2010 CSEP General Meeting / 2010 Congrès annuelle de la SCPE

Exploring the routes to health and fitness

A. Abdullahi and O. Adegoke S1 The level of the mRNA translation inhibitor PDCD4
is modified during myogenesis

S.L. Abramovitch, J.L. Reddigan, and J.L. Kuk S1 Ethnic differences and estimating serving sizes using
Canada’s Food Guide

K.B. Adamo, Z. Ferraro, J. Rutherford, E. Keely, S2 The maternal obesity management (MOM) trial: a
M. Walker, G. Goldfield, S. Hadjiyannakis, and lifestyle intervention during pregnancy to minimize
N. Barrowman downstream obesity

R.J. Andrews, N.A. Burd, A.J. Hector, S.K. Baker, S3 Anabolic signaling with low-intensity resistance
and S.M. Phillips exercise performed with high and low time under
tension in young men

M. Audet, S. Choquette, E. Riesco, and I.J. Dionne S3 Reproductive factors, body fat distribution, and
glucose tolerance in postmenopausal women

M. Balan and M. Locke S4 Acute exercise activates myocardial nuclear factor

kappa B

B.A. Barron and J.R. Fowles S4 Chocolate milk as a recovery aid from fatiguing
exercise

T.S. Barss, C.R.A. Magnus, N. Clarke, and S5 The effect of specificity of contraction velocity on the
J.P. Farthing repeated bout effect

M.K. Beauchamp, S. O’Hoski, S. Francella, S5 Preliminary results of a community-based

R.S. Goldstein, and D. Brooks maintenance exercise program for individuals with
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

M. Beaudoin and T.E. Graham S6 The role of an oral lipid challenge and coffee on
glucose tolerance in humans

L. Bellamy, A.P.W. Johnston, and G. Parise S6 Skeletal muscle derived angiotensin II regulates
angiogenesis

R. Beougher, S.D. Burdette, S.M. Harris, D.W. Hill, S7 Pedaling cadence affects the quantification of
and J.L. Vingren anaerobic capacity by maximal accumulated oxygen
deficit

R.E. Blacklock, L.L. Goulet, and P.F. McFadyen S7 Identification and physiological quantification of
physically demanding tasks for the Canadian Forces
Navy

R.E. Blacklock, L.L. Goulet, and P.F. McFadyen S8 The effects of heat on cardiovascular strain during
shipboard firefighting

D. Bloemberg and J. Quadrilatero S9 Fiber-type characterization of 10 rat and mouse

muscles using a relatively rapid and simple
immunofluorescence staining procedure

E. Bombardier, A. Hopf, C. Vigna, K. Hall, S9 Sex differences in Hsp70 response in human vastus
D. Bloemberg, J. Quadrilatero, and A.R. Tupling lateralis after a single bout of isometric exercise

J.C. Boyd, A.F. Casey, R. Rasmussen, and S10 An exercise and diet intervention for adults with
S.J. MacKenzie intellectual disabilities in residential settings
 J.P. Brandenburg and M. Gaetz S10 Prepractice urine specific gravity and fluid intake of
junior ice hockey players does not improve with
follow-up testing of hydration status

P. Breithaupt, R.C. Colley, J. Rutherford, and S11 Body composition measured by dual-energy X-ray
K.B. Adamo absorptiometry half-body scans in obese children
and youth

R.E. Brown, D. Uniat, S. Bigsby, G. Binsted, and S11 Sex differences in cortical drive influence steadiness
J.M. Jakobi and EMG of elbow flexors

N.A. Burd, A.W. Staples, D.W.D. West, S12 The latent resistance exercise and feeding interaction to
P.J. Atherton, D.R. Moore, and T. Prior stimulate myofibrillar protein synthesis postexercise is
dependent on effort

S.D. Burdette, E.R. Castillo, S.M. Harris, S12 Maximal accumulated oxygen deficit and blood
J.L. Vingren, and D.W. Hill lactate concentration in running and cycling

S.D. Burdette, K.R. Jones, P.D. Knowles, D.W. Hill, S13 Maximal accumulated oxygen deficit after blood or
and J.L. Vingren plasma donation

O.A. Campos and E.G. Noble S13 Long term low-intensity treadmill exercise in
rodents leads to decreased insulin-mediated
vasorelaxation in vitro

E.A. Carter and M.S. Koehle S14 Descriptive analysis of 87 cases of immersion
pulmonary edema

H.N. Carter and D.A. Hood S14 mTORC1 inhibition and mitochondrial biogenesis
during chronic contractile activity of C2C12
myotubes

D. Caterini, B. Gittings, and R. Vandenboom S15 Speed dependence for the potentiation of concentric
force in mouse fast muscle

P.D. Chilibeck, H. Vatanparast, R. Pierson, A. Case, S16 The effect of exercise training combined with soy
S. Whiting, O. Oluntanbosun, J. Biem, P. Pahwa, isoflavone supplementation on bone in
and T. Beck postmenopausal women

D. Chirico, K. Haluka, J. Peralta-Huertas, T. Wade, S16 Impact of high-normal blood pressure on left
J. Cairney, and D.D. O’Leary ventricular mass in children

J.W. Chopek, C.W. MacDonell, K.E. Power, S17 Differences in the excitation of rat hindlimb extensor
K. Gardiner, and P.F. Gardiner and flexor motoneurons to quipazine —
a serotonergic agonist

T.A. Churchward-Venne, C.J. Mitchell, S18 The impact of dietary leucine on feeding- and
D.W.D. West, N.A. Burd, S.K. Baker, and resistance-exercise-induced increases in skeletal
S.M. Phillips muscle protein synthesis in young men

A.J.R. Cochran, M.E. Percival, J.B. Gillen, S18 A few minutes of all-out exercise performed as a
M.A. Tarnopolsky, and M.J. Gibala single effort activates signaling pathways linked to
mitochondrial biogenesis in human skeletal muscle

J.L. Copeland, F. Billaut, M.S. Verzosa, and S19 The impact of ultra-endurance exercise on estradiol
K. Smith and neuromuscular function in women

A.T. Cote, A.A. Phillips, S.S.D. Bredin, and S20 Relationship of baroreceptor sensitivity and
D.E.R. Warburton orthostatic tolerance in healthy young adults

L.C. Cotie, A.R. Josse, G. Zubic, K.E. Hammel, S20 Investigating the relationship between BMI and
S.M. Phillips, and M.J. MacDonald arterial stiffness in premenopausal overweight and
obese women
 N.S. Coverdale, A. Banach, and D.D. O’Leary S21 Autonomic indices in overweight and obese pre- and
early pubescent children

K.D. Currie, K. Lee, R.S. McKelvie, and S21 The acute effects of continuous and interval exercise
M.J. MacDonald on pulse wave velocity in individuals with coronary
artery disease

A. Dam and J. Quadrilatero S22 Effect of mitochondrial biogenesis on apoptotic

susceptibility in L6 myoblasts

M.A. DiBartolomeo, C.L. Stiller-Moldovan, S23 Effects of acute isometric handgrip exercise on
J. Ackersviller, D.A. Clarke, and C.L. McGowan endothelium-dependent vasodilation and resistance
vessel function in normotensive individuals

K.M. Di Sebastiano, A. Weeraratne, and S23 Enhanced glutamate availability may interact with
M. Mourtzakis glucose metabolism

K.M. Di Sebastiano, D. Panjwani, P. Fortin, and S24 Interactions between glucose metabolism, body
M. Mourtzakis composition, and physical activity levels in men with
high-risk prostate cancer: a pilot study

S. Dogra, V. Jamnik, and J. Baker S25 Self-directed exercise improves perceived measures
of health in adults with partly controlled asthma

E.C.E. Dunford, E.A.F. Herbst, W.J. Gittings, S25 PDH kinase 2 ablation causes upregulation of PDH
R. Vandenboom, P.J. LeBlanc, B.D. Roy, kinase 1 mediated by hypoxia inducible factor
N.H. Jeoung, R.A. Harris, and S.J. Peters (HIF)-1

B.A. Edgett, J.E.D. Ross, A.E. Green, S26 Aerobic fitness as a predictor for self-selected
N.J. MacMillan, D.B. Thorp, and B.J. Gurd exercise intensity during recreational sport

S. Elgamal, M. Sharratt, E. Roy, and R. Hughson S26 Factors affecting cerebral blood flow at rest and
during exercise in older adults

B. Falk, C. Mitchell, R. Cohen, R. Dotan, S27 Contractile and EMG responses to endurance and
P. Klentrou, and D. Gabriel power training in boys and men

L.K. Fitzgibbon, K.A. Zuj, C. Tessmer, K.S. Fraser, S27 Cardiovascular adaptations in response to tilt
S.A. Morrison, and R.L. Hughson following 5-days head-down bed-rest

S. Forbes, G. Bell, M. Kennedy, and N. Boule S28 Determination of the optimal resistance setting for
upper body anaerobic power testing in trained and
untrained males

H.J.A. Foulds, S.S.D. Bredin, S.A. Charlesworth, S28 Changes in self-reported physical activity levels with
A.C. Ivey, and D.E.R. Warburton varying volume and intensity exercise interventions

H.J.A. Foulds, S.S.D. Bredin, and D.E.R. Warburton S29 The effectiveness of self-selected physical activity
programs in Aboriginal Canadians

R.E. Foulds, I. Jacobs, J.D. Vescovi, and M. Fallah S29 Effects of modafinil, caffeine, and their combination
on exercise endurance

K.S. Fraser, K.A. Zuj, C. Tessmer, L.K. Fitzgibbon, S30 Cardiovascular responses to posture change after
S.A. Morrison, and R.L. Hughson 5-day head-down bed rest

L. Gabel, T. Nguyen, J. Obeid, and B.W. Timmons S30 Tracking of short-term muscle power, speed, and
physical activity in Canadian preschool children

M. Gaetz and J.P. Brandenburg S31 Exercise-induced slowing of the EEG during a
60-min submaximal exercise protocol
 D. Gamu, E. Bombardier, R. Sayer, A. Trihn, S31 Mice lacking sarcolipin are susceptible to glucose
C. Vandenbrink, and A.R. Tupling intolerance despite access to voluntary exercise

J.C. Gibbs, N.I. Williams, J.L. Scheid, and S32 Energy intake, exercise training, and resting energy
M.J. De Souza expenditure characteristics of exercising women
categorized by drive for thinness status

J.C. Gibson, W. Pethick, L.A. Stuart-Hill, and S33 Sweat rate, fluid intake, and sodium loss assessment
C.A. Gaul in junior elite female soccer athletes

L.V. Giles, D.E.R Warburton, B.T. Esch, S33 The effects of hypoxic and normoxic conditions on
M.N. Fedoruk, J.L. Rupert, and J.E. Taunton endothelin-1 and arterial compliance

J.B. Gillen, J.P. Little, Z. Punthakee, S34 A single session of high-intensity interval exercise
M.A. Tarnopolsky, and M.J. Gibala reduces the postprandial glucose response and
prevalence of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetics

E.D.B. Goulet, A. Asselin, and G. Lacerte S34 Quercetin supplementation improves endurance
performance: a meta-analytic study

B.M.R. Gravelle, M.D. Spencer, J.M. Murias, S35 O2 uptake–power output relationship and exercise
D.H. Paterson, and J.M. Kowalchuk efficiency in young and older adult men during
constant-load and ramp incremental cycling exercise

A.E. Green, R. Valadares, G. Ouimet, S36 Ability of lean sedentary individuals vs. lean active
N.J. MacMillan, J.E.D. Ross, B. Irish, A. Payne, and peers to complete endurance and interval cycle
B.J. Gurd ergometer exercise protocols

R.J. Gumieniak, A. Macpherson, and V.K. Jamnik S36 Effect of familiarization and training on the
Emergency Service Physical Abilities Test
performance; applying the Meiorin decision
requirements

A.M. Hall, C.G. Maher, J. Latimer, and S37 The effectiveness of tai chi for chronic
M.L. Ferreira musculoskeletal pain conditions: a systematic review
and meta-analysis

K. Hall, A. Hopf, B. Reid, A. Trinh, and S37 Sex differences in muscle fatigability
A.R. Tupling

G.A. Handrigan, F. Berrigan, O. Hue, M. Simoneau, S38 The role of muscular strength in standing balance
N. Teasdale, and P. Corbeil control for obese individuals and football linesman

S.M. Harris, S.D. Burdette, R. Beougher, D.W. Hill, S38 The effect of pedaling cadence on the kinetics of
and J.L. Vingren oxygen uptake during severe intensity exercise

S.E. Hartmann, R. Leigh, and M.J. Poulin S39 Cerebrovascular dysfunction with submaximal
exercise in women with COPD

B. Harwood and C.L. Rice S39 Motor unit recruitment thresholds of the anconeus
during maximal velocity elbow extensions

T.J. Hazell, T.D. Olver, C.D. Hamilton, and S40 Vertical whole-body vibration exercise induces some
P.W.R. Lemon muscle soreness but does not adversely affect muscle
function, compared with the same exercises without
vibration

A.K. Hill, M.A. Tarnopolsky, and T.E. Graham S41 Effects of altered glycogen levels on proteins
associated with glycogen metabolism

J.A. Hnatiuk, T.A. Duhamel, A. Katz, and S41 Physical activity supports in team-based primary
A.E. Ready care clinics as reported by health care providers and
perceived by patients with type 2 diabetes
 A.M. Holwerda, N.A. Burd, K.C. Selby, S42 Three sets of resistance exercise elicit a greater
D.W.D. West, A.W. Staples, N.E. Cain, elevation in myofibrillar protein synthesis than 1 set
J. Cashaback, J.R. Potvin, S.K. Baker, and of resistance exercise in young men
S.M. Phillips

K.A. Hougham, P.J. Stotz, and R. Ross S42 Effect of exercise intensity and volume on insulin
sensitivity in abdominally obese adults

S. Iqbal and D.A. Hood S43 Skeletal muscle mitochondrial movement along
microtubules

S.S. Jain, L.A. Snook, X.X. Han, G.P. Holloway, and S43 Akt2 is required for insulin- and contraction-
A. Bonen stimulated translocation of FA transporters and FA
uptake into skeletal muscle

F. Jazuli and K.E. Pyke S44 The slope of the handgrip exercise induced shear
stress stimulus — %FMD response relationship
differs between the radial and brachial arteries

A.J. Jeffery, K.K. Durham, C.S. Smith, R.J. Ford, S44 Resveratrol has endothelium-dependent effects on
A.S. Levy, and J.W.E. Rush vascular function that are mediated by NO and
EDCF

S. Jeganathan and O.A.J. Adegoke S45 Amino-acid-induced negative feedback to IRS-1 and
the subsequent inhibition of glucose uptake are
reversible physiological responses to nutrition in
muscle cells

N.G. Jendzjowsky and D.S. DeLorey S46 Evaluation of a noninterval training progression
designed to increase exercise tolerance at different
running velocities in rodents

K.R. Jones, P.D. Knowles, L.L. Lackey, S46 Blood donation and aerobic responses to exercise
S.D. Burdette, E.R. Castillo, S.M. Harris, D.W. Hill,
and J.L. Vingren

N.C. Karn, K.P. Roland, and J.M. Jakobi S47 Does whole-body vibration enhance blood lactate
clearance?

M.D. Kennedy, A.B. Game, E. Thurston, S. Lajoie, S47 Evaluation of fitness parameters across a season and
and G.J. Bell between positions in male varsity hockey players

G.P. Kenny and D. Gagnon S48 Cumulative changes in body heat content during
various work–rest cycles in the heat

Y. Kimura, K. Ohki, N. Nakagawa, T. Ezaki, and S48 Effects of slow resistance training and brisk walking
T. Sato exercise on body composition and bone status in
young women

A.A. Kirkham, S.E. Neil, D.C. McKenzie, and S49 An easy method for adjusting heart rate targets
K.L. Campbell to account for training adaptations throughout
exercise interventions with breast cancer survivors

P. Klentrou and I.A. Ludwa S50 Transaxial quantitative ultrasound measurements in

females: from adolescence to young adulthood

M.S. Koehle and N.J. Osborne S50 Relationship between the Balance Error Scoring
System and acute mountain sickness

J. Ku, A. McEvoy, and K.E. Pyke S51 Can a combination of hand-grip exercise and
prolonged forearm occlusion elicit a maximal
brachial artery FMD response?
 J.M. Labreche, J.S. Querido, M.N. Fedoruk, S51 Effects of repeated exposure to normobaric
J.L. Rupert, and D.C. McKenzie hyperoxia on plasma erythropoietin concentration

L.L. Lackey, B.N. Grignon, P.D. Knowles, S52 Plasmapheresis and aerobic responses to exercise
S.D. Burdette, E.R. Castillo, D.W. Hill, and
J.L. Vingren

C.C. Lalonde, J.C.S. Chung, J.W.E. Rush, and S52 Effects of acute exercise on apoptotic signaling and
J. Quadrilatero oxidative stress in cardiac and skeletal muscle

K.N. Lane, L. Zehr, S.S.D. Bredin, and S53 Utilization of the Physical Activity Line by the
D.E.R. Warburton general public

A.G. LeBlanc, C.L. Craig, and M.S. Tremblay S53 Predicting maximal oxygen uptake in children and
youth

P.J. LeBlanc, G.P. Holloway, L. McMeekin, and S54 Skeletal and cardiac muscle subsarcolemmal
V.A. Fajardo and intermyofibrillar mitochondrial palmitate
oxidation: potential influence of membrane
lipid structure

L. Lee, J.A. Mariani, Z. Sasson, and J.M. Goodman S55 Exercise with a twist: an assessment of left
ventricular torsion and recoil in young, middle-aged,
and endurance-trained men

I.A. Lesser, M.K. Stickland, A.N.H. Hodges, and S55 The effect of heavy load carriage on breathing
S.R. Petersen pattern and respiratory mechanics during graded
exercise

M.J. Leung, K.E. Shortreed, T.J. Hawke, and S56 Regulatory volume response to increased
M.I. Lindinger extracellular lactate via monocarboxylate
transporters in mammalian skeletal muscle

A.S. Levy, S.G. Denniss, A.J. Jeffery, E.B. Reid, S56 Effects of modulation of glutathione on coronary
C.S. Smith, and J.W.E. Rush vascular resistance and vasomotor function

E.J.H. Lewis, S.G. Thomas, and G.D. Wells S57 Changes in hydration status of elite Canadian sailors

M. Li, S. Mathur, N. Chowdhury, D. Helm, and S58 Investigating the effects of changes in exercise
L.G. Singer capacity on outcomes following lung transplantation

M.E. Linseman, M.S. Palmer, H.M. Logan-Sprenger, S58 Effects of mild dehydration on physiological, mental,
and L.L. Spriet and performance parameters during ice hockey

S. Liu, J. Goodman, R. Nolan, and S. Thomas S59 Acute postexercise hypotension and blood pressure
reduction with chronic training are strongly
associated in prehypertensives

K.L. Lockwood, B. Komenda, D. Harriss, S59 Analysis of push mechanics in elite wheelchair
A. McKenzie, B. Linker, and C. DalCin basketball players

A.J. Lui, R.L.A. Darling, C. Vandommele, S60 Time course of hyperosmotic-induced changes in
R.E.K. MacPherson, S.J. Peters, P.J. LeBlanc, and glucose uptake signalling in mammalian skeletal
B.D. Roy muscle

N.J. MacMillan, A.E. Green, J.E.D. Ross, and S61 The effects of gender, body composition, and
B.J. Gurd V̇O2 peak on exercise intensity measured by heart
rate during participation in intramural soccer

C.R.A. Magnus, T.B. Judd, T.S. Barss, and S61 Rehabilitation via cross-education after a scapular
J.P. Farthing fracture: a case study
 A.C. Maher, G.P. Holloway, and A. Bonen S62 Increases in TBC1D1 in mouse skeletal muscle
decreased palmitate oxidation while glucose uptake
remained unaltered

M. Maltais, M. Brochu, and I.J. Dionne S62 The effect of exercise on resting lipid and
carbohydrate oxidation in postmenopausal women

J. Manson, P. Ritvo, C. Ardern, P.L. Weir, J. Baker, S63 A tai chi intervention with low-income community-
R. Jamnik, and H. Tamim dwelling older adults improves physical and mental
health

K.R. Marsden, M.J. Haykowsky, J.D. Smirl, S64 Influence of aging on cerebral blood flow velocity
H. Jones, M.D. Neilson, K. Haykowsky, and during progressive cycling to volitional exhaustion
P.N. Ainslie

A.A. Martin, N.A. Proudfoot, S.G. Noorduyn, S64 Baseline assessment of pulse wave velocity and
N.Y. Hon, B.W. Timmons, J.W. Gorter, and carotid distensibility in adolescents with cerebral
M.J. MacDonald palsy: a pilot study

L. Mattar and J.K. Shoemaker S65 Vascular stiffness and the sympathetic nervous
system in young female rats

A.M. McCarthy, G.J. Bell, L.J. McCargar, and S66 An investigation of endogenous ghrelin following the
D.G. Syrotuik consumption of 2 different relative doses of oral
L-arginine

J.T. McFarlan, I. Momken, E. Dirkx, A. Thys, S66 Leptin stimulation of fatty acid oxidation is
J. Glatz, J. Luiken, and A. Bonen dependent on the fatty acid transporter CD36

G.W. McGarr, G.L. Hartley, and S.S. Cheung S67 Comparison of sprint interval vs. endurance training
on thermoregulatory responses to exercise in the
heat

C.L. McGowan, C.F. Notarius, A. McReynolds, S68 Effect of AT1 receptor blockade on muscle
B.L. Morris, D.S. Kimmerly, P.E. Picton, and sympathetic responses to handgrip exercise in
J.S. Floras healthy men

J.A.A. McKay, K. Stewart, J.S. Querido, S68 Long-term practice of yogic breathing exercises may
G.E. Foster, M.S. Koehle, and A.W. Sheel be associated with increased blood pressure during
breath-holds

A.L. McKillop, S. Thomas, J. Goodman, and S69 The effect of altitude training on hydration in
G.D. Wells competitive swimmers

L. McMeekin, V.A. Fajardo, N. Coverdale, S. Hajna, S69 Influence of high-fat diet on subsarcolemmal
L.E. Stefanyk, B.D. Roy, S.J. Peters, and and intermyofibrillar mitochondrial membrane
P.J. LeBlanc phospholipid fatty acid composition: examining the
conformer-regulator paradigm

E.M. McMillan and J. Quadrilatero S70 Examination of apoptotic protein expression,

proteolytic enzyme activity, and DNA fragmentation
across muscles and fiber types

A. Melançon, D. Foucher, M. Cadrin, F. Péronnet, S71 Changes in liver glucagon receptor density with
and C. Lavoie exercise and postexercise

K.J. Menzies, K. Singh, and D.A. Hood S71 Attenuation of mitochondrial dysfunction in Sirt1-
deficient muscle by resveratrol or voluntary running

A. Mitchell, R. von Harsdorf, S. Donath, and S72 Examination of skeletal muscle apoptotic protein
J. Quadrilatero expression and morphology in apoptosis repressor
with caspase recruitment domain-deficient mice
 C.J. Mitchell, T.A. Churchward-Venne, S72 Relative training load affects the magnitude of
D.W.D. West, N.A. Burd, S.K. Baker, and strength but not hypertrophy gains after 10 weeks of
S.M. Phillips resistance training

M. Miyatani, J. Totosy de Zepetnek, K. Masani, S73 Acute effects of passive standing and whole-body
J. Delparte, M.R. Popovic, and B.C. Craven vibration on arterial stiffness of the aorta

S.A. Morrison, K.A. Zui, C. Tessmer, S74 Daily artificial gravity on a short-arm centrifuge to
L.K. Fitzgibbon, K.S. Fraser, P. Arbeille, reduce cardiovascular deconditioning with 5-day bed
J.K. Shoemaker, and R.L. Hughson rest

R.A. Murphy, M. Mourtzakis, Q.S. Chu, S74 Muscle and adipose tissue wasting are prevalent in
T. Reiman V, E Baracos, and V.C. Mazurak nonsmall-cell lung cancer patients receiving
chemotherapy: an opportunity for intervention

G. Murray, R. Larouche, L. Laurencelle, S75 Tracking of lung function from childhood to

R.J. Shephard, and F. Trudeau adulthood

J.P. Neary, D. Mulder, and D.S. MacQuarrie S75 Sport performance-related changes in cardiac cycle
timing events

M.D. Nelson, M.J. Haykowsky, S.R. Petersen, S76 Biventricular function during passive heat stress:
D.S. DeLorey, M.K. Stickland, J. Cheng-Baron, and influence of aerobic fitness
R.B. Thompson

L.M.-D. Nguyen, J.N. Stabley, A.N. Kavazis, S77 Effect of microgravity on mitochondrial-associated
M.D. Delp, and P.J. Adhihetty apoptotic and autophagic markers in cardiac and
skeletal muscle

J.X. Nie, V.T.W. Poon, E. de Sa, and C.I. Ardern S77 Physical activity and health risk in off-reserve
Aboriginals and non-Aboriginals: results from the
Canadian Community Health Surveys

C.A. Nielson, M.F. Frances, R. Goswami, S78 Smoking behaviour differentially affects central vs.
T.I. Gimon, H. Prapavessis, and J.K. Shoemaker peripheral vascular mechanics in young women

T.D. Olver, T.J. Hazell, C.D. Hamilton, and S79 Obesity impairs leg blood flow and glucose tolerance
P.W.R. Lemon in young women

E. O’Donnell, J.M. Goodman, B.L. Morris, S79 Endothelial dysfunction in estrogen-deficient

J.S. Floras, and P.J. Harvey physically active premenopausal women is restored
with acute aerobic exercise

A.A. Parent et A.S. Comtois S80 Consommation en oxygène des muscles respiratoires
(V̇O2MR) durant une épreuve respiratoire
progressive maximale chez les blessés médullaires

A.A. Phillips, A. Ivey, A. Cote, and S80 Comparing central and peripheral vascular stiffness
D.E.R. Warburton between spinal-cord-injured and able-bodied
individuals

A. Piattelli, A. Chabowski, A. Bonen, X-X. Han, and S81 Increasing intramuscular triacylglycerol is
G.P. Holloway associated with improved insulin sensitivity in lean
and obese rats

G. Poleksic and R. Vandenboom S81 Influence of recreational ball hockey on selected

coronary risk factors in sedentary adult males

V.T.W. Poon, J.L. Kuk, and C.I. Ardern S82 Impact of lifestyle and nonmodifiable risk factors on
trajectories of metabolic syndrome development

G.A. Power, B.H. Dalton, C.L. Rice, and S83 Velocity-dependent power loss following lengthening
A.A. Vandervoort contractions in young and old women
 K.E. Power, C.W. MacDonell, J.W. Chopek, S83 Enhanced motoneurone excitability during
K. Gardiner, and P.F. Gardiner locomotion: insights from animal experimentation

G.H. Raymer, C.D. Moore, M.W. Adamson, S84 Continuous wavelet transformation of heart rate
D.C. Hay, and M.P. Wachowiak variability during incremental exercise

S.A. Reading and M. Yeomans S84 A novel topical oxygen therapy for treating
cutaneous wounds

S.A. Reading, M.A. McNeil, and D. Thomson S85 The ‘‘brainless’’ graded maximal exercise test is still
a valid measure of maximal aerobic capacity

J.I. Reddigan, M.C. Riddell, and J.L. Kuk S85 Influence of physical activity on the association
between clinically relevant classifications of glycemia
measures and cardiovascular disease mortality risk

J.L. Reed, M.J. De Souza, and N.I. Williams S86 Predictors of V̇O2 max in premenopausal exercising
women

A.D. Robertson, J.M. Thibert, and R.L. Hughson S87 Habitual exercise is associated with enhanced
cerebrovascular health in the elderly

J.W. Robertson, A.D. Brown, C.T. Duggan, and S87 Effects of age, exercise, and hypercapnia on middle
M.J. Poulin cerebral artery haemodynamics in women

J.E.D. Ross, A.E. Green, N.J. MacMillan, and S88 The effects of repeated recreational activity on
B.J. Gurd V̇O2 peak, V̇O2 kinetics and submaximal exercise in
recreationally active males

A. Rossi, K.L. Lavoie, A. Arsenault, and S.L. Bacon S88 The association between BMI and seasonal physical
activity patterns

C.P. Rowan, M.C. Riddell, J.L. Kuk, C.I. Ardern, S89 Screening for prediabetes in high-risk ethnic
P. Ritvo, and V.K. Jamnik populations: employing a risk questionnaire and
point-of-care finger prick blood testing for the PRE-
PAID project

S.-M. Ruchat, M.M. Sopper, I. Giroux, M. Hillier, S90 Physiological adaptations of pregnant women in
A. Batada, and M.F. Mottola response to an exercise training program of 2
different intensities

C. Russell, E. Jean-St-Michel, C. Manlhiot, J. Li, S90 Remote ischemic preconditioning improves maximal
M. Tropak, M. Michelsen, M. Schmidt, swimming performance in a randomized double-
B. McCrindle, A.N. Redington, and G.D. Wells blind crossover study of elite athletes

D. Santa Mina, S.M.H. Alibhai, A.G. Matthew, S91 A randomized trial of aerobic vs. resistance exercise
J. Trachtenberg, N. Fleshner, M. Connor, training for prostate cancer patients on ADT:
G. Tomlinson, M. Pirbaglou, and P. Ritvo preliminary findings

D. Santa Mina, P. Ritvo, S.M.H. Alibhai, S92 The development of the Survivorship Exercise
A.G. Matthew, S. Moonsammy, A. Kornblum, Program: improving the health and fitness of
M. Pirbaglou, and J. Trachtenberg prostate cancer patients

J.L. Scheid, R.J. Toombs, J.C. Gibbs, G. Ducher, S92 Estrogen and peptide YY are associated with bone
N.I. Williams, and M.J. De Souza mineral density in premenopausal exercising women

J.R. Sexsmith and T. Terada S93 Comparison of methods for determining resting
energy expenditure in physically active young adults

J.K. Shoemaker, R. Goswami, L. Liu, and M. Zamir S94 Evidence challenging a sympathetic mechanism for
the 0.1 Hz rhythms in blood pressure (Mayer waves)
 J.T. Silver, C.A. Fanelli, S.J. Deimling, S94 Temporal-localization of hsp70 mRNA in rodent
T.A. Drysdale, and E.G. Noble myofibers early after exercise and heat stress

J.D. Smirl, P.N. Ainslie, K.R. Marsden, H. Jones, S95 Alterations in arterial-cardiac baroreflex and
M.D. Nelson, V. Dolinsky, K. Haykowsky, and dynamic cerebral autoregulation following heart
M.J. Haykowsky transplantation

B.K. Smith, A. Bonen, and G.P. Holloway S96 FAT/CD36 is located on the outer mitochondrial
membrane and regulates palmitate but not
palmitoyl-CoA respiration

H.K. Smith S96 Does exercise training from early youth to adulthood
affect skeletal muscle growth?

I.C. Smith, E. Bombardier, S.M. Norris, C. Vigna, S97 The energetic cost of Ca2+ transport in resting
R.A. Sayer, and A.R. Tupling skeletal muscle is reduced following high-fat feeding

M.D. Spencer, J.M. Murias, B.M.R. Gravelle, S97 Parameter estimates for muscle deoxygenation
J.M. Kowalchuk, and D.H. Paterson kinetics are similar between different spatially
resolved NIRS systems

C. Spragg, S. Lacombe, and S.G. Thomas S98 Postexercise hypotension and blood pressure
circadian rhythm in prehypertensive older adults

J. Stapleton, S. Hardcastle, and G.P. Kenny S98 Thermal consequences of mining clothing systems
during intermittent work in the heat

B.I. Stefanov, K.S. Orser, and G.J. Mulligan S99 Relationship of aerobic capacity, muscular strength,
body composition, and bone mineral density in
college-aged females

S. Suzuki and C. Fujimoto S99 Effect of 6-week dynamic warm-up program on

physical fitness in elementary school students

K.Y. Taing, C.I. Ardern, and J.L. Kuk S100 Effects of weight variability during adulthood on
cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality in
women

H. Takemura, T. Abe, and S. Suzuki S100 Effect of inspiratory muscle training on performance
in college-aged Japanese rowers

T. Terada and J.R. Sexsmith S101 Measurement method agreement in determining

time spent in physical activity

C. Tessmer, K. Zuj, S. Morrison, K. Fraser, and S101 Heart-to-foot pulse wave velocity increases after
R. Hughson 5 days of head-down bed rest

E.K. Tomaras and B.R. MacIntosh S102 Fatigue with low pretest cadence in all-out isokinetic
cycling

C.C. Tomkins, S. Christensen Holz, K. Yamakawa, S102 Community walking participation in lumbar spinal
J. Miner, V.V. Phalke, D. Quint, and A.J. Haig stenosis and low back pain predicted by obesity,
pain, age, and gender; not by diagnosis

M.S. Tremblay, A.G. LeBlanc, R. Colley, S103 Systematic review of the relationship between
G. Goldfield, T. Saunders, and R. Larouche sedentary behaviour and health indicators in school-
aged children and youth

A.R. Tupling, E. Bombardier, S.M. Norris, C. Vigna, S104 Sarcolipin ablation decreases the energy
I.C. Smith, R.A. Sayer, and A. Trinh requirements for Ca2+ transport by
sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPases in
resting skeletal muscle
 J. Uchimaru, S. Namba H. Takemura, H. Yamano, S104 Changes in ventilatory responses and energy
H. Takahashi, and S. Suzuki metabolism after acute short-term hypoxia

G. Uguccioni, V. Ljubicic, I. Irrcher, and D.A. Hood S105 Effect of acute skeletal muscle contractions on
PGC-1a activation

A. Vainshtein, M.F.N. O’Leary, and D.A. Hood S105 Autophagy: a novel pathway of remodeling in
muscle

M.L.S. Verzosa and J.L. Copeland S106 Effect of a yoga intervention on fitness and quality
of life in perimenopausal women

C. Vigna, R.D. Stewart, E. Bombardier, A. Hopf, S106 Exercise-induced reductions in SR Ca2+ pump
K. Hall, and A.R. Tupling activity in human skeletal muscle are prevented by
exercise preconditioning

N.L. Vogan, S.M. Holm, R.G. Haennel, S107 The impact of pulmonary rehabilitation on daily
W.M. Rodgers, A.M. McCarthy, and M.K. Stickland physical activity in patients with chronic respiratory
disease

E.S.M. Vogt, J.P. Neary, D.S. MacQuarrie, and S107 Detecting effects of physical training on
T.K. Len cardiac performance using noninvasive
ballistocardiography

M.L. Wallace, M.L. Oliver, D.M. Munro, and S108 Physiological responses to cokeoven standpipe
J.R. Sexsmith cleaning

D.W.D. West, N.A. Burd, V.G. Coffey, A.W. Staples, S109 Bolus protein feeding is more beneficial than pulse
S.K. Baker, L.M. Burke, J.A. Hawley, and feeding for enhancing myofibrillar protein synthesis
S.M. Phillips

C.K. Willie, C. Taylor, P.Y.W. Sin, H. Jones, S110 Exacerbation of postexercise cardiovagal baroreflex
Y.C. Tzeng, and P.N. Ainslie hysteresis is explained by selective reductions in
carotid baroreflex neural transduction

L.E. Woodrow, P. Sheppard, K. Gardiner, and S110 Endurance exercise training alters spinal
P.F. Gardiner motoneuron mRNA levels: potential mechanisms for
enhanced excitability

L. Woon, L. Wickerson, K. Hill, R. Goldstein, S111 The 6-min walk test: responses in healthy Canadians
S. O’Hoski, A. Heidar Abady, T. Overend, and aged 45–85 years
D. Brooks

H.E. Wright, B.J. Friesen, and G.P. Kenny S112 Prolactin as a marker of heat stress fatigue during
slow and fast increases in core temperature

J.E. Yardley, G.P. Kenny, B.A. Perkins, S112 Greater fluctuations in blood glucose seen both
M.C. Riddell, J.C. Malcolm, and R.J. Sigal during and after aerobic exercise, compared with
resistance or no exercise in type 1 diabetes: a study
using continuous glucose monitoring

L. Zehr, K.N. Lane, S.S.D. Bredin, and S113 Utilization of the Physical Activity Line by health
D.E.R. Warburton professionals

Y. Zhang S113 Effects of endurance training on CPT-1 expressions

of skeletal muscles in a2-AMPK knockout mice

N.L. Zouros, N. Dies, J.D. Vescovi, P. Klentrou, and S114 Effects of the menstrual cycle and monophasic
S.S. Cheung contraceptive use on thermoeffector thresholds

G. Zubic, A.R. Josse, L.M. Cotie, N. Tordi, S115 Validity and reproducibility of infrared sensor
S.M. Phillips, and M.J. MacDonald measurement of arterial stiffness in overweight and
obese women
K.A. Zuj, P. Arbeille, S. Morrison, and S115 Cerebrovascular responses to tilt after 5 days of 68
R.L. Hughson head-down bed rest

ABSTRACTS / RÉSUMÉS
The level of the mRNA translation inhibitor PDCD4
is modified during myogenesis
A. Abdullahi and O. Adegoke
Department of Kinesiology and Health Science, Muscle Health Research Centre, York
University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
Defects in skeletal muscle integrity underly disease condi-
tions, such as muscular dystrophy and obesity. In individuals
with these pathological conditions, their inability to maintain
skeletal muscle mass often worsens their conditions. There-
fore, deciphering the cellular mechanisms regulating muscle
metabolism is of great interest. Studies have shown that the
mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1),
through its downstream targets S6K1 and 4E-BP1, is in-
volved in regulating mRNA translation and protein synthesis
in skeletal muscle. It does this, in part, by preventing the re-
cruitment of the translation inhibitor, tumor suppressor pro-
grammed cell death 4 (PDCD4). The objective of this study
was to explore the regulation of this protein, along with that
of its upstream kinase S6K1, during L6 skeletal muscle cell
differentiation. L6 rat skeletal myoblasts were plated in
growth media and, upon reaching 90% confluency, the cells
were incubated in differentiation media on days 1 to 5. Our
Ethnic differences and estimating serving sizes
using Canada’s Food Guide
S.L. Abramovitch, J.L. Reddigan, and J.L. Kuk
School of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, Sherman Health Science Research Centre,
4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
Canada’s Food Guide was developed to help Canadians
make healthy food choices, and provides online examples
of many ethnically diverse foods, such as congee and naan.
The purpose was to determine how food servings are under-
stood, and whether there are ethnic differences in how esti-
mated number of food servings are measured using the Food
Guide. Fifty-nine black, white, and Asian adults were re-
cruited. Participants were asked to accurately determine the
quantity of food that they believe constitutes 1 serving. Par-
ticipants were then asked to use the Food Guide to estimate
the number of servings of each food group in their diet from
a 1-day food record. A study investigator repeated the food
record analyses to verify if participants accurately estimated
consumption from their food record. Preliminary results in-
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. 35: S1–S116 (2010) doi:10.1139/H10-906
S1
results indicate that total PDCD4 levels increased on day 1,
relative to day 0 (myoblast), and then decreased gradually as
differentiation progressed. Furthermore, we examined
through cell fractionation the level of PDCD4 in the nu-
cleus, relative to the cytoplasm, during myogenesis, because
previous studies have indicated that the cellular localization
of PDCD4 is important for its function. Total PDCD4 accu-
mulation in the nucleus was significantly increased in day 1,
relative to day 0, then decreased gradually by day 4 (p <
0.05). Therefore, these results are in conjunction with earlier
studies that have shown that S6K-1 kinase activity increases
as myoblasts form myotubes, since this kinase mediates
PDCD4 degradation. Thus, our results indicate that cells
physiologically downregulate PDCD4, a known protein
translation inhibitor, to allow the proper translation of myo-
fibrillar proteins required as myoblasts differentiate into the
more specialized myotubes.
dicate no significant ethnic differences in serving size esti-
mates for fruits and vegetables (lettuce, baby carrots, and
oranges), grain products (cereal and bread), milk products
(milk and cheese), and meat and alternatives (tofu, chicken,
and eggs). However, larger serving sizes of rice were esti-
mated by Asians (191.1 ± 58.7 mL) and blacks (201.5 ±
122.3 mL), compared with whites (140.2 ± 51.8 mL; p <
0.05). Interestingly, blacks reported that they consumed rice
more often than the other ethnic groups (p < 0.05). When
differences were compared between ethnic groups and esti-
mated to actual serving consumption of fruits and vegeta-
bles, Asians (estimated 4.36 ± 2.53 vs. actual 5.77 ± 4.82
servings) and whites (estimated 4.19 ± 2.85 vs. actual
5.48 ± 3.56 servings) significantly underestimated their con-
Published by NRC Research Press
S2 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

sumption of fruits and vegetables, compared with blacks (es-
timated 3.00 ± 2.16 vs. actual 3.21 ± 2.26 servings). For
grain consumption, all groups similarly underestimated con-
sumption. No significant ethnic differences were found be-
tween estimated and actual number of servings of milk
products. Asians (estimated 2.92 ± 1.37 vs. actual 3.12 ±
1.72 servings) and blacks (estimated 2.70 ± 0.82 vs. actual
3.60 ± 3.87 servings) significantly underestimated consump-
tion of meat and alternatives, compared with whites (esti-
mated 2.57 ± 1.40 vs. actual 2.86 ± 2.01 servings). Food
serving size understanding and consumption may differ be-
tween ethnic groups, but more research is still needed.

The maternal obesity management (MOM) trial: a

lifestyle intervention during pregnancy to
minimize downstream obesity
K.B. Adamo, Z. Ferraro, J. Rutherford, E. Keely, M. Walker, G. Goldfield,
S. Hadjiyannakis, and N. Barrowman
Healthy Active Living and Obesity (HALO) research group, Children’s Hospital of Eastern
Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences,
University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of
Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa,
ON K1Y 4E9, Canada; Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Division of Endocrinology
and Metabolism, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada

Pregravid obesity and excessive gestational weight gain
(GWG) contribute to the intergenerational cycle of obesity
through their relationship with postpartum weight retention
(PPWR) and large-for-gestational-age babies — risk factors
for overweight/obesity (OW/OB) in mother and child, re-
spectively. Pregnancy represents a critical period for preven-
tive intervention as a means of optimizing offspring health.
Our primary objective is to evaluate the effects of a struc-
tured prenatal physical activity and nutrition intervention
provided to nulliparous, OW/OB women during their second
and third trimester on offspring body mass index (BMI)
Z score at age 24 months. Secondary objectives aim to eval-
uate the intervention’s effects on adherence to the Institute
of Medicine’s GWG guidelines, pregnancy complications
(e.g., gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, c-section), infant
birth weight, child growth trajectories, PPWR, psychosocial
functioning, maternal physical activity, and dietary habits. A
2-arm, parallel group, randomized controlled trial design is
being used. OW (BMI > 25 kg
m–2) or OB (BMI >
30 kg
m–2) women, between 12 and 15 weeks’ gestation,
are being randomized to an intervention in which they re-
ceive a structured physical activity and nutrition program or
a standard clinical care. This pilot will recruit 60 women (30
per group). The intervention will last 25 to 28 weeks
(6 months), with follow-up assessment on mother and child
in both groups at 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-months postpartum. It is
our hypotheses that a greater number of intervention-group
offspring will follow healthy growth trajectories and that
fewer will be categorized as OW/OB at 2 years of age.
Those randomized to the intervention group will meet rec-
ommended GWG guidelines more often, have fewer preg-
nancy-related complications, and less PPWR than standard-
care controls, and give birth to fewer macrosomic offspring.
Pregnancy, a critical time of growth, development, and
physiological change in mother and baby, provides an excel-
lent opportunity for intervention with maternal nutrition and
physical activity in an attempt to offset the prevalence of pe-
diatric obesity.

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés S3

Anabolic signaling with low-intensity resistance

exercise performed with high and low time under
tension in young men
R.J. Andrews, N.A. Burd, A.J. Hector, S.K. Baker, and S.M. Phillips
Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University; and Department of Neurology,
McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada

We have recently established that exercise volume (load
(kg)  repetitions) is as effective in maximizing anabolism
as high-intensity exercise (i.e., 80%–90% maximal strength –
1 repetition maximum (1RM)). Therefore, we sought to de-
termine the extent of anabolic signalling molecule phos-
phorylation (mTOR, p70S6K, and rpS6) after low-intensity
(30% 1RM) resistance exercise, specifically designed to
elicit maximal muscle fibre activation within a limited
number of repetitions (e.g., performed with a slow time-
under-tension (TUT)). Eight men (age, 23 ± 1 years; body
mass index, 26.5 ± 1.0 kg
m–2) performed 3 sets of unilat-
eral knee extensions at 30% 1RM at a slow TUT (6-s con-
centric, 1-s hold, 6-s eccentric; SLOW) or an external
work-matched normal TUT (1-s concentric, 0-s hold, 1-s
eccentric; NORM). Biopsies of the vastus lateralis were
obtained in the fed and fasted states at rest, 5hFED,
24hFAST, 29hFED postexercise feeding was 20 g of whey
protein. Exercise at SLOW and NORM were identical in
the number of contractions performed for set 1 (12 ± 1),
set 2 (7 ± 0.5), and set 3 (6 ± 0.4). TUT was significantly
greater for all 3 sets in SLOW (set 1, 3 min 18 s; set 2,
1 min 59 s; set 3, 1 min 30 s), compared with NORM
(set 1, 26 s; set 2, 14 s; set 3, 11 s). There was a trend
toward increased phosphorylation of mTORSer2448 at
5hFED in SLOW (p = 0.077); this was significantly higher
than rest at 29hFED only in NORM (p < 0.05). Phosphor-
ylation of p70S6kThr389 was greater in SLOW than rest and
in NORM at 24hFAST. Finally, rpS6 was unaffected by
resistance exercise and feeding. In summary, low-intensity
resistance exercise performed with a slow TUT induces
p70S6K phosphorylation to a greater extent than a work-
matched exercise mode. Our data demonstrate that the du-
ration of time that muscle spends under tension during re-
sistance exercise is important for p70S6k activation in
exercise recovery at 24 h, which suggests a longer time
that the muscle may be anabolic.

