty acid (FFA) levels in elite water polo players. Twelve male water polo players (20.50 ? 2.02 years) and eleven non-athletic male subjects (20.55 ? 1.04 years) participated in this study. In order to determine GH and FFA responses to acute exercise, a treadmill-running test was performed following an incremental protocol. Pre-exercise blood samples for both athletes and non-athletes were taken at 9 AM. Post-exercise samples were taken immediately after and 30 min after the treadmill running test. Water polo players had significantly lower baseline values of serum GH concentration compared to controls, whereas serum FFA concentration was significantly higher in water polo players compared to controls (p<0.01; p<0.05, respectively). In both groups, concentration of GH was significantly higher immediately after and after the 30-min of recovery compared to baseline levels (p<0.05)...
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Abstract. Body mass index (BMI) is widely used as an index of obesity in adults. In trained population, individual with low body fat could be classified as overweight by BMI. To evaluate this problem, the purposes of this study were to... more
Abstract. Body mass index (BMI) is widely used as an index of obesity in adults. In trained population, individual with low body fat could be classified as overweight by BMI. To evaluate this problem, the purposes of this study were to determine the BMI and body fat ...
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Over the last decades, more and more evidence is accumulated that physical activity (PA) and exercise interventions are essential components in primary and secondary prevention for cardiovascular disease. However, it is less clear whether... more
Over the last decades, more and more evidence is accumulated that physical activity (PA) and exercise interventions are essential components in primary and secondary prevention for cardiovascular disease. However, it is less clear whether and which type of PA and exercise intervention (aerobic exercise, dynamic resistive exercise, or both) or characteristic of exercise (frequency, intensity, time or duration, and volume)
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The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a carbohydrate-electrolyte drink on specific soccer tests and performance. Twenty-two professional male soccer players volunteered to participate in the study. The players were allocated... more
The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a carbohydrate-electrolyte drink on specific soccer tests and performance. Twenty-two professional male soccer players volunteered to participate in the study. The players were allocated to two assigned trials ingesting carbohydrate-electrolyte drink (7% carbohydrates, sodium 24 mmol.l-1, chloride 12 mmol.l-1, potassium 3 mmol.l-1) or placebo during a 90 min on-field soccer match. The trials were matched for subjects' age, weight, height and maximal oxygen uptake. Immediately after the match, players completed four soccer-specific skill tests. Blood glucose concentration [mean (SD)] was higher at the end of the match-play in the carbohydrate-electrolyte trial than in the placebo trial (4.4 (0.3) vs. 4.0 (0.3) mmol.l-1, P < 0.05). Subjects in the carbohydrate-electrolyte trial finished the specific dribble test faster in comparison with subjects in the placebo trial (12.9 (0.4) vs. 13.6 (0.5) s, P < 0.05). Ratings of the p...
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Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy/dysplasia is a progressive condition with right ventricular myocardium being replaced by fibro-fatty tissue. It is a hereditary disorder mostly caused by desmosome gene mutations. The... more
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy/dysplasia is a progressive condition with right ventricular myocardium being replaced by fibro-fatty tissue. It is a hereditary disorder mostly caused by desmosome gene mutations. The prevalence of arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy is about 1/1000-5000. Clinical presentation is usually related to ventricular tachycardias, syncope or presyncopa, or ventricular fibrillation leading to cardiac arrest, mostly in young people and athletes. It may be difficult to make the diagnosis of arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy due to several problems arising from the specificity of electrocardiograph abnormalities, different potential etiologies of ventricular arrhythmias with a left bundle branch morphology, the assessment of the right ventricular structure and function, and the interpretation of endomyocardial biopsy findings. Therefore, standardized diagnostic criteria have been proposed by the Study Group on arrhythmog...
The use of electrocardiogram in athletes as a routine screening method for diagnosing potentially dangerous cardiovascular diseases is still an issue of debate. According to the guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology, the... more
The use of electrocardiogram in athletes as a routine screening method for diagnosing potentially dangerous cardiovascular diseases is still an issue of debate. According to the guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology, the recording of electrocardiogram is necessary in all athletes as a screening method, whereas the guidelines of the American Heart Association do not necessitate an electrocardiogram as a screening method and they insist on detailed personal and family history and clinical examination. CLASSIFICATION OF ELECTROCARDIOGRAM CHANGES IN ATHLETES: According to the classification of the European Society of Cardiology, electrocardiogram changes in athletes are divided into two groups: a) usual (physiological) that are connected with training; b) unusual (potentially clinically relevant) that are not connected with training. SUDDEN CARDIAC DEATH IN ATHLETES: The most frequent causes include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and congenital coronary artery anomalies, while o...