Reproductive factors, body fat distribution, and

glucose tolerance in postmenopausal women
M. Audet, S. Choquette, E. Riesco, and I.J. Dionne
Centre de recherche sur le vieillissement de l’Institut universitaire de gériatrie de
Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 4C4, Canada; Faculté d’éducation physique et sportive
de l’Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada

Reproductive factors and menopause are 2 factors influ-
encing body composition and fat distribution in women.
More specifically, increasing parity seems to be associated
with an increase in intra-abdominal fat. Body fat distribu-
tion, specifically visceral fat accumulation, is associated
with a higher risk of metabolic diseases, such as type 2 dia-
betes. However, there seems to be no consensus on the im-
pact of parity or other reproductive factors in the
development of type 2 diabetes. To our knowledge, no study
has focused on the associations between reproductive fac-
tors, body fat distribution, and glucose tolerance after meno-
pause-induced metabolic changes in women. Therefore, the
primary aim of this study was to determine the relationships
between reproductive factors, fat distribution, and glucose
tolerance in postmenopausal women. We selected 85 post-
menopausal women (age: 60.4 ± 4.9 years; body mass index
(BMI): 30.8 ± 5.0 kg
m–2). Glucose tolerance was measured
by oral glucose tolerance test. Waist and hip circumferences
were measured. Fat mass (FM) and lean body mass
distribution were measured by dual energy X-ray absorpti-
ometry. Information on reproductive factors and menopause
were obtained with questionnaires. Partial correlations
(physical activity) were computed between variables. Age at
first birth was significantly correlated with fat mass
distribution (total FM: r = 0.262, p = 0.023; trunk FM:
r = 0.246, p = 0.033). Weight gained since menopause

Published by NRC Research Press

S4
was also correlated to fatdistribution (total FM: r = 0.304,
p = 0.006; trunk FM: r = 0.350, p = 0.001; waist circum-
ference: r = 0.237, p = 0.034; hip circumference: r =
0.338, p = 0.002). The independent contribution of these 2
factors was confirmed by regression analysis (r2 = 0.274).
We found no significant correlation between reproductive
factors and glucose tolerance in our subjects. In
Acute exercise activates myocardial nuclear
factor kappa B
M. Balan and M. Locke
Faculty of Physical Education and Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 2W6,
Canada
The myocardial stress response to exercise varies based
on intensity and other factors. In view of this, exercise may
be either a eustress or a distress. Thus, understanding the
molecular mechanisms that differ between levels of intensity
would be valuable for determining nuclear factor kappa B
(NF-kB), which is a ubiquitous transcription factor that me-
diates a variety of cellular processes, including inflamma-
tion, immune responses, apoptosis, and cell growth and (or)
development. NF-kB can be comprised of homo- and (or)
heterodimers formed from 5 distinct proteins: p50 (NF-kB1),
p52 (NF-kB2), RelA (p65), c-Rel, and RelB. NF-kB is lo-
cated in the cytoplasm and is kept inactive by inhibitory
proteins, but following the exposure to myriad stimuli, an
activated NF-kB dimer translocates to the nucleus and ex-
erts transcriptional effects on upward of 150 genes. To ex-
amine the activation of NF-kB in the myocardium
following exercise, male Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 24)
were exercised by treadmill running at 20 m
min–1 for
Chocolate milk as a recovery aid from fatiguing
exercise
B.A. Barron and J.R. Fowles
School of Recreation Management and Kinesiology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS
B4P 2R6, Canada
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of
chocolate milk (CM) as a recovery aid in limiting fatigue
from high-intensity exercise for same-day and following-
day performances. Fifteen well-trained athletes (7M, 54.8 ±
4.2 mL
kg–1
min–1; 8F, 47.9 ± 2.2 mL
kg–1
min–1) partici-
pated in 2 trials comparing isocaloric and isovolumetric CM
to Gatorade using performance tests (sit and reach, combina-
tion jump protocol, Biodex strength and fatigue tests, and
the Shuttle Fatigue Test (SFT)). Each trial consisted of
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
conclusion, age at first birth and weight gained since
menopause were both positively correlated to body fat
distribution. Therefore, these 2 factors seem to
independently influence body fat distribution in postmeno-
pausal women and could predispose them to glucose
intolerance.
30 min, or 30 m
min–1 for 20 min. At 0, 2, or 24 h fol-
lowing exercise, animals were anaesthetized, and hearts
excised and immediately frozen in liquid nitrogen. Por-
tions of hearts were homogenized, protein concentrations
determined, and extracts assayed for NF-kB activation
(DNA binding activity), using electrophoretic mobility
shift assays (EMSA). Visual examination of EMSA auto-
radiographs revealed an enhanced NF-kB activation in the
hearts from exercised animals, compared with those from
nonrunning controls. Subsequent supershift analyses, using
antibodies specific for NF-kB subunits, showed the higher
intensity exercise was associated with p65 (RelA) in the
activated NF-kB complex, while the NF-kB complex in
hearts from animals exercised at the lower intensity was
comprised primarily of p50. These data suggest exercise
is capable of activating myocardial NF-kB, and that a
threshold for the activation of specific NF-kB subunits
may exist.
pretesting, a fatigue-inducing interval run with plyometrics,
a 3-h break during which an intervention drink was con-
sumed at 15- and 90-min post run, a second interval run,
and post-testing. Participants returned to the lab the follow-
ing day for more post-testing. CM had a small worthwhile
enhancement in performance relative to Gatorade for the
SFT. Peak torque had a significant recovery at 1808
s–1 for
both post and day-2 tests of the CM trial (p < 0.05). Peak
torque in the Biodex fatigue test also recovered on day 2
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés S5

for the CM trial (p < 0.05). CM can be used as an exer- were small, elite athletes must focus on strategies that will
cise-recovery aid for athletes in strength and high-intensity give them a slight edge on competitors. Future research
aerobic performances. Although performance differences should explore the repeated use of CM as a recovery aid.

The effect of specificity of contraction velocity on

the repeated bout effect
T.S. Barss, C.R.A. Magnus, N. Clarke, and J.P. Farthing
College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B2, Canada

The repeated bout effect (RBE) is an adaptation whereby a
single eccentric (ECC) exercise session protects against
muscle damage during subsequent ECC exercise bouts, and
is characterized by faster strength recovery and a reduction
in soreness and inflammation. The purpose of this study was
to determine if the protective capacity of the RBE is greater
when both bouts of ECC exercise are performed at the same
than a different velocity of contraction. Thirty-one right-
handed males and females were randomly assigned to per-
form an initial unilateral bout of either fast (1808
s–1) or
slow (308
s–1) maximal isokinetic ECC elbow flexion exer-
cise. Three weeks later, 16 participants completed a repeated
bout of ECC exercise at the same velocity as the initial bout
(SAME), while 15 participants completed a bout at the cor-
responding different velocity (DIFF). Elbow flexor function
and damage was measured prior to, immediately after, and
at 24-, 48-, and 72-h postexercise via voluntary isometric
1 repetition maximum (1RM) strength (NORM dynamome-
ter), muscle thickness (MT) (via B-mode ultrasound), and
delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) (via algometer and
visual analog scale). There were no group differences for
height, weight, handedness, training experience, or total
work during ECC exercise (p > 0.05). After the repeated
bout, there was a significant reduction in MT and DOMS at
24, 48, and 72 h, pooled across participants (p < 0.05), with
no difference between the SAME and DIFF groups. For
SAME, the recovery of 1RM strength was 7.8% (SD13.3),
16.1% (SD18.9), and 14.9% (SD26.9) greater at 24 h (p <
0.05), 48 h (p < 0.05), and 72 h (p < 0.05) after the repeated
bout, compared with the initial bout. For DIFF, 1RM
strength was not significantly different from the initial bout
at 24 h (p = 0.863), 48 h (p = 0.700), or 72 h (p = 0.116).
Since recovery of strength was significantly faster in the
SAME than in the DIFF group, this suggests the RBE shows
contraction velocity specificity. With no difference between
conditions for the recovery of DOMS and MT, this may sug-
gest the specificity effect is mediated by neural adaptations.

Preliminary results of a community-based

maintenance exercise program for individuals
with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
M.K. Beauchamp, S. O’Hoski, S. Francella, R.S. Goldstein, and D. Brooks
Graduate Department of Rehabilitation Science, University of Toronto, Toronto,
ON M5G 1V7, Canada; Respiratory Medicine, West Park Healthcare Centre, Toronto,
ON M6M 2J5, Canada; Etobicoke Olympium, Etobicoke, ON M9C 3T3, Canada

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) improves exercise capacity
and quality of life in individuals with chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD). However, following completion
of PR, benefits diminish over time, such that outcomes re-
turn to preintervention levels within 12 months. The objec-
tives of this study were to (i) develop and implement a
supervised community-based maintenance exercise program
for individuals with COPD who have completed PR; (ii) de-
termine the feasibility of the program; and (iii) determine
the within-subject effects of the program on exercise toler-
ance and quality of life 6 months post PR. The community-
based exercise program was developed in partnership with
the City of Toronto, Parks and Recreation. An education
session regarding issues pertinent to supervising individuals
with COPD during exercise was conducted with 6 fitness in-
structors from the participating community centre. Individu-
als with COPD who recently completed PR were invited to
participate in the weekly community-based exercise pro-
gram. Outcome measurements at baseline (after PR) and
6 months included the 6-min walk test (6MWT) for exercise

Published by NRC Research Press

S6
capacity and the Chronic Respiratory Questionnaire (CRQ)
for health-related quality of life. Feasibility was assessed
primarily through subject adherence. A total of 18 subjects
(mean age, 68 ± 9 years; mean FEV1 50% ± 20% predicted)
have been recruited thus far. Two subjects withdrew for
medical reasons unrelated to the study. In response to a
monthly telephone-administered questionnaire, participants
(n = 16) report a mean overall satisfaction rate of 4.9 out of
5 with the program. The mean attendance rate is 1.2 times a
The role of an oral lipid challenge and coffee on
glucose tolerance in humans
M. Beaudoin and T.E. Graham
Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph,
ON N1G 2W1, Canada
Insulin resistance in human muscle has been generated by
either elevation of serum free fatty acid (FFA) via infusion
or by ingestion of caffeine. This study examined the interac-
tion of an oral fat tolerance test (OFTT) and coffee on glu-
cose intolerance. On 5 occasions, 10 healthy men underwent
experiments consisting of an 8-h OFTT and an oral glucose
tolerance test (OGTT) in the last 2 h. At time 0 h, subjects
consumed 1 g
kg–1 body weight of a lipid beverage (P/S:
0.2) or water. After 5 h, subjects consumed caffeinated cof-
fee (CAF), decaffeinated coffee (DECAF), or water. Con-
sumption of the OFTT increased glucose but not insulin
concentrations during a subsequent OGTT (p < 0.05). The
combination of OFTT and CAF produced the highest glu-
cose levels, which reached 10.73 ± 0.40 mmol
L–1 at 7 h
(p < 0.05). Glucose area under the curve (AUC) during the
OGTT period in the CAF trial was 65% higher than that of
OGTT alone (p < 0.05), despite a 55% increase in insulin
AUC in the same treatment (p < 0.05). Similarly, glucose
AUC was elevated 32% (NS) and 46% (NS) in OFTT+OGTT
Skeletal muscle derived angiotensin II regulates
angiogenesis
L. Bellamy, A.P.W. Johnston, and G. Parise
Department of Kinesiology; Department of Medical Physics and Applied Radiation
Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
Several modulators of angiogenesis have been identified;
however, the role of angiotensin II (AngII) as either a posi-
tive or negative regulator remains debatable. We examined
the role of AngII as an inducer of capillary formation during
skeletal muscle (SKM) regeneration, and the ability of
muscle cells to produce AngII. Cardiotoxin injection to in-
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
week; no adverse events have been reported. Five patients
(mean age, 65 ± 7 years; mean FEV1 41% ± 14% predicted)
completed their 6-month assessments. There was no signifi-
cant change from baseline in 6MWT distance (10 ± 56 m,
p = 0.7) or total CRQ scores (–1.7 ± 2.3, p = 0.2). Prelimi-
nary results suggest that a community-based exercise pro-
gram for people with COPD is feasible and can successfully
maintain exercise capacity and health-related quality of life
at 6 months.
and DECAF, respectively. Moreover, glucagon-like pep-
tide-1 active (GLP-1a) and glucose-dependent insulino-
tropic polypeptide (GIP) were both increased, for up to
6 h, in all OFTT trials following lipid ingestion (p <
0.05). Prior consumption of the OFTT attenuated GLP-1a
and GIP responses during the subsequent OGTT, in such a
way that GLP-1a and GIP levels were not different from
the control group. In contrast, CAF and DECAF produced
the highest GLP-1a response at 6.25 h (p < 0.05), while
only CAF increased GIP secretion (p < 0.05). These data
suggest that lipids and caffeinated coffee can independently
and additively decrease glucose tolerance in healthy hu-
mans. This additive action was powerful enough to in-
crease glucose concentrations to the ‘‘impaired glucose
tolerance’’ range. These data also suggest that modulation
of incretin secretion could modulate, at least in part, the
present defect in glucose tolerance. (Supported by NSERC
of Canada. M.B. held an OGS scholarship.)
duce muscle injury was used as a model of vasculogenesis
and angiogenesis in conjunction with captopril treatment
(ACE inhibitor) of C57Bl/6 mice or in AngII type 1a recep-
tor knockout mice (AT1a–/–) to inhibit AngII signalling. In
vivo angiogenesis, in TA cross-sections, revealed 15% and
22% reductions in capillarization in AT1a–/– and captopril-
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés S7

treated mice, respectively, compared with controls, 21 days
postinjury. Conversely, no differences in capillarization
were detected at early (7 days and 10 days) time points, cor-
responding to vasculogenesis in AT1a–/– and captopril-
treated mice. These results demonstrate the ability of AngII
to regulate angiogenesis but not vasculogenesis, in vivo, im-
plying that these processes may be governed by independent
factors. Angiogenesis assays of HUVECs further confirmed
AngII as proangiogeneic, resulting in 71% and 124% in-
creases in tube length and branch point number, respec-
tively, following AngII treatment in matrigel-based
angiogenesis assays. Furthermore, treatment of HUVECs
with conditioned media from differentiated muscle cells re-
sulted in robust increases of 84% and 203% in tube length
and branch point number vs. controls. Importantly, this
proangiogeneic response was abolished with the addition of
captopril to the media of differentiating cells prior to condi-
tioned media experiments. To elucidate a mechanism of An-
gII-mediated angiogenesis, the ability of AngII to induce
endothelial cell migration was assessed and confirmed with
transwell and under agarose assays, resulting in 37% and
101% increases, respectively. Collectively, these data high-
light AngII as a proangiogenic regulator during SKM re-
generation in vivo, and demonstrate the capacity of
SKM-derived AngII to interact with endothelial cells to reg-
ulate angiogenesis, possibly by the induction of migration.

Pedaling cadence affects the quantification of

anaerobic capacity by maximal accumulated
oxygen deficit
R. Beougher, S.D. Burdette, S.M. Harris, D.W. Hill, and J.L. Vingren
Applied Physiology Laboratories, Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and
Recreation, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle, Denton, TX 76203, USA

In cycle ergometer exercise, higher pedaling cadences
elicit a greater oxygen uptake (V_ O2) or metabolic cost at
any particular moderate- or heavy-intensity work rate, but
they do not seem to affect the maximal rate of oxygen up-
take (V_ O2 max), and may not be expected to affect the anae-
robic capacity. The purpose of this study was to determine
the effect of pedaling cadence on anaerobic capacity, as
quantified by maximal accumulated oxygen deficit
(MAOD). Eight women (mean ± SD, age 22 ± 1 years;
height, 161 ± 6 cm; and weight, 58.8 ± 2.3 kg) and 10 men
(age, 23 ± 1 year; height, 180 ± 6 cm; and weight, 82.9 ±
4.4 kg) performed exhaustive cycle ergometer tests, using
pedaling cadences of 60, 80, and 100 r
min–1. As expected,
times to exhaustion were greater at lower cadences
(368 ± >168 > 299 ± 118 > 220 ± 85 s), whereas V_ O2 max
values and blood lactate concentrations were the same
(38.4 ± 4.9 = 38.3 ± 5.1 = 38.6 ± 5.1 mL
kg–1
min–1;
10.5 ± 2.1 = 10.6 ± 1.8 = 10.7 ± 2.0 mmol
L–1). When they
were calculated using published values for the oxygen de-
mand of cycling, MAOD values were higher at lower caden-
ces (57 ± 7 > 48 ± 5 > 36 ± 6 mL
kg–1). However, when the
higher metabolic demands of higher pedaling cadences were
incorporated into the calculations, values for MAOD did not
differ (52 ± 5 = 52 ± 5 = 52 ± 5 mL
kg–1). Since there is no
reason to expect that pedaling cadence would have a large,
if any, effect on anaerobic capacity, cadence must be con-
sidered when quantifying anaerobic capacity by MAOD in
cycle ergometer tests.

Identification and physiological quantification of

physically demanding tasks for the Canadian
Forces Navy
R.E. Blacklock, L.L. Goulet, and P.F. McFadyen
Human Performance Research and Development, Director General Personnel and Family
Support Services, Victoria, BC V9A 7N2, Canada

Following the Consensus Guidelines on Bona Fide Occu- Forces (CF) Navy personnel (NP). A list of tasks perceived
pational Requirements (2001), a task analysis for develop- to be physically demanding and (or) critical to the success
ment of occupational standards was completed for Canadian of maritime operations was identified by incumbents, and

Published by NRC Research Press

S8
physiological measurements were recorded and analyzed. In-
formation was gathered during site visits, deployments, in-
terviews, and training exercises, and from a review of CF
manuals, reports, directives, and training checklists. Equip-
ment was weighed, and a physical demands survey was
completed by 1544 NP who were posted to ships during sur-
vey distribution. NP identified shipboard fire fighting (FF),
flood control, casualty evacuation, line handling, and lifting
and carrying items as physically demanding tasks required
of all NP. The weight of equipment measured ranged from
1 to 90 kg. Heart rates (HR), V_ O2, and forces exerted were
measured during task performance, along with items lifted
and carried. HR results were 120 beats
min–1 ± 22.9,
114 beats
min–1 ± 24.5, 137 ± 20.6, 151 beats
min–1 ± 19.1,
for casualty evacuation, flood control, cutting for flood con-
trol, and FF tasks, respectively. V_ O2 rates above 1.5 L
min–1
were recorded for 40% (average of 1.3 min) of casualty
The effects of heat on cardiovascular strain
during shipboard firefighting
R.E. Blacklock, L.L. Goulet, and P.F. McFadyen
Human Performance Research and Development, Director General Personnel and Family
Support Services, Victoria, BC V9A 7N2, Canada
Shipboard fire fighting (FF) has been identified as an es-
sential physically demanding task performed by Canadian
Navy personnel (NP). The purpose of this study was to com-
pare physiological response of NP during shipboard FF trials
without (WOH) and with heat (WH). A group of NP volun-
teered to perform a 20-min FF work sample WOH (n = 52;
8 females, 44 males), followed by an identical trial WH (n =
44; 7 females, 37 males). A minimum of 25 min separated
the 2 trials. NP performed in teams of 2, acting in positions
of nozzleman and backup. The trials included the following
components: rapid response to the fire alarm; dressing in
bunker gear; advancing on fire; cracking the hatch; descend-
ing down the ladder to the fire; sweeping the nozzle at the
fire for a total of 10 min; and ascending the ladder and exit-
ing the fire. NP faced heat during the WH trials once the
hatch was cracked. Average room temperature 5 min into
sweeping was 69 8C WH and approximately 21 8C WOH.
Heart rate and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were re-
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
evacuation run times, and 41% (average of 8 min) of FF
without heat task time. Forces exerted averaged 95.6 kgf
and 73.5 kgf for lifting and lowering the stretcher (86.4 kg)
with 4 NP during casualty evacuation, respectively; 21.2 kgf
and 21.9 kgf for pushing and pulling hatch cover during FF
and casualty evacuation, respectively; 16 kgf for holding
and spraying FF hose approximately 6 m from bulkhead;
and 909 kgf for holding a jackstay support line taut us-
ing 20 NP. Items requiring a single-person lift and carry
weighed up to 23 kg. Astrand’s occupational HR work-
intensity ratings for the identified tasks ranged from
‘‘heavy’’ to ‘‘extremely heavy’’, with FF eliciting the high-
est average HR and shoring eliciting the lowest. Based on
the physiological parameters and weights lifted, all tasks
may be considered further for representation in a Navy oc-
cupational fitness test.
corded. A loaded stair climb was also performed to obtain
individual maximum heart rate (MHR) values. Results indi-
cate %MHR for FF trials WOH averaged 76% ± 11.6 and
WH averaged 80% ± 9.9. t tests between FF components re-
vealed no significant differences in %MHR between WOH
and WH trials during rapid response/dressing or advancing/
opening hatch/descending ladder, but did reveal significant
differences between sweeping and ascending ladder/exiting
the fire components (t(12054/2241) = –21.9/–6.7, p < 0.01,
r = 0.4 and 0.3 for sweeping and ladder/exiting, respec-
tively). RPE was also significantly higher (t(91) = 4.24, p <
0.01, r = 0.4) for the WH trial than for the WOH trial (WH
16.0 ± 1.5, WOH 14.6 ± 1.6). In conclusion, the addition of
heat appears to increase cardiovascular strain of NP per-
forming shipboard FF by an average of approximately 4%
to 5% MHR, and this increase is matched by the increased
perception of participants’ work intensity.
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
Fiber-type characterization of 10 rat and mouse
muscles using a relatively rapid and simple
immunofluorescence staining procedure
D. Bloemberg and J. Quadrilatero
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
Rodent skeletal muscle is composed of fibers containing
4 myosin heavy chains. Monoclonal antibodies enable histo-
logical identification of all fiber types with more ease and
accuracy than traditional myosin ATPase procedures. In ad-
dition, the use of fluoropore-labelled antibodies simplifies
the procedure by allowing classification of all fibers in a
single section, as well as enabling clearer identification of
hybrid fibers. The purpose of this study was to compare
fiber-type composition data obtained with our immuno-
fluorescence procedure to previous reports, as well as to
provide a comprehensive analysis of fiber type, size, oxida-
tive potential, and glycolytic potential in 10 muscles of rat
(Sprague–Dawley) and mouse (C57BL/6). We performed
analyses on entire muscle cross-sections, which resulted in
counting an average of 11 552 total fibers per rat, and 6733
Sex differences in Hsp70 response in human
vastus lateralis after a single bout of isometric
exercise
E. Bombardier, A. Hopf, C. Vigna, K. Hall, D. Bloemberg, J. Quadrilatero, and
A.R. Tupling
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
Previous studies in rodents have shown that the muscle
heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) response to an acute bout of
exercise is influenced by the sex hormones. The purpose of
this study was to examine the potential sex differences in fi-
bre-type specific response of Hsp70 expression in humans
after an acute bout of isometric exercise. In total, 6 men
and 6 women performed 30 min of single-legged isometric
knee extension exercise at 60% maximal voluntary contrac-
tion (MVC), with a 50% duty cycle (5-s contraction, 5-s re-
laxation). Blood samples and muscle biopsies from the
vastus lateralis of the exercised and contralateral control leg
were collected before (Pre) and immediately following
(Post) exercise, and during recovery on 1 (R1), 3 (R3), and
S9
total fibers per mouse. In general, fiber-type distribution was
in agreement with previously published findings. Addition-
ally, hybrid fibers were found to make up a significant pro-
portion of total fibers in some muscles. For example, rat
mixed gastrocnemius had a fiber-type composition as fol-
lows: type I, 4.5%; I/IIA, 0.0%; IIA, 14.9%; IIA/IIX, 6.6%;
IIX, 42.5%; IIX/IIB, 5.6%; and IIB, 25.8%. Similarly,
mouse plantaris fiber-type composition was found to be
type I, 0.0%; I/IIA, 0.0%; IIA, 19.4%; IIA/IIX, 8.3%; IIX,
22.4%; IIX/IIB, 3.0%; and IIB, 46.9%. In conclusion, this
study not only provides a quick and reliable procedure for
performing fiber-type analysis on rat and mouse muscle, but
also serves as an important resource for researchers studying
muscle biology.
6 (R6) days postexercise. Serum creatine kinase (CK) activ-
ity was elevated (p < 0.02) at Post in male subjects only.
Immunohistochemical analysis revealed higher Hsp70 con-
tent in type I fibres, compared with type II fibres, in both
male and female participants. Female subjects also tended
(p < 0.06) to have higher basal Hsp70 content in all fibre
types than males. In response to exerecise, Hsp70 expression
was significantly elevated (p < 0.01) at R1 and R3, but only
in males and predominantly in type I fibres. This is the first
study in humans to show that there is sexual dimorphism in
the basal and exercise-induced muscle Hsp70 response to
exercise. (Supported by NSERC.)
Published by NRC Research Press
S10
An exercise and diet intervention for adults with
intellectual disabilities in residential settings
J.C. Boyd, A.F. Casey, R. Rasmussen, and S.J. MacKenzie
Department of Human Kinetics, St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5,
Canada
It has been previously reported that no adults with intel-
lectual disability (ID) over the age of 30 reported participa-
tion in vigorous physical activity. Research has also shown
that the rates of overweight, obesity, and extreme obesity re-
main much higher for persons with ID, compared with the
general population. Only 1 study has combined an exercise
and diet intervention on 3 individuals with ID. Research has
yet to measure the influence of a combined intervention on
either women or adults with ID (age >30 years). Researchers
have often relied on dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry
(DXA) to assess percent body fat (%BF) because of its pre-
cise measurements in different populations. The purpose of
this study was to use DXA to assess the effects of a
13-week aquatic exercise and diet intervention on %BF in
8 adults (2 women, 6 men) with ID (age 43.0 ± 13.9 years)
from residential settings. The 13-week intervention reduced
Prepractice urine specific gravity and fluid intake
of junior ice hockey players does not improve with
follow-up testing of hydration status
J.P. Brandenburg and M. Gaetz
Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of the Fraser Valley,
Abbotsford, BC V2S 7M8, Canada
The risk of dehydration in athletes, including ice hockey
players, is elevated because players are frequently hypohy-
drated prior to exercise and inadequately replenish fluids
during exercise. The prevention of dehydration is critical to
an athlete’s success and safety because it is associated with
potential physiological impairments. While improving ath-
lete education regarding hydration issues (e.g., recognizing
dehydration) is suggested as a preventative strategy, support
for such a strategy is lacking. Thus, the purpose of this
study was to assess the hydration status of major junior ice
hockey players (n = 19; age, 17.9 ± 1.3 years; height,
180.5 ± 4.3 cm; mass, 83.5 ± 6.6 kg) during 2 practices and
determine if feedback from the first practice (P1) would in-
fluence the hydration status of the second practice (P2). As-
sessment of hydration status included (i) prepractice
hydration, determined with urine specific gravity (USG);
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
3500 kcal from each participant’s weekly diet below what
is required to maintain body weight. The aquatic exercise
training entailed three 1-h sessions per week at 60% to 80%
of participants’ theoretical maximum heart rate, as measured
by polar heart rate monitors. DXA measured %BF at pre-
and postintervention. On average, DXA showed that partici-
pants reduced %BF by approximately 1%. This overall
change was statistically significant (t(7) = –1.97, p =
0.044). Average weight decreased by 1.55 kg and body
mass index by 0.49. This intervention proved effective in re-
ducing %BF in adults with ID; thus, a combination of exer-
cise and diet may be more appropriate than exercise alone.
These findings appear consistent with results from studies
conducted with individuals without ID, but should be inter-
preted cautiously in light of the small sample size and ab-
sence of a control group.
(ii) the degree of dehydration during practice (determined
by % change in body mass); and (iii) fluid intake during
practice. These measures were repeated during the 2 practi-
ces. Following the hydration assessment at P1, each player
received individualized feedback explaining his results. Pre-
practice USG was 1.021 (±0.005) and 1.021 (±0.007) for P1
and P2, respectively. Thirteen players reported to P1 with a
USG greater than 1.020, while 15 did so for P2. The mean
degree of dehydration during P1 equaled 1.5% (±0.7%), and
during P2 reached 1.3% (±0.8%). Twelve players lost
greater than 1% body mass during P1 (with 5 players losing
more than 2%), and 13 players lost more than 1% body
mass during P2 (with 4 players losing more than 2%). Fluid
replacement equaled 50% (±14%) of fluid lost during P1 (or
1.2 L) and 48% (±27%) of fluid lost during P2 (or 1.0 L).
For all variables measured, there were no significant differ-
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés S11

ences between the 2 practices. Consistent with previous re- practice. Feedback from the first assessment and follow-up
search, the majority of the players were hypohydrated pre- testing were not effective strategies to improve hydration
practice and did not effectively replace fluids during status.

Body composition measured by dual-energy X-ray

absorptiometry half-body scans in obese children
and youth
P. Breithaupt, R.C. Colley, J. Rutherford, and K.B. Adamo
Healthy Active Living and Obesity Research Group, Children’s Hospital of Eastern
Ontario Research Institute, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada; Faculty of
Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada

Rates of obesity are skyrocketing among Canadian chil-
dren and youth, and the obesogenic environment is likely to
cause further increases in overweight and obesity. An impor-
tant aspect in providing clinical care to this population is to
have an accurate measure of their body composition. Dual-
energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is considered the gold
standard for human body composition measurements. In-
creasingly, there are issues in acquiring accurate body com-
position measurements in obese individuals because the
measurement surface area is too small. The purpose of this
study was to determine the validity of a half-body scan
methodology for measuring body composition in a sample
of obese children and youth. A group of obese children (n =
56; >95th body mass index percentile; 8–18 years) were re-
cruited from the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pe-
diatric Endocrinology Clinic. Participants were required to
undergo a DXA body composition measurement (GE Lunar
Prodigy ADVANCE DEXA) as part of an ongoing cohort
study. From the initial sample, 31 fit within the imaging
field of the DXA scanner and were eligible for inclusion in
the analysis. Whole-body percent fat, total mass, fat mass,
lean mass, and bone mineral content (BMC) were estimated
from half-body scans and compared with the whole-body re-
sults. Assessment was completed using GE enCORE 11.40
software, which utilized the GE AutoAnalysis function to
estimate total body composition outcomes from half-body
measurements. In comparing left- and right-side scans to
whole-body scans, there was a very strong correlation for
all body composition variables (p < 0.05; r2 = 0.996–1.000).
A Bland–Altman analysis also showed high levels of agree-
ment between half-body estimates and whole-body measure-
ments. This study supports the use of a half-body scan
methodology for percent fat, total mass, fat mass, lean
mass, and BMC as a valid alternative to whole-body analy-
sis in obese children and youth.

Sex differences in cortical drive influence

steadiness and EMG of elbow flexors
R.E. Brown, D. Uniat, S. Bigsby, G. Binsted, and J.M. Jakobi
Human Kinetics, Faculty of Health and Social Development, University of British
Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada

Prior studies indicate that pronation is the least steady
forearm position, and that men are steadier than women.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the central
mechanisms that may be responsible for these differences.
Eight young men and 7 young women (mean, 25 ± 5 years)
responded to 2 auditory tones that signalled to remain at rest
or generate a 5-s 15% maximum voluntary contraction
(MVC) of the elbow flexors. Two hundred trials were exe-
cuted in neutral, supinated, and pronated forearm positions
(blocked presentation; 100 contract, 100 no-contract), for a
total of 600 trials. Surface EMG was recorded from the
short and long head of the biceps brachii, brachioradialis,
and wrist flexors of the nondominant (left) arm, while con-
current motor-related cortical potentials were measured with
a 32-electrode EEG montage. Men (207 ± 7 N) were signifi-
cantly stronger than women (125 ± 8 N) in all 3 forearm po-
sitions. Reaction time was slower for women (480 ± 30 ms)
than for men (350 ± 30 ms). Men were also steadier than
women (0.85 ± 0.1% vs. 1.7 ± 0.1%) in all forearm posi-
tions. Pronation was the weakest and least steady position

Published by NRC Research Press

S12 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

(p < 001). Similar to strength and steadiness, men and
women also differed in N1 and P3 amplitudes, with women
(N1 = 7.4 ± 0.7 mV; P3 = 4.1 ± 0.8 mV) having a larger am-
plitude than men (N1 = 4.5 ± 0.7 mV; P3 = 1.6 ± 0.7 mV).
Cortical potential latencies (N1, P3) were also shortest in the
pronated position, compared with both the neutral and supi-
nated positions (p > 0.05). In conclusion, women require
more central drive to achieve the same relative force level
than men. The central command for the pronated position is
driven earlier than in the neutral and supinated positions.
Differences in strength and steadiness of the forearm may
be partially explained by sex and position differences in
cortical drive.

The latent resistance exercise and feeding

interaction to stimulate myofibrillar protein
synthesis postexercise is dependent on effort
N.A. Burd, A.W. Staples, D.W.D. West, P.J. Atherton, D.R. Moore, and T. Prior
Department of Kinesiology; and Department of Neurology, McMaster University,
Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada; University of Nottingham, Derby, DE22 3DT, UK

The additive effects of acute resistance exercise and feed-
ing on muscle protein synthesis immediately (1–4 h) after
exercise are clear; however, it is unknown if these effects
are manifest at 24 h postexercise. Thus, we sought to deter-
mine how changes in myofibrillar protein synthesis (MPS)
and anabolic signalling were influenced by intensity (90%
vs. 30% maximal strength) or volume load (failure vs. work
matched) after feeding at rest and 24 h recovery. Fifteen
male subjects (age, 21 ± 1 years; body mass index, 24.1 ±
0.8 kg
m–2) received a primed, constant infusion of L-[ring-
13C ]phenylalanine to determine fasted-state (REST-FAST)
6
and fed-state (REST-FED; 15 g whey protein) MPS. Sub-
jects were randomly assigned to 2 of 3 unilateral leg exer-
cise regimes: 4 sets at 90% 1 repetition maximum (1RM) to
failure (90FAIL); 30% 1RM work-matched to 90FAIL
(30WM); or 30% 1RM to failure (30FAIL); fasted- (EX-
FAST) and fed-state (EX-FED) MPS was then determined
during 24 h of recovery. At rest, feeding (REST-FED) in-
duced a significant increase (*1.7-fold) in MPS above that
in REST-FAST. The rate in EX-FAST 24 h after exercise
was higher (*2.8-fold) than that in the REST-FAST condi-
tion only in the 30FAIL condition. Feeding at 24 h recovery
elevated MPS above the rate in REST-FAST in all condi-
tions (90FAIL, *3.1-fold; 30WM, *1.5-fold; 30FAIL,
*3.9-fold), but only above that in REST-FED in the
90FAIL and 30FAIL states. Independent of condition, a la-
tent increase above REST-FAST was shown in the EX-
FAST/FED conditions in phosphorylation of AktSer473. Phos-
phorylation of mTORSer2448 was significantly increased
above that in the REST-FAST/FED conditions only in the
30FAIL/EX-FED states. Phosphorylation of 4E-BP1Thr37/46
was significantly increased in the EX-FAST state above the
FAST condition, which was itself greater than in the 30WM
condition, and was also elevated in the fed condition for
90FAIL/30FAIL states. These results suggest that the addi-
tive effect of exercise and feeding remain apparent on MPS
and on anabolic signalling mechanisms for up to 24 h after
high-effort (i.e., 90FAIL and 30FAIL) exercise.

Maximal accumulated oxygen deficit and blood

lactate concentration in running and cycling
S.D. Burdette, E.R. Castillo, S.M. Harris, J.L. Vingren, and D.W. Hill
Applied Physiology Laboratories, Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and
Recreation, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle, Denton, TX 76203, USA

The purpose of this study was to compare 2 measures of
anaerobic capacity in running and cycling: maximal accu-
mulated oxygen deficit (MAOD) and postexercise blood lac-
tate concentration ([lac]). Traditionally, calculation of
MAOD involves assumption of a linear relationship between
oxygen demand and velocity or work rate. One aim of the
present study was to test that assumption. Twenty-seven
women (mean ± SD, age 22 ± 1 years; height, 165 ± 6 cm,
weight, 63.4 ± 11.9 kg) and 25 men (22 ± 1 year; 179 ±
6 cm; 80.8 ± 14.8 kg, respectively) performed running tests
and cycling tests at velocities and work rates that were indi-
vidually selected to elicit times to exhaustion of *2.5, 5.0,

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
and 7.5 min. Actual times were 171 ± 24, 299 ± 31, and
406 ± 36 s in running, and 158 ± 21, 305 ± 31, and 456 ±
48 s in cycling. Oxygen demands were estimated as a func-
tion of velocity1.00 to 1.15 or work rate1.00 to 115. The exponents
that generated similar MAODs for each test duration were
1.05 in running and 1.00 in cycling. The overall mean
MAODs calculated using these exponents were higher in
running (78.0 ± 7.3 mL
kg–1) than in cycling (58.5 ±
Maximal accumulated oxygen deficit after blood
or plasma donation
S.D. Burdette, K.R. Jones, P.D. Knowles, D.W. Hill, and J.L. Vingren
Applied Physiology Laboratories, Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and
Recreation, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle, Denton, TX 76203, USA
Blood or plasma donation may impact aerobic responses
and performance, but neither should affect anaerobic ca-
pacity. The purpose of this study was to investigate the ef-
fects of blood or plasma donation on 2 measures of
anaerobic capacity: maximal accumulated oxygen deficit
(MAOD) and postexercise blood lactate concentration
([lac]). Two women and 8 men performed exhaustive se-
vere-intensity cycle ergometer tests under control conditions
(time to exhaustion: 274 ± 62 s) and then 2 h, 2 days, and
7 days following blood donation. Four women and 7 men
performed similar tests under control conditions (time to ex-
haustion: 274 ± 45 s) and 2 h, 2 days, and 7 days following
plasma donation. Performance time was reduced (–53 s,
–19%; p < 0.0500) only during the test performed 2 h after
Long term low-intensity treadmill exercise in
rodents leads to decreased insulin-mediated
vasorelaxation in vitro
O.A. Campos and E.G. Noble
School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Western Ontario,
London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
Exercise can delay the development of obesity and insulin
resistance. Insulin resistance is the decreased responsiveness
of target tissues to insulin, and can occur in the vascular en-
dothelium as a decreased vasorelaxation. The purpose of this
study was to compare the effect of a long-term low-intensity
exercise regime with sedentary living on the insulin-mediated
vasorelaxation response in vitro. It was hypothesized that
being sedentary would result in lower vascular responsive-
ness to insulin. Twenty male Sprague–Dawley rats were
randomly divided into 2 groups: 1 sedentary group (S)
S13
5.6 mL
kg–1). The overall mean [lac] was higher in running
(13.9 ± 2.2 mmol
L–1) than in cycling (12.6 ± 2.4 mmol
L–1).
MAOD and [lac] were correlated (r > 0.86). These results
corroborate reports that the relationship between oxygen
demand and running velocity is upwardly curvilinear,
rather than linear, and they demonstrate that the MAOD is
higher in running than in cycling.
blood donation, and performance time was reduced (–37 s, –
14%; p = 0.052) only during the test performed 2 h after
plasma donation. Neither MAOD nor [lac] was affected by
blood donation: mean values before and 2 h, 2 days, and
7 days after blood donation were 47 ± 19, 49 ± 22, 53 ±
21, and 48 ± 15 mL
kg–1, respectively, and 11.9 ± 2.5,
11.8 ± 2.4, 12.1 ± 1.4, and 11.8 ± 1.7 mmol
L–1, respec-
tively. Neither MAOD nor [lac] was affected by plasma
donation: values were 46 ± 26, 42 ± 26, 43 ± 27, and 45 ±
27 mL
kg–1, respectively, and 11.9 ± 3.1, 11.8 ± 3.3, 12.9 ±
3.5, and 11.8 ± 1.7 mmol
L–1, respectively. These data sug-
gest that both blood donation and plasma donation nega-
tively impact performance because of reduced blood
volume (i.e., only 2 h following donation).
that did not exercise, and 1 exercise group (E) that did.
Rats in the E group exercised on a motorized treadmill up
to a speed of 15 m
min–1 for 30 min, 4 days a week, for
14 to 17 weeks. Rats were sacrificed during the week after
their last exercise bout, at 25 to 28 weeks of age. Aortae
were excised from the rats and cleaned of connective tis-
sue, and aortic rings approximately 2 mm in length were
cut. Aortic rings were then placed in an organ bath for iso-
metric tension analysis, and vasorelaxation responses to
varying doses of insulin and acetylcholine (ACh) were re-
Published by NRC Research Press
S14
corded. Average body weights were not significantly dif-
ferent between the E and S groups throughout the entire
study (614 ± 20 g and 633 ± 14 g, respectively, at the
13th week of exercise). ACh exposure resulted in a dose-
dependent vasorelaxation response in aortic rings that was
not significantly different between the E and S groups at
any of the 5 concentrations used (87.0 ± 2.9% and 83.9 ±
3.6%, respectively, at 10–7 mol
L–1). Insulin exposure re-
sulted in dose-dependent vasorelaxation responses that
Descriptive analysis of 87 cases of immersion
pulmonary edema
E.A. Carter and M.S. Koehle
School of Human Kinetics and Division of Sports Medicine, University of British
Columbia, 210 - 6081 University Boulevard, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1, Canada
Immersion pulmonary edema (IPE) is a potentially life-
threatening condition affecting scuba divers, breath-hold
divers, and long-distance swimmers. IPE is believed to be
the result of pulmonary hypertension and extravasation of
fluid into the airspace of the lung. The most common symp-
toms include cough, dyspnea, and haemoptysis. Less com-
mon is loss of consciousness and cardiac arrest. Cases
published between 1971 and 2009 were collected through
the PubMed database, using the following search terms: pul-
monary edema, haemoptysis, immersion, swimming, and
thoracic squeeze. The search revealed 23 papers with 87 in-
cidents in 73 patients (22 females). Six patients had multiple
cases of IPE, with 1 scuba diver suffering 6 incidents. Fifty-
six incidents occurred in scuba divers, with 21 in swimmers
and 10 in breath-hold divers. The mean age (±SD) of pa-
tients was 39.8 years (±13.8 years). Scuba divers experienc-
ing IPE were older than breath-hold divers and swimmers.
In a subset of 33 scuba divers, it was found that at greater
depth, onset of symptoms is more likely to occur in a
mTORC1 inhibition and mitochondrial biogenesis
during chronic contractile activity of C2C12
myotubes
H.N. Carter and D.A. Hood
Muscle Health Research Centre, School of Kinesiology and Health Science,
York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
Mitochondrial biogenesis occurs in skeletal muscle in re-
sponse to chronic contractile activity (CCA) or exercise. The
mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) has
been implicated in the regulation of the expression of nu-
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
were significantly lower in the E group than in the S
group at the 1.5, 2.25, and 3 IU
mL–1 doses (2.4 ± 2.2%
vs. 12.6 ± 3.2% at 1.5 IU
mL–1, p = 0.023; 4.8 ± 2.9%
vs. 17.6 ± 3.9% at 2.25 IU
mL–1, p = 0.019; 9.2 ± 2.9%
vs. 24.7 ± 4.4% at 3 IU
mL–1, p = 0.011, respectively). In
summary, contrary to the hypothesis, long-term low-intensity
exercise resulted in diminished vascular responsiveness to
insulin.
shorter amount of time. Similarly, swimmers in colder water
were more likely to experience onset of symptoms earlier
than those in warmer water. Scuba divers had the most pre-
existing medical conditions, including hypertension, pre-
vious occurrence of IPE, and asthma. In scuba divers, the
mean dive depth and time to onset of symptoms was
22.0 m of sea water (msw) (±13.7 msw) and 20.5 min
(±17.5 min), respectively. For breath-hold divers, the mean
depth was 22.3 msw (±7.1 msw). The mean water tempera-
ture for all incidents was 16.6 8C (±5.5 8C). Sixty-seven in-
cidents occurred in sea water, 8 in freshwater, 3 in pools,
and 1 in chlorinated freshwater. All except 4 cases resolved
within 24 h. These 4 patients succumbed to cardiac arrest.
Positive-pressure oxygen was the most common treatment,
though many patients were administered diuretics. These re-
sults indicate that depth and duration of dive affect onset of
IPE in scuba divers, and that water temperature and duration
of swim affect onset of IPE in surface swimmers.
clear genes encoding mitochondrial proteins by facilitating
an interaction between the transcription factor YY1 and the
potent coactivator PGC-1a. The purpose of this investigation
was to ascertain whether the inhibition of mTORC1 would
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
attenuate mitochondrial biogenesis during CCA. C2C12 my-
oblasts were differentiated into myotubes and subjected to
chronic contractile activity for 3 h
day–1 over 4 days. The
myotubes were incubated in the presence or absence of
1 nmol
L–1 rapamycin, a known mTORC1 inhibitor. We an-
alyzed mTORC1 signaling and protein markers of mitochon-
drial biogenesis and the mTORC1 complex with, or without,
the inhibitor. This low dose of rapamycin completely inhib-
ited mTORC1 signaling to p70S6K1 (Thr389), despite a
trend (p = 0.06) toward increasing amounts of raptor, an in-
tegral component of the mTORC1 complex. CCA activity
alone resulted in a 1.5-fold decrease in signaling to
Speed dependence for the potentiation of
concentric force in mouse fast muscle
D. Caterini, B. Gittings, and R. Vandenboom
Center for Muscle Metabolism and Biophysics, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences,
Brock University, St. Catharine’s, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
Contractile activity enhances or ‘‘potentiates’’ isometric
twitch force of mouse fast twitch muscle. The influence of
potentiation on dynamic muscle function is less well
studied, however. The purpose of this study was to examine
the influence of potentiation on concentric force levels of
mouse (C57BL) extensor digitorum longus muscle (in vitro,
25 8C). Sinusoidal length changes were applied to the motor
arm, to which 1 tendon of the muscle was attached. The re-
sultant cycle of muscle shortening and lengthening, centered
on optimal muscle length (Lo), had a total amplitude equal
to 5% of Lo. To produce concentric forces, a single electrical
pulse was applied during the shortening phase of the sine-
wave; total force was subtracted from passive force to deter-
mine active twitch force. The stimulus was carefully timed
so that peak twitch force occurred as the muscle was passing
though Lo. Concentric forces were obtained 1 min before
(control) and 15 s after (experimental) the cessation of a
high-frequency conditioning stimulus (CS) known to pro-
S15
p70S6K1, while increasing cytochrome c oxidase subunit
IV (COX IV) and mitochondrial transcription factor A
(Tfam) protein levels by 1.9- and 1.3-fold, respectively. Sur-
prisingly, rapamycin treatment significantly elevated the lev-
els of COX I, COX IV, and Tfam by 1.8-, 1.6-, and 1.5-fold,
respectively, in the absence of CCA. CCA further increased
Tfam levels by 2.7-fold above control when mTORC1 was
inhibited, but had no additional effect on COX I or COX
IV subunits. Thus, our data suggest that mTORC1 inhibition
may augment the expression of markers of mitochondrial
biogenesis, and does not prevent CCA-induced mitochon-
drial adaptations.
duce near maximal potentiation of isometric twitch force. In
addition to isometric force, we measured concentric force
during the shortening phase of sinewaves cycling at 1.5,
3.3, and 6.9 Hz (means ± SEM (n = 5) with p < 0.05). The
potentiation of isometric twitch force coincident with the 3
different sinewave frequencies studied was similar. In addi-
tion, the potentiation of concentric twitch force during the
1.5 Hz sinewave was similar to isometric twitch force poten-
tiation (i.e., 16.9% ± 1.0% vs. 18.7% ± 1.02%, respectively).
The potentiation of concentric twitch force during the 3.3
and 6.9 Hz sinewaves was, however, greater than the poten-
tiation of isometric twitch force (i.e., 23.5% ± 1.05% vs.
19.6% ± 0.63% and 24.9% ± 2.05% and 19.0% ± 1.4%, re-
spectively). Thus, our results suggest that, for the CS used,
the potentiation of concentric force exceeds that for isomet-
ric force when sinewave frequency was 3.3 Hz or greater.
(Funded by NSERC.)
Published by NRC Research Press
S16 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

The effect of exercise training combined with

soy isoflavone supplementation on bone in
postmenopausal women
P.D. Chilibeck, H. Vatanparast, R. Pierson, A. Case, S. Whiting, O. Oluntanbosun,
J. Biem, P. Pahwa, and T. Beck
College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B2, Canada;
College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5C9,
Canada; College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B2,
Canada; Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA

Exercise training and soy isoflavone (phytoestrogen) sup-
plementation each have small beneficial effects for increas-
ing bone mass. The purpose of our study was to determine
the combined effects of exercise training and soy isoflavone
supplementation on bone in postmenopausal women. We
randomized 351 postmenopausal women into 4 groups: exer-
cise training; isoflavone supplementation (94 mg aglycone
equivalents per day); combined exercise training and isofla-
vone supplementation; and no exercise, placebo. The inter-
vention was 2 years. Exercise training involved a whole-
body resistance training program (2 sets of 8 repetitions,
14 exercises, 2 days per week) and walking (20–30 min per
day, 4 days per week). Measurements included lumbar spine
and proximal femur bone mineral density, hip geometric
properties, and dynamic balance (6 m backward tandem
walking), mammography, and endometrial thickness (ultra-
sound). There were no significant changes in lumbar spine
bone mineral density in any groups. There was a significant
decrease in hip bone mineral density in the combined exer-
cise and isoflavone group (–2%; p < 0.01) and the no exer-
cise, placebo group (–1.7%; p < 0.01). Femoral trochanter
bone mineral density decreased significantly only in the no
exercise, placebo group (–1.5%; p < 0.01). Bone mineral
density of the narrow part of the femoral neck decreased
significantly in the combined exercise and isoflavone group
(–2.3%; p < 0.01) and the no exercise, placebo group
(–1.3%; p < 0.01). Femoral shaft bone mineral density in-
creased significantly in the exercise group (+5.7%; p <
0.01), as did femoral shaft cross-sectional area (+4.6%; p <
0.01). The exercise groups significantly improved their time
to complete the balance task (baseline = 41 s; 2 years =
33 s), compared with the nonexercise groups (baseline =
42 s; 2 years = 37 s) (p < 0.05). There was no increase in
endometrial thickness or abnormal mammograms with the
isoflavone supplementation. We conclude that exercise train-
ing is beneficial for improving bone mineral density and
geometric properties (bone cross-sectional area) at the prox-
imal femur, but that soy isoflavone supplementation inter-
feres with this effect. (Supported by CIHR.)

Impact of high-normal blood pressure on left

ventricular mass in children
D. Chirico, K. Haluka, J. Peralta-Huertas, T. Wade, J. Cairney, and D.D. O’Leary
Department of Community Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada

Hypertension significantly increases left ventricular hy-
pertrophy (LVH) in both adults and children, which inde-
pendently increases risk of cardiovascular morbidity and
mortality. It has been suggested that the prevalence of LVH
increases with increasing severity of hypertension in chil-
dren. As well, there is also evidence suggesting prehyperten-
sion increases LVH in children, indicating an importance for
early screening of left ventricular mass (LVM) prior to hy-
pertension. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to deter-
mine whether there is a difference in left ventricle structure
and function in children with high-normal (HNBP) and
those with normal blood pressure (NBP). A preliminary sub-
sample of 107 children aged 11 to 14 years from the original
1931 children who participated in the HBEAT (Heart Be-
havioural Environmental Assessment Team) study was se-
lected. Those children who consistently had a blood
pressure (BP) ‡95th percentile and <90th percentile, ad-
justed for gender, age, and height on 2 separate occasions,

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
were included in the HNBP and NBP groups, respectively.
Following an initial 15 min of supine rest, LVM was meas-
ured with noninvasive Doppler echocardiography, using the
parasternal long-axis view. In preliminary analysis, be-
tween-group comparisons showed that body mass index
(BMI), LVM, and stroke volume (SV) were significantly
elevated in the HNBP (n = 21), compared with the NBP
(n = 21), group (p < 0.05). Stroke volume was 71 mL in
the HNBP group, compared with 57 mL in the NBP group,
while LVM was 87 g in the HNBP group and 73 g in the
NBP group. However, after normalizing LVM to height2.7,
Differences in the excitation of rat hindlimb
extensor and flexor motoneurons to quipazine —
a serotonergic agonist
J.W. Chopek, C.W. MacDonell, K.E. Power, K. Gardiner, and P.F. Gardiner
Spinal Cord Research Centre, Department of Physiology, University of Manitoba,
Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
Serotonin modulates basic motoneuron properties by in-
creasing and enhancing the excitability of motoneurons.
This is characterized by a decrease in rheobase, hyperpolari-
zation of the voltage threshold, and reduction in the ampli-
tude of the afterhyperpolarization (AHP). Indirect evidence
has suggested that the ability to enhance the excitability of
motoneurons with serotonin may differ between motoneur-
ons that innervate muscles for flexion (flexor motoneurons)
and extension (extensor motoneurons). The purpose of this
study is to examine the potential difference of a serotonergic
agonist, quipazine, on modulating motoneuron properties of
identified rat hindlimb flexor and extensor motoneurons. In-
tracellular recordings of antidromically-indentified flexor
(peroneal nerve) or extensor (tibial nerve) motoneurons
were made in a decerebrate rat preparation. Motoneuron
passive and active properties were recorded pre- and post-
quipazine. Quipazine enhanced the overall excitability of
motoneurons, as evidenced by decreases in rheobase current
and a shift of the frequency–current relationship to the left
(i.e., higher frequencies for a given current). Differences in
responsiveness of flexor and extensor motoneurons to quipa-
S17
this difference was eliminated (p = 0.07). As well, no group
differences were evident in fractional shortening or ejection
fraction. In regression analyses of LVM and SV on BP cate-
gory, BMI and height were the only significant predictors
after accounting for maturation and sex. Hence, these results
are promising, as in this subsample, HNBP demonstrated
significantly elevated LVM and a trend toward elevated
LVM/height2.7. These preliminary results support the impor-
tance of early screening of LVM in children with elevated
BP.
zine were evident in the reductions in rheobase current (30%
in flexor motoneurons, range: 23%–33%; and 46% in exten-
sor motoneurons, range: 26%–67%) and in the increases in
maximum firing rate achieved during ramp current injec-
tions (21% in flexor motoneurons, range: 0%–39%; and
44% in extensor motoneurons, range: 31%–51%) between
pre- and postdrug values. Thus, basic motoneuron properties
of extensor motoneurons demonstrate greater excitability to
quipazine than do flexor motoneurons. Our demonstration
in the same preparation, that the monosynaptic reflex
(MSR) response is increased by quipazine more in the flexor
than in the extensor MSR pathway, indicates that presynap-
tic mechanisms onto flexor motoneurons are more sensitive
to serotonergic modulation than those onto extensors. Insight
into the differences in the excitability of flexor and extensor
motoneurons and the flexor and extensor MSR pathway to
quipazine could provide beneficial information for therapeu-
tic and pharmalogical interventions aimed at restoring loco-
motion following a spinal cord injury. (Support: CIHR,
CRC, MHRC.)
Published by NRC Research Press
S18 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

The impact of dietary leucine on feeding- and

resistance-exercise-induced increases in skeletal
muscle protein synthesis in young men
T.A. Churchward-Venne, C.J. Mitchell, D.W.D. West, N.A. Burd, S.K. Baker, and
S.M. Phillips
Exercise Metabolism Research Group, Department of Kinesiology; and Department of
Neurology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada

Essential amino acids (EAA) stimulate an increase in
muscle protein synthesis (MPS); however, the branched-
chain amino acid leucine appears unique as a key regulator
of translation initiation of MPS. In rodents, leucine is clearly
capable of activating factors associated with the mammalian
target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling cascade, such as
p70S6k and 4E-BP1. The purpose of this study was to deter-
mine the importance of leucine, relative to the other EAA,
in stimulating MPS and signalling through mTOR and its
downstream targets, at rest and following an acute bout of
resistance exercise. Twenty-four moderately active healthy
young adult males were recruited to participate in the study.
Each subject underwent strength testing of the knee extensor
muscles, a full-body dual energy X-ray absorptiometry scan,
and 1 day of dietary control prior to the experimental trial.
During the trial, subjects underwent a constant infusion of
L-[ring-13C6] phenylalanine and completed an acute bout of
unilateral resistance exercise before consuming 1 of the fol-
lowing: 25 g whey protein isolate; 6.25 g whey protein iso-
late with added free-form leucine (total leucine = 25 g whey
protein); or 6.25 g whey protein isolate with added free-
form EAA but without added leucine (total EAA = 25 g
whey protein for all EAA except leucine). Skeletal muscle
biopsies were taken from the vastus lateralis muscle before
exercise to measure MPS and anabolic signalling at rest,
and again at 1-, 3-, and 5-h postexercise for the measure-
ment of MPS in both the rested and exercised legs. Area
under the plasma leucine curve was elevated following 25 g
whey and 6.25 g whey with added leucine, relative to the
beverage without added leucine. In summary, extracellular
leucine concentration following feeding may to be important
in stimulating MPS and anabolic signalling in young adult
muscle at rest and after resistance exercise. (Supported by
NSERC.)

A few minutes of all-out exercise performed as a

single effort activates signaling pathways linked
to mitochondrial biogenesis in human skeletal
muscle
A.J.R. Cochran, M.E. Percival, J.B. Gillen, M.A. Tarnopolsky, and M.J. Gibala
Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton,
ON L8S 4K1, Canada; Department of Pediatrics and Medicine, McMaster University
Medical Centre, 1200 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada

High-intensity interval training (HIT) performed at an
‘‘all-out’’ intensity is a potent impetus for mitochondrial bio-
genesis in human skeletal muscle (Gibala et al. 2006,
J. Physiol. 575: 901–911). Six sessions of HIT over 2 weeks
(4–6 maximal 30 s cycle sprints with 4 min of recovery per
session) increased mitochondrial enzyme activity to the
same extent as traditional endurance training (90–120 min
of moderate-intensity cycling per session). These findings
indicate that increases in muscle oxidative capacity can be
induced by as little as 2 to 3 min of very high-intensity
work. However, the importance of the ‘‘interval’’ in HIT re-
mains unclear (i.e., whether a ‘‘pulsed’’ stimulus is neces-
sary or simply an absolute amount of high-intensity work).
Therefore, we determined whether a single bout of all-out
exercise matched to total work performed during an inter-
mittent maximal cycling protocol would elicit similar in-

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
creases in signaling pathways linked to mitochondrial bio-
genesis. Eight men (age, 22 ± 1 years; 48 ± 2 mL
kg–1
min–1)
performed 2 exercise trials in random order ‡1 week apart.
During 1 session, subjects performed 4  30 s all-out
sprints separated by 4 min of rest. In the other trial, sub-
jects performed a single work-matched (64.1 ± 2.3 kJ) con-
tinuous effort at all-out intensity (3:58 ± 0:09 min:s; range,
3:23–4:30 min:s). Mean power averaged over the 4 sprints
was 557 ± 16 W, whereas mean power during the single
bout was 287 ± 18 W. Skeletal muscle biopsies were ob-
tained before and immediately after exercise in each trial.
The impact of ultra-endurance exercise on
estradiol and neuromuscular function in women
J.L. Copeland, F. Billaut, M.S. Verzosa, and K. Smith
Department of Kinesiology, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada;
Institute of Sport, Exercise, and Active Living, Victoria University, Melbourne, 8001
Australia
The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of
competing in an ultramarathon on hormonal and neuromus-
cular responses in female athletes, and to determine if these
effects differ in pre- vs. postmenopausal women. The Lost-
Soul Ultra is an off-road race that includes 50 and 100 km
events. Pairs of older and younger participants were matched
for race finish times to control for performance differences.
Blood samples were drawn 24 h before the race, at the fin-
ish line, and 24 h into recovery. Samples were analysed for
estradiol using ELISA. Isometric torque of the knee exten-
sors was recorded during maximal voluntary contractions
(MVC) 1 week before and 24 h after the race. To determine
the effects of running on contractile and neural properties,
the quadriceps muscle was magnetically stimulated at rest
and during MVCs to evoke twitches. Complete data were
obtained from 5 postmenopausal women (age, 57.2 ±
4.3 years; body mass index (BMI), 23.2 ± 2.0 kg
m–2; %fat,
25.7 ± 6.1; V_ O2 max, 51.4 ± 3.1 mL
kg–1
min–1) and 5 preme-
nopausal women (age, 32.8 ± 8.1 years, BMI, 23.9 ± 3.1;
S19
Western Blot analyses revealed an exercise-induced in-
crease in p38 MAPK (*3.1-fold) and acetyl-CoA carboxy-
lase (*2.1-fold) phosphorylation (p £ 0.05, main effect),
but no difference between trials. These findings indicate
that activation of signaling pathways linked to skeletal
muscle remodeling is similar when a designated amount of
work is performed as a single effort or as several pulses
with recovery between efforts. Furthermore, it appears that
as little as 3 to 5 min of all-out exercise may be sufficient
to stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis in human skeletal
muscle. (Supported by NSERC.)
%fat, 27.9 ± 5.0; V_ O2 max, 54 ± 5.6 mL
kg–1
min–1). In both
pre- and postmenopausal women, there was a large increase
in circulating estradiol following the race, which persisted
after 24 h of recovery (p < 0.01). There was a trend for a
significant group  time interaction (p = 0.07), with post-
menopausal women having greater increases in estradiol
than premenopausal women. MVC torque and maximal vol-
untary activation decreased significantly 24 h after the race
(12% ± 7% and 8% ± 4%, respectively; p < 0.05). Interest-
ingly, despite similar finishing times, there was a trend for
greater MVC torque impairment in younger vs. older women
(14% vs. 6%, p = 0.08), associated with greater depression
of voluntary activation (10% vs. 5%, p = 0.10). However,
we were unable to confirm an effect of menopausal status
on the rate of recovery of MVC torque or neural properties.
The implications of the increased estradiol are unclear, but it
has been suggested that estrogens may have neuroprotective
effects that could be beneficial during prolonged exercise.
Published by NRC Research Press
S20 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

Relationship of baroreceptor sensitivity and

orthostatic tolerance in healthy young adults
A.T. Cote, A.A. Phillips, S.S.D. Bredin, and D.E.R. Warburton
Cardiovascular Physiology and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Physical Activity and Chronic
Disease Prevention Unit, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia,
Canada

Differences in tolerance to an orthostatic stress has been
well documented; however, the mechanisms responsible re-
main unclear. Lower body negative pressure (LBNP) has
been shown to be an effective means of inducing presyncope
in individuals more susceptible to orthostatic intolerance.
Autonomic adjustments to LBNP have been of recent inter-
est, and it has been proposed that baroreceptor sensitivity
(BRS) may identify those predisposed to orthostatic intoler-
ance. Much of the previous research looking at BRS and or-
thostatic tolerance has involved participant populations with
large age ranges and varied fitness statuses. Accordingly, the
purpose of our research was to examine BRS in young
adults of similar fitness throughout an orthostatic challenge.
Nine healthy college-aged men and women (age (±SD) =
24 ± 3 years) participated in a graded LBNP protocol, in-
volving two 12-min baseline collection periods (pre- and
post-LBNP) and four 12-min stages of progressive LBNP at
–15, –30, –45, and –60 mm Hg. Four of the 9 (44%) indi-
viduals became presyncopal in the last stage of LBNP (low
tolerance (LT)). The remaining 5 participants were classified
with high tolerance (HT). The sequence method of BRS re-
vealed no significant differences between groups. As has
been previously shown, BRS was linearly related to the se-
verity of LBNP (p = 0.04). Interestingly, cross-spectral anal-
ysis found a significant difference between the groups for
the low frequency value (LF; p = 0.04). Post hoc analyses
revealed LF at rest was statistically responsible for the dif-
ference between the 2 groups. These results suggest that
resting LF measures may be able to identify individuals
more susceptible to an orthostatic stress. Additionally, this
work highlights the effect of different methods of BRS anal-
ysis on data interpretation and warrants further investigation.

Investigating the relationship between BMI and

arterial stiffness in premenopausal overweight
and obese women
L.C. Cotie, A.R. Josse, G. Zubic, K.E. Hammel, S.M. Phillips, and M.J. MacDonald
Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada

Overweight and obesity has been linked with the preva-
lence and progression of cardiovascular disease. Arterial
stiffness is an independent predictor of cardiovascular dis-
ease. Distensibility and pulse wave velocity (PWV) are non-
invasive measures of arterial stiffness. Carotid distensibility
is the relative change in carotid artery lumen diameter dur-
ing the cardiac cycle. This is adjusted for the pulse pressure
in the carotid and radial arteries. PWV is determined by the
speed of the pulse pressure wave through the arteries. The
quicker the wave travels, the stiffer the artery. This study in-
vestigated the relationship between body mass index (BMI)
and carotid distensibility, and BMI and PWV in 11 over-
weight and obese (BMI, 27–40 kg
m–2) premenopausal
women. Participants ranged from 21 to 45 years of age. All
participants were nonsmokers and otherwise healthy. Carotid
distensibility was assessed using carotid artery lumen diam-
eters and carotid and radial pulse pressures. Arterial diame-
ters were measured using B-mode Doppler ultrasound
images (GE Vingmed System Five, Horten, Norway). Caro-
tid and radial pulse pressures, for both distensibility and
PWV, were measured using applanation tonometry (SPT-
301, Millar Instruments Inc., Houston, Tex.; and CBM-
7000, Colin Medical Instruments, San Antonio, Tex.).
Pearson correlations were used to determine the relation-
ships between BMI and carotid distensibility and BMI and
PWV. There was no relationship observed between BMI
and carotid distensibility (r = –0.493, p = 0.124). There was
also no relationship found between BMI and PWV (r =
0.055, p = 0.879). This study shows that there may not be a
direct relationship between BMI and carotid distensibility or
BMI and PWV in overweight and obese premenopausal
women. Following baseline measurements of BMI and caro-

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés S21

tid distensibility, participants followed a 16-week exercise ries a day less than their regular diet) for the duration of the
and diet intervention. Participants performed cardiorespira- 16-week intervention. Preliminary data show no change in
tory exercise 7 days a week and resistance exercise 2 days carotid distensibility following the 16-week exercise and
a week. Participants consumed a hypocaloric diet (500 calo- diet intervention (p = 0.985).

Autonomic indices in overweight and obese pre-

and early pubescent children
N.S. Coverdale, A. Banach, and D.D. O’Leary
Department of Community Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines,
ON L2S 3A1, Canada

Studies of heart rate variability (HRV) and baroreflex sen-
sitivity (BRS) in obese adults have indicated that sympa-
thetic activity is increased, while parasympathetic activity
and BRS are attenuated, which in turn is predictive of cardi-
ovascular morbidity and mortality. The relationship between
obesity and BRS in children has received some research at-
tention; however, these studies have included participants
who span a large age range, and fail to account for puberty
and the hormonal factors that may complicate the relation-
ship between obesity and BRS. Therefore, this study aimed
to determine whether HRV parameters and BRS were asso-
ciated with body mass index (BMI), while controlling for
maturation, age, and sex in a population of 9 to 12 year
olds. Maturation was assessed by self-report, using pictures
of the Sexual Maturation Scale by Tanner. BMI was deter-
mined using height and weight. Following an initial 15 min
of supine rest, 5 min of continuous beat-to-beat blood pres-
sure (Finapres) and R–R interval (standard single lead ECG)
were recorded. To determine HRV and BRS, spectral indi-
ces were computed using Fast Fourier Transform. High fre-
quency (HF) and low frequency (LF) power spectral areas
were set to 0.15–0.4 Hz and 0.04–0.15 Hz, respectively.
BRS was determined using a transfer function for the fre-
quency region 0.04–0.15 Hz. After controlling for age, sex
and maturation, regression analyses showed that BMI was
inversely related to HF power, total power, and BRS (p =
0.02, p = 0.02, and p = 0.03, respectively), while the LF/HF
ratio was directly related to BMI (p < 0.01). Therefore, this
study indicates that sympathetic activity is increased, while
parasympathetic activity, total power, and BRS are reduced
in pre- and early pubescent children who are overweight or
obese, putting them at risk for future cardiovascular disease.

The acute effects of continuous and interval

exercise on pulse wave velocity in individuals with
coronary artery disease
K.D. Currie, K. Lee, R.S. McKelvie, and M.J. MacDonald
Departments of Kinesiology and Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1,
Canada; Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada

Acute exercise models are useful for examining the phys-
iological mechanisms responsible for adaptations tradition-
ally observed with chronic exercise training. Several studies
assessing the acute vascular responses to various exercise
protocols have been conducted in healthy, young individu-
als. Similar data in clinical populations are lacking. The pur-
pose of this study was to examine the changes in pulse wave
velocity (PWV) in response to 4 different exercise protocols
in individuals with documented coronary artery disease. Ten
individuals participated in 4 testing sessions (9 males; age,
66 ± 11 years). Supine heart rate, blood pressure, and central
(ECG-femoral) and peripheral (femoral-dorsalis pedis) PWV
were collected at rest and for 60 min following each exer-
cise bout, using a combination of ECG, applanation tonome-
try, and photoplethysmographic sensors. The exercise bouts
included 2 protocols previously employed in cardiac popula-
tions— continuous (CON) and aerobic interval (AIT) — and
2 protocols previously employed in healthy populations —
sprint-interval (SIT) and high-intensity interval (HIT). Five
of 10 participants could not complete the AIT protocol;
therefore, it was removed from subsequent analysis. There
was no difference in pre-exercise rest values for central
(2.7 ± 0.5, 2.5 ± 0.6, and 2.5 ± 0.7 m
s–1) or peripheral
(9.4 ± 2.0, 9.2 ± 2.4, and 9.4 ± 2.7 m
s–1) PWV on the

Published by NRC Research Press

S22
CON HIT, and SIT exercise days, respectively. However,
given day-to-day variability in PWV, postexercise changes
at 5, 20, 30, 45, and 60 min are expressed as the amount of
change from baseline (D). The magnitude of change in cen-
tral and peripheral PWV pre- to postexercise was not differ-
ent between different exercise bouts. There was a main
Effect of mitochondrial biogenesis on apoptotic
susceptibility in L6 myoblasts
A. Dam and J. Quadrilatero
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
Mitochondria play an essential role in cell metabolism
and in apoptotic signaling. Chronic endurance exercise has
been shown to increase mitochondrial content in skeletal
muscle. Interestingly, endurance exercise has also been asso-
ciated with decreased skeletal muscle apoptosis; however,
the direct effect of increased skeletal muscle mitochondrial
content on apoptotic signaling has not been examined.
5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-ribonucleoside (AICAR)
and S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP), which activate
AMPK and donate nitric oxide, respectively, have been
shown to induce mitochondrial biogenesis in cultured cells.
In the present study, L6 myoblasts were left untreated or
were treated for 5 h a day over 5 days with either
2 mmol
L–1 AICAR or 100 mmol
L–1 SNAP. The level of
several mitochondrial content and (or) biogenesis markers
was increased following acute treatment with AICAR and
SNAP. For example, AICAR increased the protein content
of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-g co-
activator-1a (PGC-1a) by *45%, apoptosis inducing factor
(AIF) by *39%, cytochrome c by *63%, and manganese
superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) by *24%. Similarly,
SNAP increased the protein content of PGC-1a by *30%,
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
effect for time in central PWV (p = 0.024), with D5
(+0.13 ± 0.12 m
s–1) differing from D20 (–0.06 ± 0.07 m
s–1,
p = 0.043) and D45 (–0.18 ± 0.10 m
s–1, p = 0.029). This
study demonstrates similar changes in PWV following 3
different exercise stimuli in individuals with cardiovascular
disease.
AIF by *17%, cytochrome c by *20%, and MnSOD by
*25%. Subsequent exposure of cells to several apoptosis-
inducing agents increased apoptosis. Interestingly, the pro-
portion of early apoptotic cells (AnnexinV+/PI–) following
staurosporine, H2O2, and C2-ceramide exposure was reduced
by *36%, *40%, and *20%, respectively, in AICAR-
treated cells, relative to untreated cells. Similarly, the pro-
portion of late apoptotic cells (AnnexinV+/PI+) following
staurosporine, H2O2, and C2-ceramide exposure was reduced
by *13%, *8%, and *17%, respectively, in AICAR-
treated cells. SNAP-treated cells were also protected against
staurosporine-, H2O2-, and C2-ceramide-induced apoptosis,
with the proportion of AnnexinV+/PI– cells reduced by
*14%, *22%, and *12%, respectively. In addition,
SNAP reduced the proportion of AnnexinV+/PI+ cells by
*22% and *6% following exposure to staurosporine and
C2-ceramide, respectively. Although further analysis is re-
quired to define the biochemical and molecular apoptotic
signaling pathways affected, these data suggest that induc-
tion of mitochondrial biogenesis has a protective role against
cell death by several different apoptotic-inducing agents.
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
Effects of acute isometric handgrip exercise on
endothelium-dependent vasodilation and
resistance vessel function in normotensive
individuals
M.A. DiBartolomeo, C.L. Stiller-Moldovan, J. Ackersviller, D.A. Clarke, and
C.L. McGowan
Department of Kinesiology, PACR Laboratory, University of Windsor, Windsor,
ON N9B 3P4, Canada
Hypertension (HT), characterized by sustained elevated
levels of resting arterial blood pressure (ABP), afflicts over
4 million Canadians and greatly increases the risk for devel-
oping cardiovascular disease. Isometric handgrip (IHG)
training has repeatedly been shown to reduce resting ABP
in both hypertensive and normotensive individuals, yet the
mechanisms are elusive. In hypertensives, an acute bout of
IHG (4 unilateral, 2-min contractions at 30% maximal vol-
untary contraction, each separated by 4 min of rest) attenu-
ates brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (BA FMD, an
index of endothelium-dependent vasodilation) in the exer-
cised arm. The purpose of the current study was 2-fold: to
test the primary hypothesis that, as in HT, individuals with
normal ABP will experience attenuated BA FMD in the ex-
ercised limb post-IHG; and to test the secondary hypothesis
that this will be accompanied by a reduction in resistance
vessel (RV) function. BA FMD and RV function were as-
Enhanced glutamate availability may interact with
glucose metabolism
K.M. Di Sebastiano, A. Weeraratne, and M. Mourtzakis
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
Glutamate is an important amino acid in whole-body and
skeletal muscle metabolism. In exercising muscle, glutamate
reacts with increased muscle pyruvate concentrations. As
this reaction is essential for producing 2-oxoglutarate in the
tricarboxylic acid cycle, glutamate may have an important
role in regulating energy metabolism. To discern whether
the interactions between glutamate and pyruvate are depend-
ent on contraction-based signals or simply increased pyru-
vate availability, we conducted a pilot study to examine the
effects of normal and elevated glutamate availability during
conditions that would enhance pyruvate availability (i.e.,
carbohydrate ingestion) at rest. Seven healthy males under-
went 4 different trials (*1 week apart) in randomized order:
S23
sessed in 10 healthy participants (mean ± SE: age, 26.4 ±
2.4 years; body mass index, 22.6 ± 1.5 kg
m–2) with normal
ABP (systolic blood pressure, 96.9 ± 2.7 mm Hg; diastolic
blood pressure, 57.2 ± 1.7 mm Hg), prior to and following
an acute bout of IHG, using the above prescribed protocol.
Both BA FMD (relative % change from baseline: pre =
14.8 ± 1.8%; post = 11.5 ± 2.0%; p = 0.1) and RV function
(change from baseline: pre = 17.4 ± 2.0 mL
min–1 per
100 mL; post = 17.7 ± 2.4 mL
min–1 per 100 mL; p = 0.9)
remained unaltered following acute IHG. These findings
suggest that, in contrast to individuals with HT, an acute
bout of IHG does not alter BA FMD in individuals with nor-
mal resting ABP, nor does it change RV function. The lack
of attenuation in this healthy population may have been due
to the successful antioxidant buffering of reactive oxygen
species accumulated during IHG exercise and the preserva-
tion of nitric oxide bioavailability.
placebo drink + placebo pills (CON); placebo drink + gluta-
mate pills (GLU); carbohydrate drink + placebo pills
(CHO); and carbohydrate drink + glutamate pills
(CHO+GLU). Glutamate pills comprised of 150 mg
kg–1
body weight of monosodium glutamate. The carbohydrate
drink consisted of a 75 g glucose drink (Trutol). Following
baseline blood samples, participants ingested either placebo
or glutamate pills. The carbohydrate or placebo drink was
ingested at 30 min after the ingestion of the pills. Blood
sampling occurred every 10 min for the first hour and every
15 min for the second hour to measure glucose, insulin, glu-
cagon, C-peptide, lactate, ammonia, and amino acids. Our
preliminary results demonstrate that by 60 min, plasma glu-
Published by NRC Research Press
S24
cose rose from 4.72 ± 1.03 to 7.45 ± 1.70 mmol
L–1 during
the CHO trial (p < 0.05), and from 4.35 ± 0.60 to 5.41 ±
1.80 mmol
L–1 during the CHO+GLU trial (p < 0.05). The
CHO and CHO+GLU trials were significantly different
from each other (p < 0.05). In contrast, glucose concentra-
tions at 60 min remained close to baseline for the CON and
GLU trials (from 4.14 ± 0.99 to 4.00 ± 0.66 mmol
L–1, and
from 4.18 ± 1.19 to 4.37 ± 1.05 mmol
L–1, respectively).
Interactions between glucose metabolism, body
composition, and physical activity levels in men
with high-risk prostate cancer: a pilot study
K.M. Di Sebastiano, D. Panjwani, P. Fortin, and M. Mourtzakis
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada;
Grand River Regional Cancer Centre, Kitchener–Waterloo Health Centre, Kitchener,
ON N2G 1G3, Canada
Incidence of prostate cancer is strongly associated with
lifestyle factors, including obesity, physical inactivity, and a
high-fat diet. During treatment, prostate cancer patients gain
fat mass, lose lean tissue, and reduce physical activity,
which may increase the risk of metabolic syndrome and can-
cer recurrence in survivorship. To understand the role of
these interrelationships on prostate cancer health, we are
evaluating newly diagnosed, high-risk prostate cancer pa-
tients (>T3 or Gleason >8 or PSA >20) at diagnosis, imme-
diately following treatment (*7 weeks), and 6 months after
treatment. Measurements included body composition using
bioelectrical impedance (BIA), fasting blood metabolites,
oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT), cardiovascular and
strength tests, physical activity level questionnaires (PAL;
using Godin questionnaires), and 3-day food diaries. Here,
we present BIA, PAL questionnaires, nutritional measures,
and glucose-related parameters only at diagnosis to compre-
hensively characterize this patient cohort. Our preliminary
data were comprised of 5 men who were 71 ± 6 (mean ±
SD) years old and had a body mass index (BMI) of 27.0 ±
3.9 kg
m–2. Patients had 41.5% ± 9.1% body fat and con-
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
Both the CHO and CHO+GLU trials were significantly ele-
vated, relative to the CON and GLU trials (p < 0.05). Our
preliminary findings suggest that increased glutamate avail-
ability alone may not have an effect on carbohydrate metab-
olism; however, increased glutamate availability may
enhance glucose clearance when ingested with a carbohy-
drate drink, compared with ingesting a carbohydrate drink
alone.
sumed 2386 ± 356 kcal
day–1, with 36.60 ± 0.05% kcal
from fat, 46.76% ± 0.07% kcal from carbohydrates, and
15.53% ± 0.03% kcal from protein. Although patients had
normal fasting glucose at 5.45 ± 1.5 mmol
L–1, peak glucose
during the OGTT reached 12.05 ± 0.9 mmol
L–1 at 60 min
and 6.98 ± 0.2 mmol
L–1 at 120 min. Godin scores indicated
relatively low PALs (28.6 ± 23.8). Body composition meas-
ures (BMI and % body fat) were strongly related to glucose
at 120 min of OGTT (r = 0.76 and r = 0.95, respectively).
Strong correlations also existed between PAL and factors in-
cluding BMI (r = 0.80), % body fat (r = 0.83), and glucose
at 120 min of OGTT (r = 0.88); however, PAL was weakly
correlated with nutritional parameters (r = –0.31 to 0.25).
Thus, high-risk prostate cancer patients demonstrate unheal-
thy glucose metabolism at diagnosis, despite having normal
fasting glucose concentrations; this may be attributed to
body composition and reduced PALs. These relationships
may be exacerbated during treatment and may further in-
crease the risk factors of metabolic syndrome and cancer re-
currence in survivorship.
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés S25

Self-directed exercise improves perceived

measures of health in adults with partly controlled
asthma
S. Dogra, V. Jamnik, and J. Baker
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto,
ON M3J 1P3, Canda

Supervised exercise leads to significant improvements in
asthma control and quality of life in adults with partly con-
trolled asthma; however, the role of unsupervised exercise is
unknown. The purpose of this investigation was to deter-
mine the impact of a self-directed exercise program, pre-
scribed by a qualified exercise professional, on subjective
and objective indices of asthma-related health. Eligible par-
ticipants were assigned to either an exercise or control group
for 12 weeks. Those in the exercise group were provided
with exercise programs by a Canadian Society for Exercise
Physiology certified exercise physiologist, based on the par-
ticipant’s access to facilities and preference of mode of
aerobic exercise. These programs were updated by electronic
mail every 3 weeks to ensure progression. Controls main-
tained their current lifestyle habits for the intervention pe-
riod. Assessments of aerobic fitness, lung function, and
subjective and objective asthma measures were conducted
at baseline and after completion of the 12 week intervention
period for both groups. Analysis of covariance was used to
detect differences between groups from baseline to
week 12. Qualitative analyses were used to assess responses
to open-ended questions. Adherence to the program was
poor. Perceived asthma control and self-reported frequency
and severity of asthma improved significantly in the exercise
group at week 12, compared with the control group. Objec-
tive measures of asthma, such as asthma control, quality of
life, and lung function, as well as peak or submaximal aero-
bic fitness did not change relative to controls. Responses to
open-ended questions revealed improvements in 3 areas:
asthma management, perceived fitness, and well being. The
findings of this investigation suggest that adults with partly
controlled asthma are able to improve perceived control and
subjective measures of asthma-related health with 12 weeks
of self-directed exercise; however, supervision may be re-
quired to make significant improvements to measured
asthma control, quality of life, and aerobic fitness. Future re-
search should focus on means to improve adherence of self-
directed exercise programs in this population.

PDH kinase 2 ablation causes upregulation of PDH

kinase 1 mediated by hypoxia inducible factor
(HIF)-1
E.C.E. Dunford, E.A.F. Herbst, W.J. Gittings, R. Vandenboom, P.J. LeBlanc,
B.D. Roy, N.H. Jeoung, R.A. Harris, and S.J. Peters
Centre for Muscle Metabolism and Biophysics, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock
University, St. Catharine’s, ON L2S 3A1, Canada; Indiana University School of Medicine,
Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA

Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) plays an important role in
regulating carbohydrate oxidation in skeletal muscle. PDH is
deactivated by a set of PDH kinases (PDK 1–4), with PDK2
and 4 being the most predominant isoforms in skeletal
muscle. Regulation of PDH activation (PDHa) is, however,
complex, with compensatory overexpression of PDK1 when
PDK2 is knocked out, leading to decreased (rather than in-
creased) PDHa during muscle contractions. The purpose of
this study was to examine total PDK activity and muscle
metabolites during 40 Hz stimulation of mouse extensor dig-
itorum longus muscle (in vitro, 25 8C), and to determine po-
tential intracellular signals for PDK1 induction in PDK2
knockout (PDK2KO) mice. During contraction, initial force
was lower in PDK2KOs than in wild type (WT) mice
(18.7 ± 2.1 vs. 16.4 ± 0.7 N
g–1), but fatigued similarly to
*75% of initial force by 3 min. The increase in PDK1 in

Published by NRC Research Press

S26 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

PDK2KO muscle did not fully compensate, as total PDK ac-
tivity was *80% lower (0.43 ± 0.10 vs. 0.09 ± 0.04 min–1),
indicating that PDK1 is a very potent inhibitor of the com-
plex during muscle contraction, leading to decreased force
development. Muscle ATP, phosphocreatine, and lactate
were not different between genotypes, indicating that anae-
robic ATP production did not make up for the apparent dif-
ference in carbohydrate oxidation. Hypoxia inducible factor
(HIF)-1, a transcription factor that is normally induced in re-
sponse to hypoxia and known to target PDK1, was increased
*4-fold in PDK2KO muscle. This is an unusual example of
HIF-1 induction, likely caused by unchecked NADH provi-
sion to the electron transport chain, as a result of PDK2
ablation and very low PDK activity. These results under-
score the important role for PDK2 in regulating PDHa under
normal circumstances. (Supported by NSERC.)

Aerobic fitness as a predictor for self-selected

exercise intensity during recreational sport
B.A. Edgett, J.E.D. Ross, A.E. Green, N.J. MacMillan, D.B. Thorp, and B.J. Gurd
School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6,
Canada; Department of Human Physiology, Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA 99258-
0102, USA

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship
between fitness, energy expenditure, and self-selected inten-
sity during recreational sport. Nine recreationally active
males (mean ± SD: age, 21 ± 1.6 years; V_ O2 peak 52.1 ±
11.5 mL
min–1
kg–1) participated in recreational sport (bas-
ketball, floor hockey, and indoor soccer) for 40 min on
6 separate occasions. Subjects also reported to the lab for
anthropometric measures and a V_ O2 peak ramp test
(~25 W
min–1) to volitional fatigue. Heart rate (HR) was
monitored continuously (Team2 Pro, Polar) during all recre-
ation sport. V_ O2 was calculated using exercise HR, and the
relationship between V_ O2 and HR was determined at rest,
during loadless cycling, at 80 W, and at V_ O2 peak. Energy
expenditure (kcal) and exercise intensity (METs) were cal-
culated from the resulting V_ O2 values. There was no differ-
ence in energy expenditure during basketball (658 ±
120 kcal), hockey (619 ± 137 kcal), or soccer (629 ±
124 kcal). METs were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in bas-
ketball (12.5 ± 2.1 METs) than in both hockey (11.5 ±
2.5 METs) and soccer (11.7 ± 2.4 METs). There was a pos-
itive correlation between V_ O2 peak and energy expenditure
averaged across all sports (r2 = 0.72) and within each re-
spective sport (basketball, r2 = 0.47; hockey, r2 = 0.82; soc-
cer, r2 = 0.74). Fitness and self-selected exercise intensity
were also correlated (all sports, r2 = 0.73; basketball, r2 =
0.50; hockey, r2 = 0.79; soccer, r2 = 0.78). These data dem-
onstrate no difference in energy expenditure across the rec-
reational sports examined, while exercise intensity was
higher in basketball than in both hockey and soccer. In addi-
tion, HR-derived energy expenditure and self-selected exer-
cise intensity are positively related to fitness.

Factors affecting cerebral blood flow at rest and

during exercise in older adults
S. Elgamal, M. Sharratt, E. Roy, and R. Hughson
Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, N2L 3G1, Canada; Schlegel–
University of Waterloo Research Institute for Aging, Waterloo, ON N2E 4H5, Canada

Low-intensity exercise increases cerebral blood flow in
young and in older adults. Increasing the intensity of exer-
cise may not be associated with an equivalent rise in cere-
bral blood flow in older adults. The objective of this study
is to examine the effect of different physiological variables
on the middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity in older
adults, aged 60 to 80 years. Thirty-seven older adults were
recruited for this study. Middle cerebral artery blood flow
velocity, heart rate, carbon dioxide, and mean, systolic, and
diastolic blood pressure were continuously measured at rest
and during low- and moderate-intensity exercise. We will
present the contribution of the various factors to the middle
cerebral artery velocity in older adults at rest and during ex-
ercise.

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés S27

Contractile and EMG responses to endurance and

power training in boys and men
B. Falk, C. Mitchell, R. Cohen, R. Dotan, P. Klentrou, and D. Gabriel
Department of Physical Education and Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences,
Brock University, 500 Glenridge Avenue, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada

This study examined contractile and neuromotor child–
adult differences in response to endurance and power train-
ing. It was hypothesized that power-trained athletes would
demonstrate superior torque kinetics and a faster rise in the
initial electromyogram (EMG) activity, while no such differ-
ences would be observed in endurance-trained athletes. This
pattern was hypothesized for both children and adults. Sub-
jects were 18 untrained, 9 power-trained (gymnastics), and
12 endurance-trained (swimming) 9- to 12-year-old boys,
and 20 untrained, 17 power-trained (rugby), and 15 endurance-
trained (triathlon, swimming) 18- to 35-year-old men. Each
performed maximal, explosive, isometric knee extension
(Biodex System 3 dynamometer). Filtered traces of the
best 5 of 10 contractions, based on peak torque (Tp) and
peak rate of torque development (RTDp), were averaged
for each subject, and then used to calculate Tp, RTD,
elapsed times to 10%–100%, and rate of initial EMG rise
(Q30), as an index of muscle-activation rate. Boys had sig-
nificantly slower torque kinetics, and lower size-normalized
Tp, RTDp, and Q30 than men. Power-trained boys demon-
strated faster torque kinetics, and higher RTDp and Q30
than the untrained and endurance-trained boys. Among the
men, RTDp was higher in the power group, but the differ-
ence was not statistically significant when normalized to
Tp. Q30 was higher in all athletic groups, although this
was not statistically significant for the endurance-trained
boys. Q30 differences between groups paralleled RTDp and
kinetics differences in the power-trained but not in the
endurance-trained groups. This study demonstrates that
child–adult differences in initial EMG rise parallel differ-
ences in torque kinetics. Both kinds of muscular training
appear to enhance initial EMG rise in both boys and men.
Whereas endurance training was associated with enhanced
initial EMG rise, especially in the men, it was not accom-
panied by contractile differences. Thus, further research is
needed to elucidate the functional and discriminatory sig-
nificance of the Q30 index, as well as the causal relation-
ships between the muscle’s neuromotor activation and its
functional characteristics. (Funding: CIHR and NASPEM.)

Cardiovascular adaptations in response to tilt

following 5-days head-down bed-rest
L.K. Fitzgibbon, K.A. Zuj, C. Tessmer, K.S. Fraser, S.A. Morrison, and R.L. Hughson
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West,
Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada

Orthostatic intolerance and cardiovascular adaptations are
common following both long- and short-duration spaceflight.
In an effort to investigate human physiological adaptations to
short-term exposure of 0 gravity, 68 head-down bed-rest
(HDBR) is used as a ground-based analog of microgravity.
This study tested the hypothesis that cardiovascular responses
to 808 upright tilt would be altered by 5 days of HDBR in 7
healthy men (body mass index 23.9 ± 1.7 kg
m–2), aged 34.9 ±
5.1 years. A tilt table was used to elicit a supine to stand transi-
tion, which allowed for the evaluation of heart rate (HR), blood
pressure (BP), and cardiac output (CO) response before and
after 5 days of HDBR. A 2-way repeated measures ANOVA
was used to compare physiological responses from a 2-min seg-
ment of baseline to an average taken 3 to 5 min after tilting.
There was no change in baseline BP, HR, or CO after 5 days of
HDBR. There was an interaction effect (p < 0.05) between bed
rest and tilt for systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial BP, but not
for HR or CO. Thus, the effects of HDBR reduced the responses
of the BP measures to tilting, but the counter HR responses did
not have proportional changes. This suggests a possible shift in
baroreflex sensitivity and altered cardiovascular function. The
short-term microgravity model of HDBR provides insight into
the mechanisms of altered physiological function and cardio-
vascular deconditioning of short-duration spaceflight. By better
understanding these mechanisms, new countermeasures against
the deconditioning effects of microgravity, such as artificial
gravity, can be developed to ensure healthier flight crews in
the future. (Supported by the Canadian Space Agency.)

Published by NRC Research Press

S28
Determination of the optimal resistance setting
for upper body anaerobic power testing in trained
and untrained males
S. Forbes, G. Bell, M. Kennedy, and N. Boule
Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton,
AB T6G 2H9, Canada
The Wingate anaerobic test (WAnT) is arguably the most
widely used test of anaerobic fitness for cycling or arm-
crank exercise (Inbar et al. 1996). The purpose of this study
was to determine the optimal relative load factor and to
compare peak 5-s and mean 30-s power outputs (PO) in
upper body trained and untrained young healthy males. Five
members of the Canadian National Kayak Polo team (age,
25 ± 3 years; height, 180.4 ± 4.7 cm; weight, 19.7 ±
9.3 kg) and 6 untrained (age, 22 ± 2 years; height, 175.3 ±
10.2 cm; weight, 74.4 ± 10.9 kg) males participated in this
study. A familiarization session was completed followed by
5–7 WAnTs on different days, with randomized resistance
settings of 0.065, 0.070, 0.075, 0.080, and 0.085 kg
kg body
mass–1 for trained, and 0.050, 0.055, 0.060, 0.065, 0.070,
0.075, and 0.080 kg
kg body mass–1 for untrained partici-
pants. The resistance setting that elicited the highest peak
Changes in self-reported physical activity levels
with varying volume and intensity exercise
interventions
H.J.A. Foulds, S.S.D. Bredin, S.A. Charlesworth, A.C. Ivey, and D.E.R. Warburton
Cardiovascular Physiology and Rehabilitation Laboratory, University of British Columbia,
Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
Exercise training is an established means of improving
physical activity (PA) and health status. However, it remains
unclear how well commonly used self-report questionnaires
track changes in PA behaviour during exercise interventions
of varying exercise volumes and intensities. Therefore, the
primary purpose was to examine changes in self-reported
PA in relation to differing exercise volumes and intensities.
Participants (n = 56; age = 44 ± 12 years) were assigned
randomly to one of four 13-week exercise programs:
10 min brisk walking 3 per week (n = 11); 30 min brisk
walking 3 per week (n = 18); 60 min brisk walking 3
per week (n = 11); and 30 min running 3 per week (n =
16). The Healthy Physical Activity Participation Question-
naire (HPAPQ) and the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Ques-
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
5-s PO was 0.075 in both trained (760 ± 72 W; 9.6 ±
0.3 W
kg–1) and untrained (642 ± 118 W; 8.6 ± 0.9 W
kg–1)
subjects. However, the resistance setting that elicited the
highest mean 30-s PO was 0.070 (491 ± 37 W; 6.2 ±
0.6 W
kg–1) in trained subjects and 0.055 (404 ± 65 W;
5.4 ± 0.7 W
kg–1) in untrained subjects. Relative peak 5-s
PO (p = 0.03) and absolute mean 30-s PO (p = 0.04) was
significantly higher in the trained group than in the un-
trained group, while there was no significant difference in
absolute peak 5-s PO (p = 0.10) or relative mean 30-s PO
(p = 0.8). In conclusion, the optimal relative load factor for
peak 5-s PO was 0.075 kg
kg body mass–1 for both groups,
while the mean 30-s PO relative load factor was 0.070 and
0.055 kg
kg body mass–1 for trained and untrained subjects,
respectively.
tionnaire (GLTEQ) were used to assess changes in self-
reported PA. With respect to the HPAPQ, only the running
group reported significant increases in overall score, per-
ceived fitness, and PA frequency. The 60 min of brisk walk-
ing group reported significant improvements in PA
frequency. Participants assigned to lower volumes of exer-
cise did not report significant changes in PA. There were
no significant changes in PA intensity in any group. Based
on GLTEQ reports, programs at least 30 min in duration re-
sulted in significant increases in PA (range, 45%–61%);
30 min of brisk walking resulted in the lowest increases,
and 60 min of brisk walking the greatest increases. Partici-
pants in the running group reported significant increases in
strenuous activity frequency, while participants in the
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
30 min and 60 min brisk walking groups reported significant
increases in moderate activity frequency. Overall, both ques-
tionnaires tracked increases in PA, with generally larger
changes in programs of greater exercise volume. In conclu-
sion, meaningful information regarding changes in PA be-
The effectiveness of self-selected physical
activity programs in Aboriginal Canadians
H.J.A. Foulds, S.S.D. Bredin, and D.E.R. Warburton
Physical Activity and Chronic Disease Prevention Unit, University of British Columbia,
Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
Aboriginal Canadians currently experience a significant
burden of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease
(CVD). Increasing physical activity (PA) may reduce, mark-
edly, the burden for chronic disease placed upon this at-risk
population. However, the optimal PA for Aboriginal popula-
tions remains to be determined, particularly for individuals
with differing health status and physical fitness levels. The
primary purpose of this investigation was to examine the ef-
fectiveness of self-selected varying intensity and volume PA
programs in Aboriginal Canadians. From 2007 to 2010,
268 Aboriginal participants (age (±SD) = 41.6 ± 13.3 years)
self-selected walk (n = 153), learn to run (n = 88), or run
faster (n = 27) exercise interventions. Measures of weight,
body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), resting
systolic and diastolic blood pressures (SBP and DBP, re-
spectively), nonfasting measures of total cholesterol (TC),
high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), and glucose, as
well as self-reported PA levels, were recorded before and
after training. All groups demonstrated high rates of obesity
and central adiposity. Significant differences between groups
Effects of modafinil, caffeine, and their
combination on exercise endurance
R.E. Foulds, I. Jacobs, J.D. Vescovi, and M. Fallah
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, and Muscle Health Research Centre,
York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
Modafinil (M) is a psychostimulant prescription drug with
off-label applications for sustaining the alertness of healthy
individuals who must remain cognitively alert and physi-
cally capable for extended periods without sleep (i.e., emer-
gency workers or military personnel). Although
amphetamines, caffeine (C), and M have been used for such
purposes, amphetamines have several negative side effects.
M and C are considered to be drugs with fewer, if any, neg-
ative side effects, but there are no reports of their combined
S29
haviour can be determined using both the HPAPQ and
GLTEQ during exercise training of varying volumes. How-
ever, subtle differences in exercise intensity may be difficult
to track by self-report alone.
existed prior to training; walk group participants were sig-
nificantly older, heavier, and had greater SBP, BMI, and
WC values than both other groups. Walk participants also
had significantly lower HDL levels and higher glucose lev-
els than the run group. Most participants in the run group
demonstrated healthy measures of SBP, DBP, TC, HDL,
and PA prior to training. Over 13 weeks of training, the
walk group demonstrated significant improvements in WC
and SBP, with near significant improvements in TC. Partici-
pants in the learn to run program demonstrated significant
improvements in WC and near significant improvements in
TC/HDL ratio. Run participants experienced nonsignificant
improvements in WC, TC, and HDL. While participants
most at risk for diabetes and CVD selected the walk pro-
gram, these participants experienced the greatest improve-
ments in health status with training. Aboriginal Canadians
effectively self-select PA programs appropriate for their
physical abilities and effective for reducing chronic disease
risk factors.
use. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the
previously reported acute ergogenic effects of M on high-
intensity exercise performance could be further enhanced
through a synergistic effect with C ingestion. Fourteen
healthy male subjects, with a mean ± SEM V_ O2 peak of
45.4 ± 1.92 mL
kg–1
min–1, exercised on a cycle ergometer
for 5 min at 50% V_ O2 peak and then at *85% V_ O2 peak to
exhaustion. They did this weekly for 5 weeks: a familiar-
ization (F) trial the first week, and then after ingesting pla-
Published by NRC Research Press
S30
cebo (P), M (200 mg), C (200 mg; Stay Alert chewing
gum), or M+C (200 mg each) during the remaining 4 weeks
in a double-blind fashion. M (or P) was ingested 3 h prior
to undergoing the exercise to exhaustion, whereas C (or P)
was ingested 1.5 h prior. Mean ± SEM time to exhaustion
(TE) was 20.6 ± 2.53, 15.1 ± 1.72, 20.0 ± 3.01, 18.6 ±
2.14, and 20.5 ± 3.64 min for F, P, M, C, and M+C trials,
respectively. TE was significantly increased by 33%, 24%,
and 36% for M, C, and M+C (p < 0.05) vs. P, respec-
Cardiovascular responses to posture change after
5-day head-down bed rest
K.S. Fraser, K.A. Zuj, C. Tessmer, L.K. Fitzgibbon, S.A. Morrison, and R.L. Hughson
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
Cardiovascular adaptations have been previously reported
following exposure to real and simulated microgravity. Tran-
sition to an upright posture is marked by a reduction and re-
covery of mean arterial pressure (MAP), and subsequent
recovery of heart rate (HR). This work aimed to determine
the effects of 5 days of continuous 68 head-down bed rest
(HDBR) on HR and MAP responses to posture change.
Seven healthy men, ranging in age from 32 to 41 years, com-
pleted the HDBR protocol with no countermeasures. Three
days prior to HDBR (BDC-3) and 1 day following HDBR
(R+1), the subjects rested supine for 10 min, followed by
2 min of sitting then 1 min of standing. HR and blood pres-
sure were continuously measured. Compared with BDC-3
values, R+1 HR was unchanged through supine and sitting
postures, and during the transition to stand as well as stand-
ing recovery. Average HR during supine and sitting postures
were 66.3 ± 9 beats
min–1 and 67.0 ± 8 beats
min–1, respec-
tively, for BDC-3, and 66.8 ± 8 beats
min–1 and 69.0 ±
9 beats
min–1 during R+1. During the transition to standing,
HR increased to a maximum of 93.0 ± 6 beats
min–1 for
Tracking of short-term muscle power, speed, and
physical activity in Canadian preschool children
L. Gabel, T. Nguyen, J. Obeid, and B.W. Timmons
Children’s Exercise and Nutrition Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5,
Canada
The purpose of this study was to examine the tracking of
short-term muscle power, speed, and physical activity over a
1-year period in a sample of healthy Canadian preschool-
aged children. Thirty-two preschoolers (age, 4.4 ± 0.8 years)
were tested at baseline; 2 were lost to follow-up, and 13 did
not agree to participate at year 2, leaving 17 (10 male) chil-
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
tively, while there were no differences in TE between F,
M, C, and M+C. Oxygen uptake, minute ventilation, the
respiratory exchange ratio, and ratings of perceived exer-
tion were similar in all trials. In conclusion, acute inges-
tion of M, C, and M+C prolong exercise TE at *85%
V_ O2 peak, but M+C does not provide an additional benefit,
compared with ingesting either M or C alone.
BDC-3, and similarly to 91.8 ± 7 beats
min–1 for R+1. Aver-
age HR remained elevated during both BDC-3 recovery
(77.7 ± 10 beats
min–1) and R+1 recovery (74.8 ± 7
beats
min–1). Supine MAP was slightly elevated for R+1
(94.7 ± 8 mm Hg), compared with BDC-3 (86.5 ±
6 mm Hg). Likewise, MAP during sitting was higher after
bed rest (93.2 ± 9 mm Hg for BDC-3 and 103.6 ±
11 mm Hg for R+1). The drop in MAP during the transition
from sitting was greater for R+1 (24.2 mm Hg) than for
BDC-3 (19.2 mm Hg). The average MAP during standing re-
covery was not different between BDC-3 (93.7 ± 7 mm Hg)
and R+1 (99.6 ± 12 mm Hg), and delta values suggest that
recovery occurred to the same extent (increased
19.8 mm Hg for BDC-3 and 20.2 mm Hg for R+1).
Although there were differences in the MAP response during
sitting after HDBR, HR was well maintained. This suggests
that any deconditioning that may have occurred with HDBR
was not detectable on the day following bed rest. (Supported
by the Canadian Space Agency.)
dren who completed 2 sessions of exercise testing and phys-
ical activity monitoring separated by 1 year (1.2 ±
0.3 years). Short-term muscle power was measured using a
modified 10-s Wingate test with peak power and mean
power normalized to body mass. Speed was assessed with a
25-m dash. Levels of habitual physical activity were meas-
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
ured by accelerometery (Actigraph GT1M), using a 3-s
epoch over 7 consecutive days of monitoring. Total physical
activity and moderate to vigorous activity, expressed as a
percentage of monitoring time, were examined. Tracking of
the variables from year 1 to year 2 was analyzed using
Spearman rank order correlations and Kappa statistics.
Paired sample t tests were used to assess differences in per-
formance and physical activity from year 1 to year 2. Short-
term muscle power and speed were increased at year 2 (p <
0.0001), and exhibited significant tracking, ranging from
moderate to very good stability: peak power (r = 0.72, p =
0.001; k = 0.46), mean power (r = 0.83, p = 0.00004; k =
Exercise-induced slowing of the EEG during a
60-min submaximal exercise protocol
M. Gaetz and J.P. Brandenburg
Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of the Fraser Valley,
Abbotsford, BC V2S 7M8, Canada
Coaches and athletes recognize that participation in mod-
erate to maximal exercise can lead to a diminishment of
cognitive capacity to make appropriate decisions during
game play (e.g., taking a penalty late in an ice hockey
game). The purpose of this study was to record electroen-
cephalographic (EEG) activity at various intervals during a
60-min submaximal cycle ergometry protocol to determine
if neural functioning changes significantly with aerobic ex-
ercise. Fourteen participants performed 60 min of cycling at
approximately 65% of their maximum heart rate (complete
data available for 9 subjects). EEG was recorded from
15 electrode positions during the cycle ergometry protocol
for 2 min prior to activity, minutes 9–10, 19–20, 29–30,
39–40, 49–50, 59–60, and for 2 min during cool down.
Heart rate (HR) was collected for every minute of the
60-min cycle ergometry protocol. Rating of perceived exer-
tion (RPE) was estimated using the Borg Scale at the end of
each EEG collection period. A quadratic trend analysis was
Mice lacking sarcolipin are susceptible to glucose
intolerance despite access to voluntary exercise
D. Gamu, E. Bombardier, R. Sayer, A. Trihn, C. Vandenbrink, and A.R. Tupling
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo ON N2L 3G1, Canada
Sarcolipin (SLN) reduces the efficiency of the
sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase by uncoupling
ATP hydrolysis from Ca2+ transport in skeletal muscle. Re-
cent findings demonstrate that susceptibility to diet-induced
obesity and glucose intolerance is increased in mice devoid
S31
0.82), and 25-m dash (r = 0.822, p = 0.0001; k = 0.47). To-
tal physical activity was not significantly different at year 2
(p > 0.05), and showed fair tracking (r = 0.51, p = 0.05; k =
0.30). Moderate to vigorous activity was increased at year 2
(p = 0.03) and exhibited poor tracking (r = 0.29, p = 0.28;
k = 0.00). Observations suggest that levels of moderate to
vigorous physical activity increase in Canadian boys and
girls from age 4 to 5 years. Short-term muscle power and
speed exhibited stronger tracking over a 1-year period than
physical activity variables. Future investigations will evalu-
ate how the tracking of fitness and physical activity relates
to the tracking of physiological risk factors.
used to measure EEG change over time within each fre-
quency band. Significant quadratic trends were observed for
all EEG bandwidths. Relative power D (0.5–4.0 Hz) in-
creased during exercise (F[1,8] = 80.83, p = 0.000), while y
(4–7 Hz; F[1,8] = 22.88, p = 0.001), a (8–13 Hz; F[1,8] =
22.0, p = 0.002), b1 (13–24 Hz; F[1,8] = 47.22, p = 0.000),
and b2 (24–32 Hz; F[1,8] = 9.91, p = 0.014) activity de-
creased. The pattern of EEG change was consistent with
mild to moderate ischemic change observable during
planned surgeries (e.g., carotid endarterectomy) and clinical
hyperventilation protocols. The proposed physiologic mech-
anism that underlies the change in EEG is hypocapnia pro-
voked by exercise at intensities near or above the
ventilatory threshold and, especially during exercise with
hyperthermia, which may lower cerebral perfusion by 20%–
30%. Hypocapnia-induced vasoconstriction caused by hyper-
ventilation has been shown to override the vasodilation pro-
duced by a fall in PaO2.
of SLN (SLN–/–). To investigate whether exercise can pro-
tect against the development of this prediabetic phenotype,
SLN–/– (n = 5) and age-matched wild-type (WT) littermates
(n = 7) were allowed access to voluntary running wheels
during 8 weeks of high-fat feeding (HFF; 42% of calories
Published by NRC Research Press
S32
from fat). We hypothesized that voluntary exercise would
prevent excessive weight gain and glucose intolerance fol-
lowing HFF in SLN–/– relative to WT mice. Mice were fed
ad libitum for 8 weeks, during which activity was monitored
daily and weight was recorded weekly. Glucose tolerance
was assessed by an intraperitoneal injection of 10% D-glu-
cose (1 g
kg–1 body weight) pre- and postdiet; blood glucose
was sampled (Aviva, Accu-Chek) at 0-, 30-, 60-, and
120-min postinjection. Adiposity was assessed as an adipos-
ity index by dissecting the epididymal and (or) inguinal and
retroperitoneal fat pads (adiposity index = 100  (sum of fat
pad mass) / body mass). Total voluntary activity during the
Energy intake, exercise training, and resting
energy expenditure characteristics of exercising
women categorized by drive for thinness status
J.C. Gibbs, N.I. Williams, J.L. Scheid, and M.J. De Souza
Women’s Health and Exercise Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Pennsylvania State
University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
A high drive for thinness (DT), obtained from the Eating
Disorder Inventory-2, is a well-documented disordered eat-
ing attitude, characterized by restrictive eating attitudes
with or without high amounts of exercise participation in ex-
ercising women. Prior research from our laboratory has
demonstrated that such behavioral practices often result in
an energy deficiency (EnD), characterized by suppressed
resting energy expenditure (REE). The purpose of this study
was to evaluate energy intake (EI), exercise training, and
REE characteristics of exercising women categorized by DT
status in a larger population than previously studied by our
laboratory. In this cross-sectional study, we defined a high
DT score as ‡7, corresponding to the 75th percentile for col-
lege-aged women. EI was assessed from 3-day nutritional
logs. Exercise training was documented using 7-day exercise
logs. REE was measured using an objective laboratory-based
measure, and compared with the Harris–Benedict prediction
equation to calculate the ratio of actual REE to predicted
REE (REE/pREE). We operationally defined EnD as REE/
pREE < 0.90. Exercising women, aged 22.9 ± 0.4 years,
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
8-week diet did not differ (p = 0.592) between SLN–/–
(208.5 ± 72.3 km) and WT mice (247 ± 30.4 km). Addition-
ally, weekly average body weight did not differ (p = 0.937)
between groups over the dietary period. Despite these find-
ings, there was a trend (p = 0.065) toward increased adipos-
ity in SLN–/– (6.81% ± 0.56%) relative to WT mice
(5.59% ± 0.41%). SLN–/– also became more (p < 0.05) glu-
cose intolerant following HFF, relative to WT mice. These
findings indicate that SLN–/– mice remain susceptible to glu-
cose intolerance, despite access to voluntary exercise, and
implicate uncoupling of Ca2+ transport in whole-body meta-
bolic rate and susceptibility to obesity.
with a body mass index of 21.2 ± 0.2 kg
m–2, were subjects
for this study, and were retrospectively grouped as high DT
(n = 27) or normal DT (n = 90) to compare EI, exercise
training, and REE. Measures of EI (1650 ± 115 kcal
day–1
vs. 1968 ± 60 kcal
day–1, p = 0.014), adjusted REE (29.5 ±
0.7 kcal
lean body mass (LBM)–1 vs. 31.1 ± 0.3 kcal
LBM–1,
p = 0.027), and REE/pREE (0.85 ± 0.02 vs. 0.92 ± 0.01, p <
0.001) were significantly lower in the high DT group than in
the normal DT group. However, exercise training (439 ±
63 min
week–1 vs. 385 ± 26 min
week–1, p = 0.376) was not
statistically different between the high DT group and the
normal DT group. In summary, we demonstrated that exer-
cising women with a high DT have significantly lower EI
and suppressed REE than subjects with normal DT, without
any differences in exercise training between groups. Thus,
we can suggest that the creation of EnD in subjects with
high DT may be associated with restrictive eating patterns
successfully limiting EI but not necessarily associated with
a greater volume of exercise training.
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés S33

Sweat rate, fluid intake, and sodium loss

assessment in junior elite female soccer athletes
J.C. Gibson, W. Pethick, L.A. Stuart-Hill, and C.A. Gaul
School of Exercise Science, Physical & Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria,
BC V8W 3P1, Canada; Canadian Sport Centre Pacific, Victoria, BC V9E 2C5, Canada

Adolescent athletes are at risk for dehydration during
training and competition, which may be increased because
of underdeveloped thermoregulation and thirst mechanisms.
To date, a comprehensive assessment of hydration status
and electrolyte losses in junior elite female soccer athletes
has not been published. The purpose of this current study
was to investigate the pretraining hydration status, fluid and
sweat sodium losses, and fluid intake practices of 34 female
junior elite soccer athletes training on Vancouver Island
(mean age ± SD, 15.7 ± 0.7 years). Each player was studied
during 2 typical 90-min, on-field, evening team training ses-
sions in mild–cool temperature conditions (9.8 8C ± 3.3 8C,
62.9% ± 12.4% relative humidity). Prepractice hydration sta-
tus was assessed by urine specific gravity (USG), and sweat
rate was calculated by body mass change (pre–post training
weight) and fluid intake. Sweat sodium concentration was
determined using a regional closed-patch method at 5 sites
on the body. Training session intensity was measured with a
heart rate monitor system (Polar Team 2). In all, 45.4% of
players presented to practice in a mildly hypohydrated state
(USG > 1.020). Mean percent body mass loss was 0.84% ±
0.07%, and sweat rate was 458.84 ± 284.93 mL
h–1. While
the majority of players (98%) drank water during training,
100% drank <1 L and 63.6% drank <250 mL. Of the 7 prac-
tice sessions measured, 6 sessions permitted a single drink
break for players. Mean sweat sodium was 47.6 ±
11.9 mmol
L–1, as determined by low back sweat patch sam-
ple, which was found to be the most reliable regional site. In
summary, although junior elite female soccer players
experienced low sweat rates and electrolyte losses, the
hypohydrated state, low consumption of fluids during
training, typically devoid of sodium, and the limited access
to fluids during training provide evidence of less than
optimal hydration practices. These findings will be used to
develop hydration practice guidelines for players and
coaches, and to inform future research and professional
practice.

The effects of hypoxic and normoxic conditions on

endothelin-1 and arterial compliance
L.V. Giles, D.E.R Warburton, B.T. Esch, M.N. Fedoruk, J.L. Rupert, and
J.E. Taunton
School of Human Kinetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3,
Canada

The purposes of this investigation were to determine the
effects of short-term hypoxia and exercise upon circulating
endothelin-1 (ET-1) and nitric oxide (NO) levels, and the
relationship between arterial compliance and ET-1 during
normoxic and hypoxic exercise. Seven endurance-trained
male athletes (V_ O2 max (mean ± SEM) normoxia 65.86 ±
2.06 mL
kg–1
min–1 and hypoxia 53.88 ± 1.35 mL
kg–1
min–1),
aged 26.1 ± 1.8 years, volunteered for the study. Each
participant completed 4 testing days, which included 2
incremental exercise tests performed in normoxic and
hypoxic (FiO2 = 0.14) conditions, and two 30-min steady
state exercise tests (at ventilatory threshold) in normoxic
and hypoxic conditions (randomized). Plasma measures of
ET-1 and NO were assessed throughout the steady state
exercise tests (pre-exercise, 10 min during exercise,
20 min during exercise, immediately following exercise,
and 10-, 20-, and 30-min postexercise). Small and large
arterial compliance were measured immediately before and
after exercise, using applanation tonometry. No significant
differences were found for plasma levels of ET-1 and NO
during or following steady state exercise in both normoxia
and hypoxia. Small arterial compliance increased signifi-
cantly following exercise (p = 0.025; normoxia, pre:
9.49 ± 0.98, post 12.59 ± 1.64; hypoxia, pre: 7.65 ± 0.57,
post 10.4 ± 0.99). Hypoxia resulted in a slight, nonsignifi-
cant (p = 0.11) reduction in small artery compliance after
exercise. There were no significant relationships between
plasma ET-1 and arterial compliance. The lack of changes

Published by NRC Research Press

S34 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

in ET-1 and NO suggest that mechanisms other than the suggest that moderate hypoxia and 30-min steady-state ex-
endothelial system play a role in the exercise-induced ercise conditions have limited effects on plasma levels of
changes in small artery compliance. Moreover, our findings ET-1.

A single session of high-intensity interval exercise

reduces the postprandial glucose response and
prevalence of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetics
J.B. Gillen, J.P. Little, Z. Punthakee, M.A. Tarnopolsky, and M.J. Gibala
Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada;
Departments of Pediatrics and Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1,
Canada

Glycemic regulation is impaired in individuals with type 2
diabetes (T2D). Frequent excursions into hyperglycemia, de-
fined by as blood glucose >10 mmol
L–1 (Manders et al.
2010, Med. Sci. Sports Exerc. 42: 219–225), are experienced
by even well-controlled T2D patients. Postprandial hyper-
glycemia is of particular concern, and therapeutic interven-
tions should seek to reduce these elevations in blood
glucose. Traditional high-volume endurance exercise can
improve glycemic control in people with T2D, but the effect
of low-volume high-intensity interval training (HIT) is un-
known. Using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) tech-
nology (Medtronic CGMS iPro Recorder), we examined the
24-h blood glucose response to a single session of low-
volume HIT, which consisted of 10  1 min cycling ef-
forts at *90% Wmax, elicited during a ramp V_ O2 peak test,
interspersed with 1 min of rest. Seven sedentary adults
with T2D (age: 62 ± 3 years; body mass index: 30.5 ±
1.9 kg
m–2; Wmax: 119 ± 13 W) wore the CGM under
standard dietary conditions on a nonexercise control day
(NoEx) and following an acute bout of HIT, performed in
the postprandial state. Acute HIT caused an immediate re-
duction in blood glucose from pre-exercise values (7.8 ±
1.1 mmol
L–1 vs. 9.3 ± 1.3 mmol
L–1, p < 0.001). In addi-
tion, time spent in hyperglycemia was reduced by 57% ±
15% in the 24-h period after HIT, compared with NoEx
(p < 0.05). The sum of the 3-h postprandial area under the
glucose curve for each of the subsequent lunch, dinner, and
breakfast periods was also reduced following acute HIT
(728 ± 125 mmol
L–1  9 h vs. 1092 ± 189 mmol
L–1 
9 h, p < 0.01). These preliminary data shed light on the
potential for acute low-volume HIT to improve glycemic
control in persons with T2D in a practical, time-efficient
manner. (Supported by the Canadian Diabetes Association.)

Quercetin supplementation improves endurance

performance: a meta-analytic study
E.D.B. Goulet, A. Asselin, and G. Lacerte
Faculty of Physical Education and Sports, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke,
QC J1K 2R1, Canada; Research Centre on Aging, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke,
QC J1H 4C4, Canada

Quercetin, a flavonoid found in fruits and vegetables, has
received a great deal of interest over the past few years
among athletes and exercise scientists. It has been purported
that quercetin supplementation could improve endurance
performance among trained and untrained individuals.
Therefore, the goal of this study was to determine, using a
meta-analytic approach, the magnitude of the effect of quer-
cetin supplementation on exercise endurance performance.
Studies were located with database searches and cross-
referencing. Inclusion criteria were data necessary to com-
pute the effect estimates and variances, laboratory-based
exercise protocols, exercise protocols duration ‡10 min,
and studies published in peer-reviewed journals. Exclusion
criteria were quercetin supplementation <5 days and re-
search conducted in animals. A random-effect model was
used to determine the mean weighted summary effect. A
95% confidence interval (CI) was computed, and if it in-
cluded 0, it was concluded that there was no statistically

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
significant effect. To make results comparable among stud-
ies and meaningful for athletes, coaches, and exercise sci-
entists, all performance outcomes were put on the same
scale and converted to mean changes in power output,
when necessary. Seven research articles were retrieved,
among which 5 met the inclusion criteria, providing 6 ef-
fect estimates. In all, 122 athletes were represented in this
analysis. Three studies were conducted with untrained indi-
viduals: 1 with trained cyclists and 2 with recreationally
active individuals. Mean supplementation period duration
O2 uptake–power output relationship and exercise
efficiency in young and older adult men during
constant-load and ramp incremental cycling
exercise
B.M.R. Gravelle, M.D. Spencer, J.M. Murias, D.H. Paterson, and J.M. Kowalchuk
Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging, School of Kinesiology, The University of Western
Ontario, London, ON N6A 5B9, Canada
Mitochondrial dysfunction is suggested to reduce exercise
efficiency in older adults (OA). However, based on steady-
state measures of V_ O2 gain (i.e., DV_ O2–Dpower output
(PO)) we observed a similar O2 cost of exercise and V_ O2
gain (i.e., inverse of delta efficiency) in young adults (YA)
and OA, suggesting efficiency was not compromised. How-
ever, slower V_ O2 kinetics in OA may affect efficiency cal-
culations, depending on whether measures are made in the
steady-state or the nonsteady-state transition to exercise.
Thus, we examined the V_ O2 gain during steady-state con-
stant-load (CL) and nonsteady-state ramp incremental (RI)
cycling exercise at POs below the estimated lactate thresh-
old (LT) in YA and OA. Young (n = 10; age, 25 ± 5 years)
and older (n = 9; age, 70 ± 3 years), healthy, active, adult
males completed 2 RI tests (20 W
min–1), and 6 repetitions
of CL step-transitions from a 20 W baseline to POs corre-
sponding to a relative intensity of 80% LT, and an absolute
intensity of 50 W. V_ O2 was measured breath-by-breath us-
S35
was 11 ± 4 days (range: 5–14 days), with a mean daily
amount of quercetin of 1000 ± 0 mg. Mean exercise dura-
tion time across studies was 117 ± 89 min (range: 10–
225 min). Quercetin supplementation increased mean
power output by 0.85% ± 0.96% (95% CI: 0.078%–
1.623%), compared with the placebo condition. In conclu-
sion, the present results indicate that 5 to 14 days of quer-
cetin supplementation at a daily dose of 1000 mg improves
endurance performance by 1% during exercise of moderate
to prolonged duration.
ing a volume turbine and a mass spectrometer. V_ O2 gains
were calculated as the slope of the V_ O2-PO relationship, us-
ing linear regression techniques. The V_ O2 gain was similar
(p > 0.05) in CL (9.5 ± 0.7 mL O2
W–1) and RI (8.4 ±
1.1 mL O2
W–1) exercise in YA and in CL exercise in OA
(9.9 ± 1.2 mL O2
W–1), but was lower (p < 0.05) in OA dur-
ing RI exercise (6.0 ± 2.2 mL O2
W–1). While similar V_ O2
gains in OA and YA during steady-state exercise suggests
similar efficiency in OA and YA, the lower V_ O2 gain in
OA during RI exercise suggests a higher efficiency in OA
during nonsteady-state conditions, likely due to slower V_ O2
kinetics and a lower V_ O2–PO relationship in OA. The fact
that calculated steady-state exercise efficiency was similar
in OA and YA, and not lower in OA, suggests that mito-
chondrial dysfunction, if present, does not have a functional
effect on exercise efficiency in this group of healthy, active
OA. (Supported by NSERC.)
Published by NRC Research Press
S36
Ability of lean sedentary individuals vs. lean active
peers to complete endurance and interval cycle
ergometer exercise protocols
A.E. Green, R. Valadares, G. Ouimet, N.J. MacMillan, J.E.D. Ross, B. Irish,
A. Payne, and B.J. Gurd
School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6,
Canada
High-intensity interval training (HIIT), moderate-intensity
interval training (MIIT), and endurance training (ET) evoke
similar physiological adaptations in lean active individuals
(LA). The purpose of this study was to examine if lean sed-
entary individuals (LS) have a reduced ability to complete
HIIT, MIIT, and ET, compared with LA. Ten male partici-
pants (age, 20 ± 1 years) were grouped into LS and LA, ac-
cording to self-reported hours of organized aerobic physical
activity (LS = 0 h
week–1, LA > 2 h
week–1). Subjects per-
formed a ramped protocol (*25 W
min–1) cycle ergometer
test to determine V_ O2 peak (LS, 53.0 ± 9.8 mL
min–1 vs. LA,
59.7 ± 11.1 mL
min–1, p = 0.17) and peak work rate (PWR;
272 ± 38 W vs. 334 ± 27 W, p < 0.05). Subsequently, sub-
jects completed 1 session each of HIIT (8  1 min at 120%
PWR 2 min recovery), MIIT (10  4 min at 90% PWR
2 min recovery), and ET (30 min + 4  13 min at 65%
PWR 2 min recovery) in random order. Energy expenditure
was significantly lower in LS for HIIT (231 ± 45 kcal vs.
263 ± 27 kcal), MIIT (480 ± 179 kcal vs. 650 ± 125 kcal,
Effect of familiarization and training on the
Emergency Service Physical Abilities Test
performance; applying the Meiorin decision
requirements
R.J. Gumieniak, A. Macpherson, and V.K. Jamnik
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Norman Bethune College, Faculty of Health,
York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
The Emergency Service Physical Abilities (ESPA) Test is
an annual fitness requirement for incumbent emergency
service fire fighters (ESFF) at Bruce Power. It was con-
structed to conform to the ideal template from the 2000
bona fide occupational requirement (BFOR) Consensus Fo-
rum and the Supreme Court of Canada’s Meiorin Decision,
which direct the need to address ‘‘adverse impact’’ and ‘‘ac-
commodation’’. Adverse impact is present when the pass
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
p = 0.06), and ET (534 ± 144 kcal vs. 734 ± 129 kcal). To-
tal mechanical work was significantly lower in LS for HIIT
(157 ± 21 kJ vs. 187 ± 19 kJ), MIIT (411 ± 131 kJ vs.
550 ± 129 kJ, p = 0.07), and ET (866 ± 124 kJ vs. 1086 ±
66 kJ). Despite these absolute differences in energy expendi-
ture and total work, there were no differences between LS
and LA in their abilities to complete the protocols relative
to total fitness. There was no difference between groups for
the number of intervals or percent time completed between
LS and LA in any protocol (HIIT, 8 ± 0 vs. 8 ± 0, 100% ±
0% vs. 100% ± 0%, respectively; MIIT, 8.0 ± 2.3 vs. 8.2 ±
2.5, 79.8% ± 23.7% vs. 87.5% ± 16.4%, respectively; ET,
4.6 ± 0.9 vs. 5 ± 0; 93.7% ± 14.2% vs. 99.3% ± 1.4%, re-
spectively). There was also no difference for percent of tar-
get mechanical work (HIIT, 96.2% ± 5.4% vs. 98.3% ±
5.4%; MIIT, 69.1% ± 22.7% vs. 76.5% ± 17.6%; ET,
85.9% ± 15.2% vs. 96.8 ± 1.7%). These data suggest that
LS male individuals do not have a reduced ability to com-
plete HIIT, MIIT, or ET, compared with LA individuals.
rate of a subgroup is <80% of the pass rate of the majority
group being tested. When adverse impact is present, the em-
ployer must either accommodate this subgroup or demon-
strate that accommodation of the subgroup is not feasible
because the safety risk related to lowering the standard
would constitute ‘‘undue hardship’’. For ESFF, the threat to
life and property from lowering the ESPA standard consti-
tutes undue hardship. We assessed whether adverse impact
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés S37

was present, and evaluated familiarization and training as
ways to provide accommodation for any adverse impact.
Participants (n = 41) were familiarized with the test protocol
and engaged in a supervised 6-week ESPA-specific exercise
training program. At baseline, the overall ESPA pass rate
was 12% for females and 79% for males (w2 = 18.1, df = 1, p <
0.001), and the mean ESPA circuit completion times were
724 ± 63.5 s and 583 ± 81.8 s, respectively. Post-training, the
overall ESPA pass rate was 77% for females and 96% for
males (w2 = 3.5, df = 1, p = 0.062), and the mean ESPA
circuit time decreased 19.8% (580 ± 57.3 s) for females
and 21.4% (458 ± 67.0 s) for males, indicating that fe-
males were able to overcome the adverse impact of the
ESPA test. These results indicate that familiarization and
training can provide accommodation to overcome adverse
impact when lowering a test standard is unsafe. Therefore,
ESFF should have test familiarization opportunities and
participate in an ESPA-specific fitness training program.
The ESPA Test meets the requirements established by the
Supreme Court of Canada’s Meiorin Decision to qualify as
a BFOR. (This research was financially supported by
Bruce Power Inc.)

The effectiveness of tai chi for chronic

musculoskeletal pain conditions: a systematic
review and meta-analysis
A.M. Hall, C.G. Maher, J. Latimer, and M.L. Ferreira
The George Institute for International Health Musculoskeletal Division, University of
Sydney, PO Box M201 Missenden Road, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia

Musculoskeletal pain, arising from conditions such as
back pain and arthritis, has been consistently reported as an
international health priority among industrialized countries.
Exercise therapy is among the most successful nonpharma-
cological treatments that have been studied in clinical trials;
however, what type of exercise and specific dosages are not
known. Tai chi, a form of exercise that is widely used to im-
prove balance and decrease the risk of falls among the eld-
erly, has also been reported to be a safe exercise for people
with arthritis. For this reason, we aimed to determine
whether tai chi improves pain, disability, physical perform-
ance, or health-related quality of life in people with chronic
musculoskeletal pain by conducting a systematic review of
randomized controlled trials. Eight databases were searched
and 2 independent reviewers extracted trial data. Effect sizes
and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for individual
trials, and pooled effect sizes were calculated using a ran-
dom-effects model. Seven randomized controlled trials were
selected for inclusion in the review. Of these, 6 studied peo-
ple with chronic arthritis and 1 studied people with chronic
tension headaches. The pooled effect size for arthritic popu-
lations for pain reduction was 10.8 points (5.87 to 15.70) on
a 0–100 scale; for disability reduction it was 9.6 points (0.5
to 14.0) on a 0–100 scale. Additionally, physical perform-
ance variables, including the 50-ft walk test and cardiores-
piratory fitness, as well as health-related quality of life
outcomes favoured the tai chi intervention. The available
data on the effect of tai chi are sparse and derived princi-
pally from low-quality studies. These data suggest that tai
chi has a small positive effect on pain and disability in peo-
ple with arthritis, as well as a positive trend toward improv-
ing physical performance, reducing tension, and improving
quality of life. The extent to which tai chi reduces other
types of musculoskeletal pain, however, requires further
high-quality studies with larger sample sizes that consider a
wider range of musculoskeletal conditions.

Sex differences in muscle fatigability

K. Hall, A. Hopf, B. Reid, A. Trinh, and A.R. Tupling
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada

Fatigue can be defined as an acute impairment in ability
to exert force, and is often characterized by the extent that
force production is decreased in a given period of time. Pre-
vious studies examining differences in fatigue in female vs.
male humans have produced inconsistent results. The pur-
pose of this study was to determine if there are sex differen-
ces in muscle fatigability in response to intense intermittent
isometric exercise. In total, 6 males (mean ± SE: age, 20 ±
0.5 years; weight, 70.88 ± 10.25 kg) and 6 females (mean ±
SE: age, 19 ± 0.25 years; weight, 58.02 ± 5.82 kg) under-
went an exercise protocol consisting of single-legged iso-
metric knee extension contractions for 30 min at a 50%

Published by NRC Research Press

S38 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

duty cycle (5 s contraction, 5 s relaxation) at 60% of their
maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). MVCs and evoked
quadriceps contractions (1–100 Hz) were performed prior to
exercise, immediately postexercise, and on recovery days
1–3, 6, and 9. Immediately following exercise, females had
smaller decrements in MVC and electrically stimulated force
(10 and 100 Hz). It was also found that at low frequencies of
stimulation (10 Hz), females were able to recover at a quicker
rate than males; however, high-frequency force recovered at
roughly the same rate in both females and males. These re-
sults suggest that females are more fatigue resistant than
males and are able to recover force at an accelerated rate fol-
lowing an acute bout of intermittent isometric exercise.

The role of muscular strength in standing balance

control for obese individuals and football linesman
G.A. Handrigan, F. Berrigan, O. Hue, M. Simoneau, N. Teasdale, and P. Corbeil
Kinesiology Division, Laval University, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Faculty of Physical
Education and Sports, Sherbrooke University, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada;
Department of Science and Physical Activity, Université du Québec at Trois-Rivières,
QC G9A 5H7, Canada; Aging Research Unit, FRSQ and CHA Université du Québec,
QC G1J 1Z4, Canada

Our recent results revealed that there exists a strong rela-
tionship between obesity and reduced balance control in a
standing position. The mechanism for this relationship is rel-
atively unknown. One potential reason for this association
could be related to the issue of relative muscular strength
and its contributions to balance control. The purpose of this
study was to evaluate the role of muscular strength in stand-
ing balance control for heavy individuals. Fifteen partici-
pants with a healthy weight (body mass index (BMI) <
25 kg
m–2), 17 obese participants (BMI > 30 kg
m–2), and 9
athletic-obese individuals (football linesman, BMI >
30 kg
m–2) participated in this study. Maximal isometric
knee extensor force was measured, and expressed in abso-
lute measures (FA) and relative to body weight (FR). Balance
control was measured by the mean speed of the center of
pressure displacements, which were calculated from force
platform measurements. The athletic-obese group are abso-
lutely and relatively (FA = 163 kg, FR = 1.27) significantly
stronger than the obese group (FA = 81 kg, FR = 0.78) and
the normal-weight group (FA = 71 kg, FR = 1). Despite these
differences, the athletic-obese group sway velocity did not
differ from that of the obese group (0.83 cm
s–1, 95% confi-
dence interval (CI) 0 0.72–0.93 vs. 0.87 cm
s–1, 95% CI
0.80–0.95), and these 2 groups swayed faster than the nor-
mal weight group (0.60 cm
s–1, 95% CI 0.52–0.68). It ap-
pears that increased absolute and relative force of the lower
limbs has a minimal effect on standing balance control. Dur-
ing quiet upright standing, being stronger does not necessa-
rily improve our capacity to maintain equilibrium. The
results of a second study, investigating the interaction be-
tween posture and rapid upper-arm movements in these
same subject groups may demonstrate the advantage of an
athletic profile in compensating for the effects of a surplus
mass during an equilibrium challenging task.

The effect of pedaling cadence on the kinetics of

oxygen uptake during severe intensity exercise
S.M. Harris, S.D. Burdette, R. Beougher, D.W. Hill, and J.L. Vingren
Applied Physiology Laboratories, Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and
Recreation, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle, Denton, TX 76203, USA

During exhaustive severe-intensity exercise, oxygen up-
take (V_ O2) increases exponentially, with a time constant of
*30 s. After *1 to 2 min, a slow component emerges and
drives the V_ O2 to its maximum. Pedaling cadence contrib-
utes to the metabolic demand at a given work rate and af-
fects several responses to cycling exercise. The purpose of
this study was to determine the effect of pedaling cadence
on parameters of the 2-component V_ O2 response profile dur-
ing severe-intensity exercise. Eight women (mean ± SD:
age, 22 ± 1 year; height, 161 ± 6 cm; and weight, 58.8 ±
2.3 kg) and 10 men (age, 23 ± 1 year height, 180 ± 6 cm;
and weight 82.9 ± 4.4 kg) performed exhaustive constant-

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
power cycle ergometer tests, using pedaling cadences of 60,
80, and 100 r
min–1. As expected, times to exhaustion were
greater at lower cadences (368 ± 168 s > 299 ± 118 s >
220 ± 85 s), whereas V_ O2 max values were the same at the 3
cadences (2774 ± 732 mL
min–1 = 2768 ± 749 mL
min–1 =
2786 ± 729 mL
min–1). Both the mean response time and
the amplitude of the primary response were smaller at the
lower pedaling cadences (37 ± 5 s > 32 ± 5 s > 27 ± 5 s);
Cerebrovascular dysfunction with submaximal
exercise in women with COPD
S.E. Hartmann, R. Leigh, and M.J. Poulin
Departments of Physiology & Pharmacology and Medicine, Hotchkiss Brain Institute,
Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary,
AB T2N 4N1, Canada
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects
older smokers, and while it is suggested that cerebral autor-
egulation (CA) is altered with aging and disease, the extent
to which cerebrovascular regulation is altered in patients
with COPD is unclear. Increased prevalence and mortality
rates in women with COPD stress the healthcare system,
with estimates of total COPD hospitalizations of $1.5 billion
per year in Canada. Furthermore, patients with COPD are at
increased risk of cerebrovascular dysfunction because of
known associations with altered autonomic function. We
sought to determine the extent to which cerebrovascular
function during exercise is altered in patients with COPD.
Women with COPD (n = 7, age, 68 ± 6 years, FEV1 65% ±
11% predicted) and healthy, sedentary age-matched controls
(CON; n = 11, age, 64 ± 7 years, FEV1 108% ± 12% pre-
dicted) completed the study. An incremental cardiopulmo-
nary exercise test was performed to assess peak oxygen
uptake (V_ O2 peak). Continuous measures of end-tidal PCO2
(PETCO2), peak blood flow velocity (VP), mean arterial pres-
sure (MAP), and cerebrovascular conductance (CVC) were
assessed at rest (REST), at 3 min (EX1) and 6 min (EX2)
Motor unit recruitment thresholds of the
anconeus during maximal velocity elbow
extensions
B. Harwood and C.L. Rice
School of Kinesiology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
Motor unit (MU) recruitment and MU discharge rate are
the primary modulators of force development during isomet-
ric conditions, and likely also affect velocity of contraction.
S39
1899 ± 515 mL
min–1 = 1890 ± 493 mL
min–1 < 2045 ±
577 mL
min–1, respectively), and the time delay before the
slow component was greater at lower cadences (118 ±
19 s > 105 ± 17 s > 85 ± 11 s). These results demonstrate
that pedaling cadence affects the V_ O2 response profile. This
may have implications for the sport of cycling, and should
be considered when evaluating cardiorespiratory and meta-
bolic responses to cycle ergometer exercise.
of steady-state exercise (50% V_ O2 peak), and at 3 min
(REC1) and 6 min (REC2) of recovery at rest. There were
no significant group differences in cardiovascular and cere-
brovascular variables at REST. Repeated-measure ANOVA
was used to identify differences at EX1, EX2, REC1, and
REC2. COPD showed a significantly larger increase in VP
during EX1 (+17.9% ± 7.3% vs. CON: +9.9% ± 7.8%), and
a distinct undershoot at REC1, compared with REST
(–4.5% ± 4.6% vs. +1.7% ± 8.5%; p < 0.05). In COPD,
CVC decreased by 11% from EX1 to REC1 (0.46 ± 0.09 to
0.41 ± 0.07 cm
s–1
mm Hg–1 vs. 0.47 ± 0.14 to 0.49 ±
0.15 cm
s–1
mm Hg–1; p = 0.02). Group differences were
normalized at EX2 and REC2. These results indicate CA is
attenuated in response to exercise in patients with moderate
to severe COPD. Exaggerated cerebral vasodilatation and
vasoconstriction is evident with exercise onset (EX1) and
immediate recovery (REC1), respectively, without concomi-
tant changes in MAP. Further analyses on these data are
needed to assess the interbeat changes in VP and MAP to
clearly assess dynamic CA.
During dynamic contractions, MU discharge rates have been
reported to increase both linearly and exponentially across
the full range of movement velocities up to maximum, but
Published by NRC Research Press
S40
MU recruitment thresholds have not been studied at maxi-
mal velocities during dynamic contractions. Thus, the pur-
pose here was to determine MU recruitment thresholds of
the anconeus muscle through a range of elbow extension ve-
locities up to maximum velocity. Participants were seated in
an upright position in a Biodex Multi-Joint dynamometer,
used to record elbow extension torque, position, and veloc-
ity. All tests were conducted on the nondominant (left) arm,
with the shoulder flexed 908 and the arm slightly (108) ab-
ducted. Single MU potentials were collected from the anco-
neus with fine-wire intramuscular electromyography, and
surface electromyography was collected from the lateral
head of the triceps brachii during velocity-dependent con-
tractions loaded at 25% of maximal voluntary contraction
(MVC) over 1208 range of motion. The relative force (ex-
pressed as %MVC) at which the first single MU action po-
tential fired was considered the MU recruitment threshold.
Vertical whole-body vibration exercise induces
some muscle soreness but does not adversely
affect muscle function, compared with the same
exercises without vibration
T.J. Hazell, T.D. Olver, C.D. Hamilton, and P.W.R. Lemon
Exercise Nutrition Research Laboratory, School of Kinesiology, The University of Western
Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
Vertical whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise utilizes a
vertically oscillating platform to increase skeletal muscle ac-
tivity via reflexive muscle contractions. Acute exposure to
WBV has demonstrated increases in strength, power, and
oxygen consumption, illustrating that WBV exercise may be
a viable training mode. However, whether the WBV-induced
muscle contractions cause muscle damage or soreness has
yet to be evaluated. Therefore, we assessed the effect of an
acute WBV exercise session on muscle function (strength/
power) and soreness vs. the same exercise bout without vi-
bration (NoV) in 10 healthy male kinesiology students (age,
25 ± 3.5 years; height, 179 ± 7.2 cm; weight, 81 ± 7.9 kg).
Muscle function (at 0, 60, and 2408
s–1 angular velocities)
and soreness (10 point scale) in the upper (triceps) and
lower (quadriceps) extremities were measured at 4 time
points (pre-exercise, immediately postexercise, 4-h postexer-
cise, and 24-h postexercise) over 2 separate 24-h periods
(WBV and NoV). The exercise bout included squats, single
leg lunges, push-ups, triceps dips, and hamstring bridges; 5
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
Average MU recruitment thresholds were determined for 10
velocity ranges (508–1008
s–1, 1008–1508
s–1, 1508–2008
s–1,
2008–2508
s–1, 2508–3008
s–1, 3008–3508
s–1, 3508–4008
s–1,
3508–4008
s–1, 4008–4508
s–1, 4508–5008
s–1). Each average
MU recruitment threshold was calculated from at least 3 in-
dividual MU recruitment thresholds at a given velocity
range. Regression analysis of the average velocity for each
velocity range, and the corresponding average MU recruit-
ment thresholds revealed a strong negative trend (r2 =
–0.88), in that MU recruitment thresholds decreased with in-
creasing elbow extension velocity. MU recruitment thresh-
olds at maximal velocity (4508–5008
s–1) were *60% lower
than MU recruitment thresholds at 50–1008
s–1. Thus, MU
recruitment thresholds of the anconeus muscle decrease as
velocity of elbow extension increases. (Supported by
NSERC.)
sets of 15 reps in 30 s for each exercise (15 min of exercise
in 30 min). Diet was controlled for both 24-h periods
(125 kJ
kg–1
day–1, *48% carbohydrate, 26% fat, 26% pro-
tein). Compared with NoV, WBV exercise resulted in a
significant (p < 0.001) but small increase in muscle sore-
ness 24-h postexercise in both the upper (2.2 ± 1.7 vs.
0.6 ± 0.9) and lower body musculature (2.0 ± 1.5 vs.
0.7 ± 0.7). Although muscle function was either decreased
(at 08
s–1, upper extremity immediately postexercise (p =
0.044), lower extremity immediately (p = 0.037), and 24-h
postexercise (p = 0.042); at 2408
s–1, upper extremity im-
mediately postexercise (p = 0.045)) or not affected (at
608
s–1, upper (p = 0.07) and lower extremities (p =
0.317); at 2408
s–1, lower extremity (p = 0.07)), none of
the observed differences were significant between exercise
modes. Relative to the same exercises without vibration,
acute vertical WBV exercise induces some muscle soreness
but does not adversely affect muscle function. (Supported
by WAVE Manufacturing Inc.)
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés S41

Effects of altered glycogen levels on proteins

associated with glycogen metabolism
A.K. Hill, M.A. Tarnopolsky, and T.E. Graham
Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph,
ON N1G 2W1, Canada; Department of Medicine and Kinesiology, McMaster University,
Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada

Laforin and malin are associated with glycogen granules
and have been proposed to be involved in the regulation of
these granules. This study examined laforin, malin, and pro-
tein targeting to glycogen (PTG) responses to exercise in hu-
man skeletal muscle, and possible relationships with
glycogen content. Ten male participants entered the study
having 1 leg with high glycogen (HL) and 1 with low glyco-
gen (LL) content. Resting glycogen content was 558 ± 42
and 392 ± 16 mmol glucosyl units
kg–1 dw (p £ 0.05) in the
HL and LL, respectively. Participants performed cycling ex-
ercise at 70% of their V_ O2 max to exhaustion, with biopsies
being obtained at rest, 1 h, and at exhaustion from each leg.
Overall net laforin protein abundance was decreased (p £
0.05) at exhaustion, even though laforin mRNA was not re-
sponsive to exhaustive exercise (p ‡ 0.05). Despite having a
large decrease in glycogen during the first hour of exercise,
and having a greater net change in glycogen (4.3 ± 0.9 and
2.6 ± 0.3 mmol glucosyl units
kg–1 dw
min–1) (p £ 0.05),
there were no differences (p ‡ 0.05) in laforin protein within
HL or between the legs. Malin protein was unresponsive
(p ‡ 0.05) to exhaustive exercise, in spite of significant de-
creases in malin mRNA (p £ 0.05). PTG mRNA was de-
creased by 44% and 52%, respectively, in HL and LL at
exhaustion. Despite large differences in glycogen content at
rest and exhaustion (30% and 43%, respectively), glycogen
content was not correlated (p ‡ 0.05) with laforin protein.
Additionally, over the entire exercise bout (rest-exhaustion)
within each leg, linear regression revealed a correlation (p £
0.05) in HL, but there was no relationship in LL (p ‡ 0.05),
even though glycogen content was lower in LL than in HL.
Laforin protein was decreased during exercise, while malin
protein remained constant, and the mRNA was unchanged
and decreased with exercise in laforin and malin, respec-
tively. However, these changes were not directly associated
with changes in glycogen concentration. (Supported by
NSERC of Canada.)

Physical activity supports in team-based primary

care clinics as reported by health care providers
and perceived by patients with type 2 diabetes
J.A. Hnatiuk, T.A. Duhamel, A. Katz, and A.E. Ready
Faculty of Kinesiology & Recreation Management, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg,
MB R3T 2N2, Canada; Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, St. Boniface Hospital
Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB R2H 2A6, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of
Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3P 3E5, Canada

Physical activity (PA) is an important component of type
2 diabetes (T2D) management, yet the amount and type of
PA support delivered by health care providers (HCPs) in
Manitoba is not known. The purpose of this study was to ex-
amine the consistency between the HCP report of PA sup-
port provided and patient report of HCP PA support
received, both unprompted and prompted. Eight of 14 Win-
nipeg Regional Health Authority team-based primary care
clinics with a primary mandate of T2D education were re-
cruited. In-person interviews were conducted with HCPs
(n = 48) and and with patients with T2D (n = 26), with a
response rate of 77% and 50%, respectively. All HCPs in
the participating clinics who met the inclusion criteria were
invited to participate, while consecutive patients (aged 30–
65 years) attending the clinic were invited to participate.
HCPs were given a total PA support score based on the
number of supports they reported using in practice in 3 sub-
categories (behaviour change, assessment–prescription,
information–referrals–community resources). HCPs were
also asked about their knowledge and use of Canada’s Phys-

Published by NRC Research Press

S42 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

ical Activity Guide (CPAG) and the Canadian Diabetes As-
sociation (CDA) PA guidelines. Patients’ perceived PA sup-
port score was determined using the same scoring system,
and patient knowledge of and HCP use of PA guidelines
was also measured. Both unprompted and prompted HCPs
reported delivering significantly more PA support than pa-
tients reported receiving (5.29 vs. 2.04 supports unprompted;
9.90 vs. 6.07 supports prompted; p < 0.001). Twice as many
HCPs reported using the CDA and CPAG guidelines in
practice, compared with patient report of HCP guideline
use. Only 5% of HCPs could describe the CPAG guidelines
at a level considered mostly correct, and no HCPs or pa-
tients could describe the CDA guidelines at a level consid-
ered mostly correct. Although HCPs recognize the
importance of PA in T2D management, the delivery of PA
supports in primary care could be improved to increase the
quality of patient care and reduce health care system costs.

Three sets of resistance exercise elicit a greater

elevation in myofibrillar protein synthesis than
1 set of resistance exercise in young men
A.M. Holwerda, N.A. Burd, K.C. Selby, D.W.D. West, A.W. Staples, N.E. Cain,
J. Cashaback, J.R. Potvin, S.K. Baker, and S.M. Phillips
Exercise Metabolism Research Group; Occupational Biomechanics Laboratory,
Department of Kinesiology; Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, Department of
Neurology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada

We aimed to determine the effect that different exercise
volumes have on stimulating myofibrillar protein synthesis
(MPS). Eight recreationally active young men (age, 24.3 ±
1.6 years; body mass index = 25.1 ± 0.7 kg
m–2) performed
acute unilateral leg extension exercise of 3 sets on 1 leg
(3SET: 3 sets of 70% 1 repetiton maximum (1RM)) and
1 set on the contra lateral leg (1SET: 1 set of 70% 1RM).
Subjects completed all sets until they reached volitional fa-
tigue and could not complete further repetitions. Subjects
underwent an infusion of L-[ring-13C6]phenylalanine on con-
secutive days to measure resting, 5 h, and 24 h postexercise
rates of MPS. Electromyographic (EMG) analysis revealed
maximal motor unit recruitment, as measured by EMG am-
plitude, in each set of both conditions at 50% set comple-
tion, and was subsequently followed by a gradual decline in
amplitude until volitional fatigue. Subjects ingested 20 g
whey protein isolate immediately after exercise, and again
24 h later to maximally stimulate MPS. MPS at 5 h was sig-
nificantly increased by 2.3- and 3.1-fold above rest for 1SET
and 3SET, respectively, with 3SET being significantly
greater than 1SET (p < 0.01). At 24 h, 1SET returned to
basal levels, whereas 3SET remained significantly elevated
(2.3-fold above rest). These data suggest that maximal MPS
is achieved by utilizing 3SET, but 1SET may be insufficient
to confer a lasting stimulation of MPS. (Supported by
NSERC.)

Effect of exercise intensity and volume on insulin

sensitivity in abdominally obese adults
K.A. Hougham, P.J. Stotz, and R. Ross
School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6,
Canada

Exercise is associated with improvements in insulin sensi-
tivity. However, the independent contribution of exercise in-
tensity and volume on insulin sensitivity is unknown. The
purpose of this study was to examine the association of ex-
ercise intensity (%V_ O2 max), and volume (caloric expendi-
ture) on insulin sensitivity, independent of one another.
Obese sedentary subjects, including 29 men (mean ± SD:
age, 55.5 ± 13.7 years; body mass index, 31.1 ± 2.9 kg
m–2;
waist circumference, 109.7 ± 7.1 cm) and 34 women (age,
54.3 ± 14.4 years; body mass index, 31.2 ± 4.2 kg
m–2;
waist circumference, 100.5 ± 10.0 cm) participated in an ex-
ercise intervention lasting 12 to 24 weeks. Caloric intake
was controlled to help ensure that the negative energy bal-
ance was the result of exercise alone. Insulin sensitivity was

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
determined by euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp. Exercise
intensity and volume were determined using heart rate and
oxygen kinetics, which were measured during repeated max-
imal treadmill tests throughout the intervention. In men, but
not women, there was a significant association between ex-
ercise intensity (range: men, 49%–83%; women, 55%–85%
V_ O2 max) and the corresponding change in insulin sensitivity,
independent of exercise volume (men, 538.6 ± 219.4 kcal
Skeletal muscle mitochondrial movement along
microtubules
S. Iqbal and D.A. Hood
School of Kinesiology and Health Science and Muscle Health Research Centre,
York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
The distribution and morphology of mitochondria within
muscle is thought to reflect a balance between energy sup-
ply and demand. The location of these organelles within
skeletal muscle may influence fusion and fission processes.
Therefore, it is important to understand the factors govern-
ing mitochondrial movement. To quantify this in living
cells, we used C2C12 myoblasts transfected with fluores-
cently labeled dsRED-Mito to track organelle dynamics. We
captured mitochondrial movements at 2-s intervals, for a to-
tal observation time of 5 min, using real-time imaging, with
cells maintained at 37 8C. To determine whether micro-
tubules play a role in mitochondrial distribution, the micro-
tubule destabilizing agent colchicine and the stabilizing drug
taxol were used. These drugs had opposite effects on move-
ment. Colchicine reduced mitochondrial total path length by
Akt2 is required for insulin- and contraction-
stimulated translocation of FA transporters and
FA uptake into skeletal muscle
S.S. Jain, L.A. Snook, X.X. Han, G.P. Holloway, and A. Bonen
Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph,
ON N1G 2W1, Canada
The uptake of fatty acids (FA) into various tissues is a
well-established protein-mediated process, involving a num-
ber of different FA transporters. However, the signaling
pathways involved in the translocation of these FA trans-
porters to the plasma membrane (PM) are largely unknown,
although there appears to be similarities to the cascades trig-
gered in response to insulin- or contraction-mediated trans-
location of GLUT4. Like GLUT4, FA transporter FAT/
CD36 is recruited to the PM by the insulin-stimulated activa-
S43
(p < 0.01); women, 383.4 ± 160.7 kcal (p = 0.60)). Addi-
tionally, in men, but not women, there was an association
between exercise volume and the improvement in insulin
sensitivity, independent of exercise intensity (men, p <
0.01; women, p = 0.07). These findings suggest that a gen-
der difference may exist when examining the independent
effect of exercise intensity and volume on insulin sensitivity.
1.8-fold, whereas taxol increased path length by 2.8-fold,
relative to control cells within the 5-min time frame. These
dynamic organelles also varied in their displacement from
the origin, moving an average of 0.33 mm for colchicine-
treated cells, and 2.3 mm for taxol-treated cells after 5 min.
By destabilizing microtubules, mitochondrial movement de-
creased, as evidenced by their reduced velocity of
0.009 mm
s–1, compared with 0.042 mm
s–1 for taxol-treated
cells. Thus, the distribution of mitochondria within muscle
cells is, in part, dependent on a microtubule-based transpor-
tation system. By understanding the factors that influence
organelle morphology and mitochondrial reticulum forma-
tion, we can determine the underlying basis for muscle mito-
chondrial function in health and disease.
tion of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase, or contraction-mediated
stimulation of AMPK. Whether Akt2, a key player in the
insulin signaling cascade, is also involved in the transloca-
tion of FA transporters to the PM following metabolic per-
turbation is unknown. We therefore utilized Akt2-null mice
to further elucidate its role in the subcellular signalling of
FA transporters. Giant sarcolemmal vesicles from skeletal
muscle were isolated from wildtype (WT) and Akt2 knock-
out (KO) mice, following 15 min of stimulation with insu-
Published by NRC Research Press
S44
lin or muscle contraction. Glucose uptake (+127%) and PM
GLUT4 (+124%) were increased comparably following
muscle contraction in WT and KO mice. As expected, in-
sulin-stimulated glucose transport and GLUT4 translocation
to the PM were completely blunted in KO mice. Insulin
(+117%) and contraction (+107%) increased FA transport
in WT mice, along with increased levels of FA transporters
FAT/CD36, FABPpm, FATP1, and FATP4 at the PM. In
contrast, insulin-stimulated FA transport and translocation
of FA transporters to the PM was essentially prevented in
The slope of the handgrip exercise induced shear
stress stimulus — %FMD response relationship
differs between the radial and brachial arteries
F. Jazuli and K.E. Pyke
School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6,
Canada
An inverse relationship between vessel size and flow-
mediated dilation (FMD) has been identified using reactive
hyperemia (RH) to create a shear stress (SS) stimulus in hu-
man conduit arteries. RH is transient and uncontrolled, and
results in an inverse relationship between baseline arterial
diameter and SS magnitude. In contrast, exercise can effec-
tively create sustained and controlled increases in conduit
artery SS. The purpose of this study was to compare the
FMD responses of 2 differently sized arteries with matched
graded increases in SS. Exercise was used to create 3 dis-
tinct sustained shear rate (SR) stimuli (SR = blood flow ve-
locity/vessel diameter; estimate of SS) in the radial (RA)
and brachial (BA) arteries. Artery diameter and mean blood
flow velocity were assessed with echo and Doppler ultra-
sound, respectively, in 15 healthy male subjects (age, 19–
25 years). Data are means ± SE. Subjects performed 6 min
each of adductor pollicis and handgrip exercise to increase
SR in the RA and BA, respectively. Exercise intensity was
Resveratrol has endothelium-dependent effects
on vascular function that are mediated by NO and
EDCF
A.J. Jeffery, K.K. Durham, C.S. Smith, R.J. Ford, A.S. Levy, and J.W.E. Rush
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
While the effects of resveratrol (RSV) on vascular func-
tion have been examined using a variety of models, contro-
versy remains regarding the cellular pathways through
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
KO mice. Unexpectedly, following contraction, FA trans-
port was also markedly blunted, along with an impaired
translocation of both FAT/CD36 and FATP1, but not
FABPpm or FATP4. Therefore, we confirm Akt2 is re-
quired for insulin- but not contraction-stimulated glucose
transport and PM GLUT4 translocation. We also report, for
the first time, that both insulin- and contraction-stimulated
FA transport is dependent on Akt2 signaling. (Supported by
CIHR, NSERC, the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario,
and the Canada Research Chair program.)
modulated to achieve uniformity of SR between the RA and
BA at 3 different SR targets (40, 60, and 80 s–1). Three dis-
tinct SR levels were successfully created (steady state exer-
cise: 39.8 ± 0.6 s–1, 57.3 ± 0.7 s–1, 72.4 ± 1.2 s–1; p < 0.001
between SR levels). The %FMD at the end of exercise was
greater in the RA vs. BA at every SR target (SR40 RA,
5.4% ± 0.8%; SR40 BA, 1.0% ± 0.2%; SR60 RA, 9.8% ±
1.0%; SR60 BA, 2.5% ± 0.5%; SR80 RA, 15.7% ± 1.5%;
SR80 BA, 5.4% ± 0.7%; p < 0.001). The mean slope of
within-subject FMD-SR dose-response (DR) regression lines
was significantly greater in the RA (RA, 0.33 ± 0.04; BA,
0.13 ± 0.02; p < 0.001) and a strong within-subjects linear
relationship between FMD and SR was observed in both ar-
teries (RA r2 = 0.92 ± 0.02; BA r2 = 0.90 ± 0.03). These
findings suggest that the endothelial response to SS is not
uniform across differently sized vessels, which is in agree-
ment with previous RH studies.
which this compound elicits its actions. In the present study,
we explored the endothelium-dependent mechanisms of
RSV, focusing on nitric oxide (NO) and prostanoid
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
endothelial-derived contracting factor (EDCF) effects on
functional and molecular measures in rat common carotid ar-
teries (CCA). In adult Sprague–Dawley rats, RSV caused
vasorelaxation (max relaxation/EC50; 99.6% ± effect was not dependent on AMPK, as the response with
3.26%/–5.04 ± 0.04 logM RSV) that was partially NO de-
pendent, as demonstrated by the addition of LNAME (max
relaxation/EC50; 84.4% ± 8.07%/–4.53 ± 0.34 logM
RSV+LN). In the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR)
model, where cyclooxygenase activity has been demon-
strated as increased, RSV was able to reduce EDCF-medi-
ated contraction (max contraction; 65.02% ± 1.45% ND vs.
7.33% ± 3.93% RSV) and this reduction was consistent with
a reduction in CCA prostanoid production (pg
mL–1
mg–1
protein PGI2; 4909.30 ND vs. 1214.05 RSV, p < 0.05).
Given that RSV can stimulate adenosine monophosphate-ac-
Amino-acid-induced negative feedback to IRS-1
and the subsequent inhibition of glucose uptake
are reversible physiological responses to nutrition
in muscle cells
S. Jeganathan and O.A.J. Adegoke
School of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, Muscle Health Research Centre,
York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
The mTORC1/S6 inase 1 (S6K1) pathway has proven to
be an essential regulator of cell growth and metabolism. It
has also been shown that amino acids, in conjunction with
growth factors, are enough to stimulate a negative feedback
loop within this pathway, via overactivation of S6K1, and
subsequent serine phosphorylation of IRS-1, leading to in-
hibition of glucose uptake. However, it is not known
whether this negative feedback loop is one that is normal
and reversible, or pathological. The role of insulin in this
negative reaction mechanism is also unknown. Myotubes
were grown in serum-free media for 4 h, and then divided
into groups based on various treatments, containing either
excess leucine and (or) insulin. Separate cells were also in-
cubated overnight in solution containing excess leucine, with
insulin to mimic prolonged overactivation of the S6K1 path-
way. A progressive increase in phosphorylated S6K1 was
found in myotubes treated with leucine and insulin over
time (p < 0.01). Subsequently, there was increased serine
S45
tivated protein kinase (AMPK), we inhibited AMPK with
Compound C (CC) to determine if RSV was exerting its
EDCF-inhibiting action via AMPK. Functionally, the RSV
CC and RSV was similar to that of RSV alone (max contrac-
tion; 10.18% RSV+CC). However, Western Blot analysis re-
vealed a significant increase in AMPK-phosphorylation
(relative CCA expression of pAMPK; 1.0 ND vs. 1.81 RSV,
p < 0.05%). Together, these data suggest that, despite the
fact the RSV leads to AMPK-activation, the ability of RSV
to blunt EDCF’s is not dependent on AMPK. This work sig-
nificantly advances the basic understanding of vascular cell
mechanisms of RSV function, and could be useful in a ther-
apeutic context.
phosphorylation of IRS-1 when treated with excess leucine
and insulin on day 1, peaking at 2 h (p < 0.05). Similar in-
creases in IRS-1 serine phosphorylation were seen in rats
gavaged with leucine solution. When the cells were incu-
bated overnight with excess leucine and insulin, deprived of
media the next day for 4 h, and restimulated with amino
acids and insulin, a similar trend was seen as on day 1, indi-
cating that the system is potentially functioning normally.
To examine whether this reversibility was reflected in the
regulation of glucose transport, a glucose uptake experiment
was done on myotubes treated as described above. It was
found that myotubes treated with insulin and a high con-
centration of leucine overnight were still sensitive to
insulin-dependent glucose transport, similar to cells that
were not treated with amino acids. Thus, while S6K1-
mediated serine phospohorylation of IRS-1 and inhibition
of glucose uptake occurs in response to amino acids and in-
sulin, this is a normal, reversible physiological regulation.
Published by NRC Research Press
S46
Evaluation of a noninterval training progression
designed to increase exercise tolerance at
different running velocities in rodents
N.G. Jendzjowsky and D.S. DeLorey
Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton,
AB T6G 2H9, Canada
Treadmill running is commonly utilized to evaluate the
physiological effects of exercise training in rodents. Re-
cently, it has been suggested that there is a need to develop
standards for exercise training studies involving rodents
(Booth et al. 2010, J. Appl. Physiol. 108(1): 219–221). A
variety of training protocols have been described in the liter-
ature; however, the training progression utilized to attain the
prescribed exercise-intensity is unclear. To our knowledge,
there are no standardized methods of progressive overload
regularly implemented by investigators. Thus, the purpose
of this investigation was to utilize a noninterval training pro-
gression and determine the maximal rate that treadmill
speed could be incremented daily to provide a progressive
overload; and the days of training required for rats to run
continuously at different exercise intensities. Training was
designed to provide a progressive overload by increasing
treadmill speed at an average rate of *1 m
min–1
day–1 until
the animal could run continuously at the prescribed speed
Blood donation and aerobic responses to exercise
K.R. Jones, P.D. Knowles, L.L. Lackey, S.D. Burdette, E.R. Castillo, S.M. Harris,
D.W. Hill, and J.L. Vingren
Applied Physiology Laboratories, Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and
Recreation, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle, Denton, TX 76203, USA
The purpose of this study was to investigate the time
course of the effects of blood donation on responses to se-
vere-intensity exercise. Two women (mean ± SD: age, 23 ±
1 years; height, 170 ± 11 cm; weight 60.0 ± 7.7 kg) and 8
men (age, 25 ± 3 years; height, 183 ± 2 cm; weight, 90.4 ±
14.1 kg) performed exhaustive cycle ergometer tests under
control conditions, and then 2 h, 2 days, and 7 days follow-
ing a 450-mL blood donation. Times to exhaustion at base-
line and 2 h, 2 days, and 7 days following blood donation
were 274 ± 62, 222 ± 81, 261 ± 74, and 263 ± 66 s; per-
formance time was reduced 2 h after donation. Hemoglobin
concentrations ([Hb]) before each test were 149 ± 8, 148 ±
11, 141 ± 17, and 140 ± 11 g
L–1; the reduction in [Hb]
was significant only 7 days after donation. V_ O2 max values
were 39.1 ± 5.1, 34.9 ± 4.7, 36.4 ± 3.7, and 37.0 ±
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
for a distance of 600 m. Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 20,
267 ± 10 g) were familiarized to the treadmill by running
for 10 min
day–1 at 12 m
min–1, 0% grade, for 5 days. Rats
were then randomly assigned to train at mild (20 m
min–1;
5% grade), moderate (30 m
min–1; 5% grade) or heavy
(40 m
min–1; 5% grade) intensity, 5 days
week–1 for 6 weeks.
Mild-intensity rats were able to run at the prescribed speed
immediately following familiarization. In moderate- and
heavy-intensity groups, however, treadmill speed was in-
creased by 0.50 ± 0.17 m
min–1
day–1 and 0.77 ±
0.10 m
min–1
day–1 (p < 0.05), which allowed these rats to
achieve the target training intensity with 17 ± 3 days and
23 ± 3 days of training, respectively (p < 0.05). These data
demonstrate that increasing running speed by *0.5–
0.8 m
min–1
day–1 provides a training stimulus sufficient for
rats to become capable of running continuously at moderate
and heavy intensities after approximately 3–4 weeks of
training.
3.7 mL
kg–1
min–1; V_ O2 max was reduced 2 h after dona-
tion. The time constants of the primary phase of the 2-
component V_ O2 response in the exhaustive severe-intensity
exercise were 29 ± 11, 26 ± 8, 25 ± 9, and 25 ± 7 s; the
kinetics of the V_ O2 response were unaffected by blood
donation. These data suggest that blood donation nega-
tively impacts performance because of reduced blood vol-
ume (i.e., only 2 h following donation). Baseline
performance levels were normalized 2 days and 7 days
after donation, despite the reduced oxygen carrying ca-
pacity (on day 7). This information may be of value to
athletes and others who might balance the altruism of
blood donation with personal concerns about performance.
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
Does whole-body vibration enhance blood lactate
clearance?
N.C. Karn, K.P. Roland, and J.M. Jakobi
Human Kinetics, Faculty of Health and Social Development, University of British
Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada
Muscle activity and blood flow increase during and fol-
lowing exposure to whole-body vibration (WBV). We exam-
ined the hypothesis that following high-intensity exercise
lactate clearance is faster with WBV relative to traditional
recovery methods. To address this question, we determined
whether WBV increases lactate clearance relative to static
standing or submaximal cycling following a single 30-s
anaerobic Wingate test. Five recreationally active males
(age, 22.2 ± 1.3 years) were studied. In a 3-way crossover
design, subjects performed the Wingate test on 3 experimen-
tal days, which were separated by 4–7 days. Recovery fol-
lowing the maximal anaerobic exercise involved sitting for
3.5 min, followed by 30 s of the randomly assigned recovery
method. Lactate was measured from a venous blood sample
taken from a catheter located in a prominent antecubital
vein. Samples were analyzed and recorded at rest, immedi-
ately following the Wingate test, and every 4 min thereafter
until concentration dropped £4.0 mmol
L–1 (onset of blood
Evaluation of fitness parameters across a season
and between positions in male varsity hockey
players
M.D. Kennedy, A.B. Game, E. Thurston, S. Lajoie, and G.J. Bell
Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton,
AB T6G 2H9, Canada
The purpose of this study was to assess fitness parameters
before and after a CIS season, and to compare fitness be-
tween positions in male ice hockey players. All players
completed a full fitness evaluation prior to and after the
CIS hockey season (5 months, 9 days long), which included
34 regular-season games and exhibition games and 81 prac-
tices. The fitness evaluation included body composition,
musculoskeletal measurements, anaerobic power, and aero-
bic power. There was maintenance of body composition,
vertical jump leg power, trunk forward flexion flexibility,
peak 5-s anaerobic power, and aerobic power for the whole
team (forwards, defense, and goalies) over the season. The
team results showed an increase in chest ball throw distance
(p < 0.05) and a decrease in push-up and sit-up number, as
S47
lactate accumulation level). Average power (p = 0.58) and
total work (p = 0.58) produced during the Wingate test
were similar across all 3 sessions. Prior to the Wingate test,
blood lactate concentrations were identical in the 3 condi-
tions (1.49 ± 0.40 mmol
L–1; p = 0.8) and increased approx-
imately 6-fold (9.29 ± 1.47 mmol
L–1; p = 0.7) following the
Wingate test for each intervention. In the standing condition,
blood lactate decreased £4.0 mmol
L–1 by 31.0 ± 2.0 min;
this clearance time was slower than both cycling (p =
0.0005) and WBV (p = 0.01). For cycling and WBV, the de-
cline was similar (22.4 ± 2.19 min and 24 ± 3.27 min, re-
spectively; p = 0.4). Consistent with this finding, the area
under the curve for the lactate concentrations over time for
each of the 3 conditions revealed both WBV and cycling
were equally superior to the standing condition, with no be-
tween-group differences (p = 0.39). Our findings indicate
that WBV is as equally effective as cycling in facilitating
lactate clearance following anaerobic exercise.
well as mean 30-s anaerobic power (p < 0.05) across the
season. Further analysis by position (forwards vs. defense)
revealed that the forwards maintained all fitness parameters
from before to after the season. However, the defense exhib-
ited a decrease in the number of push-ups completed and
mean 30-s anaerobic power. Preseason and postseason com-
parison of forwards and defense found that forwards had a
greater vertical jump (cm) than defense, but defense had a
greater vertical jump leg power score (w) than forwards
(p < 0.05). When normalized for body weight, forwards had
greater vertical jump leg power (w
kg–1) in preseason than
defense, but not postseason. No other differences in fitness
parameters were found between forwards and defense. Over-
all, these results show a general maintenance in most fitness
Published by NRC Research Press
S48 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

parameters over a season of male varsity hockey, except in and explosive power, but insufficient training stress to main-
30-s anaerobic power, push-ups, and sit ups. These results tain muscular endurance fitness. In addition, forwards main-
indicate that that on-ice practice and game intensity-duration tain fitness better than defense, indicating that game-practice
is sufficient to maintain aerobic power, body composition, intensities or other factors might be different for defense.

Cumulative changes in body heat content during

various work–rest cycles in the heat
G.P. Kenny and D. Gagnon
Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics,
University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada

The present study examined changes in body heat content
and core temperature during various work–rest (WR) cycles
performed in the heat. On separate days, 8 healthy male par-
ticipants performed 60 min of exercise and 60 min of rest,
divided into one of the following WR cycles: 60-min exer-
cise followed by 60-min recovery (60WR); 3 bouts of
20-min exercise, each separated by 20 min of recovery
(20WR); 6 bouts of 10-min exercise, each separated by
10 min of recovery (10WR); or 12 bouts of 5-min exercise,
each separated by 5 min of recovery (5WR). All trials were
performed at an ambient temperature of 35 8C and a relative
humidity of 20%. Changes in body heat content were deter-
mined by combined direct and indirect calorimetry, while
rectal and esophageal temperatures were measured continu-
ously. After 60 min of exercise, the change in body heat
content was significantly (p £ 0.05) lower during 60WR
(574 ± 64 kJ) than during 10WR (776 ± 27 kJ) and 5WR
(788 ± 28 kJ), while it was not different from 20WR (669 ±
42 kJ). In contrast, the negative change in body heat content
was significantly (p £ 0.05) greater during 5WR (–405 ±
23 kJ), 10WR (–421 ± 25 kJ), and 20WR (–361 ± 30 kJ)
than during 60WR (–224 ± 28 kJ). However, there were no
significant differences (p = 0.796) between conditions in the
cumulative change in body heat content (60 min of exer-
cise + 60 min of rest). This was reflected by similar rectal
(37.67 ± 0.13 8C, 37.71 ± 0.08 8C, 37.55 ± 0.09 8C,
37.34 ± 0.11 8C) and esophageal (37.16 ± 0.08 8C, 37.24 ±
0.06 8C, 37.21 ± 0.07 8C, 37.17 ± 0.09 8C) temperatures at
the end of the 5WR, 10WR, 20WR, and 60WR conditions,
respectively. These data suggest that intermittent exercise
results in similar changes in body heat content and core tem-
peratures, compared with continuous exercise. (Support:
Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council and
Workplace Safety and Insurance Board of Ontario.)

Effects of slow resistance training and brisk

walking exercise on body composition and bone
status in young women
Y. Kimura, K. Ohki, N. Nakagawa, T. Ezaki, and T. Sato
Laboratory for Exercise Physiology, Saga University, Saga, 840-8502, Japan; Graduate
School of Human Life Sciences, Showa Women’s University, Tokyo, 154-8533, Japan;
School of Information-Oriented Management, Sanno University, Kanagawa, 259-1197,
Japan

Regardless of age or gender, children and adults who
maintain an active lifestyle have significantly greater body
composition and bone mass than their sedentary counter-
parts. The aim of this study is to assess the effects of resist-
ance training (RT) and walking exercise (WK) on body
composition, bone status, and mental health in sedentary
young women. Thirty-two subjects (mean age, 20.8 years)
were divided into the RT group (n = 12), WK group (n =
13), and control group (CN; n = 7). The RT group trained
4 exercises (squat, bent-leg sit-up, push-up, back extension),
using body weight as a load, with slow maneuver 4 times
per week. The WK group was instructed to wear a pedome-
ter, and walked briskly for more than 10 000 steps a day,
4 times per week. We evaluated body composition, bone sta-
tus (ultrasound parameters of the calcaneus and urinary de-
oxypyridinoline (DPD) levels), and psychological items at

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
baseline and after 12 weeks of training. The RT group
showed significant changes in fat mass, in waist, hip, thigh,
and upper arm circumferences, and in triceps, abdominal,
and thigh thickness. The WK group showed significant
changes only in thigh circumference and in abdominal and
thigh subcutaneous fat thickness. The RT group showed sig-
nificant changes in ultrasound parameters, such as speed of
sound and stiffiness. The WK group showed small changes
in these 3 items, but the changes were not significant. There
was a significant decrease in DPD only in the RT group. A
significant improvement in the RT group was seen in regard
An easy method for adjusting heart rate targets
to account for training adaptations throughout
exercise interventions with breast cancer
survivors
A.A. Kirkham, S.E. Neil, D.C. McKenzie, and K.L. Campbell
The School of Human Kinetics, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of
Physical Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
Gas exchange and heart rate (HR) data acquired via cardi-
opulmonary exercise testing (CPX) is commonly used as a
basis for exercise prescription. However, the metabolic cart
required to acquire such data can be expensive and of lim-
ited availability. The purpose of this study was to investigate
a potential method of adjusting exercise HR targets from
baseline, after training has occurred, without a metabolic
cart, in studies involving breast cancer survivors (BCS).
Eleven BCS involved in a pilot exercise intervention volun-
teered for this adjunct study (age, 54 ± 8.8 years, body mass
index, 30.1 ± 3.9 kg
m–2). A baseline (preintervention), and
midpoint (10 weeks later) incremental CPX was performed.
Within 1 week of the midpoint CPX, a submaximal (termi-
nated at 85% HR reserve) exercise test was performed with
identical protocol, but without a metabolic cart. For all 3
tests, resting HR, blood pressure, and HR at the end of every
minute were recorded. The direct HR prescription method
(linear relationship between HR and oxygen consumption
(V_ O2) gathered via CPX) was used to determine the HR cor-
S49
to subjective health, everyday feelings, human relations, and
subjective happiness. The subjective health and subjective
happiness increased significantly in the WK group. The CN
group showed no significant changes in any measurements.
It suggests that slow resistance training using body weight
as a load is effective in improving body composition and
bone health status, and that it is an available method for im-
proving psychological items, such as subjective health and
life satisfaction, in which resistance training indicated differ-
ent changes from walking exercise.
responding to 60% V_ O2 reserve (a common intensity in the
intervention) at baseline and midpoint. The difference in
these HR targets, and hence the adjustment from the base-
line target necessary at the midpoint (DHR60%), was com-
pared with several variables collected from the midpoint
submaximal exercise test. The change in HR from a work-
load just under each individual’s ventilatory threshold (VT)
from the baseline CPX and the same workload on the mid-
point submaximal test (DHR < VT) was the only significant
correlation (r = 0.83, p £ 0.01). Inconsistent HR data pre-
cluded the inclusion of 3 subject’s data from this variable.
A linear regression was performed, DHR < VT significantly
predicted DHR60% (b = 0.42, t(6) = –3.57, p £ 0.01), ex-
plaining a significant proportion of the variance (r2 = 0.68,
F(1,6) = 12.78, p £ 0.01). This pilot method shows promise
for use as an easy strategy of adjusting HR targets through-
out an exercise intervention to account for training adapta-
tions, and should be further explored with a larger sample
of BCS.
Published by NRC Research Press
S50
Transaxial quantitative ultrasound measurements
in females: from adolescence to young adulthood
P. Klentrou and I.A. Ludwa
Department of Physical Education and Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines,
ON L2S 3A1, Canada
Monitoring bone mineral accrual from adolescence to
young adulthood is crucial to ensure skeletal adequacy and
health later in life. However, the majority of previous stud-
ies used radiation-based technologies to measure bone min-
eral density in relatively small population samples.
Transaxial quantitative ultrasound (QUS) is a relatively new
technology that measures the speed of sound (SOS) along
the bone, so it is not affected by bone size. Previous studies
have shown that QUS is associated with bone strength and
reflects both quantitative and qualitative properties of bone.
This study examined how QUS measurements change in
young females, aged 14 to 23 years, and whether body com-
position, oral contraceptive (OC) use, physical activity, and
calcium intake influence these measurements. A total of 595
females were classified as nonusers or users of OC. QUS
measurements were performed at the distal radius and mid-
tibia. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from body
mass and height. Physical activity and dietary calcium in-
Relationship between the Balance Error Scoring
System and acute mountain sickness
M.S. Koehle and N.J. Osborne
School of Human Kinetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3,
Canada; Division of Sport Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver,
BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, Sheffield University, Sheffield, UK
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a common, debilitating,
and sometimes lethal condition that is caused by exposure to
the hypoxia of high altitude in unacclimatised individuals. Its
severest presentation, high altitude cerebral edema is associated
with an impaired level of consciousness and gross ataxia. The
purpose of the current study was to look for subtle indications
of ataxia, using a clinical balance tool previously used in brain
injury (the Balance Error Scoring System, or BESS). Twenty-
two blinded subjects participated in either the experimental (si-
mulated altitude) or control exposure. The experimental expo-
sure (7 males, 7 females) consisted of an 8-h challenge in
normobaric hypoxia (simulating 4500 m), while the control
condition (5 males, 3 females) took place in sea-level nor-
moxia. Subjects had balance measured with BESS upon entry
into the chamber, and at 3 h after entry into the chamber.
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
take were assessed using standardized questionnaires. Bone
SOS increased with increasing age (r2 = 0.24 and 0.20 for
radius and tibia, respectively; p < 0.05). OCs had no signifi-
cant main effect on the QUS measurements, yet there was a
significant age-by-OC-use interaction for tibia SOS. For the
nonusers of OC, age, BMI, and calcium intake were signifi-
cant predictors of tibia SOS, explaining 24% of the variance
in tibial SOS scores. For the OC users, age and BMI were
significant predictors of tibial SOS, explaining 18% of the
variance. Age was the only predictor of radial SOS in both
groups. In conclusion, QUS scores increase steadily in fe-
males during their transition from adolescence to adulthood,
while OCs seemed to interfere with the age-dependent bone
development, resulting in decreased tibial SOS in early adult
OC users. In addition, higher BMI showed negative effects
on bone SOS, independent of OC use, while daily calcium
intake showed positive effects on tibial SOS only in the
nonusers of OCs.
BESS measurement requires the subjects to stand in 3 different
stances on the flat ground, and then on a 10 cm foam pad.
Their score is the sum of the number of errors made in each
of the 3 stances in each of the 2 conditions. The severity of
AMS was assessed using the Lake Louise Score (LLS) self-re-
port questionnaire at these same time points. BESS score was
significantly correlated to AMS severity by LLS (r = 0.501,
p < 0.001). At 3 h into the exposure, BESS score had dropped
by 2.6 ± 1.8 in the control group, but increased by 13.2 ± 18.7
in the experimental group. The difference between these 2
groups was significant (p < 0.05). In conclusion, balance, as
measured by BESS, deteriorates in simulated altitude condi-
tions; this deterioration correlates well with the severity of
AMS. Measurement of balance by BESS represents a potential
clinical tool in the diagnosis of AMS in the field.
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
Can a combination of hand-grip exercise and
prolonged forearm occlusion elicit a maximal
brachial artery FMD response?
J. Ku, A. McEvoy, and K.E. Pyke
School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6,
Canada
The small shear stress (SS) stimulus derived from a 5-min
occlusion reactive hyperemia (RH) complicates determination
of whether a small flow-mediated dilation (FMD) response
truly indicates endothelial dysfunction. Identification of a
maximal FMD capacity (FMDmax) could provide an index of
endothelial function that is not obscured by an inadequate
stimulus magnitude. The purpose of this study was to create
graded increases in SS to identify FMDmax (defined as a pla-
teau in FMD). Ten healthy subjects (5 males). Brachial artery
diameter (BAD) and blood flow velocity (BV) were assessed
in 10 healthy subjects (5 males) with echo and Doppler ultra-
sound, respectively. Subjects performed 7 RH trials: 5-min,
10-min, and 15-min occlusion (5RH, 10RH, 15RH, respec-
tively); 10-min and 15-min occlusion + 3-min ischemic exer-
cise (IE) (10IE and 15IE, respectively); 10-min and 15-min
occlusion + 3-min IE + 4-min post-occlusion exercise
(PE) (10IEPE and 15IEPE, respectively). SS was estimated
as shear rate (SR = BV/BAD) and expressed as the area
under the curve (SR-AUC) until time of peak diameter
measurement. Data are means ± SD. There were no signif-
Effects of repeated exposure to normobaric
hyperoxia on plasma erythropoietin concentration
J.M. Labreche, J.S. Querido, M.N. Fedoruk, J.L. Rupert, and D.C. McKenzie
School of Human Kinetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3,
Canada
A single exposure of hyperoxia (100% O2) has been shown
to increase plasma erythropoietin concentration (p[EPO]).
Our laboratory was unable to replicate these findings. The
purpose of the current study was to investigate the effect of
repeated exposures of hyperoxia on p[EPO] levels. Seven
healthy, active nonsmokers (5 female, 2 male) participated.
Subjects were exposed to 2 h of 100% normobaric oxygen at
rest on 5 consecutive days. A baseline blood sample was taken
immediately prior to the first exposure. Subsequent samples
were taken before each of the following exposures, and at 72,
96, and 120 h after the final exposure. p[EPO] was measured
in duplicate by ELISA, and the data were normalized to a per-
S51
icant differences in SR-AUC or %FMD among the IE and
IEPE trials (SR-AUC IE, 17445.23 ± 7117.17; IEPE,
15923.34 ± 6137.56, p > 0.05; %FMD IE, 17.02 ± 5.85%;
IEPE, 18.26 ± 6.76%, p > 0.05). Thus, once IE was added,
a longer period of forearm occlusion or continuing exercise
postocclusion did not increase SR-AUC or %FMD. There-
fore, all IE and IEPE trials were pooled (RH+EX). Adding
exercise to occlusion (RH+EX) significantly increased the
SR-AUC (16684.28 ± 4578.07) and %FMD (17.64 ±
4.85%) vs. the 5RH, 10RH, and 15RH trials (SR-AUC,
4943.02 ± 1354.86, 7253.95 ± 3090.28, 10742.91 ±
2927.37, respectively; %FMD, 6.94% ± 2.51%, 10.61% ±
4.63%, 13.39% ± 5.16%, respectively, p < 0.05). There
was also a strong relationship between SR-AUC and
%FMD (r2 = 0.595), and normalization (%FMD/SR-AUC)
abolished between-trial differences in %FMD (p = 0.187).
In conclusion, FMDmax was not conclusively identified be-
cause the %FMD did not plateau with increasing SS. How-
ever, it is clear that FMDmax can far exceed the %FMD
achieved with a standard 5-min RH test.
cent change from baseline values. Despite 1 subject increasing
p[EPO] to 195% of baseline on the final 2 measures, a re-
peated-measures ANOVA showed no significant differences
in means across all time points (p = 0.39). In contrast to the
previous publication, pairwise comparisons revealed a signifi-
cant decrease in p[EPO] 24 h after the initial exposure. No
other differences were shown when each of the sample days
was compared with baseline (p = 0.03). These results suggest
that there may be highly individualized p[EPO] responses to
hyperoxia exposure. Additional investigations identifying the
environmental, genetic, and (or) developmental characteris-
tics of responders to hyperoxia are warranted.
Published by NRC Research Press
S52 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

Plasmapheresis and aerobic responses to

exercise
L.L. Lackey, B.N. Grignon, P.D. Knowles, S.D. Burdette, E.R. Castillo, D.W. Hill, and
J.L. Vingren
Applied Physiology Laboratories, Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and
Recreation, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #310769, Denton, TX 76203,
USA

The purpose of this study was to investigate the time
course of the effects of plasma donation on responses to
severe-intensity exercise. Four women (mean ± SD: age,
26 ± 7 years; height, 163 ± 13 cm; weight, 62.9 ±
12.0 kg) and 7 men (age, 25 ± 2 years; height, 180 ±
6 cm; weight, 87.3 ± 6.2 kg) performed exhaustive cycle
ergometer tests under control conditions, and then 2 h,
2 days, and 7 days following plasma donation. Times to
exhaustion at baseline and 2 h, 2 days, and 7 days follow-
ing plasmapheresis were 274 ± 45, 237 ± 62, 274 ± 81,
and 277 ± 73 s, respectively; performance time was re-
duced (p = 0.052) 2 h after donation. Hemoglobin concen-
trations ([Hb]) before each test were 141 ± 19, 162 ± 13,
148 ± 15, and 143 ± 11 g
L–1; [Hb] was increased 2 h
after donation. Maximal oxygen consumption (V_ O2 max)
values were 37.9 ± 4.6, 36.7 ± 4.0, 38.2 ± 4.3, and
38.3 ± 3.8 mL
kg–1
min–1; V_ O2 max was not affected by
donation. The time constants of the primary phase of the
2-component V_ O2 response in the exhaustive severe-inten-
sity exercise were 27 ± 10, 29 ± 9, 31 ± 9, and 31 ± 10 s;
the kinetics of the V_ O2 response were unaffected by
plasma donation. These data suggest that plasma donation
negatively impacts performance because of reduced blood
volume (i.e., only 2 h following donation). Baseline per-
formance levels are re-established by 2 days after donation.
This information may be of value to athletes and others
who might balance the altruism of plasma donation with
personal concerns about performance.

Effects of acute exercise on apoptotic signaling

and oxidative stress in cardiac and skeletal
muscle
C.C. Lalonde, J.C.S. Chung, J.W.E. Rush, and J. Quadrilatero
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada

Skeletal and cardiac muscle apoptosis are altered in a
number of disease states. Previous research indicates that ex-
ercise can alter apoptotic signaling; however, the effect of
acute exercise on apoptosis in muscles of different fiber
type composition and cardiac muscle has not been well de-
fined. Therefore, we assessed apoptotic and antioxidant pro-
tein expression, glutathione levels, reactive oxygen species
(ROS) production, and proteolytic enzyme activity in muscle
of rats following a single bout of treadmill running.
Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into 3 groups: a seden-
tary control group (CON), a group sacrificed immediately
(IMM) after exercise (21 m
min–1, 15% grade, 60 min), and
a group sacrificed 24 h (24 h) after exercise. Immunoblots
were performed on whole muscle and subcellular fractions
from soleus (SOL), white gastrocnemius (WG), and left ven-
tricle (LV) to assess protein expression and localization,
while fluorometric assays were performed to determine
caspase enzyme activity and ROS production. Reduced glu-
tathione (GSH) levels were significantly (p = 0.001) de-
creased 24 h postexercise in LV, with a trend (p = 0.10)
toward increased ROS production IMM (+39%) and 24 h
(+44%) following exercise. Similarly, GSH levels were sig-
nificantly (p = 0.009) reduced 24 h following exercise in
WG but not SOL muscle. ROS production was not altered
in WG or SOL muscle. The activity of caspase-3 and
caspase-9 was also significantly (p = 0.037) elevated IMM
following exercise in LV, but returned to baseline levels
24 h postexercise. Caspase-3 and caspase-9 were not altered
in WG and SOL muscle, nor was caspase-8 across all
muscles. Hsp70, a cellular stress protein, was significantly
(p = 0.001) increased in LV 24 h postexercise, compared
with the CON and IMM groups; however, this was not

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés S53

observed in SOL or WG muscle. In addition, there was a can alter apoptotic signaling in cardiac muscle, and signifi-
significant increases in ARC (p = 0.009) protein 24 h post- cantly increase anti-apoptotic ARC protein levels in slow
exercise in SOL (but not WG or LV), relative to CON ani- skeletal muscle.
mals. These results suggest that an acute bout of exercise

Utilization of the Physical Activity Line by the

general public
K.N. Lane, L. Zehr, S.S.D. Bredin, and D.E.R. Warburton
Camosun College, Victoria, BC V9E 2C5, Canada; University of British Columbia,
Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada

The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology–Health
and Fitness Program of British Columbia has developed a
Physical Activity Support Line (PAL). The vision of PAL is
to be Canada’s authoritative resource for practical, evidence-
based physical activity and healthy living information and
advice. Between 1 July 2009 and 30 April 2010, a total of
135 contacts were made to PAL, 92 of which were from the
general public and 43 of which were from health professio-
nals. The purpose of this study was to analyze contact data
made by the general public to PAL. The primary method of
contact was telephone (72%); however, some individuals
elected to use email (21%) or ask their question in person
(7%). The average age of those who contacted PAL was
55 years (SD 18.5), and the majority was female (72%). Of
those people who identified their health region, 57% were
from Vancouver Coastal Health, 20% from Fraser Health,
11% from Vancouver Island Health Authority, 9% from
Northern Health, and 3% from Interior Health. Most individ-
uals were referred to PAL through a promotional event fa-
cilitated by PAL staff (37%) or participation in a group
targeted as a PAL pilot site (25%). Other means of referral
included word of mouth (18%), HealthLink BC (12%),
health professionals (9%), or the Web (1%). Individuals
contacting PAL were interested in 1 or more of the follow-
ing services: general physical activity and healthy living ad-
vice (78% of contacts), individualized exercise prescriptions
(39%), and (or) wayfinding (27%). For each contact made
by telephone, the length of the call ranged from 5 to
60 min (mean 18.9, SD 12.4). When individuals requested
information and (or) material from PAL, most preferred that
it be provided through email (92%), rather than traditional
mail (24%) or in person (4%). In conclusion, this analysis
of contacts made by the general public to PAL over a
10-month period provided the types of information, resour-
ces, and services that PAL may be able to make available
to its users.

Predicting maximal oxygen uptake in children and

youth
A.G. LeBlanc, C.L. Craig, and M.S. Tremblay
Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute Healthy Active Living and
Obesity Research Group, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada; Canadian
Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute, 201-185 Somerset Street West, Ottawa,
ON K2P 0J2, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa,
ON K1H 8L1, Canada

Standardized methods for predicting maximal oxygen up-
take (V_ O2 max) of 15- to 69-year-olds have existed in Canada
since 1976, yet a method for doing so for children and youth
is lacking. The purpose of this study is to determine a
method of predicting V_ O2 max for young people from the
heart-rate (HR) response to a submaximal step test, and to
validate it against the standardized method for 15- to
19-year-olds. Participants were individuals 8 to 19 years of
age surveyed in the 1981 Canadian Fitness Survey. Data
from the submaximal CAFT (Canadian Aerobic Fitness
Test) were used to calculate V_ O2 max at a predicted maximal
HR of 200 beats
min–1, using a least-squares prediction from
the repeated measures of oxygen consumption (O2cost) and
HR at each stage of the test. This was then compared with
predicted V_ O2 max obtained from the Jette equation (V_ O2 max
= 42.5 + (16.6  final O2cost) – 0.12  weight – 0.12 

Published by NRC Research Press

S54 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

final HR – 0.24  age). Valid HR measurements were avail-
able for 3125 participants (41% girls; mean age,
12.5 years). Mean final HR was 169 beats
min–1 for girls
and 155 beats
min–1 for boys. Mean body mass index
(BMI) values were 18.5 kg
m–2 and 18.9 kg
m–2 for girls
and boys, respectively. Mean V_ O2 max predicted by HR re-
sponse was 41.1 ± 5.8 mL
kg–1
min–1. Mean V_ O2 max pre-
dicted by the Jette equation was 53.5 ± 7.3 mL
kg–1
min–1.
The correlation between the 2 tests was 0.92 for 15- to
19-year-olds. These differed significantly between boys
and girls and across age and BMI groups. Both the Jette
equation and the prediction of V_ O2 max from HR response
were difficult to interpret for young children (8–10 years).
Future research should build on this work to help calculate
predicted V_ O2 max values for participants in the Canadian
Health Measures Survey to determine temporal changes in
the fitness levels of Canadian children and youth.

Skeletal and cardiac muscle subsarcolemmal

and intermyofibrillar mitochondrial palmitate
oxidation: potential influence of membrane
lipid structure
P.J. LeBlanc, G.P. Holloway, L. McMeekin, and V.A. Fajardo
Centre for Muscle Metabolism and Biophysics, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock
University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada; Department of Human Health and
Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada

Long-chain fatty acids (LCFA) are important sources of
energy. Rates of LCFA oxidation differ between tissues,
with more oxidative tissue (e.g., heart) having higher rates
than less oxidative tissue (e.g., white muscle). In addition,
rates of LCFA oxidation differ between subsarcolemmal
(SS) and intermyofibrillar (IMF) mitochondria. Portions of
LCFA oxidation involve integral membrane proteins, specif-
ically activation and translocation of LCFA. The phospho-
lipid fatty acid composition can influence integral
membrane protein function, with previous research demon-
strating higher unsaturation results in higher carnitine palmi-
toyl transferase 1 activity in hepatic mitochondria. However,
it is currently unknown if this association exists in muscle.
Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the associa-
tion between LCFA oxidation and membrane phospholipid
composition in SS and IMF mitochondria from cardiac, red
(gastrocnemius and vastus lateralis), and white (gastrocne-
mius and vastus lateralis) muscle in rats. SS and IMF mito-
chondria were isolated, and LCFA (palmitate) oxidation
rates were compared with membrane phospholipid composi-
tion. Lipids were extracted, phospholipids were separated by
thin-layer chromatography, and fatty acid composition of
each phospholipid was determined by gas chromatography.
Among tissues, rates of palmitate oxidation differed between
SS (heart > red muscle > white muscle) and IMF (red
muscle > heart > white muscle) mitochondria, which corre-
lated positively (r2 = 0.5868; p < 0.05) with unsaturation in-
dex (total number of double bonds per 100 fatty acids).
Within skeletal muscle, but not cardiac, palmitate oxidation
was *50% higher in IMF than in SS. In contrast, there
were no differences in percent mole fraction of phospholipid
head groups or major fatty acid subclasses in cardiac and
skeletal muscle SS and IMF mitochondrial membranes, with
the exception of cardiolipin demonstrating higher unsatura-
tion (30% higher n-6 polyunsaturate and 48% lower saturate
fatty acid) in SS than in IMF. Thus, the results suggest
LCFA oxidation rates may be influenced by the total unsatu-
ration of the mitochondrial membrane, rather than by indi-
vidual phospholipids and their respective fatty acids.
(Supported by NSERC.)

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
Exercise with a twist: an assessment of left
ventricular torsion and recoil in young, middle-
aged, and endurance-trained men
L. Lee, J.A. Mariani, Z. Sasson, and J.M. Goodman
Department of Exercise Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 2W6, Canada;
Department of Cardiology, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON M5G 1X5, Canada
The contribution of left ventricular (LV) torsion and recoil
in augmenting stroke volume during exercise is poorly under-
stood, and few data are available describing the impact of en-
durance exercise and aging on LV torsion and recoil. This
study examined the effects of aging on LV torsion and recoil
at rest and during submaximal exercise in healthy, young
(YU) and older untrained males (OU), and in age-matched
older, endurance-trained males (OT). Two-dimensional echo-
cardiography with speckle tracking imaging was used to
quantify LV torsion and recoil in 11 YU (age, 24.0 ±
4.1 years), 9 OU (age, 54.8 ± 4.3 years), and 12 OT (age,
53.8 ± 4.1 years) at rest in upright and supine body posi-
tions, and while subjects performed submaximal (heart
rates between 105 and 110 beats
min–1) upright and supine
cycle ergometry. LV torsion increased from rest to exercise
in YU in upright and supine body positions (9.9 ± 2.38 to
13.2 ± 5.28, p = 0.03; and 8.8 ± 3.88to 12.8 ± 6.68, p =
0.02, respectively), but not in OU. LV torsion increased
from rest to exercise in the supine body position only in
OT (10.0 ± 3.18 to 13.1 ± 4.18, p = 0.046). YU augmented
The effect of heavy load carriage on breathing
pattern and respiratory mechanics during graded
exercise
I.A. Lesser, M.K. Stickland, A.N.H. Hodges, and S.R. Petersen
Faculties of Physical Education and Recreation and Medicine and Dentistry, University of
Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H9, Canada
Many occupations involve work carrying heavy loads
with a backpack. The purpose of this study was to evaluate
the effects of heavy load carriage on pulmonary function at
rest and on breathing pattern and operating lung volumes
during graded exercise. Using a within-subject, repeated-
measures design, 15 physically active males with normal
lung function completed, in random order, on separate days,
treadmill tests to measure V_ O2 peak with and without a prop-
erly sized and fitted 25-kg pack. Subsequently, each subject
completed submaximal graded exercise protocols in both
S55
recoil velocity from rest to exercise in both upright and su-
pine body positions (–2.3 ± 0.7 rad
s–1 to –3.0 ± 1.0 rad
s–1,
p = 0.003; and –2.0 ± 0.7 rad
s–1 to –2.9 ± 0.8 rad
s–1, p =
0.001, respectively). In contrast to YU, OU augmented recoil
velocity only during supine exercise (–1.9 ± 0.3 rad
s–1
to –2.7 ± 1.1 rad
s–1), while the OT group only increased re-
coil velocity during upright exercise (–2.3 ± 0.7 rad
s–1
to –3.4 ± 0.9 rad
s–1). LV ejection fraction increased simi-
larly across groups, and no differences in end-diastolic vol-
ume or changes in end-systolic volume were observed with
supine exercise. These findings suggest that in conditions
where the Frank–Starling mechanism has been fully re-
cruited, endurance training in older subjects may augment
stroke volume (SV) by increasing LV torsion and contractil-
ity, rather than contractility alone, similar to that observed in
younger hearts. This response pattern may help to explain
the mechanism underlying the training-induced augmentation
in SV during exercise, and the enhanced diastolic perform-
ance seen after endurance training.
loaded (GX-L) and unloaded conditions. The 2 graded exer-
cise challenges were completed on the same day, in random
order, and were separated by 60 min of recovery. In each
condition, the subject exercised for 5 min at intensities
equivalent to 55%, 65%, 75%, and 85% of his V_ O2 peak
(loaded). Resting spirometry was followed by measurements
of breathing frequency (Bf), tidal volume (VT), ventilation
(V_ E), end-expiratory lung volume (EELV), end-inspiratory
lung volume (EILV), inspiratory capacity, heart rate (HR),
and perceived exertion (RPE) at each exercise intensity.
Published by NRC Research Press
S56 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

Consistent with previous research, resting forced vital ca-
pacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)
were reduced (p < 0.05) by approximately 3% in the loaded
condition, with no change in FEV1/FVC. During graded ex-
ercise, EELV was unchanged, while VT and EILV were re-
duced by 14% and 5%, respectively, in the loaded
condition. Minute ventilation was maintained during loaded
exercise by a 9% increase in Bf (p < 0.05). RPE was always
higher (p < 0.05) during the GX-L, despite identical V_ O2,
V_ E, and HR responses at each exercise intensity. The results
of this experiment show that the heavy pack has a minor ef-
fect on resting spirometry values. During graded exercise
under heavy load up to 85% of V_ O2 peak, it seems likely that
breathing pattern is altered in an attempt to reduce the work
of breathing while maintaining V_ E. (Supported by the De-
partment of National Defence.)

Regulatory volume response to increased

extracellular lactate via monocarboxylate
transporters in mammalian skeletal muscle
M.J. Leung, K.E. Shortreed, T.J. Hawke, and M.I. Lindinger
Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1,
Canada; Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8,
Canada

Mammalian skeletal muscle cells regulate volume in re-
sponse to fluctuations in extracellular osmolarity. As a result
of increased osmolarity, the rate of regulatory volume in-
crease (RVI) is hypothesized to occur more rapidly in the
presence of lactate anions, as opposed to Cl– anions, because
the inward transport of osmotically active lactate via mono-
carboxylate transporters (MCTs) should increase the rate at
which intracellular osmolarity equilibrates with extracellular
osmolarity. The purpose of the present study was to further
investigate the potential role of lactate in the contribution of
RVI, and to verify the involvement of the MCT in the RVI
response. Adult mouse extensor digitorum longus and pero-
neous muscle single fibres were isolated using collagenase
and incubated in DMEM. Width measurements were ob-
tained and analyzed at 2 separate sites per fibre, every 5–
10 s for 30 min, in response to an increase in extracellular
osmolarity via sucrose, NaCl, or Na-lactate treatment. The
extracellular changes in osmolarity, which were separately
tested and verified, were conducted in the presence or ab-
sence of NKCC (bumetanide) and MCT (pCMBS) inhibi-
tors. Increasing extracellular osmolarity resulted in rapid
cell shrinkage, followed by a subsequent recovery back up
to baseline volume. The extent of volume loss was lessened
in response to Na-lactate, in comparison to sucrose or NaCl
treatments of the same step increase in extracellular osmo-
larity. Bumetanide resulted in a diminished RVI, compared
with control. Inhibition of the MCT by pCMBS also demon-
strated a reduced recovery response, in comparison to con-
trol; however, the degree of attenuation was greater than
with NKCC inhibition alone. In summary, these results sug-
gest that the MCT plays a notable role in facilitating RVI,
by way of lactate transport, in the optimal response of skel-
etal muscle cells in exerting the occurrence of volume re-
covery.

Effects of modulation of glutathione on coronary

vascular resistance and vasomotor function
A.S. Levy, S.G. Denniss, A.J. Jeffery, E.B. Reid, C.S. Smith, and J.W.E. Rush
Faculty of Applied Health Science, Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo,
200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada

Glutathione (GSH), a 3-amino acid compound, is ubiqui-
tously expressed in eukaryotic cells, and is the most abun-
dant low-molecular-weight thiol. The purpose of these
studies is to examine how both acute and chronic manipula-
tions of GSH alter vasomotor function in the intact coronary
circulation. To assess vasomotor function, hearts were
mounted on a constant flow Langendorff. The flow rate was
assigned to mimic in vivo conditions. Hearts were equili-
brated for 30 min prior to assessment of hemodynamics and
vasomotor function. In the first experiment, we demon-

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
strated that acute addition of 10 mmol
L–1 GSH resulted in
an increased sensitivity to the endothelial agonist bradykinin
(BK, p < 0.05). These effects required the presence of reac-
tive oxygen species, as coinfusion of TEMPOL with GSH
was not different from the control condition in the presence
(p > 0.05) or absence of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibi-
tion (p > 0.05). In the second experiment, we examined the
effects of acute thiol depletion on vasomotor function. Thiol
conjugation and thioredoxin inhibition resulted in impaired
coronary vasomotor responses (p < 0.05 vs. CON). Thiore-
doxin inhibition resulted in a marked ‘‘recontraction’’ not
dependent on cyclooxygenase, yet enhanced in the presence
of TEMPOL. In the final experiment, animals were treated
with L-buthionine-(S,R)-sulfoximine (BSO) for 10 days.
Treatment decreased ventricular GSH content (–91%, p <
Changes in hydration status of elite Canadian
sailors
E.J.H. Lewis, S.G. Thomas, and G.D. Wells
Department of Exercise Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5R 2W6, Canada;
Canadian Sport Centre Ontario, Toronto, ON M3C 3R8, Canada
Olympic-class sailing requires execution of physically de-
manding skills while making complex tactical decisions. A
1%–2% change in body weight from sweating can have an
impact on both physical and mental performance. We as-
sessed the effectiveness of 3 different beverages — water
with Crystal Light (control, C); Gatorade (experimental con-
trol, EG); and sailing-specific Infinit (experimental, EI) —
on hydration status. Athletes were provided ad libitum ac-
cess to each drink on 3 separate training days in a block-
randomized trial designed to replicate as closely as possible
actual competitive conditions. Eleven elite male Canadian
sailors participated in this study (mean ± SE: age, 23.3 ±
1.3 years; height, 183.9 ± 1.6 cm; mass, 80.5 ± 1.9). Ath-
letes were members of the 2010 Canadian sailing team, par-
ticipating in a 5-day training camp. During training, sweat
sodium concentration was gathered from forehead, forearm,
and chest patches. Athletes’ body mass changes, urine spe-
cific gravity, osmolarity, and colour were used to estimate
changes in hydration status from before to after a 2.5-h
training session. Blood electrolyte concentrations were
S57
0.05) and increased ventricular H2O2 content (50%, p <
0.05). Thiol depletion did not result in an impaired BK-
mediated response. However, there was an increase in reli-
ance on nitric oxide (NO), as NOS inhibition resulted in
greater blunting of the BK dose–response curve in BSO ani-
mals, compared with controls (p < 0.05). Conversely, the
sensitivity to H2O2 was blunted in the BSO animals, com-
pared with controls (p < 0.05). Western blot analysis re-
vealed increased endothelial NOS and catalase protein
content in the BSO animals (p < 0.05). Acute addition of
GSH enhances vasomotor responses, while acute depletion
impairs vasomotor responses. Chronic depletion augments
the BK-mediated dilatory pathway favouring NO. These
studies identify novel roles that GSH has within the vascular
wall. (Supported by NSERC.)
measured using an iStat analyzer. Average training condi-
tions were as follows: temperature, 10.0 ± 1.0 8C; wind
speed, 23.5 ± 3.0 km
h–1; and relative humidity, 65.9% ±
8.9%). Athletes lost significant body mass (C, –0.47 +
0.11 kg; EG, –0.40 + 0.09 kg; EI, –0.36 + 0.09 kg) (p <
0.01) and potassium (C, –0.96 + 0.16 mmol
L–1; EG, –
0.67 + 0.14 mmol
L–1; EI, –0.63 + 0.19 mmol
L–1) (p <
0.01) during each condition. During the control trial only,
athletes’ blood sodium concentration (–1.71 +
0.71 mmol
L–1) and blood glucose levels (–0.59 +
0.16 mmol
L–1) were reduced (p < 0.05). Urinary measure-
ments revealed no differences between drink conditions or
pre to post sailing. In summary, elite Canadian sailors do
not consume enough fluid in any condition to attenuate
body weight and electrolyte changes. Cool temperatures
may cause athletes to underestimate their sweat rate and re-
quired fluid intake, even in physically demanding condi-
tions. Urinary measurements do not reflect conditions in the
blood.
Published by NRC Research Press
S58 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

Investigating the effects of changes in exercise

capacity on outcomes following lung
transplantation
M. Li, S. Mathur, N. Chowdhury, D. Helm, and L.G. Singer
Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada;
Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1V7, Canada;
Lung Transplant Program, Toronto General Hospital-University Health Network, Toronto,
ON M5G 2C4, Canada

Exercise capacity is well preserved among lung transplan-
tation candidates who participate in pretransplant pulmonary
rehabilitation, despite their severe, progressive lung disease.
The impact of exercise capacity on post-transplant outcomes
has yet to be evaluated in this group. To examine the asso-
ciation between changes in exercise capacity during the pre-
transplant period and post-transplant outcomes. A
retrospective chart review of 423 patients who received a
single, double, or heart–lung transplant between January
2004 and June 2009 was conducted. Data extracted included
6-min walk distances (6MWD) at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and
3-month intervals thereafter; length of stay in the hospital
after transplant; and discharge disposition. Spearman’s coef-
ficient of rank correlation was used to examine for associa-
tion between the final 6MWD or change in 6MWD prior to
transplantation (baseline – final 6MWD) and post-transplant
outcomes. The Wilcoxon rank–sum test was used to deter-
mine the association between the final 6MWD or change in
6MWD and discharge disposition. The major diagnostic cat-
egories among lung transplant candidates included pulmo-
nary fibrosis (33%), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(28%), and cystic fibrosis (22%). The 6MWD decreased, on
average, by 16 m (n = 189; p = 0.002) from the time of list-
ing to the last 6MWD prior to transplantation; however, this
was not clinically significant. A greater final 6MWD prior
to transplantation was correlated with a shorter length of
stay in the hospital (n = 214; p = 0.02) and fewer days of
intubation (n = 162; p = 0.03). Patients discharged home
had a greater increase in 6MWD from listing to final
6MWD than patients who died in the hospital postsurgery
(p < 0.05). They also tended to have a greater increase in
6MWD than patients discharged to inpatient rehabilitation,
although this did not reach statistical significance (p =
0.09). Lung transplant recipients with greater exercise ca-
pacity prior to transplantation experience more favorable
post-transplant outcomes. The impact of pretransplant pul-
monary rehabilitation on quality of life requires further study.

Effects of mild dehydration on physiological,

mental, and performance parameters during ice
hockey
M.E. Linseman, M.S. Palmer, H.M. Logan-Sprenger, and L.L. Spriet
Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph,
ON N1G 2W1, Canada

Previous research shows that losing *2% body mass
(BM) through sweating impairs athletic performance during
‘‘stop and go’’ sports, such as basketball and soccer. Re-
search from our laboratory has shown that hockey players
can reach this level of dehydration during practices and
games. The purpose of this study was to examine effects of
mild dehydration on physiological, mental, and on-ice per-
formance parameters in experienced male hockey players
(n = 15; age, 21.3 ± 0.2 years; weight, 80.0 ± 2.5 kg; height,
1.83 ± 0.01 m). The experimental design involved
‘‘baseline’’ performance drills (slalom skating, suicide
sprints, and shooting), followed by a 70-min 5-on-5 scrim-
mage, and the same set of drills. Following 2 practice
weeks, subjects completed 2 experimental trials in random
order, consuming either no fluid (NF) or a volume of
carbohydrate–electrolyte solution (CES) equal to sweat rate

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés S59

(G). During the scrimmage, heart rate (HR), core tempera-
ture (Tc), and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were meas-
ured. Following testing, subjects completed 2 questionnaires
to determine the effects of the protocol on their mental state.
BM loss was 1.9% + 0.1% BM in NF and 0.1% + 0.1% BM
in G. Tc increased by 1.60 + 0.10 8C in G and 1.74 +
0.13 8C in NF. Average HR was 171.4 + 1.8 beats
min–1 in
G and 174.2 + 1.7 beats
min–1 in NF. Average RPE was
15.8 + 0.3 in G and 15.8 + 0.4 in NF. Postscrimmage shoot-
ing performance improved by 4.8 ± 2.1 points in G and by
1.1 ± 1.7 points in NF (p < 0.05), but suicide sprint and
skating slalom performances decreased similarly between
groups. The NF group had significantly higher fatigue-related
scores in both questionnaires (p < 0.05). In summary,
following *2% dehydration during ice hockey, HR and Tc
increased nonsignificantly. Skating drill performance was
not significantly altered by hydration, but shooting perform-
ance was significantly improved when athletes maintained
BM. Postexercise questionnaires demonstrated increased
fatigue in dehydrated players.

Acute postexercise hypotension and blood

pressure reduction with chronic training are
strongly associated in prehypertensives
S. Liu, J. Goodman, R. Nolan, and S. Thomas
Department of Exercise Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 2W6, Canada;
Toronto General Hospital, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 2N2, Canada

Aerobic exercise is recommended as a lifestyle interven-
tion to reduce blood pressure (BP) in individuals with ele-
vated BP (systolic BP (SBP)/diastolic (DBP) >120/
80 mm Hg). However, the BP response is highly variable
after both acute (SBP/DBP: –27 to 9/–8 to 7 mm Hg) and
chronic aerobic exercise (–20 to 9/–11 to 11.3 mm Hg). We
attempt to identify those who are either resistant or respon-
sive to training, based on their responses to acute (1 bout)
exercise. In all, 17 prehypertensive (120 to 139/80 to
89 mm Hg) males and females (age, 45–60 years) under-
went acute exercise assessments before an 8-week walking
and (or) jogging program (4 times per week, 30 min per ses-
sion, 65% ± 5% V_ O2 max). BP, hemodynamics, heart rate
variability (HRV), and baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) were as-
sessed. Hemodynamics (cardiac output, stroke volume, total
peripheral resistance) were assessed using impedance cardi-
ography. Sequence method was used to analyze BRS. Both
time domain and frequency domain (high frequency, low
frequency, total power) were used to assess HRV. Following
acute exercise, BP (30 min at 65% ± 5% V_ O2 max) decreased
by –7.2 ± 1.2/–4.2 ± 1.0 mm Hg, relative to baseline. Fol-
lowing chronic exercise, BP decreased by –7.0 ± 1.4/–5.2 ±
1.2 mm Hg, relative to baseline. The greater magnitude of
change in SBP after acute exercise was strongly correlated
with the greater magnitude of change in resting SBP after
the training (r = 0.89, p < 0.05). Similar correlation was
also observed with DBP (r = 0.75, p < 0.05). Total periph-
eral resistance (TPR) reduction was observed after both
acute and chronic exercise; however, some of the possible
factors (autonomic, BRS) influencing TPR differed. HRV
showed an increased sympathetic modulation after acute ex-
ercise, but decreased sympathetic modulation after chronic
exercise. BRS decreased after acute exercise but increased
following chronic training. In conclusion, BP reduction after
acute and chronic exercise is influenced by different auto-
nomic and baroreceptor responses. The magnitude of change
in BP after acute exercise can be used as an indicator of the
magnitude of BP change after chronic exercise.

Analysis of push mechanics in elite wheelchair

basketball players
K.L. Lockwood, B. Komenda, D. Harriss, A. McKenzie, B. Linker, and C. DalCin
Department of Physical Education & Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines,
ON L2S 3A1, Canada; Canadian Sport Centre-Ontario, Toronto, ON M3C 3R8, Canada

Push mechanics or the ability to generate optimal power was to examine the relationship between push length (PL)
per push is fundamental to athletes participating in the sport and push rate (PR) during wheelchair propulsion at 2 se-
of wheelchair basketball. The primary purpose of this study lected speeds and elevations during treadmill wheeling.

Published by NRC Research Press

S60
Given that the wheelchair is regarded as an integral part of
the athlete’s system, a secondary focus was to investigate
the contribution of a customized chair set up or chair dimen-
sions relative to classification, limb length, and pushing
characteristics. Ten male wheelchair basketball players (age,
26.6 ± 5.5 years) currently competing at an elite level of
athletics, and representing 5 classifications of disability, par-
ticipated in the study. Kinematic variables related to wheel-
chair propulsion were collected on a large motorized
treadmill at 2 selected speeds and elevations (2.68 m
s–1 at
5%; 3.57 m
s–1 at 10%). The sagittal plane of motion was
videotaped at 30 FPS using a Panasonic 300X digital cam-
corder to facilitate a 2D analysis. Data were imported into
Dartfish software, and 10 consecutive pushes were selected
from each speed for analysis. PL, PR, point of contact
(PofC), point of release (PofR), and range of motion at the
Time course of hyperosmotic-induced changes in
glucose uptake signalling in mammalian skeletal
muscle
A.J. Lui, R.L.A. Darling, C. Vandommele, R.E.K. MacPherson, S.J. Peters,
P.J. LeBlanc, and B.D. Roy
Centre for Muscle Metabolism and Biophysics, Faculty of Applied Health Studies, Brock
University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
Extracellular ansio-osmotic perturbations result in acute
alterations in cell volume and the metabolic status of cells.
Extracellular hyperosmotic (HYPER) stress results in in-
creases in glucose uptake in skeletal muscle cells, compared
with iso-osmotic (ISO) and hypo-osmotic (HYPO) condi-
tions. The purpose of this study was to determine the time
course for changes in common signalling mechanisms in-
volved in glucose uptake during acute hyperosmotic stress
in isolated mammalian skeletal muscle. Rat extensor digito-
rum longus muscles were excised and immediately incu-
bated in a media formulated to mimic ISO (290 ±
10 mmol
kg–1) or HYPER (400 ± 10 mmol
kg–1) extracellu-
lar condition (Sigma Media-199, 8 mmol
L–1 glucose). Each
condition was manipulated with water or mannitol (Sigma
M-9647) to produce the desired osmolality. Muscles were
incubated in each condition for 15, 30, 45, or 60 min, and
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
elbow (ROM) were determined. In addition, 20 measure-
ment variables profiled chair dimensions and set up.
Although classification of disability was the primary deter-
minant to chair set up, PofC, PofR, ROM, PL, and PR were
significantly correlated with specific chair measurements,
meaning that chair set up has the potential to significantly
influence pushing mechanics. These relationships were con-
sistent across the 2 speeds and elevations analyzed, confirm-
ing that chair set up was a primary contributor, as opposed
to speed or elevation of chair propulsion. Optimizing me-
chanical efficiency or enhancing the ability of these athletes
to harness power through their wheelchairs is paramount to
performance. The results of this study suggested that wheel-
chair set up has the potential to provide a biomechanical ad-
vantage or disadvantage for individual athletes.
were immediately snap frozen following the incubations.
Signalling mechanisms were investigated by determining
the phosphorylation states of 3 proteins — Akt, ERK, and
AS160 — at the 4 time points. Using Western Blotting, Akt
phosphorylation was found to be significantly higher under
HYPER stress at 30 min than at 15, 45, and 60 min (p <
0.05). ERK phosphorylation was significantly higher at
15 min than at 30 min (p < 0.05) within the HYPER group.
AS160 did not change at any of the time points. These lim-
ited results suggest that ERK is one of the earliest proteins
to be activated under hyperosmotic stress, followed by Akt.
Unlike insulin- and contraction-stimulated glucose uptake,
AS160 does not seem to be involved in glucose uptake dur-
ing 60 min of hyperosmotic stress. Further analysis is on-
going. (Supported by NSERC Canada).
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
The effects of gender, body composition, and
V̇O2 peak on exercise intensity measured by heart
rate during participation in intramural soccer
N.J. MacMillan, A.E. Green, J.E.D. Ross, and B.J. Gurd
School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6,
Canada
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has
established guidelines for the minimum amount of physical
activity required for health benefit. There is evidence that
the intensity of recreational sport is high enough to satisfy
these guidelines; however, it is currently unknown whether
gender, fitness (V_ O2 peak), or body composition have any ef-
fect on the intensity of exercise during recreational sport.
Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the ef-
fects of gender, V_ O2 peak, and body composition on the in-
tensity of exercise, measured by heart rate (HR), during
intramural soccer. Thirteen active males (n = 7; V_ O2 peak,
56.2 ± 7.5 mL
kg–1
min–1; age, 23 ± 2.8 years) and females
(n = 6; V_ O2 peak, 43.1 ± 2.9 mL
kg–1
min–1; age, 25 ±
2.8 years) participated in this study, with subjects participat-
ing in the Queen’s University intramural soccer league. HR
was monitored continuously (Team2 Pro, Polar) during 2
regularly scheduled intramural soccer games for each sub-
ject. On a separate occasion, subjects reported to the lab,
where anthropometric measures were taken and they per-
Rehabilitation via cross-education after a scapular
fracture: a case study
C.R.A. Magnus, T.B. Judd, T.S. Barss, and J.P. Farthing
College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B2, Canada
Scapular fractures are very uncommon, representing less
than 1% of all fractures. They frequently result in declines
in muscle strength, muscle size, and range of motion
(ROM). These deleterious effects may be minimized by ap-
plying cross-education during rehabilitation. The purpose of
this study was to apply cross-education to a scapular fracture
case, and monitor muscle strength, muscle thickness (MT),
and ROM through the rehabilitation process. The participant
was a 25-year-old, healthy active male (height, 173.0 cm;
weight, 74.8 kg) who fractured the scapular neck on the
nondominant (left) side. Treatment was nonoperative, and
the participant was immobilized in a sling. MT and ROM
on both limbs were monitored weekly after the fracture for
3 weeks. Strength was measured only on the healthy limb
S61
formed a V_ O2 peak ramp test (*25 W
min–1) to volitional fa-
tigue. Time spent above 90% HRmax was 28.49% ± 8.81%
and 24.69% ± 9.01% for males and females, respectively.
Time spent above 80% HRmax was 70.51% ± 14.17% and
67.28% ± 12.13% for males and females, respectively.
There was no significant difference in time spent above
80% or 90% HRmax between genders. There was no relation-
ship between V_ O2 peak and time spent above 80% HRmax in
males (r2 = 0.14), females (r2 = 0.01), or when both groups
were collapsed together (r2 = 0.01). There was also no rela-
tionship between body composition measurements of body
mass index and time spent above 80% HRmax in either males
(r2 = 0.19), females (r2 = 0.01), or the combined group (r2 =
0.05). These data are consistent with intramural soccer rep-
resenting a mode of vigorous physical activity (as outlined
by ACSM), with >65% of time spent above 80% HRmax,
with this intensity appearing to be independent of gender,
fitness, or body composition.
1- and 3-weeks postfracture. The strength training program
was unilateral training of the healthy side 3 per week with
the following exercises: shoulder external rotation (ExtR),
internal rotation (IntR), lat pull-down (LatP), lateral raise
(LatR), and seated row (SR). At 3-weeks postfracture, there
was a significant MT decline in the fractured (left) side for
supraspinatus (1.78 (SD 0.04) to 1.60 (SD 0.02) cm), infra-
spinatus (1.89 (SD 0.02) to 1.60 (SD 0.03) cm), and deltoid
(2.89 (SD 0.05) to 2.50 (SD 0.04) cm) (p < 0.05). Training
increased MT of right biceps brachii (4.43 (SD 0.02) to 4.92
(SD 0.06) cm) and triceps brachii (5.06 (SD 0.04) to 5.30
(SD 0.09) cm) (p < 0.05). Surprisingly, left triceps brachii
MT increased (4.12 (SD 0.05) to 4.48 (SD 0.05) cm) (p <
0.05). Left vastus lateralis MT decreased (5.92 (SD 0.04) to
Published by NRC Research Press
S62
5.64 (SD 0.08) cm) (p < 0.05). ROM increased for left
shoulder flexion (11.38 (SD 2.3) to 44.38 (SD 3.5)) and ab-
duction (21.38 (SD 3.1) to 88.08 (SD 13.0)) (p < 0.05).
Strength training increased right arm strength for ExtR
(20.0%), IntR (30.1%), LatP (16.1%), LatR (7.2%), and SR
(16.8%). The scapula fracture in the present case resulted in
significant losses in shoulder MT and ROM, and a non-
Increases in TBC1D1 in mouse skeletal muscle
decreased palmitate oxidation while glucose
uptake remained unaltered
A.C. Maher, G.P. Holloway, and A. Bonen
Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph,
ON N1G 2W1, Canada
Skeletal muscle is a key tissue involved in regulating met-
abolic homeostasis, and dysregulation of muscle glucose and
lipid metabolism is associated with insulin resistance. Nor-
mal glucose uptake requires an intact insulin signalling cas-
cade (IRS-1, PI3K, Akt2, AS160) that induces the
translocation of the glucose transporter protein GLUT4 to
the cell surface of the muscle. Excess intramuscular lipid ac-
cumulation interferes with this insulin-stimulated signalling
process. It has long been suspected that there are metabolic
intersections of lipid oxidation and insulin-stimulated glu-
cose disposal. Recently, the Rab-GTPase-activating protein
TBC1D1 has been implicated in this interaction, as mutated
TBC1D1 has been shown to increase fatty acid oxidation
and reduce glucose uptake in high fat fed mice, while muta-
tions in the TBC1D1 gene in humans is associated with in-
creased risk of obesity and insulin resistance. Importantly,
TBC1D1 is highly expressed in skeletal muscle, and this
protein is phosphorylated by insulin and muscle contraction.
The role of TBC1D1 in skeletal muscle metabolic homeosta-
The effect of exercise on resting lipid and
carbohydrate oxidation in postmenopausal women
M. Maltais, M. Brochu, and I.J. Dionne
Centre de recherche sur le vieillissement, Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de
Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 4C4, Canada; Faculté d’éducation physique et
sportive, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada
Postmenopausal women tend to increase abdominal fat,
because of the loss of the protective effect of estrogens,
which is associated with an increase in insulin resistance
and type II diabetes. Lipid oxidation decreases with aging,
and is also known to be a marker of insulin resistance. Exer-
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
specific decline in vastus lateralis MT as an indicator of de-
creased physical activity. The increase in left triceps MT
might be due to progressive lengthening during slinging.
Although we are uncertain that cross-education impacted re-
covery, unilateral training prevented strength loss and atro-
phy in the uninjured limb.
sis is unknown; therefore, the objective of this study was to
determine if TBC1D1 regulates lipid and (or) glucose uti-
lization. Electrotransfecting mouse soleus muscles, in vivo,
with TBC1D1 cDNA significantly increased TBC1D1 pro-
tein content (p = 0.009) after 2 weeks, without altering its
paralog AS160. TBC1D1 overexpression in mouse soleus
muscle had no effect on total protein content of fatty acid
transporters (FAT/CD36, FABPpm, FATP1, FATP4), or mi-
tochondrial content (COXIV). However, TBC1D1 overex-
pression significantly decreased palmitate oxidation in both
control and AICAR-stimulated conditions by *20% (p =
0.004). There was no effect of TBC1D1 overexpression on
basal and insulin-stimulated glucose transport, or on total
palmitate uptake, suggesting that the changes in fatty acid
oxidation are not a result of mass action and (or) delivery.
In conclusion, TBC1D1 plays a significant role in contribu-
ting to the regulation of muscle lipid oxidation, likely
through cell signalling mediated lipid trafficking.
cise has been shown to increase resting lipid oxidation in
premenopausal women, and this may partly explain the im-
provement in insulin sensitivity. However, no study has ex-
amined the effect of exercise on resting lipid oxidation in
postmenopausal obese women. The objective of this study
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
was to verify if a program of combined exercise (resistance
and aerobic training) could potentially increase resting lipid
oxidation in obese postmenopausal women and beneficially
impact on insulin sensitivity. Thirty-six obese post-
menopausal women (mean age, 58.4 ± 4.7 years; body mass
index, 30.1 ± 4.9 kg
m–2) were submitted to a 1-year exer-
cise program of three 1-h sessions per week. Before and
after 6 and 12 months of exercise, resting energy expendi-
ture and respiratory quotient (RQ) were obtained with indi-
rect calorimetry (CCM/D Medgraphics). Resting lipid and
carbohydrate oxidation were computed with the use of rest-
ing RQ and V_ O2 values. We assessed body composition
with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (GE/Lunar) and in-
sulin sensitivity with an oral glucose tolerance test, using
A tai chi intervention with low-income community-
dwelling older adults improves physical and
mental health
J. Manson, P. Ritvo, C. Ardern, P.L. Weir, J. Baker, R. Jamnik, and H. Tamim
Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3,
Canada
Tai chi (TC) has been shown to positively influence
health-related fitness (HRF), including cardiorespiratory
function, musculoskeletal function, balance and flexibility,
posture control capacity, and functional ability of elderly
participants. The objective of this study was to examine TC
intervention effects on HRF and mental health. In the Jane
and Finch area of Toronto, 74 older adults were recruited
for this study (21% males and 78.2% females), with ethnic-
ities predominately Guyanese and South Asian, which had
no ethno-cultural affiliations with TC. Of the participants,
14.1% were 55 to 65 years of age, 52.6% were 65 to
74 years of age, and 33.3% were older than 75 years of
age. Physical fitness and mental health measures were taken
S63
the area under the curve formula (AUC) and QUICKI. After
12 months of exercise, no significant changes in insulin sen-
sitivity by AUC or QUICKI were observed. Fat mass de-
creased significantly after 6 months, with no further
decrease after 12 months of exercise, while muscle mass
was not changed. Interestingly, RQ decreased after
12 months of exercise, with a significant increase in abso-
lute resting lipid oxidation. Moreover, glucose oxidation sig-
nificantly decreased between 6 and 12 months of exercise.
Our study is the first to show that resting lipid oxidation is
increased in obese postmenopausal women after 12 months
of exercise, showing that women rely more on fat oxidation.
However, insulin sensitivity, measured by AUC and
QUICKI, did not increase after 12 months.
before and after the TC program. The intervention consisted
of a 16-week TC program, offering seven 1-h classes per
week; the participants were encouraged to attend 2 classes
per week. Each session was lead by a TC master, with
15 min of warm up (Qi Gong) and 45 min of Yang style
TC. Postintervention, significant physical results were found
in the 30-s chair stand, 30-s arm curl, and grip strength in-
crease in both the right hand and left hand (p < 0.01). Sig-
nificant mental health results were found in the SF36 Health
Survey (p = 0.04). Despite real-life challenges that older
adults face, such as changing health status, frailty limita-
tions, and variable motivation, physical and psychological
benefits can still be obtained from TC participation.
Published by NRC Research Press
S64 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

Influence of aging on cerebral blood flow velocity

during progressive cycling to volitional exhaustion
K.R. Marsden, M.J. Haykowsky, J.D. Smirl, H. Jones, M.D. Neilson, K. Haykowsky,
and P.N. Ainslie
Department of Human Kinetics, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna,
BC V1V 2Y5, Canada; Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta,
Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada; Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences,
Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK

In younger individuals, cerebral blood flow (CBF) in-
creases in exercise intensity up to approximately 60% of
peak oxygen uptake (V_ O2 peak), followed by a decrease to-
ward pre-exercise values, due to hyperventilation-induced
hypocapnia and subsequent cerebral vasoconstriction. It is
currently unknown what happens to exercise CBF in older
adults who experience an age-mediated decline in CBF,
coupled with a blunted ventilatory response during maximal
exercise. We hypothesized that older individuals would ex-
perience less hyperventilation-induced cerebral vasoconstric-
tion and, therefore, less reduction in CBF at exercise
intensities >70% V_ O2 peak, compared with younger individu-
als. Study participants included 14 older (OLD; age, 71 ±
10 years; body mass index (BMI), 25 ± 3 kg
m–2) and 21
young male (YG; age, 24 ± 5 years; BMI, 24 ± 3 kg
m–2).
Incremental exercise was performed on an electrically
braked cycle ergometer, during which time bilateral middle
cerebral artery blood flow velocity (MCAv; transcranial
Doppler ultrasound), arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2; pulse
oximetry), heart rate (HR; ECG), and end-tidal PCO2
(PETCO2) were monitored continuously. Intermittent blood
pressure (BP) was also measured at each stage, in the arm,
by electrosphygmomanometry, with a microphone placed
over the brachial artery and the Korotkoff sounds gated to
ECG. In a subgroup of OLD (n = 3) and YG (n = 3), intra-
radial arterial BP was also measured. Resting MCAv was
higher (66%) in the YG (p < 0.05 vs. OLD). During exercise
intensities <70% V_ O2 peak, both groups had comparative in-
creases in MCAv (28%–33%). Conversely, at higher inten-
sities up to V_ O2 peak, the decline in MCAv was greater in
the YG than in the OLD (–20% vs. –6%, respectively; p <
0.05). Although elevations in BP were more marked
throughout exercise in the OLD, the relative degree of hypo-
capnia at maximal intensities (>70% V_ O2 peak) was much
greater in the YG (–18 mm Hg vs. 6.5 mm Hg; p < 0.05).
The novel findings of this study are that, despite greater
hypertension during exercise with advanced age, moderate-
intensity exercise-induced elevations in MCAv are main-
tained with senescence; and that age-related declines in
hyperventilation during maximal exercise result in less
hypocapnic-induced cerebral vasoconstriction.

Baseline assessment of pulse wave velocity and

carotid distensibility in adolescents with cerebral
palsy: a pilot study
A.A. Martin, N.A. Proudfoot, S.G. Noorduyn, N.Y. Hon, B.W. Timmons, J.W. Gorter,
and M.J. MacDonald
Departments of Kinesiology and Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1,
Canada; CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research, Institute for Applied Health
Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 1C7, Canada

Impairments in mobility place youth with cerebral palsy
(CP) at a higher risk of physical inactivity, a major risk fac-
tor for cardiovascular disease. The consequences of reduced
levels of physical activity on vascular health in adolescents
with CP have not been evaluated. Baseline arterial stiffness
was assessed using whole-body pulse wave velocity (PWV)
and carotid artery distensibility in eight 10- to 18-year-old
patients with CP (6 males; age, 13 ± 2.4 years), and com-
pared with nine 10- to 16-year-old controls (7 males; age,
11.3 ± 3.1 year). GMFCS levels I to III were included, with

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
each subject being ambulatory or ambulatory with assistive
devices. Data for the control population were previously col-
lected in our laboratory (Proudfoot unpublished data, 2010).
Baseline measurements of whole-body PWV were taken us-
ing electrocardiography and photoplethysmography. PWV
was calculated using the distance (sternal notch to the dorsa-
lis pedis artery) and time delay between ventricular depola-
rization and the foot of the dorsalis pedis waveform. Carotid
distensibility, a direct measure of central artery stiffness,
was assessed using a combination of B-mode ultrasound
imaging and applanation tonometry. Brachial artery blood
pressures were determined using an automated sphygmom-
anometer. There were no significant differences in whole-
body PWV between the CP (4.1 ± 0.3 m
s–1) and control
Vascular stiffness and the sympathetic nervous
system in young female rats
L. Mattar and J.K. Shoemaker
School of Kinesiology, Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Western Ontario,
London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
The purpose of the study was to examine the role of the
sympathetic nervous system in the mechanical properties of
blood vessels, and the way this is affected by hypertension.
Hemodynamic and mechanical indicators of vascular stiff-
ness were measured in vivo in young (7 week) female nor-
motensive (WKY) and hypertensive (SHR) rats. Animals
were measured during periods of baseline and sympathec-
tomy following administration of 25 mg
kg–1 hexametho-
nium (Hex). The mechanical properties of the caudal
vascular beds were quantified using a modified Windkessel
model, which incorporates the resistance (R) of the system,
as well as the compliance (C), in series with viscoelasticity
(K) and inertia (L). At baseline, SHR animals had higher
mean arterial pressure than WKY animals (103 ± 19 vs.
78 ± 5 mm Hg; p < 0.05), which was normalized following
sympathectomy. Similarly, R was higher during baseline in
the SHR animals (34 ± 12 vs. 18 ± 9 mm Hg
mL–1
min–1),
but was normalized following sympathectomy. Pulse wave
velocity (PWV) along the aorta was calculated and used as
a measure of central artery stiffness. Increased PWV in
S65
(4.0 ± 0.7 m
s–1) groups (p = 0.726). However, carotid dis-
tensibility was significantly lower in the CP group (0.0066 ±
0.0013 mm Hg–1) than in the control group (0.0101 ±
0.0033 mm Hg–1) (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that
youth with CP have increased central artery stiffness at rest.
This indicator of vascular health, at a young age, may lead
to increased risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Fu-
ture research will further evaluate conduit artery structure
and function in adolescents with CP. By identifying poten-
tial compromises to vascular health in this clinical popula-
tion, appropriate interventions and precautionary measures
can be designed and implemented. (Funded by NSERC Dis-
covery Grant, MacDonald and Timmons.)
SHR animals was a function of the increased distending
pressure. At baseline, compliance and compliance normal-
ized to pressure (C-Prime) were lower in SHR animals than
in WKY animals (C = 0.000143 ± 0.000165 vs. 0.00109 ±
0.000659 mL
mm Hg–1; C-Prime = 0.0041 ± 0.0012 vs.
0.014 ± 0.0089 mL for SHR and WKY, respectively; both
p < 0.05). Both compliance and C-Prime increased follow-
ing sympathectomy in both strains, but C-Prime remained
lower in the SHR than in the WKY animals. Viscoelasticity
was similar between the strains at both baseline and follow-
ing sympathectomy, but fell in both strains following Hex.
These data suggest that vascular remodeling that is seen in
hypertension begins early in the pathophysiology of the dis-
ease, and is evident in peripheral microvascular beds before
it is seen in conduit arteries. Additionally, these data indi-
cate that the sympathetic nervous system contributes directly
to peripheral arterial stiffness in young female rats, and indi-
rectly through blood pressure to the stiffness of central ar-
teries. (Supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health
Research.)
Published by NRC Research Press
S66 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

An investigation of endogenous ghrelin following

the consumption of 2 different relative doses of
oral L-arginine
A.M. McCarthy, G.J. Bell, L.J. McCargar, and D.G. Syrotuik
Department of Physical Education and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton,
AB T6G 2M7, Canada; Department of Agricultural, Food & Nutritional Science, University
of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2M7, Canada

Ghrelin is a novel peptide hormone produced mainly by
P/D1 cells lining the fundus of the human stomach and epsi-
lon cells of the pancreas that stimulate appetite. However, it
is also produced in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus, where
it stimulates the secretion of growth hormone (GH) from the
anterior pituitary gland. Its levels increase following fasting
and decrease following food intake. The conditionally essen-
tial amino acid L-arginine (L-Arg) has also been found to
play an important role in simulating GH secretion. It has
been postulated that the actions of ghrelin and L-Arg may
be somewhat synergistic in promoting GH release. The pur-
pose of this study, therefore, was to examine the effects of 2
relative doses of oral L-Arg on ghrelin plasma concentrations
at rest, and to compare the results with plasma GH concen-
trations. Thirteen healthy men (age, 25.1 ± 5.0 years) ran-
domly ingested a high relative dose (0.150 g
kg–1) of L-Arg,
a low relative dose (0.075 g
kg–1) of L-Arg, or placebo on 3
separate occasions. Plasma ghrelin, GH, and L-Arg concen-
trations were determined at baseline and 30, 60, 90, 120,
and 180 min after L-Arg ingestion, using commercially
available enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) kits. Signif-
icant increases in plasma ghrelin concentrations were found
between 30 and 180 min (96.7 ± 9.5 pg
mL–1 to 116.1 ±
7.6 pg
mL–1) over all treatment conditions (p < 0.01);
plasma GH and L-Arg concentrations from 30 to 180 min
over all treatment conditions were not significant (1.17 ±
2.78 ug
L–1 to 1.08 ± 1.15 ug
L–1; 525.61 ± 167.42 mmol
L–1
to 539.45 ± 224.27 mmol
L–1 for GH and L-Arg, respec-
tively). In summary, an increase in plasma ghrelin concen-
tration was found overtime following L-Arg ingestion;
however, there was no interaction effect between treat-
ments. These findings suggest that plasma ghrelin increases
following L-Arg supplementation, yet is not influenced by
L-Arg dose.

Leptin stimulation of fatty acid oxidation is

dependent on the fatty acid transporter CD36
J.T. McFarlan, I. Momken, E. Dirkx, A. Thys, J. Glatz, J. Luiken, and A. Bonen
Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph,
ON N1G 2W1, Canada; Department of Molecular Genetics, Maastricht University, D-6200
Maastricht, the Netherlands

Leptin activation of AMPK increases fatty acid oxidation
in muscle. However, the mechanism for the additional provi-
sion of fatty acids into muscle is not known. Since fatty acid
uptake occurs via a highly regulated, protein-mediated
mechanism, we examined whether the leptin-induced fatty
acid oxidation was dependent on AMPK activition and on
the presence of CD36, a key fatty acid transporter that can
be induced to translocate to the sarcolemma during a meta-
bolic challenge, such as exercise. In both skeletal muscle
and cardiomyocytes, leptin stimulated fatty acid oxidation. In
cardiomyocytes, this was associated with the leptin-induced
translocation of CD36 to the plasma membrane. When we
provided leptin and simultaneously blocked AMPK-Thr172
phosphorylation, using nonspecific blockers, the metabolic
effects normally provoked by leptin were lost, including
the phosphorylation of ACC, the translocation of CD36,
and the increases in fatty acid uptake and oxidation. In-
volvement of CD36 and AMPK in leptin-stimulated fatty
acid oxidation was further investigated by blocking plasma
membrane CD36, by examining leptin-induced fatty acid
oxidation in muscles of CD36-KO mice, in AMPK silenc-
ing studies (siRNA), and in AMPK dead kinase (DK)

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
mice. Leptin-stimulated fatty acid oxidation was not ob-
served when we blocked CD36. In muscles of CD36-null
mice, the leptin-induced AMPK-Thr172 phosphorylation
was normal, but the leptin-induced stimulation of fatty
acid oxidation was completely abrogated. SiRNA knock-
down of AMPK in HL-1-cardiomyocytes and in muscles
of AMPK DK mice blunted the leptin-induced increase in
fatty acid oxidation. These studies have shown that while
Comparison of sprint interval vs. endurance
training on thermoregulatory responses to
exercise in the heat
G.W. McGarr, G.L. Hartley, and S.S. Cheung
Department of Physical Education and Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines,
ON L2S 3A1, Canada
Sprint interval training (SIT) can elicit significant physio-
logical adaptations and improve exercise capacity, utilizing
only a fraction of the total work and time seen with endur-
ance training (ET). Although a short duration ET protocol is
suggested to induce mild to moderate heat adaptation, no
study has examined such mechanisms with SIT. Therefore,
we compared heat adaptation induced by short-term ET and
SIT in a group of untrained, moderately fit subjects. During
a 2-week training period, the ET group (n = 8) cycled at
65% V_ O2 peak for 8 sessions (4 sessions each at 60 and
90 min). The SIT group (n = 9) performed repeated 30-s
all-out Wingate sprints (resistance 7.5% body mass) with
4-min rest periods in between (4 sessions each of 4 and
5 sprints). A V_ O2 peak test and a heat stress test (HST;
60 min cycling at 65% V_ O2 peak at 35 8C and relative humid-
ity 40%) were performed pre- and post-training. V_ O2 peak in-
creased significantly by 11% (47.9 ± 15.7 to 53.0 ±
13.3 mL
kg–1
min–1, p = 0.02) for the ET group, and 14%
S67
leptin activates the AMPK-acetyl-CoA-carboxylase-malonyl-
CoA axis to stimulate fatty acid oxidation, this mechanism
alone is not sufficient to stimulate fatty acid oxidation. We
find that leptin-stimulated AMPK phosphorylation also in-
duces the translocation of CD36, thereby increasing fatty
acid uptake. This is an obligatory step, without which leptin
cannot stimulate fatty acid oxidation, despite AMPK
activation.
(46.2 ± 11.4 to 52.5 ± 9.7 mL
kg–1
min–1, p = 0.02) for the
SIT group following the training period. During the HST,
partitional calorimetry demonstrated similar patterns and
rates of absolute heat storage (ET, 574 ± 28.4 to 616 ±
57.8 W, p = 0.61; SIT, 668 ± 60.0 to 606 ± 23.5 W, p =
0.31), along with similar sweating rates (ET, 0.34 ± 0.03 to
0.33 ± 0.03 mg
cm2
min–1, p = 0.82; SIT, 0.37 ± 0.07 to
0.33 ± 0.03 mg
cm2
min–1, p = 0.44). Mean core tempera-
tures during the HST were similar (ET, 37.34 ± 0.21 to
37.72 ± 0.14 8C, p = 0.08; SIT, 37.47 ± 0.18 to 37.59 ±
0.12 8C, p = 0.52). In conclusion, while either 2 weeks of
ET or SIT can rapidly elicit improved fitness and aerobic
capacity, neither resulted in any significant improvements in
heat adaptation or tolerance to exercise in a hot environ-
ment. As such, care must be taken to specifically heat-adapt
individuals following brief periods of physical training if ex-
ercise in hot environments is to be performed.
Published by NRC Research Press
S68 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

Effect of AT1 receptor blockade on muscle

sympathetic responses to handgrip exercise in
healthy men
C.L. McGowan, C.F. Notarius, A. McReynolds, B.L. Morris, D.S. Kimmerly,
P.E. Picton, and J.S. Floras
University Health Network and Mount Sinai Hospital Division of Cardiology, Department
of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada

To determine whether angiotensin II contributes to the
reflex skeletal muscle sympatho-excitation elicited by iso-
metric and isotonic exercise, we tested the hypothesis that
angiotensin AT1 receptor blockade would attenuate reflex
sympatho-neural responses to handgrip and to posthandgrip
ischemia (PHGI). Seventeen healthy men were studied be-
fore and 1 week after random double-blind crossover allo-
cation to oral losartan (100 mg daily) or placebo. Heart
rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), and muscle sympathetic
nerve activity (MSNA) were recorded at rest, and during
2 min bouts of isotonic handgrip at 50% maximum volun-
tary contraction (MVC) and isometric handgrip at 30%
MVC, performed randomly, each followed by 2 min of
PHGI. At rest, losartan doubled plasma renin (p = 0.01)
and angiotensin II (p = 0.03), and lowered BP (p < 0.01),
yet had no effect on HR or MSNA burst frequency or inci-
dence (all p > 0.05). The hypotensive effect persisted
throughout each exercise bout (p < 0.05). MSNA and HR
responses to isotonic exercise and postexercise ischemia
were not affected by losartan. Isometric exercise and post-
exercise ischemia increased MSNA in both sessions (all
p < 0.01). Losartan augmented the HR response (p £ 0.03),
and MSNA burst frequency (p < 0.01) and incidence (p <
0.04) were significantly higher after losartan at all time
points, but the magnitude of the MSNA response to isomet-
ric exercise and postexercise ischemia was unchanged. In
healthy men, short-term AT1 receptor blockade does not
attenuate reflex sympatho-neural responses to handgrip or
PHGI.

Long-term practice of yogic breathing exercises

may be associated with increased blood pressure
during breath-holds
J.A.A. McKay, K. Stewart, J.S. Querido, G.E. Foster, M.S. Koehle, and A.W. Sheel
School of Human Kinetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3,
Canada

The purpose of this study was 2-fold: First, to determine
the magnitude of hypoxia and hypercapnia that experi-
enced yogic breathers (YB) are exposed to during 2 yogic
breathing exercises (YBE). Second, to examine the effects
that long-term practice of YBE have on the cardiorespira-
tory response to hypoxia and hypercapnia. In YB (n = 3)
and controls (NYB, n = 6), ventilatory, cardiovascular,
and cerebrovascular variables were measured in response
to 2 common YBE (bhastrika, 1 min hyperventilation fol-
lowed by inhalation to total lung capacity and maximal
breath-hold; and chaturbhuj, 10 min of low-frequency pat-
tern breathing), and 2 rebreathe tests (hypoxic and hyper-
oxic). YB had been practicing YBE that included breath-
holds and low-frequency pattern breathing for 5 years
(range, 3–7 years) at a minimum of 5 days per week and
20 min per day. Bhastrika resulted in similar decreases and
increases in end-tidal O2 (PETO2, 20.7 ± 11.2 mm Hg) and
end-tidal CO2 (PETCO2, 6.2 ± 2.9 mm Hg), respectively.
There was a larger increase in mean arterial pressure
(MAP) in response to bhastrika in the YB group (34.9 ±
17.0 mm Hg) than in the NYB group (22.2 ±
11.1 mm Hg). In contrast to bhastrika, chaturbhuj caused
a much greater decrease in PETO2 (YB, 20.7 ±
6.4 mm Hg; NYB, 2.0 ± 11.6 mm Hg) and increase in
PETCO2 (YB, 9.4 ± 2.5 mm Hg; NYB, 1.7 ± 6.7 mm Hg)
in YB. The CO2 ventilatory threshold and sensitivity were
not different between groups. Our results suggest that
long-term practice of YBE results in greater changes in

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés S69

PETO2 and PETCO2 during chaturbhuj. This result is most term practice of YBE does not affect ventilatory threshold
likely due to the lower breathing frequency the YBs were or sensitivity to CO2; however, it may result in larger in-
able to achieve. In addition, these data suggest that long- creases in MAP during 2 common types of YBE.

The effect of altitude training on hydration in

competitive swimmers
A.L. McKillop, S. Thomas, J. Goodman, and G.D. Wells
Department of Exercise Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 2W6, Canada;
Canadian Sport Centre Ontario, Toronto, ON M3C 3R8, Canada

Little is known about the hydration practices of high-
performance swimmers, as these athletes are not believed
to be at risk of dehydration, given their training environ-
ment. Altitude training camps, commonly performed by
training teams, increase the risk of becoming dehydrated.
The purpose of this project was to monitor the hydration
practices of swimmers before and during a 14-day altitude
training camp in Flagstaff, Arizona (elevation *2133 m).
All participants (n = 11; age, 20.7 ± 2.7 years) swim at
the national competition level. Urine samples, blood sam-
ples, and measures of body mass were taken pre- and post-
practice. Blood samples were analyzed using a portable
blood analyzer (i-STAT). Sea-level data were measured on
days –6, –5, –3, and –2 prior to departure. Altitude data
were measured on days 1, 3, 7, 10, 12, and 14. Blood
chemistry analysis indicated a small yet significant de-
crease in electrolyte concentrations pre- to postpractice at
sea level ([Na+], 1 mmol
L–1; [K+], 0.4 mmol
L–1; [Cl–],
0.9 mmol
L–1; p < 0.05) and altitude ([Na+], 1 mmol
L–1;
[K+], 0.2 mmol
L–1; [Cl–], 0.8 mmol
L–1; p < 0.05), with
nonsignificant changes in hemoglobin and hematocrit. Uri-
nalysis displayed a significant decrease pre- to postpractice
in osmolality (787 mosmol
kg–1 vs. 655 mosmol
kg–1; p <
0.05), with nonsignificant changes in urinary specific grav-
ity (USG) at sea level. Urinalysis during training sessions
at altitude displayed a significant decrease in both osmolal-
ity (773 mosmol
kg–1 vs. 615 mosmol; p < 0.001) and
USG (1.020 vs. 1.016; p < 0.05) from pre- to postpractice.
Sea-level training did not result in a significant decrease in
body weight; however, during altitude training, there was
a <1% decrease in body weight pre- to postpractice
(77.7 kg vs. 77.4 kg; p < 0.05). Subjects consumed more
fluid during altitude practices than sea-level training
(684 mL vs. 555 mL; p < 0.05). These data indicate that
high-performance swimmers were successful at maintaining
hydration during the altitude training camp, likely due to
increased fluid consumption.

Influence of high-fat diet on subsarcolemmal

and intermyofibrillar mitochondrial membrane
phospholipid fatty acid composition: examining
the conformer-regulator paradigm
L. McMeekin, V.A. Fajardo, N. Coverdale, S. Hajna, L.E. Stefanyk, B.D. Roy,
S.J. Peters, and P.J. LeBlanc
Centre for Muscle Metabolism and Biophysics, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock
University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada

The membrane is considered a ‘‘fluid-mosaic model’’,
based on the lateral mobility of proteins and phospholipids
(PLs) throughout the membrane, which are vital for cellu-
lar function. The functions of proteins closely associated
with the membrane may be influenced by membrane struc-
ture and, more specifically, its PL fatty acid composition.
The ‘‘conformer-regulator’’ paradigm examines the diet–
membrane relationship; the membrane’s ability to either in-
corporate or regulate dietary fats. Past research has demon-
strated mixed skeletal muscle membranes to be most
responsive in incorporating dietary n-3 and n-6 polyunsatu-
rates into the membrane. However, this has yet to be ex-
amined in skeletal muscle mitochondrial membranes, more
specifically the 2 subpopulations of subsarcolemmal (SS)

Published by NRC Research Press

S70
and intermyofibrillar (IMF). Thus, the purpose of the study
was to examine the influence of high-fat diet on skeletal
muscle SS and IMF mitochondrial membrane PL composi-
tion. Forty-day-old male Sprague–Dawley rats were fed
high-fat diets (20% by weight) coconut oil (saturated fatty
acid), flaxseed oil (n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids
(PUFA)), and safflower oil (n-6 PUFA) for 65 days; a con-
trol group was fed a chow diet (5.7% soybean). SS and
IMF mitochondria were isolated from mixed hind limb
muscle, lipids were extracted, PLs were separated by thin-
layer chromatography, and fatty acid composition of each
PL was quantified using gas chromatography. Among the
SS and IMF fractions, there was little response to the diet-
Examination of apoptotic protein expression,
proteolytic enzyme activity, and DNA
fragmentation across muscles and fiber types
E.M. McMillan and J. Quadrilatero
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
Increased skeletal muscle apoptosis and apoptotic signal-
ing have been associated with muscle atrophy in numerous
pathologies, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and
aging. Skeletal muscle is a complex tissue comprised of sev-
eral fiber types. Muscles and fiber types are differentiated
by the expression of genes and proteins related to metabolic,
contractile, and structural properties. To the best of our
knowledge, no report to date has examined apoptotic differ-
ences between oxidative and glycolytic muscle or across fi-
ber types. Therefore, we measured several apoptotic indices
in rat red gastrocnemius (RG) and white gastrocnemius
(WG) muscle, and we examined the expression of several
key proteins across fiber types in a mixed muscle (mix gas-
trocnemius). There was a higher (p < 0.05) protein content
of ARC, Hsp70, AIF, cytochrome c, Smac, and Bcl-2 in
RG vs. WG muscle. In contrast, there was no difference in
Bax or XIAP protein levels between tissues. Subcellular
analysis also revealed greater expression of AIF, Smac, and
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
ary perturbations. Both SS and IMF fractions appeared to
be responsive to monounsaturates (slopes = –0.689 and
0.420, respectively, p < 0.0001). The slopes of the satu-
rated fatty acids, n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturates remained
constant (ranging from –0.007 to 0.29, demonstrating little
to no incorporation to the membranes). Results of this
study suggest that both SS and IMF mitochondrial mem-
branes are resistant to diet-mediated alterations in fatty
acid profile, with the exception of monounsaturates. It
may be suggested that mitochondria have a compensatory
mechanism to reduce any perturbation to their membrane
for preservation of its structure and, in turn, function.
(Supported by NSERC.)
cytochrome c in cytosolic-enriched fractions, as well as
higher AIF in nuclear-enriched fractions from RG than from
WG muscle. In addition, ARC protein expression was de-
pendent on fiber type and found to be highest (p < 0.05) in
type I fibers. Similarly, AIF protein expression was differen-
tially expressed across fibers; however, AIF was correlated
to oxidative potential (p < 0.05). The activity of several
apoptosis-related proteolytic enzymes, caspase-3, -8, and -9
(p < 0.05), as well as the level of DNA fragmentation (a
hallmark of apoptosis), were also higher (p < 0.05) in RG
than in WG muscle. Collectively, these data suggest that
the level of DNA fragmentation, as well as the expression
of a number of key apoptotic proteins and enzymes, differs
across muscle and (or) fiber types. These findings are im-
portant from a methodological perspective, as considerations
should be made when performing analyses on mixed muscle
or in conditions showing fiber type and (or) mitochondrial
alterations.
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
Changes in liver glucagon receptor density with
exercise and postexercise
A. Melançon, D. Foucher, M. Cadrin, F. Péronnet, and C. Lavoie
Sciences de l’activité physique et Chimie-biologie, UQTR, Trois-Rivières, QC G9A 5H7,
Canada; Kinésiologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
Exercise has been shown to induce rapid modification in
glucagon receptor (GR) binding properties, as measured by
GR density (Bmax) on plasmic membranes of hepatocytes.
The purpose of this study was to follow liver GR binding
properties during swimming exercise and postexercise peri-
ods. Rats were randomly assigned to rest control, exercise
(90 and 180 min), or postexercise (1, 3, and 12 h) groups.
Rats were sacrificed at the end of the exercise or post-
exercise period, blood was sampled, and liver was removed
rapidly. Liver plasma membranes were purified, and satura-
tion kinetics were obtained by incubation (10 mg protein per
150 mL) with 125I-labeled glucagon at concentrations from
0.15 to 4.0 nmol
L–1 for 30 min at 30 8C. No change was
observed with blood glucose levels, even if hepatic glycogen
concentrations were significantly depleted, in both exercise
and postexercise periods. Saturating curve analysis indicated
higher GR density, with exercise reaching peak value after
Attenuation of mitochondrial dysfunction in Sirt1-
deficient muscle by resveratrol or voluntary
running
K.J. Menzies, K. Singh, and D.A. Hood
Muscle Health Research Centre, Kinesiology and Health Science, York University,
Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
Both caloric restriction and resveratrol (RSV), a natural
polyphenolic compound, have been shown to activate Sirt1,
which in turn extends lifespan and increases mitochondrial
content and function. Interestingly, the effects of these treat-
ments and those of exercise rely on many of the same phys-
iological changes. To further examine the relationship
between exercise performance and Sirt1 activity, we pro-
duced a skeletal-muscle-specific Sirt1-deficient mouse,
which was generated using a myosin light chain-directed
Cre-loxP targeted mutation of the Sirt1 gene. These mice
showed no behavioural or phenotypic abnormalities, and
had similar body and muscle weights to wild-type (WT) an-
imals. Isolated muscle mitochondria from Sirt1-deficient
mice exhibited a 15% decline in COX activity, and 45%
and 30% reductions in state 4 and state 3 respiration, respec-
S71
90 and 180 min (Bmax = 7.74 ± 1.74 and 4.33 ± 1.05 vs.
3.09 ± 0.53 pmol
pg–1 of protein in liver from resting con-
trol (p < 0.05 180 min vs. rest). The GR density decreased
in postexercise to 4.99 ± 2.03 (1 h) and 4.93 ±
1.43 pmol
pg–1 of protein (3 h), and reached 4.20 ±
0.80 pmol
pg–1 of proteins after 12 h of postexercise. At the
pancreatic hormone levels, an increase in glucagon/insulin
ratio vs. the rest control group of 2.8 and 8.7 during 90
and 180 min exercise periods, respectively, and 9.3, 2.8,
and 3.4 after 1, 3, and 12 h postexercise periods, respec-
tively, was measured. These results suggest that to secure
blood glucose levels, exercise and postexercise episodes in-
duced rapid modification in GR binding properties.
Although the exact mechanisms remain unknown, there is
no doubt that the liver adapts rapidly to exercise through
modulation of GR binding characteristics. (Funded by Natu-
ral Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.)
tively. In conjunction with the decrease in respiration and
COX activity, there was an elevation in reactive oxygen spe-
cies (ROS) production by 2.5-fold in both state 4 and state 3
respiration. Despite these findings, over a 3-week period,
Sirt1-deficient mice ran the same average (12 km
day–1)
and total distances on voluntary running wheels. To compare
the Sirt1-independent action of exercise or RSV on mito-
chondrial biogenesis, we treated the WT and Sirt1-deficient
mice with voluntary wheel running or RSV (1 g
kg–1 in
modified AIN-76A rodent diet). Following RSV treatment,
Sirt1-deficient mice illustrated a recovery in COX activity,
state 4 and state 3 respiration, along with a reduction in
ROS similar to the levels found in WT mice. Voluntary ex-
ercise and RSV treatments produced 1.4- and 1.7-fold in-
creases in COX activity over their untreated controls. In
Published by NRC Research Press
S72 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

addition, exercise served to rescue the state 4 and state 3 nance of basal mitochondrial content and function. Addition-
respiration rates, evident in Sirt1-deficient mice, and re- ally, RSV can have Sirt1-independent effects on
duced ROS levels to values found in WT mice. These data mitochondrial biogenesis, but these are relatively modest in
indicate that Sirt1 is partially responsible for the mainte- comparison to voluntary exercise.

Examination of skeletal muscle apoptotic protein

expression and morphology in apoptosis
repressor with caspase recruitment domain-
deficient mice
A. Mitchell, R. von Harsdorf, S. Donath, and J. Quadrilatero
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada;
Division of Cardiology, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada;
Franz-Volhard-Klinik, HELIOS Klinikum Berlin-Buch, Berlin, 13125, Germany

Altered apoptotic signaling has been observed in a num-
ber of disease states. Apoptosis repressor with caspase re-
cruitment domain (ARC) is a potent anti-apoptotic protein
that is able to inhibit apoptosis mediated by both the death-
receptor and mitochondrial pathways. In addition, ARC has
a unique distribution pattern and is highly expressed in ter-
minally differentiated tissue, such as skeletal muscle. To
characterize the role of ARC in skeletal muscle morphology
and apoptosis, soleus and plantaris muscles of 13-week-old
ARC-deficient mice were excised, and compared with those
of age-matched wild-type littermates. Western blot analysis
confirmed the absence of ARC protein in both the soleus
and plantaris. There were also differences in the expression
of several apoptotic proteins between wild-type and ARC-
deficient animals. For example, AIF and Hsp70 protein con-
tent were both increased by 12%, whereas XIAP protein was
decreased by 17% in the soleus. In plantaris, Bax protein
was elevated by 25%, while cytochrome c protein was ele-
vated by 40%. Additionally, Bcl-2, Hsp70, Smac, and XIAP
proteins were reduced by 35%, 15%, 54%, and 48%, respec-
tively. Interestingly, preliminary data also demonstrated a
shift in fiber-type distribution in both the soleus and planta-
ris of ARC-deficient mice. In soleus, there was a decrease in
the proportion of type I fibers, with a corresponding increase
in the proportion of type IIA and type IIA/IIX fibers. Simi-
larly, there was a decrease in the proportion of type IIA fi-
bers, along with an increase in the proportion of type IIX
and type IIB fibers, in plantaris muscle. Additional studies
will be performed to examine several apoptotic signaling
pathways, as well as muscle size and function. Although
preliminary, these results suggest that in skeletal muscle of
ARC-deficient mice, there may be an altered apoptotic envi-
ronment, as well as morphological changes.

Relative training load affects the magnitude of

strength but not hypertrophy gains after 10 weeks
of resistance training
C.J. Mitchell, T.A. Churchward-Venne, D.W.D. West, N.A. Burd, S.K. Baker, and
S.M. Phillips
Exercise Metabolism Research Group, Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University
and Department of Neurology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada

The stand of a number of organizations, including the Na- (*80% 1 repetition maximum (1RM)), and with a high
tional Strength and Conditioning Association and American training volume to optimize muscle size and strength. How-
College of Sports Medicine, is that resistance exercise ever, despite these positions, there is a real lack of evidence
should be performed with heavier loads, close to maximal to support such recommendations. Thus, our aim was to as-

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
sess strength and hypertrophy in response to high- (3 set)
and low- (1set) volume and lower-intensity (30% 1RM) ex-
ercise. Eighteen healthy adult men (age, 19.6 ± 0.8 years;
body mass index, 23.6 ± 2.1 kg
m–2) trained with unilateral
knee extensions for 10 weeks. Prior to training, participants
were randomly assigned to perform 2 of the 3 training con-
ditions: 30% of 1RM for 3 sets (30RM), 80% of 1RM
(80RM) for 1 set, or 80RM for 3 sets. All training sessions
were performed until volitional fatigue (i.e., failure). Partici-
pants were tested for dynamic 1RM strength and quadriceps
muscle volume, assessed by magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI), before and after the 10 week training period. Quad-
riceps volume (from MRI) increased significantly (p < 0.05)
Acute effects of passive standing and whole-body
vibration on arterial stiffness of the aorta
M. Miyatani, J. Totosy de Zepetnek, K. Masani, J. Delparte, M.R. Popovic, and
B.C. Craven
Lyndhurst Center, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, ON M4G 3V9, Canada;
Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada;
Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto,
ON M5S 1A4, Canada
Increased arterial stiffness, an established predictor of cor-
onary artery disease in the general population, is amenable
to exercise intervention. Application of whole-body vibra-
tion (WBV) during static squatting acutely decreases arterial
stiffness in young healthy men. Passive standing (PS), with
the aid of a standing frame, is used during physiotherapy by
patients with disability. We hypothesized that WBV with PS
may be an effective alternative to endurance exercise for de-
creasing arterial stiffness in healthy and disabled persons.
This study determined the acute effects of WBV with PS
vs. PS alone on aortic arterial stiffness, measured via pulse
wave velocity (aPWV), in healthy men and women. Eleven
men and 2 women (age, 24.6 ± 7.2 years; height, 171.6 ±
7.9 cm; weight, 64.5 ± 12.2 kg) performed WBV with PS
and PS alone on separate days. Subjects were exposed to
both experimental conditions, in random order, within
1 week. WBV and PS consisted of 5 sets of 4 min of vibra-
tion (frequency, 25 Hz; amplitude, 1.2 mm), with 1 min rest
S73
following training, but there was no difference between con-
ditions (30RM, 6.0% ± 6.1%; 80RM for 3 set, 6.5% ± 4.4%;
and 1 set, 3.0% ± 2.6%). Strength increased significantly in
30RM (16% ± 8%), but increased to a greater degree for
both the 80RM 3 set (26% ± 8%) and 1 set (22% ± 7%)
conditions. These data demonstrate that high loads are supe-
rior in promoting maximal gains in muscle strength than
low-load exercise. However, low-load exercise performed
until failure can induce increases in muscle hypertrophy
similar to high-load exercise protocols. These data provide
prescriptive advice for preventing muscle loss in sarcopenia
or other muscle wasting conditions in which higher-intensity
loads may be contraindicated. (Supported by NSERC.)
intervals on the WAVE Pro platform, with the assistance of
a standing frame (EasyStand 5000). The PS intervention
consisted of 25 min of continuous standing in an EasyStand
5000. aPWV was measured at baseline (after 30 min rest in
supine position), and 20 and 60 min after each intervention.
aPWV significantly decreased at 20 min, and recovered to
baseline at 60 min with WBV and PS (p = 0.017) (baseline,
803 ± 162 cm
s–1; 20 min, 771 ± 141 cm
s–1; and 60 min,
792 ± 158 cm
s–1), and PS alone (baseline, 777 ±
141 cm
s–1, 20 min, 737 ± 121 cm
s–1; and 60 min, 781 ±
121 cm
s–1) (p = 0.023). A repeated-measure 2-way AN-
OVA did not identify a trial-by-measurement time interac-
tion. PS alone results in acute decreases in aPWV, similar
to other forms of endurance exercise. Further evaluation of
WBV parameters (i.e., duration, frequency, and amplitude)
are needed to determine their therapeutic potential for per-
sons with disability unable to participate in endurance exer-
cise.
Published by NRC Research Press
S74 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

Daily artificial gravity on a short-arm centrifuge to

reduce cardiovascular deconditioning with 5-day
bed rest
S.A. Morrison, K.A. Zui, C. Tessmer, L.K. Fitzgibbon, K.S. Fraser, P. Arbeille,
J.K. Shoemaker, and R.L. Hughson
Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1,
Canada; Departement Médecine Nucléaire et Ultrasons, CHU Trousseau, Tours, France
37044; University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6G 2V4, Canada

This study has examined the possible role of artificial
gravity in reducing the cardiovascular deconditioning that
occurs during bed rest as a potential countermeasure to be
applied in space flight. The artificial gravity (AG) was ap-
plied by a short-arm centrifuge (*2.X m), rotating at a ve-
locity to induce 1g at the centre of mass. Two different AG
protocols were used (30 min continuous (AG1) and 6 
5 min intermittent (AG2)), compared with control (CON),
in a crossover design during a 5-day continuous 68 head-
down tilt bed rest (HDBR). In all, 12 healthy men (age,
33 ± 7 years; height, 178 ± 8 cm; weight, 75 ± 8 kg) com-
pleted each protocol in a random order. Tilt tolerance was
determined prior to bed rest and immediately upon comple-
tion of the HDBR with a protocol consisting of 5-min supine
baseline, 30-min tilt at 808 upright posture, then progressive
3-min stages of lower-body negative pressure (LBNP;
–10 mm Hg increments until observation of end-point crite-
ria: a drop in systolic blood pressure to 70 mm Hg or sud-
den bradycardia). Following 2 campaigns of the HDBR
study, the impact of 5 days of HDBR have been clearly
noted, with a reduction in the tolerance time for the tilt–
LBNP protocol being significant (37 ± 11 to 23 ± 14 min,
p < 0.05). This has been accompanied by signs of cardiovas-
cular deconditioning consistent with reduced stroke volume
and increased heart rate. Potential benefits of the AG coun-
termeasures are still being evaluated. This study has demon-
strated that healthy men are capable of tolerating 30-min
continuous or intermittent AG on a short-arm centrifuge.
The benefits of AG are expected to be greater in longer-
duration bed rest or space flight. The results of the current
study will provide a basis for the prescription of AG coun-
termeasures in future longer-duration studies of bed rest
analogs of human space flight. (Supported by: Canadian
Space Agency, European Space Agency, CNES.)

Muscle and adipose tissue wasting are prevalent

in nonsmall-cell lung cancer patients receiving
chemotherapy: an opportunity for intervention
R.A. Murphy, M. Mourtzakis, Q.S. Chu, T. Reiman V, E Baracos, and V.C. Mazurak
Department of Agricultural, Food, and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta,
Edmonton, AB T6G 2P5, Canada; Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo,
Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada; Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute,
University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie
University, Saint John Regional Hospital, 400 University Avenue, PO Box 2100, Saint
John, NB E2L 4L2, Canada

The prevalence of muscle wasting has recently been re-
ported to approach nearly 50% of advanced lung cancer pa-
tients newly referred to a regional medical oncology clinic.
Therefore, interventions aimed at preventing further wasting
should be implemented soon after oncology referral. A ben-
efit of aerobic training on functional parameters in post-
surgical lung cancer patients has been demonstrated.
However, approximately 75% of lung cancer patients
present with inoperable advanced disease. The objective of
this study was to describe changes in body composition in

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés S75

newly referred nonsmall-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients
receiving first-line chemotherapy, to identify opportunities
for interventions to prevent tissue wasting. Our research
group has prospectively followed over 600 patients with
lung cancer. Patient records were reviewed for the following
inclusion criteria: stage III or IV NSCLC, and treatment
with first-line platinum-based doublet chemotherapy (n =
121). Muscle and adipose tissue were measured using com-
puted tomography (CT) images taken for diagnostic pur-
poses prior to starting chemotherapy (mean, 20 ± 14 days)
and following completion of chemotherapy (mean, 18 ±
12 days). Because the time between CT images is unique
for each individual, change in tissue was expressed as a
standard unit (%change per 100 days). The mean duration
of chemotherapy was 11 ± 4 weeks. Patients were 62 ±
1 years old, 53% of patients were female, and the baseline
body mass index was 25.8 ± 3.9 kg
m–2. The majority
(74%) of patients lost muscle during chemotherapy at a
mean rate of –6.2% ± 10.6% per 100 days, equivalent to
the loss of 1 kg of muscle. Despite loss of adipose from sub-
cutaneous and visceral depots, intermuscular adipose tissue
(IMAT) increased in 68% of patients (10.5% ± 33.5% per
100 days). This may indicate poor muscle health, as IMAT
accumulation is associated with decreased muscle strength
and insulin resistance. The capacity for muscle anabolism
exists, however, as 14% of patients were gaining muscle.
Chemotherapy may represent an opportunity for timely in-
tervention to prevent the deterioration in body composition
observed in this study. Investigations on the feasibility and
safety of nutritional and exercise interventions in advanced
cancer patients receiving chemotherapy are warranted.

Tracking of lung function from childhood to

adulthood
G. Murray, R. Larouche, L. Laurencelle, R.J. Shephard, and F. Trudeau
Département des sciences de l’activité physique, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières,
Trois-Rivières, QC G9A 5H7, Canada; Department of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of
Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada

A previous study has shown that the measurement of
forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) between the ages of
13 and 27 years showed high to moderate stability–tracking.
The purpose of the present study was, first, to examine the
stability–tracking of the FEV1 measurement between the
ages of 12 and 44 years, and, second, to verify if the actual
practice of physical activity has an effect on this stability
and on lung function parameters (FEV1, forced vital ca-
pacity, and peak expiratory flow (PEF). Spirometry tests and
a lifestyle questionnaire were administered to 62 participants
(26 men and 36 women) who had been enrolled in the
Trois-Rivières longitudinal growth study from 1970 to
1977. The Pearson correlation between the FEV1
measurement in childhood and adulthood indicates high
stability–tracking in men (r = 0.51, p = 0.004) and moderate
stability–tracking in women (r = 0.41, p = 0.007). The
practice of physical activity is moderately associated to
PEF in women (r = 0.36, p = 0.015), but not to other
lung function parameters. This suggests that an early meas-
urement of FEV1 is a relatively good predictor of adult
FEV1 values.

Sport performance-related changes in cardiac

cycle timing events
J.P. Neary, D. Mulder, and D.S. MacQuarrie
Kinesiology & Health Studies, University of Regina, Regina, SK S4S 0A2, Canada; McGill
University and Montreal General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3G 1A4, Canada

Ballistocardiography can be used to measure the mechan-
ical function of the heart and represent the sum of cardiac
performance changes. In this study, we hypothesized that
digital ballistocardiography (dBG) could be used to assess
differences in cardiac performance in separate groups of
highly trained athletes. In 56 NHL players (age, 24.4 ±
4.6 years; weight, 91.1 ± 8.4 kg; height, 184.7 ± 6.6 cm)
and 25 marathon runners (age, 44.7 ± 6.4 s; weight, 65.9 ±
17.2 kg; height, 173.3 ± 8.3 cm), resting dBG was recorded
to measure the mechanical events of the heart. The results
showed that although resting heart rates where similar for
the NHL players and the marathon runners (57 ± 11 vs.

Published by NRC Research Press

S76
57 ± 9 beats
min–1), cardiac cycle timing was significantly
different (p < 0.05) for Q-wave (ECG) to atrial systole
(17.8 ± 0.61 vs. 26.6 ± 1.4 ms), mitral valve close (46.3 ±
12.3 vs. 34.7 ± 10.3 ms), aortic valve open (93.7 ± 12.4 vs.
85.4 ± 10.5 ms), rapid ejection (159.9 ± 17.7 vs. 159.6 ±
21.1 ms), aortic valve close (351.9 ± 26.6 vs. 350.4 ±
24.1 ms), mitral valve open (455.2 ± 26.2 vs. 449.6 ±
25.4 ms), early diastolic filling (537.8 ± 31.3 vs. 551.4 ±
37.1 ms), and isovolumic contraction time (47.1 ± 11.9 vs.
50.7 ± 9.9 ms). Systole (258.1 ± 23.8 vs. 265 ± 22 ms) and
diastole (675.2 ± 197.3 vs. 652.0 ± 152.5 ms) were signifi-
cantly different between groups. Cardiac contractility, repre-
sented by dBG waveform amplitude (milligravity, mG), was
significantly different for aortic valve open (19.9 ± 10.2 vs.
Biventricular function during passive heat stress:
influence of aerobic fitness
M.D. Nelson, M.J. Haykowsky, S.R. Petersen, D.S. DeLorey, M.K. Stickland,
J. Cheng-Baron, and R.B. Thompson
Faculties of Physical Education and Recreation, Rehabilitation Medicine, and Medicine
and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
Whole-body passive heat stress poses a substantial chal-
lenge to the cardiovascular system. To maintain arterial blood
pressure in the face of elevated cutaneous vascular conduc-
tance, cardiac output is significantly augmented. The change
in cardiac output is predominantly heart-rate-mediated, as
stroke volume is maintained during heat stress, despite sig-
nificant reductions in filling pressures and central blood
volume. We have previously demonstrated that the mainte-
nance of ventricular filling and stroke volume with heat
stress are likely the consequence of increased ventricular
contractility and the associated increase in ventricular suc-
tion. Endurance athletes are susceptible to large reductions
in preload during orthostatic stress. However, it remains
unknown if high levels of aerobic fitness alter the cardiac
response to heat stress. Therefore, we studied biventricular
function during passive heat stress in 20 healthy males (10
endurance trained (ET), 64.4 + 3.0 mL
kg–1
min–1; and 10
untrained (UT), 46.3 + 6.2 mL
kg–1
min–1). Core tempera-
ture was elevated approximately 1 8C by circulating warm
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
32.8 ± 18.5 mG), rapid ejection (3.8 ± 4.6 vs. 5.8 ± 5.8 mG),
mitral valve open (17.6 ± 6.6 vs. 26.1 ± 11.3 mG), early
diastolic filling (7.4 ± 4.2 vs. 10.9 ± 6.7 mG), atrial con-
traction (5.5 ± 3.2 vs. 10.7 ± 7.9 mG), and mitral valve
close (5.2 ± 4.9 vs. 4.1 ± 4.5 mG). This study demon-
strated 2 important findings: that dBG confirmed cardiac
performance differences between intermittent-based sport
athletes (NHL players) and endurance-based (marathon)
runners; and that under resting conditions, the marathon
runners had higher filling amplitudes (pressure), but the
NHL players appear to have less filling pressure during di-
astole to perform its cardiac function. (Funding support:
Heart Force Medical.)
water (50 8C) throughout a tube-lined suit. Cardiac mag-
netic resonance imaging was used to measure biventricular
volumes, function, filling velocities, volumetric flow rates,
and left ventricular (LV) twist and strain at baseline (BL)
and after 45 min of heat stress. In all subjects, passive heat
stress reduced biventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic
volumes and left atrial volume, and increased heart rate
and cardiac output (all p < 0.05), while biventricular stroke
volume was unchanged. No between-group differences
were found. Biventricular ejection fraction, LV end-systolic
elastance, mitral and tricuspid annular systolic tissue veloc-
ities, circumferential strain, and peak LV twist increased to
the same extent in both groups above baseline during pas-
sive heating (p < 0.05). Early LV diastolic tissue and
blood velocities, volumetric flow rates, and strain rates (dia-
stole) were unchanged with heat stress, while peak LV un-
twisting rate increased similarly in both groups (p < 0.05).
The present findings indicate that the biventricular response
to passive heat stress is not influenced by aerobic fitness.
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
Effect of microgravity on mitochondrial-
associated apoptotic and autophagic markers
in cardiac and skeletal muscle
L.M.-D. Nguyen, J.N. Stabley, A.N. Kavazis, M.D. Delp, and P.J. Adhihetty
Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, FL 32611-8208,
USA
Prolonged spaceflight causes numerous adaptations to
skeletal and cardiac muscle because of microgravity-induced
unloading (MIU). Striatal muscle atrophy is a prominent fea-
ture of MIU, and mitochondrially mediated signaling involv-
ing apoptotic and autophagic pathways may partially
contribute to this process. However, the mitochondrially as-
sociated mechanisms and the role of mitochondrial content
on the susceptibility to cell death with MIU are unknown.
Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the role of
mitochondrially mediated apoptosis and autophagy programs
in atrophy provoked by MIU in muscle with varying mito-
chondrial content. We hypothesized that muscle with greater
mitochondrial content would be more susceptible to cell
death and atrophy. Mice (C57BL/6; n = 8) were subjected
to 15 days of spaceflight on the Space Transportation Sys-
tem (STS)-131 mission, while a control group (n = 8) re-
mained grounded. Hindlimb skeletal muscles of increasing
mitochondrial content — lateral gastrocnemius (LG), tibialis
anterior (TA), and soleus (SOL) — and heart (HRT) were
examined. Spaceflight mice exhibited a significant 6.6% de-
Physical activity and health risk in off-reserve
Aboriginals and non-Aboriginals: results from the
Canadian Community Health Surveys
J.X. Nie, V.T.W. Poon, E. de Sa, and C.I. Ardern
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto,
ON M3J 1P3, Canada
While off-reserve Aboriginals (defined as North American
Indian, Métis, or Inuit) are reported to have a higher preva-
lence of obesity and chronic disease than the non-Aboriginal
population, the degree to which differences in physical ac-
tivity (PA) levels influence these patterns is unclear. The
purpose of the current analysis was, therefore, to investigate
the relationship between PA and health risk in Aboriginals,
and to determine whether these associations were similar
for self-rated physical and mental health. To assess this,
data from cycles 1.1, 2.1, and 3.1 of the Canadian Commun-
S77
cline (p < 0.05) in body weight, with similar declines in LG
(7.5%), TA (8.0%), and HRT (4.9%), compared with con-
trols. However, a significantly greater loss (23.7%) was ob-
served in SOL. Apoptotic and autophagy proteins were
initially measured only in LG and HRT. Modest increases
in autophagy-related proteins — Beclin-1 and calpain-1 —
were observed in LG, while a significant 41% elevation oc-
curred in the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, an apoptotic index, in space-
flight animals. Additionally, microgravity caused a 30%
reduction in anti-apoptotic HSP70 in the LG. In HRT, simi-
lar trends occurred, but they were less pronounced than in
LG. Surprisingly, cytochrome c, a mitochondrial content
marker, was significantly elevated in LG and HRT of space-
flight animals, suggestive of a compensatory response. Cur-
rently, these data indicate MIU elevates apoptosis and
autophagy markers in LG and, to a lesser extent, in HRT;
this may be a result of tissue-specific microgravity perturba-
tions. Further analyses will be performed on TA and SOL to
determine the influence of skeletal muscle mitochondrial
content on microgravity-induced atrophy.
ity Health Survey (CCHS; 2000 to 2005; n = 259 065) were
used. Self-reported chronic diseases (i.e., cancer, high blood
pressure, coronary heart disease (CHD), and diabetes) and
‘‘high’’ (very good or excellent) self-perceived mental and
general health was compared between off-reserve Aborigi-
nals and non-Aboriginals. PA was based on self-reported ac-
tivity energy expenditure (kcal
kg–1
day–1, KKD), and
classified as ‘‘active’’ (‡3 KKD), ‘‘moderately active’’ (1.5–
2.9 KKD), or ‘‘inactive’’ (<1.5 KKD). For a given level of
PA, Aboriginals had higher odds of chronic disease — can-
Published by NRC Research Press
S78
cer odds ratio (OR) = 1.57, 95% confidence interval (CI),
1.05–2.35; diabetes OR = 1.83, 95% CI, 1.47–2.28; and at
least 1 chronic disease OR = 1.34, 95% CI, 1.13–1.58 —
than non-Aboriginals, and lower odds of ‘‘high’’ self-per-
ceived general (OR = 0.71, 95% CI, 0.65–0.78) and mental
health (OR = 0.88, 95% CI, 0.78–0.99), effects that persisted
after adjustment for covariates (age, sex, smoking, alcohol
consumption, education, income, and body mass index). Sig-
Smoking behaviour differentially affects central
vs. peripheral vascular mechanics in young
women
C.A. Nielson, M.F. Frances, R. Goswami, T.I. Gimon, H. Prapavessis, and
J.K. Shoemaker
School of Kinesiology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of
Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
The purpose of this study was to investigate central and
peripheral arterial compliance in young smokers. We tested
the hypothesis that increasing numbers of cigarettes smoked
would affect peripheral before central vascular mechanics.
Thirty-four female smokers (age, 18–30 years) who smoked
for more than 2 years (2–15 years) participated. Eight
healthy female nonsmokers (age, 22–29 years) served as
controls. Brachial and carotid blood flow (4 MHz Doppler
probe, Multigon Inc.; or 4.7 MHz Doppler and 10 MHz ul-
trasound imaging; GE Vivid 7) were collected, along with
finger blood pressure (Finometer) and the oxygen pulse in
the toe (pulse-oximeter). Brachial blood flow was collected
using a 4 MHz Doppler probe in healthy controls. Central
conduit arterial compliance, quantified as pulse wave veloc-
ity (PWV) to the finger and toe, was calculated. Peripheral
vascular bed mechanics (resistance (R), mm Hg
mL–1
min–1;
compliance (C), mL
mm Hg–1; and viscoelasticity (K),
mm Hg
mL–1
min–1) were assessed using a modified Wind-
kessel model. Smoking habits were assessed using daily
smoking counts and questionnaires. PWV to the finger or
toe were not different between smokers (finger, 1307 ±
183 cm
s–1; toe, 926 ± 130 cm
s–1) and healthy controls
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
nificant gender- and ethnicity-by-PA interactions were also
observed. Although the odds of diabetes and general health
were higher in Aboriginals than non-Aboriginals at all PA
levels, the likelihood of all other chronic conditions varied
by gender and level of PA. Further research with objective
PA monitoring is necessary to clarify the extent to which
existing inequities or differences in self-report of PA and
chronic disease may contribute to the observed relationships.
(finger, 1465 ± 211 cm
s–1; toe, 882 ± 54 cm
s–1). The quan-
tity of cigarettes smoked was not related to PWV. R, C, and
K were not different between heavy (R, 14.35 ±
10.44 mm Hg
mL–1
min–1; C, 0.005067 ±
0.0027 mL
mm Hg–1; K, 0.2278 ± 0.102 mm Hg
mL–1
min–
1) and light smokers (R, 15.83 ± 12.13 mm Hg
mL–1
min–1;
C, 0.0034086 ± 0.0008 mL
mm Hg–1; K, 0.18 ±
0.039 mm Hg
mL–1
min–1). However, compared with con-
trols (R, 7.90 ± 4.99 mm Hg
mL–1
min–1; C, 0.0035 ±
0.00024 mm Hg
mL–1
min–1; K, 0.11 ± 0.042 mm Hg
mL–
1
min–1), peripheral R and K were greater in smokers (p <
0.05). Peripheral vascular C was not different between the
control and smoker groups. Therefore, the number of ciga-
rettes smoked in these young smokers did not affect periph-
eral or central vascular stiffness. However, the greater
peripheral vascular resistance and viscoelasticity in smokers
indicates that peripheral vascular mechanics regulating
blood flow are altered before central changes occur. The
large increase in vascular resistance in smokers suggests a
constant constrictor state in the vasculature. (Supported by
NSERC and CIHR.)
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés S79

Obesity impairs leg blood flow and glucose

tolerance in young women
T.D. Olver, T.J. Hazell, C.D. Hamilton, and P.W.R. Lemon
Exercise Nutrition Research Laboratory, 2235 3M Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences,
School of Kinesiology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada

It has been proposed that a postprandial increase in skele-
tal muscle blood flow may enhance glucose uptake. The
purpose of this study was to assess whether differences in
leg blood flow following an oral glucose load could explain
differences in glucose tolerance between lean and obese
young women. Obese (mean ± SD: age, 24 ± 4 years;
weight, 85 ± 14.7 kg; 37 ± 6.4%fat; n = 8) and lean women
(mean ± SD: age, 24 ± 1.3 years; weight, 61 ± 3.5 kg; 21 ±
1%fat; n = 4) arrived in the laboratory at 0830 hours after a
12-h overnight fast. Body composition via densitometry (air
displacement) was assessed, and baseline values for heart
rate (HR), leg blood flow (LBF; Doppler ultrasound), and
capillary blood glucose (BGlu) concentration were measured
after 15 min in the supine position. Subjects then ingested a
75-g glucose load (600 mL) in 5 min. All measures were re-
assessed at 30, 60, 90, and 120 min postglucose ingestion.
While baseline HR was greater (p = 0.043) in the obese vs.
the lean group (obese = 68 ± 14.6 vs. lean = 52 ±
5.3 beats
min–1), there were no differences at any other time
point. At baseline, LBF was similar (p = 0.933) between
groups (obese = 65 ± 14.9 vs. lean = 64 ± 4.2 mL
min–1).
Following glucose ingestion, lean LBF increased (*2-fold)
90 min postingestion, while the obese did not change
(lean = 123 ± 10.6 vs. obese = 71 ± 9.6 mL
min–1). Fasting
BGlu concentration was similar between groups (obese =
5.1 ± 0.47 vs. lean = 5.0 ± 0.22 mmol
L–1, p = 0.770), but
2 h postingestion area under the curve for glucose was ele-
vated (p = 0.013) in the obese, compared with the lean,
group (obese = 15.0 ± 1.53 vs. lean = 12.4 ±
1.04 mmol
L–1
h–2). These data suggest that an inability to
increase leg blood flow following glucose ingestion in obese
young women could explain the observed impaired glucose
tolerance.

Endothelial dysfunction in estrogen-deficient

physically active premenopausal women is
restored with acute aerobic exercise
E. O’Donnell, J.M. Goodman, B.L. Morris, J.S. Floras, and P.J. Harvey
Cardiovascular Regulation Laboratory, Department of Exercise Sciences and Division of
Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 2W6,
Canada; Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto, ON M5S 1B2, Canada

Estrogen-deficient premenopausal women with exercise-
associated amenorrhea (EAA) demonstrate endothelial dys-
function. We have previously shown that endothelial dys-
function is ameliorated with acute aerobic exercise in
healthy untrained postmenopausal women. It is not known
whether similar benefit is observed in premenopausal
women with EAA. Measurement of brachial artery (BA) di-
ameter change in response to flow-mediated dilation (FMD),
using ultrasound techniques, is a noninvasive method for as-
sessing endothelial function. The aim of the current study is
to determine BA responses to FMD, both before and after
acute aerobic exercise, in physically active premenopausal
women with and without EAA. Healthy premenopausal
women (age, 18–35 years) are currently being recruited.
Women are required to be exercising regularly (>3 h
week–1),
and to either be regularly menstruating (25–35 days) and
ovulatory (positive urinary luteinizing hormone surge de-
tected), or reporting EAA for at least 90 consecutive days
at study entry. BA diameter is being examined at baseline
and after FMD, both pre- and post-treadmill exercise
(60%V_ O2 max, 45 min). To date, 11 age-matched women
(age, 24.5 ± 0.9 years; mean ± SEM) have completed BA
testing: 7 exercising and ovulatory women (ExOv; n = 7),
and 4 exercising and amenorrheic (EAA; n = 4) women.
Preliminary results show that baseline BA diameter (mm)
was similar (p > 0.05) between ExOv (3.3 ± 0.14) and

Published by NRC Research Press

S80
EAA (3.4 ± 0.19). FMD (percent change) pre-exercise was
significantly lower (p = 0.006) in EAA vs. ExOv (2.57%
vs. 8.57%, respectively). FMD was similar (p > 0.05) pre-
and postexercise in ExOv (8.57% vs. 8.19%, respectively),
but was improved in EAA (p < 0.05; 2.57% vs. 7.88%, re-
spectively). Unlike pre-exercise FMD, postexercise FMD
was similar (p > 0.05) between groups (ExOv, 8.19% vs.
Consommation en oxygène des muscles
respiratoires (V̇O2MR) durant une épreuve
respiratoire progressive maximale chez les
blessés médullaires
A.A. Parent et A.S. Comtois
Département de kinésiologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3P8,
Canada
Les difficultés respiratoires sont nombreuses chez les
blessés médullaires et nuisent à leur qualité de vie. Le fonc-
tionnement des muscles respiratoires est dépendant du ni-
veau de l’atteinte de la lésion à la moelle épinière, mais la
consommation en oxygène de ces muscles (V_ O2MR) reste in-
connue. Le but de cette étude est de déterminer la V_ O2MR
durant une épreuve progressive maximale pour différents ni-
veaux de lésion chez les blessés médullaires. Un groupe de
10 sujets paraplégiques (T2-T11), 10 sujets tétraplégiques
(C4-T1) et un groupe témoin de 10 sujets seront recrutés
pour effectuer une épreuve respiratoire progressive maxi-
male à l’aide d’une valve seuil ainsi que des tests de press-
Comparing central and peripheral vascular
stiffness between spinal-cord-injured and able-
bodied individuals
A.A. Phillips, A. Ivey, A. Cote, and D.E.R. Warburton
Department of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British
Columbia, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the primary cause of
death for persons with a spinal cord injury (SCI). Vascular
stiffness is a key marker for CVD in various clinical popula-
tions, but has not been well established in persons with SCI.
The objective of this study was to examine differences in
central and peripheral artery pulse wave velocity (PWV) in
an age- and physical-activity-matched population of SCI
and able-bodied participants. A total of 5 (age, 23–36 years)
able-bodied (AB) and 6 SCI (age, 25–41 years) people were
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
EAA, 7.88%). In summary, women with EAA demonstrate
endothelial dysfunction. Acute aerobic exercise augments
endothelial function in women with EAA. These findings
suggest that the endothelium, while dysfunctional, is able
to respond to interventions that are known to increase ni-
tric oxide production, such as aerobic exercise.
ions inspiratoires et expiratoires maximales. Ces épreuves
nous permettront d’observer la relation niveau de blessure
médullaire et puissance aérobie maximale des muscles respi-
ratoires, mais également de proposer un protocole d’évalu-
ation de la capacité fonctionnelle de ces muscles qui pourra
être utilizé à des fins de réadaptation. Notre hypothèse est
que la V_ O2MR soit plus basse chez les sujets ayant une at-
teinte médullaire élevée étant donné que la masse de muscles
respiratoires en lien au volume courant est moindre. Cela
restera à être confirmé lors de la comparaison de la V_ O2MR
à volume courant égal (iso-VT). Il est important de noter que
la collecte de donnée sera effectuée durant l’été 2010.
recruited. Participants were matched based on age and phys-
ical activity level (Godin–Shepard). Arterial waveforms
were collected using applanation tonometry (Millar Instru-
ments) at the carotid and plethysmography (ADInstruments)
at the femoral artery and toe. Pulse transit time was calcu-
lated as the average time delay between the foot of the arte-
rial waveforms over a minimum of 15 cardiac cycles (Chart
5.5). The distance between the 2 sites was measured to the
nearest 0.5 cm. The waveform collection and distance meas-
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
urement was collected after 15 min of rest, with each partic-
ipant in the supine position. No significant differences were
found between groups for central arterial vascular stiffness.
Mean (±SD) carotid-femoral PWV was 526.13 (±55.30)
cm
s–1 and 484.81 (±138.94) cm
s–1 for SCI and AB, respec-
tively. Mean femoral-toe PWV (± SD) was 1065.42
(±218.94) and 1006.69 (±172.47) cm
s–1 for SCI and AB, re-
Increasing intramuscular triacylglycerol is
associated with improved insulin sensitivity in
lean and obese rats
A. Piattelli, A. Chabowski, A. Bonen, X-X. Han, and G.P. Holloway
Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph,
ON N1G 2W1, Canada; Department of Physiology, Bialystok Medical University,
Bialystok, Poland
For many years, an increase in intramuscular triacylgly-
cerol has been associated with the development of insulin
resistance. Both genetic studies and observations in athletes
(athletic paradox) indicate that an increase in intramuscular
triacylglycerol is accompanied by improved insulin sensitiv-
ity. This suggests that intramuscular triacylglycerol acts as a
repository for excess bioactive lipids (ceramide, diacylgly-
cerol) and, hence, reduces their content. We have employed
a model of chronic muscle stimulation to examine insulin
sensitivity and intramuscular lipid accumulation in lean and
obese Zucker rats, a well-known model of insulin resistance.
Chronic muscle stimulation increased insulin-stimulated glu-
cose transport 36%–185% in red and white muscles of lean
and obese animals. Transmission electron microscope analy-
ses revealed that lipid droplets were greatly increased in
chronically stimulated muscles, an increase that was most
evident around intermyofibrillar mitochondria, in both lean
and obese animals. Intramuscular lipid accumulation was
also determined biochemically. This revealed that chronic
muscle contraction increased intramuscular triacylglycerol
in both red (lean +50%; obese +39%) and white
Influence of recreational ball hockey on selected
coronary risk factors in sedentary adult males
G. Poleksic and R. Vandenboom
Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharine’s, ON L2S 3A1,
Canada
The influence of recreational sports participation on coro-
nary risk factors is not well studied. The purpose of this
study was to test the hypothesis that participation in recrea-
S81
spectively. Although statistically insignificant, both central
and peripheral arterial segments show increased stiffness in
the SCI group. Larger samples sizes are needed to clearly
show any differences in vascular stiffness between AB and
SCI. PWV may be able to predict CVD risk in the SCI pop-
ulation.
(lean +133%; obese +65%) muscles. Concomitantly, intra-
muscular diacylglycerol was reduced in red muscle only
(lean –14%; obese –39%), while intramuscular ceramide
was reduced in red (lean –9%; obese –41%) and white
muscles (lean –10%; obese –20%). Among all these
muscles, intramuscular diacylglycerol (r = 0.68) but not ce-
ramide (r = 0.09) correlated with intramuscular triacylgly-
cerol. Within lean (r = 0.93) and within obese animals (r =
0.95), insulin-stimulated glucose transport was positively as-
sociated with intramuscular triacylglycerol. No such rela-
tionships were evident between insulin-stimulated glucose
transport and diacylglycerol or ceramide in either lean or
obese animals. In conclusion, these studies indicate that con-
traction-induced increases in intramuscular triacylglycerol
are positively associated with improved insulin-sensitivity,
as an increase in this lipid depot permits a reduction in bio-
active lipids that may interfere with insulin signaling.
Nevertheless, reductions in ceramide and diacylglycerol do
not necessarily correlate directly with improvements in insu-
lin sensitivity. (Supported by CIHR, NSERC, and the Can-
ada Research Chair program.)
tional ball hockey would improve the acute coronary out-
look of sedentary adult males. Twelve middle-aged and
sedentary subjects (age, 44.7 ± 1.92 years) were recruited
Published by NRC Research Press
S82
and formed into a single team that played 1 season (16
games in 10 weeks) of outdoor ball hockey at Ball Hockey
International (St. Catharine’s, Ont.). Selected risk factors
(V_ O2 max, body mass index (BMI), % body fat, lean body
mass, and waist-to-hip ratio) for coronary artery disease
were measured prior to and immediately after the season
(June–August) in this and in an aged-matched control group
(42.6 ± 2.08 years; n = 11). All data are reported as means ±
SE, with p < 0.05. In the experimental group, both absolute
(3323 ± 131 vs. 3626 ± 136 mL
min–1) and relative (37.0 ±
1.33 vs. 40.8 ± 1.44 mL
kg–1
min–1) V_ O2 max were increased
by *10%, while % body fat (28.1 ± 2.6 vs. 26.9 ± 2.5) was
decreased by *4%. BMI (29.2 ± 1.41 vs. 28.9 ± 1.20 kg
m–2),
lean body mass (64.3 ± 1.3 vs. 66.1 ± 1.3), and waist-to-
Impact of lifestyle and nonmodifiable risk factors
on trajectories of metabolic syndrome
development
V.T.W. Poon, J.L. Kuk, and C.I. Ardern
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto,
ON M3J 1P3, Canada
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a constellation of meta-
bolic aberrations that collectively increase the risk for cardi-
ovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes. The aim of the
current study was to describe trajectories of MetS develop-
ment and examine how lifestyle factors contribute to these
patterns. Data from the Coronary Artery Risk Development
in Young Adults (CARDIA) study (n = 3673; age, 18–
30 years) were obtained by limited access application from
the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and
used for this analysis. MetS, as defined by the Harmonized
criteria, was evaluated at 7, 10, and 15 years after baseline,
from 1985 to 2001. Baseline exclusions were made for indi-
viduals identified as having MetS or missing any MetS com-
ponents. Frequency of regular moderate to vigorous activity
was self-reported and expressed as exercise units (EU).
Group-level trajectory analysis identified 4 distinct MetS
groups, with increasing rates of component development
from baseline (No MetS, and Low, Moderate, and High
MetS). In general, groups that had either high baseline levels
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
hip ratio (0.95 ± 0.01 vs. 0.94 ± 0.01) were not altered,
however. In the control group, absolute (3338 ± 157 vs.
3311 ± 149 mL
min–1) and relative (39.4 ± 1.22 vs.
39.4 ± 1.04 mL
kg–1
min–1) V_ O2 max, BMI (26.3 ± 0.7 vs.
26.2 ± 0.7 kg
m–2), % body fat (22.7 ± 1.4 vs. 22.2 ±
1.3), lean body mass (65.5 ± 0.8 vs. 64.7 ± 0.8), and
waist-to-hip ratio (0.93 ± 0.01 vs. 0.93 ± 0.01) were not
altered. Thus, although participation in 1 season of recrea-
tional outdoor ball hockey improved aspects of cardiores-
piratory fitness and body composition, more prolonged
exposure or additional activities may be required to pro-
duce more general improvements in overall coronary health
outlook.
of MetS components or demonstrated rapid MetS develop-
ment had a higher proportion of black participants, individu-
als with low socioeconomic status, and family history of
CVD. By contrast, baseline total PA score was higher in
the No MetS and Low MetS trajectory groups (No, 452 ±
307 EU; Low, 452 ± 309 EU; Mod, 403 ± 291 EU; and
High, 370 ± 274 EU; p < 0.05), whereas the Moderate
and High MetS groups reported higher TV viewing time
in years 10 and 15 (p < 0.05). Although there were no
baseline group differences in macronutrient intake (% car-
bohydrate, fat, and protein), daily energy intake by year 7
was significantly higher in the Moderate and High MetS
groups (all p < 0.05). Taken together, these results suggest
that there are distinct profiles of MetS development that
can be identified by baseline behavioural and nonmodifi-
able risk factors. Further research is necessary to character-
ize the role of changes in lifestyle factors on these
trajectories within a global risk approach to chronic disease
prevention.
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
Velocity-dependent power loss following
lengthening contractions in young and old women
G.A. Power, B.H. Dalton, C.L. Rice, and A.A. Vandervoort
Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging, School of Kinesiology, The University of Western
Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
Compared with isometric and slow velocity-constrained
shortening tasks, much less is known regarding muscle fa-
tigue and subsequent recovery in older adults following a
bout of high-intensity lengthening contractions, particularly
the loss of power. The purpose of this study was to investi-
gate changes in voluntary and evoked neuromuscular prop-
erties of the dorsiflexors during and following 5 sets of 30
lengthening contractions at 80% of maximal voluntary iso-
metric contraction (MVC) and for 30 min of recovery in
6 young (age, 25.4 ± 1.8 years) and 6 old women (age,
66.7 ± 5.2 years). The young and old had similar baseline
values for evoked and voluntary strength. Peak doublet
twitch torque was 9.8 ± 2.3 Nm and 8.9 ± 1.7 Nm; 100 Hz
peak torque was 18.6 ± 3.7 Nm and 19.3 ± 4.9 Nm; and
MVC torque was 29.8 ± 3.0 Nm and 30.8 ± 4.3 Nm for
young and old, respectively. The old had *25% slower con-
tractile properties and *8% slower loaded (20% MVC)
maximal shortening velocity than the young. The MVC and
doublet twitch torque declined by *30% and *40% at task
Enhanced motoneurone excitability during
locomotion: insights from animal experimentation
K.E. Power, C.W. MacDonell, J.W. Chopek, K. Gardiner, and P.F. Gardiner
Spinal Cord Research Centre, Department of Physiology, University of Manitoba,
Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
The biophysical properties of spinal motoneurones can be
modified as a result of increases or decreases in neuromus-
cular activity. Chronic changes in motoneurone excitability
have been shown following exercise endurance training in
adult rats, including a reduction in the voltage threshold
(Vth) for action potential initiation, resting membrane poten-
tial, and rheobase, as well as an increase in the postspike
afterhyperpolarization (AHP) amplitude. Similar changes in
motoneurone excitability havebeen demonstrated in a transi-
ent, ‘‘state-dependent’’ manner, as occurs, for example,
when transitioning from a resting to a locomotor state.
These transient changes, however, have been characterized
mainly in the cat. The purpose of this study was to charac-
terize the biophysical properties of spinal motoneurones dur-
ing fictive locomotion in the adult decerebrate rat. Measures
S83
termination, respectively, with no main effect for age. How-
ever, low-frequency torque depression (10:50 Hz) increased
to *40% in the old and *25% in the young following task
termination, and continued to increase throughout recovery.
Velocity-dependent shortening power was reduced similarly
in young and old, by *12% and *9%, respectively, and re-
mained depressed for 30 min. These preliminary findings
may suggest a lack of age dependence during lengthening
contractions, and any acclimation to enhanced fatigue resist-
ance with aging may be nullified for this task. Despite the
slower contractile properties of the old, both groups had a
similar reduction in velocity-dependent power following the
lengthening contractions. Thus, the initial fatigue and subse-
quent presumed muscle damage induced by the lengthening
contractions may have altered excitation–contraction cou-
pling and crossbridge function, resulting in impaired neuro-
muscular function, including velocity-dependent power, for
up to 30 min, irrespective of age. (Supported by NLCAHR
and NSERC.)
of motoneurone excitability included Vth and AHP ampli-
tude. Experiments were conducted on adult decerebrate rats
in which fictive locomotion was induced by electrical stimu-
lation of the brainstem. Measurements of the Vth and AHP
amplitude of the first spike evoked by intracellular injection
of depolarizing ramp currents or square wave pulses were
compared during control and fictive locomotion in 18 anti-
dromically identified spinal motoneurones. Vth hyperpolar-
ized in all motoneurones examined (mean hyperpolarization,
–3.4 ± 2.1 mV; range, –1.4 to –10.1 mV). AHP amplitude
suppression also occurred in all motoneurones. The results
show that fictive locomotion induces a hyperpolarization of
the Vth for action potential initiation and a suppression of
the AHP amplitude. These changes in motoneurone excit-
ability would facilitate the recruitment and firing of spinal
Published by NRC Research Press
S84
motoneurones during fictive locomotion, compared with the
resting state. Ongoing research in the lab is aimed at deter-
mining whether chronic changes in motoneurone excitability
induced by exercise endurance training will impact the tran-
Continuous wavelet transformation of heart rate
variability during incremental exercise
G.H. Raymer, C.D. Moore, M.W. Adamson, D.C. Hay, and M.P. Wachowiak
School of Physical and Health Education, Schulich School of Education, Nipissing
University, North Bay, ON P1B 8L7, Canada
Variation in the time interval between consecutive (suc-
cessive) heart beats is known as heart rate variability
(HRV). HRV may be quantified in the frequency domain
with power spectral density methods (typically, the Fourier
transform), but these techniques require relatively stationary
or steady-state heart rate data, and cannot time-resolve fre-
quency components. Wavelet transforms, however, have the
advantages of resolving the frequency content of nonstation-
ary heart rates and localizing HRV characteristics in both
time and frequency (Toledo et al. 2003, Am. J. Physiol.
Regul. Integr. Comp. Physiol. 284: R1079–R1091). In the
present study, we implemented a continuous wavelet trans-
form (CWT) on the beat-to-beat heart rate intervals ex-
tracted from single-lead electrocardiography, recorded
during an incremental leg cycling exercise test. Breath-by-
breath measurements of V_ O2, V_ CO2, and V_ E were also re-
corded during the exercise test. Six healthy male participants
(age, 21 to 37 years) participated in this study. V_ CO2 was
plotted against V_ O2 for each subject to determine the onset
A novel topical oxygen therapy for treating
cutaneous wounds
S.A. Reading and M. Yeomans
Faculty of Kinesiology, University of New Brunswick Fredericton, Fredericton,
NB E3B 5A3, Canada
Participation in athletic training and competition can re-
sult in abrasion and blistering of the foot skin. These injuries
are not catastrophic, yet they can delay training or diminish
performance. Any intervention that speeds healing will ben-
efit the athlete. Oxygen (O2) is critical to healing, and ex-
cess O2 can accelerate the process in epidermal tissue.
Unfortunately, it is difficult to increase tissue O2 levels in
the absence of hyperbaric equipment. The present study tests
the hypothesis that O2-enriched water is an effective vehicle
for increasing the O2 partial pressure of tissues (tcPO2) in
the foot. To test our hypothesis, 20 subjects (age, 25 ±
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
sient changes in motoneurone excitability that occur during
locomotion. This information may have important ramifica-
tions for the physical rehabilitation of individuals following
insult to the nervous system, such as spinal cord injury.
of a faster phase of CO2 production, relative to O2 consump-
tion (e.g., the first ventilatory threshold), which occurred at
276 (SD 27) W. From the CWT time-frequency analysis, a
high-frequency component of HRV was detected at the on-
set of exercise, from *0.3 to 0.35 Hz, and remained rela-
tively unchanged up to the onset of the faster phase of
V_ CO2, relative to V_ O2. After this point, the frequency of
the high-frequency component increased steadily, reaching
*0.4 to 0.45 Hz by maximal exercise tolerance. We found
that the exercise intensity associated with the onset of this
faster phase of rising frequency was coincident with the on-
set of the faster phase of V_ CO2, relative to V_ O2 (273 (SD
28) W; Pearson r = 0.936; p = 0.006. We suggest that the
changes in the high-frequency component of HRV, occur-
ring when the rate of CO2 production exceeds that of V_ O2
consumption, may reflect alterations in respiratory fre-
quency, cardiac autonomic control, or both.
0.5 years) sat at the end of a bench and submerged each
foot into a container of tap water (Control, 1.7 ± 0.2 mg
L–1
O2, PO2 & 50 mm Hg; 31.2 ± 0.9 8C) or O2-enriched water
(High-O2; 63.3 ± 0.8 mg
L–1 O2; PO2 & 1010 mm Hg;
33.8 ± 1.4 8C). O2 fluxoptodes were placed on the plantar
surface of the big toe, and near infrared spectroscopy
(NIRS) probes were secured to the arch of the foot. Skin
PO2 was measured before and after 30 min of water submer-
sion, and NIRS continuously monitored changes in haemo-
globin (Hb) O2 status. Skin PO2 of the big toe was 86.7 ±
4.3 and 81.7 ± 4.9 mm Hg for the Control and High-O2
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
groups, respectively, prior to treatment. Post-treatment, skin
PO2 of Control feet decreased from 160.3 ± 0.4 mm Hg to
81.7 ± 4.9 mm Hg over 20 min. For High-O2 treated feet,
skin PO2 increased from 160.2 ± 0.4 mm Hg to 237.2 ±
9.9 mm Hg over the first 2 min, and was 117.3 ±
10.1 mm Hg 20 min post-treatment. NIRS revealed that the
total Hb decreased during treatment, suggesting that the
High-O2 water decreased blood flow in the foot (Control,
The ‘‘brainless’’ graded maximal exercise test is
still a valid measure of maximal aerobic capacity
S.A. Reading, M.A. McNeil, and D. Thomson
Faculty of Kinesiology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3, Canada
T.D. Noakes (Noakes 2008, Br. J. Sports Med. 42: 551–
555) criticized the graded maximal exercise test (GXT) as a
‘‘brainless’’ method for determining maximum aerobic ca-
pacity (V_ O2 max), because the test subject cannot freely chose
their preferred pacing strategy, exercise intensity, or termi-
nation point. If subjects freely control these test parameters,
the recorded V_ O2 max would more closely approximate the
subjects’ true V_ O2 max. We tested this hypothesis by compar-
ing the peak V_ O2 max of 7 subjects (age, 26 ± 2 years) who
completed a standard bike ergometer GXT test and a test
that allowed the subject to control the pace and exercise in-
tensity while completing a fixed amount of work (SPT). An
electromagnetically braked bike was used for all testing.
During the GXT tests, pedalling resistance was computer
controlled to increase in 50 W increments every 2 min. For
the SPTs, training software was used to create a course that
was flat for 3 km before rising for 1.5 km at a 5% grade.
The software allowed the subject to control pedalling resist-
Influence of physical activity on the association
between clinically relevant classifications of
glycemia measures and cardiovascular disease
mortality risk
J.I. Reddigan, M.C. Riddell, and J.L. Kuk
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto,
ON M3J 1P3, Canada
Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting plasma glucose
(FPG), and 2-h plasma glucose (2hPG) are used to screen
for type 2 diabetes, and have been shown to be associated
with cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. However,
whether physical activity influences CVD mortality risk for
S85
0.1 ± 0.9 mmol
L–1; High-O2, –2.4 ± 0.4 mmol
L–1; p <
0.05). Despite receiving less blood, the total oxygenation in-
dex increased significantly in High-O2 water treated feet
(Control, –1.5% ± 0.5%; High-O2, 1.8% ± 1.0%). These re-
sults suggest that O2-enriched water can increase the PO2 in
the skin of the foot. Since the skin can absorb appreciable
amounts of O2 from water, soaking in O2-enriched water
may be a novel treatment for superficial foot injuries.
ance by means of a handle bar keypad. Subjects also con-
trolled cadence and received visual feedback from the
software to indicate their position on the course. The SPT
objective was to complete the incline portion as quickly as
possible. Subjects performed 1 GXT and 4 SPTs. The peak
V_ O2 max was similar for all 5 tests (GXT, 53.2 ± 4.1; SPT-1,
51.4 ± 3.9; SPT-2, 53.7 ± 3.9; SPT-3, 51.2 ± 3.5; SPT-4,
52.5 ± 3.0). Peak power — GXT, 340.7 ± 33.2; SPT-1,
466.0 ± 41.3; SPT-2, 388.1 ± 34.6; SPT-3, 400.7 ± 25.1;
SPT-4, 383.6 ± 21.8 — preceded peak V_ O2 max by 30 s in
the SPTs. End exercise heart rate (HR) exceeded 90% of
the age-predicted HRmax, and the espiratory exchange ratio
was greater than 1.15 for all tests. Interestingly, blood lac-
tate measured 17.0 ± 1.4 and 9.3 ± 2.1 (p < 0.05) at the end
of the GXT and SPT trials, respectively. These data do not
support the notion that self-pacing strategies produce higher
peak V_ O2 max values, and suggest that the cardiovascular
system, not the brain, limits maximum aerobic capacity.
a given FPG, 2hPG, and HbA1c is unknown. We examined
this in 2954 adults (aged 40–74 years), without previously
diagnosed type 2 diabetes, from the Third National Health
and Nutrition Examination Survey with public-access mor-
tality data linkage (follow-up, 8.5 ± 2.3 years; 282 CVD
Published by NRC Research Press
S86
deaths). Based on the frequency and intensity of physical ac-
tivity obtained by questionnaire, participants were divided
into sedentary, light, moderate, or vigorously active catego-
ries. Because of low numbers of deaths (n = 0) in the vigo-
rous activity category, the moderate and vigorous categories
were collapsed. FPG, 2hPG, and HbA1c were categorized
using the American Diabetes Association criteria for normal,
impaired, and type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetic levels of
2hPG (HR = 1.48 (1.00–2.18)) and HbA1c (HR = 2.44
(1.54–3.87)), but not impaired levels, were significant pre-
dictors of CVD mortality risk, with adjustment for physical
activity. Type 2 diabetic and impaired FPG were not associ-
ated with CVD mortality. There was a significant main ef-
fect of physical activity for each glycemic measure. For a
Predictors of V̇O2 max in premenopausal exercising
women
J.L. Reed, M.J. De Souza, and N.I. Williams
Department of Kinesiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802,
USA
Since V_ O2 max reflects the gold standard for determining
an individual’s level of aerobic fitness, it is an important
variable to quantify in evaluating exercise performance. The
purpose of this investigation was to determine factors that
predict V_ O2 max in premenopausal exercising women. Forty-
six women (age, 18–35 years; weight, 58.1 ± 0.8 kg;
312.9 ± 31.2 exercise min
week–1) of varying menstrual sta-
tus participated in the investigation. Subjects were studied
over 1 menstrual cycle in which fitness, body composition,
and metabolic and endocrine measures were collected. Pear-
son’s correlations were performed to examine the associa-
tion of V_ O2 max with body composition, nutrition, metabolic,
energy balance, reproductive hormone, and exercise training
characteristics. V_ O2 max was found to correlate positively
with daily grams and percent of kilocalories from carbohy-
drate consumption (r = 0.514, p = 0.001; r = 0.396, p =
0.010, respectively), hematocrit (%) (r = 0.442, p = 0.003),
resting energy expenditure (REE) (kcal
day–1) (r = 0.401,
p = 0.006), ratio of measured to predicted REE (REE/
pREE) (r = 0.518, p < 0.001), exercise energy expenditure
(kcal
day–1) (r = 0.648, p < 0.001), exercise duration
(min
week–1) (r = 0.473, p = 0.001), exercise intensity
(kcal
min–1) (r = 0.394, p = 0.009), and frequency (r =
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
given category of FPG, 2hPG, and HbA1c, sedentary indi-
viduals had a higher risk for CVD mortality (range of HR,
2.01–2.10; p < 0.05) than individuals participating in regular
moderate–vigorous activity (p < 0.05). For a given glycemic
category, the mortality risk for those participating in light
activity did not significantly differ from individuals partici-
pating in moderate–vigorous activity (range of HR, 1.11–
1.17; p > 0.05). These findings show that for a given gly-
cemic profile, there is no significant difference in the
CVD mortality risk in individuals who engage in light or
moderate–vigorous activity, while a sedentary lifestyle is
associated with increased risk for CVD mortality. There-
fore, a sedentary lifestyle should be discouraged to reduce
CVD mortality risk.
0.529, p < 0.001). V_ O2 max correlated negatively with fat
mass (kg) (r = –0.493, p = 0.001), body fat (%) (r = –0.501,
p = 0.001), and percent of kilocalories from protein and fat
consumption (r = –0.327, p = 0.037; r = –0.361, p =
0.020, respectively). V_ O2 max also correlated negatively
with urinary estrone-3-glucuronide (E1G) area under the
curve (AUC) (r = –0.457, p = 0.001), and mean E1G
(ng
mL–1) (r = –0.395, p = 0.007) from daily urine collec-
tions during 1 menstrual cycle. Multiple stepwise regres-
sion demonstrated that exercise energy expenditure, REE/
pREE, urinary E1G AUC, exercise duration, and fat mass
were found to explain the greatest variance in V_ O2 max
(r2 = 0.762, F = 16.020, p < 0.001), resulting in the
following equation: V_ O2 max = 29.926 + 0.025 expendi-
ture + 30.740 REE/pREE – 0.004 E1G AUC – 0.013 dura-
tion – 0.530 fat mass. Results suggest that, in addition to
exercise training parameters, metabolic status, ovarian ste-
roids, and body composition are important predictors in
achieving optimal aerobic fitness. Further investigation is
needed to validate this model and explore the mechanisms
by which E1G and metabolic status impact V_ O2 max.
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
Habitual exercise is associated with enhanced
cerebrovascular health in the elderly
A.D. Robertson, J.M. Thibert, and R.L. Hughson
Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging, Department of Kinesiology, University of
Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
Regular physical activity is recommended as part of a
multitiered effort to maintain cardiovascular health. Age-
related increases in arterial stiffness and impairments in en-
dothelial function are attenuated by regular aerobic exer-
cise. Little is known, however, of the role habitual
exercise plays in the aging cerebrovasculature. We exam-
ined the relationship between habitual physical activity
and cerebrovascular function in community-dwelling eld-
erly men and women. Physical activity was measured using
the SenseWear Body Monitoring System over 3 consecu-
tive days. A work rate ‡3 METs was considered physical
activity. Cerebrovascular function was assessed by measur-
ing the relative increase in the middle cerebral artery blood
flow velocity in response to breathing a hypercapnic (5%
carbon dioxide) air mixture. Preliminary results are re-
ported from a sample of 12 participants (age, 66–82 years)
without sleep apnea, uncontrolled hypertension, or carotid
stenosis. A direct association was noted between cerebro-
vascular function and daily total energy expenditure (r =
0.70, p = 0.05). Likewise, a trend (r = 0.68, p = 0.06)
was noted between cerebrovascular function and additional
Effects of age, exercise, and hypercapnia on
middle cerebral artery haemodynamics in women
J.W. Robertson, A.D. Brown, C.T. Duggan, and M.J. Poulin
Department of Physiology & Pharmacology and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Faculty of
Medicine and Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
The middle cerebral artery (MCA) is a vessel of consider-
able interest with respect to age-related studies on cerebro-
vascular responses to physiological stressors. The purpose
of this study was to examine the effects of advancing age,
hypercapnia, and submaximal exercise on MCA blood flow
velocity (MCAV) waveforms in women across a wide range
of ages. Forty women were categorized as young (age, 20–
31 years, n = 8), middle aged (age, 50–64 years, n = 17),
and old (age, 65–80 years, n = 15). In separate trials, sub-
jects were exposed to euoxic hypercapnia (end-tidal PO2 =
88 Torr; end-tidal PCO2 = +8 Torr above resting values)
and submaximal exercise (40% of peak work rate, as deter-
mined by pre-experimental V_ O2 max test). MCAV was meas-
S87
energy expenditure from physical activity. To examine the
vascular characteristics of those benefitting from regular
exercise, participants were identified as active or sedentary,
according to their additional energy expenditure from physical
activity (active, ‡300 kcal
day–1; sedentary, <300 kcal
day–1).
As expected, active participants had a greater step count
(1288 ± 1118 vs. 5152 ± 732 steps
day–1; p = 0.04) and
were active for a longer duration (91 ± 6 vs. 27 ±
9 min
day–1; p = 0.002) than their sedentary counterparts.
The active group had greater anterior cerebral blood flow
(596 ± 11 vs. 471 ± 90 mL
min–1; p = 0.01) and lower
cerebrovascular resistance (156 ± 3 vs. 207 ±
34 mm Hg
L–1
min–1; p = 0.007) than the sedentary group.
Additionally, the active group had more compliant arteries,
as indicated by slower carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity
(6.34 ± 0.39 vs. 8.52 ± 2.17 m
s–1; p = 0.04), and tended
to have a lower heart rate (62 ± 4 vs. 74 ± 9 beats
min–1;
p = 0.06). These preliminary data suggest that moderate
regular physical activity is beneficial for cerebrovascular
health and should be encouraged as part of a healthy
lifestyle for elderly individuals. (Funding: CIHR.)
ured continuously by transcranial Doppler ultrasound. One-
minute steady-state datasets were processed with an algo-
rithm that detected feature points of the waveforms, which
were then analyzed using statistical software (SPSS). There
were significant increases in pulse pressure (PP) with hyper-
capnia in the middle aged (66.4 ± 13.7 vs. 79.8 ±
17.9 mm Hg) and old (64.9 ± 17.5 vs. 82.4 ± 24.3 mm Hg)
groups, and significant increases in MCAV augmentation in-
dex (AI) with hypercapnia in the young (75.4% ± 12.2% vs.
87.3% ± 12.8%) and old (111.6% ± 11.8% vs. 117.2% ±
10.6%) groups. In all groups, blood pressure (BP) and pulsa-
tile velocity (PV) increased, while pulsatility index (PI) de-
creased with hypercapnia. During exercise, there were
Published by NRC Research Press
S88 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

significant increases in BP, PP, PV, and PI in all groups,
while AI decreased in the middle aged (113.3% ± 16.2%
vs. 93.9% ± 11.2%) and old (119.0% ± 12.8% vs.
101.3% ± 15.2%) groups only. With respect to age-related
changes, the only significant difference observed between
the middle aged and old groups was in end-diastolic
MCAV, while several significant differences were observed
between both groups and the young, most notably in AI
(aged > young in all conditions) and PP (aged > young at
hypercapnia; young, 50.9 ± 15.4; middle aged, 79.8 ± 17.9;
old, 82.4 ± 24.3 mm Hg). These results suggest that while
there are several changes in vascular properties and re-
sponses to stressors with age, these changes attenuate after
middle age.

The effects of repeated recreational activity on

V̇O2 peak, V̇O2 kinetics and submaximal exercise in
recreationally active males
J.E.D. Ross, A.E. Green, N.J. MacMillan, and B.J. Gurd
School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6,
Canada

Traditional aerobic activity, such as walking, running, and
cycling, improves fitness; however, the effect of recreational
sport on fitness is unknown. The purpose of this study was
to examine the effects of 4 weeks of recreational activity on
V_ O2 peak, V_ O2 kinetics, and submaximal exercise. Eight rec-
reationally active males (mean ± SD: age, 21 ± 1.6 years;
weight, 78.7 ± 7.1 kg) performed *40 min of recreational
sport 4 days per week for 4 weeks. Subjects played basket-
ball on day 1, floor hockey on day 2, indoor soccer on
day 3, and picked 1 of the 3 activities to play on day 4. A
V_ O2 peak ramp test (*25 W
min–1) to volitional fatigue, 3
transitions to 80 W, and a steady-state submaximal endur-
ance ride at *50% V_ O2 peak were conducted pre- and post-
training. Heart rate (HR) was collected during all training
sessions. Time spent above 80% HRmax was 70.5% ±
16.7%, 48.1% ± 18.7%, and 48.4% ± 15.6%, and time above
90% HRmax was 20.5% ± 12.2%, 14.2% ± 9.5%, and
10.6% ± 9.6% for basketball, floor hockey, and soccer, re-
spectively. There was no significant change in peak work
rate (311 ± 40.4 W vs. 317 ± 50.4 W) or V_ O2 peak (51.7 ±
12.3 mL
min–1
kg–1 vs. 50.3 ± 10 mL
min–1
kg–1), while HR
at V_ O2 peak was significantly lower post-training (193.9 ±
7 beats
min–1 vs. 184.4 ± 8 beats
min–1; p < 0.05). V_ O2 ki-
netics were sped post-training (tV_ O2 38 ± 9 s vs. 28 ± 10 s;
p < 0.05). During the endurance ride, V_ O2 and respiratory
exchange ratio showed no significant change, while submax-
imal HR was lower at all time points (126.4 ± 9.5 beats
min–1
vs. 116.9 ± 14.9 beats
min–1 at 15 min; 147.7 ± 9.1 beats
min–1
vs. 135.7 ± 17.1 beats
min–1 at 35 min; 154.8 ± 9.9
beats
min–1 vs. 140 ± 18.1 beats
min–1 at 55 min; p <
0.05). In summary, repeated recreational activity had no ef-
fect on V_ O2 peak, but sped V_ O2 kinetics and decreased sub-
maximal HR.

The association between BMI and seasonal

physical activity patterns
A. Rossi, K.L. Lavoie, A. Arsenault, and S.L. Bacon
Department of Exercise Science (SIP), Concordia University, Montréal, QC H4B 1R6,
Canada; Montreal Behavioural Medicine Centre, Concordia University, Montréal,
QC H4B 1R6, Canada; Research Centre, Montreal Heart Institute, Montréal, QC H1T 1C8,
Canada; Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal,
QC H3C 3P8, Canada; Research Centre, Hôpital du Sacré-Cœur de Montréal, Montréal,
QC H4J 1C5, Canada

Body mass index (BMI) is used as an indicator of health physical activity necessary for maintaining a normal BMI,
status, and having an elevated BMI has been associated with and accordingly optimizing physical activity recommenda-
negative health outcomes. Understanding the amount of tions, is essential. This analysis considered the impact of

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
seasonal physical activity patterns on BMI. A total of 756
women and men undergoing a standard nuclear medicine ex-
ercise stress test were recruited from the Nuclear Medicine
Department at the Montreal Heart Institute. Height and
weight were measured according to standard protocol, and
BMI was calculated. During an interview, patients provided
information about their physical activity habits, making dis-
tinction between summer and winter activities. They also re-
ported on activity intensity, which was later converted to
MET h
week–1. Overall, summer leisure time physical activ-
ity did not influence BMI. However, engagement in winter
physical activity had a positive effect on BMI, in that BMI
was lower in those who partook in greater amounts of phys-
ical activity during the winter months (b (SE) = 0.3 (0.1),
p < 0.01). It was found that each 0.3 MET h
week–1 increase
Screening for prediabetes in high-risk ethnic
populations: employing a risk questionnaire and
point-of-care finger prick blood testing for the
PRE-PAID project
C.P. Rowan, M.C. Riddell, J.L. Kuk, C.I. Ardern, P. Ritvo, and V.K. Jamnik
Physical Activity and Chronic Disease Unit, Faculty of Health, School of Kinesiology and
Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
The aim of the Pre-diabetes Detection and Physical Activ-
ity Intervention Delivery (PRE-PAID) project is to identify
individuals from high-risk ethnic populations who have pre-
diabetes, and then to intervene, using structured, supervised,
culturally preferred physical activities to prevent the pro-
gression to type 2 diabetes (T2D). The target was middle
aged (age, 35–64 years) people from Chinese, South Asian,
African, and African-Caribbean populations. Recruitment fo-
cused on networking with committed community partner-
ships. The initial screening included a modified CANRISK
questionnaire to assess risk status and a follow-up point-of-
care finger-prick blood test for hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c).
Using an ethnically targeted recruitment strategy, a total of
428 people completed the risk questionnaire, which identi-
fied 273 participants (64%) who potentially had prediabetes
and met the age and ethnicity criteria. Of these, 262 elected
to undergo blood screening for HbA1c. In total, 22 partici-
pants had normal scores (£5.5%), 205 fell within the predia-
betes range (5.6%–6.9%), and 35 had HbA1c scores in the
S89
in winter physical activity resulted in a 1 unit (kg
m–2) de-
crease in BMI. An interaction between summer and winter
physical activity was also noted (F = 4.05, p < 0.05). The
effects of winter exercise on BMI were greatest on those
people who did not exercise as much during the summer
months. These results are especially meaningful for people
who live in a climate with seasonal extremes, as is the case
in Montreal, where being physically active during winter is
difficult. These findings highlight the importance of being
consistently active year-round and maintaining regular pat-
terns of exercise, even during harsh environmental condi-
tions. Individuals who are active during months when it is
harder to exercise (e.g., winter) may be particularly moti-
vated to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and this may be related
to the observed decreased BMI.
T2D range (‡7.0%) and were directed to their primary care
physician for a confirmatory diagnosis. Of the 205 partici-
pants (53 South Asian, 49 Chinese, 79 African, or African-
Caribbean) who were identified as having prediabetes, 181
are currently participating in a 6 month group-based physi-
cal activity intervention, offering culturally preferred exer-
cise classes. Classes are supervised by Canadian Society for
Exercise Physiology certified exercise physiologists to en-
sure appropriate intensity and safety. Classes are offered in
accessible community locations, and the activity types were
selected based on participant feedback during the screening
process. Follow-up testing of HbA1c and RBG will take
place at 3 and 6 months to assess changes in glycemic con-
trol. This PRE-PAID screening process underscores the high
prevalence of undiagnosed prediabetes in the targeted ethnic
populations and the need for more accessible screening and
physical activity opportunities. (This project is funded by
the Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion and the Ontario
Trillium Foundation.)
Published by NRC Research Press
S90 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

Physiological adaptations of pregnant women in

response to an exercise training program of 2
different intensities
S.-M. Ruchat, M.M. Sopper, I. Giroux, M. Hillier, A. Batada, and M.F. Mottola
R. Samuel McLaughlin Foundation–Exercise and Pregnancy Laboratory, University of
Western Ontario, and Brescia University College, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada

The purpose of this study was to evaluate maternal train-
ing adaptations to a walking program of different intensities.
Sedentary women who were either at low (nonrisk (NR)) or
high risk (R) for gestational diabetes (GDM) were random-
ized at study entry (16–20 weeks of gestation) into either
mild (30% peak V_ O2, 30R = 15, 30NR = 13) or moderate
(70% peak V_ O2, 70R = 18, 70NR = 12) intensity exercise
with nutritional control. Subjects performed a steady-state ex-
ercise test on a treadmill at their specific intensity preprogram
and postprogram (34–36 weeks of gestation) to evaluate
the training adaptations in response to the exercise.
Women were asked to attend 3 or 4 exercise sessions per
week, gradually increasing time from 25 to 40 min per
session. At-risk women presented with a higher prepreg-
nancy body mass and body mass index (BMI), as well as
a higher body mass, at study entry than nonrisk women,
and gained a similar amount of weight during the exercise
program (30NR = 8.5 ± 0.9 kg; 30R = 7.6 ± 1.0 kg; 70NR =
8.1 ± 0.8 kg; 70R = 8.4 ± 0.9 kg; p = 0.90). Results from
the pre- and postexercise program steady-state tests showed
that, regardless of exercise intensity, training adaptations
were observed. Despite an increase in body weight, no
change in heart rate was observed (30NR = 5 ±
3 beats
min–1), p = 0.15; 30R = –1 ± 3 beats
min–1, p =
0.84; 70NR = 4 ± 3 beats
min–1, p = 0.25; 70R = –1 ±
3 beats
min–1, p = 0.74), but an increase in aerobic ca-
pacity (V_ O2, 30NR = 0.13 ± 0.04 L
min–1, p = 0.003;
30R = 0.04 ± 0.04 L
min–1, p = 0.28; 70NR = 0.19 ±
0.04 L
min–1, p < 0.0001; 70R = 0.10 ± 0.04 L
min–1, p =
0.03) and in cardiovascular efficiency (oxygen pulse:
30NR = 0.95 ± 0.26 mL O2
beats–1, p = 0.0006; 30R =
0.46 ± 0.26 mL O2
beats–1, p = 0.08; 70NR = 1.06 ±
0.25 O2
beats–1, p = 0.0001; 70R = 0.82 ± 0.28 mL
O2
beats–1, p = 0.006) were found. These training adapta-
tions were similar among the groups. Results of the study
suggest that overweight or obese pregnant women who are
at risk for GDM present responses to a walking program
similar to nonrisk women, and that the increase in the ma-
ternal aerobic capacity in response to exercise training is
not influenced by exercise intensity. (Stephanie-May Ru-
chat is funded by CIHR and a postdoctoral fellowship
from the Canadian Diabetes Association.)

Remote ischemic preconditioning improves

maximal swimming performance in a randomized
double-blind crossover study of elite athletes
C. Russell, E. Jean-St-Michel, C. Manlhiot, J. Li, M. Tropak, M. Michelsen,
M. Schmidt, B. McCrindle, A.N. Redington, and G.D. Wells
Physiology and Experimental Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children and Department of
Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada

A prolonged ischemic insult is detrimental to the health of
human tissue. Restoration of arterial blood supply (reperfu-
sion) is essential for the health and restoration of the tissue,
but cellular damages, beyond what may be experienced
through ischemia alone, will occur. Repeated bouts of ische-
mia followed by reperfusion, referred to as ischemic precon-
ditioning, represents an endogenous protective mechanism
against the effects of reperfusion. This stimulus can be em-
ployed remotely, via limb preconditioning, with the same
beneficial effects seen in all mammalian tissues. This study
examined whether remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC)
can improve maximal swimming performance. Thirteen
healthy, elite swimmers (age, 17.9 ± 1.2 years; weight,
72.3 ± 9.3 kg; height, 179.3 ± 7.3 cm) participated to this
randomized, double-blind, crossover study. The swimmers
were randomly assigned to receive four 5-min bouts of ei-

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés S91

ther ischemia to the arm with 5 min of reperfusion, or a sham
procedure. RIPC was achieved by using a blood-pressure
cuff inflated to 160–170 mm Hg. Using the same cycling
protocol, the blood-pressure cuff was only inflated to
20 mm Hg for the sham procedure 2 h before a maximal
swimming performance. A week later, the subjects were
submitted to the procedure they had not received. The
maximal performances involved a 100 or 200 m swim of
the chosen stroke at 100% effort. All study investigators
and participants were blinded to treatment assignment for
the duration of the study. Swimming times were recorded,
and 3-min post-blood-lactate concentrations were measured.
Analysis of FINA points indicated that RIPC of the arm
2 h before maximal swimming performance significantly
improved swim times (p £ 0.004). RIPC, however, had no
effect on blood lactate concentrations; therefore, it can be
assumed that all maximal performances were done with
equal intensity. It is concluded that RIPC can improve
maximal swimming performance (p £ 0.004) without alter-
ing blood lactate accumulation.

A randomized trial of aerobic vs. resistance

exercise training for prostate cancer patients on
ADT: preliminary findings
D. Santa Mina, S.M.H. Alibhai, A.G. Matthew, J. Trachtenberg, N. Fleshner,
M. Connor, G. Tomlinson, M. Pirbaglou, and P. Ritvo
York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada; Princess Margaret
Hospital, 610 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada; Toronto General
Hospital, 200 Elizabeth Street, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada; Cancer Care Ontario,
620 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada

Androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) is an effective treat-
ment for advanced-stage prostate cancer. Unfortunately,
ADT has several side-effects that significantly impair
health-related quality of life (HRQOL). In patients receiving
ADT, resistance training has been shown to improve impor-
tant physical and psychosocial outcomes. However, little is
known about the effects of aerobic exercise in this popula-
tion. This study compares the effect of aerobic and resist-
ance exercise interventions on HRQOL, fatigue, and fitness
in a 24-week randomized trial. A total of 63 men receiving
ADT for prostate cancer were recruited for this prospective,
randomized trial. Participants are assigned to either resist-
ance or aerobic home-based, moderate-intensity exercise
3–5 times per week for 30–60 min per session. Primary out-
comes include fatigue, HRQOL, and exercise adherence.
Secondary outcomes include aerobic and musculoskeletal
fitness, and body composition. Outcomes are assessed at
baseline, 12, and 24 weeks. Preliminary findings are pre-
sented. In all, 812 patients have been screened, yielding 254
eligible participants. To date, 63 participants have agreed to
randomization, 9 of whom have since withdrawn (86% re-
tention). There are no significant differences between the
aerobic and resistance exercise training groups at baseline
(p > 0.05). From baseline to 12 or 24 weeks, there were no
significant differences between training groups for the pri-
mary or secondary outcomes. For aerobic training partici-
pants, improvements from baseline to 24 weeks were
observed in physical activity volume, body fat percentage,
and V_ O2 max (p < 0.05). For resistance training participants,
improvements from baseline to 24 weeks were observed in
chest skinfold thickness and V_ O2 max (p < 0.05). For all par-
ticipants (aerobic + resistance), improvements from baseline
to 24 weeks were observed in physical activity volume,
waist circumference, chest skinfold thickness, body fat per-
centage, and V_ O2 max (p < 0.05). In summary, preliminary
findings suggest that significant improvements in body com-
position and aerobic fitness can be obtained with 24 weeks
of either aerobic or resistance training, with no difference
between groups. The high retention rate and improvements
in physical activity volume indicate tolerable and feasible
home-based exercise interventions.

Published by NRC Research Press

S92 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

The development of the Survivorship Exercise

Program: improving the health and fitness of
prostate cancer patients
D. Santa Mina, P. Ritvo, S.M.H. Alibhai, A.G. Matthew, S. Moonsammy,
A. Kornblum, M. Pirbaglou, and J. Trachtenberg
Princess Margaret Hospital, 610 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada; York
University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada; Toronto General Hospital,
200 Elizabeth Street, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada; Cancer Care Ontario,
620 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 2C1, Canada

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Canadian
and Australian men. Advancements in prostate cancer thera-
pies have improved survival, but treatment toxicities in-
crease the risk for other chronic diseases, notably
cardiovascular and musculoskeletal morbidity. Physical fit-
ness and physical activity have been shown to be promising
modifiable risk factors throughout the prostate cancer con-
tinuum. Epidemiologic studies suggest regular physical ac-
tivity may reduce the incidence of prostate cancer, and
rapidly accumulating research is demonstrating that routine
exercise throughout treatment can provide important physi-
cal and psychosocial benefits. Moreover, physical activity is
associated with reductions in cardiovascular disease and os-
teoporosis, which are of particular concern for older prostate
cancer patients. While numerous exercise intervention trials
indicate that individualized exercise programming during
cancer treatment is safe and beneficial, exercise is infre-
quently discussed with patients. Beneficial physical activity
levels may be achieved with hospital- or clinic-based exer-
cise programs, complemented by home-based programs to
support long-term adherence. Such programs afford a famil-
iar and integrated system that enables oncologists to refer
patients for fitness testing, exercise prescription, and general
health promotion. Accordingly, cancer exercise programs
delivered by certified exercise physiologists with cancer-
specific training and supervised by medical staff are be-
coming more prevalent. However, such programs still rep-
resent the exception in most oncology clinics. At the
Prostate Centre in the Princess Margaret Hospital in Tor-
onto, the Survivorship Exercise Program (SEP) is a clinical-
research program aimed at integrating health promotion
into the standard prostate cancer care. The SEP is available
to all prostate cancer patients, and is comprised of educa-
tional seminars and individual exercise counseling, exercise
demonstrations, group-based exercise classes, home-based
exercise prescriptions, baseline and follow-up exercise test-
ing, and health-related educational materials (books, man-
uals, and DVDs). The SEP maintains a research
orientation, collecting biological, physical, and psychoso-
cial data throughout the patient’s exercise program. This
paper describes the conception and components of the
SEP, challenges to implementation, experiences with re-
cruitment and participation, and the opportunity for collab-
oration in cancer-exercise research and programming.

Estrogen and peptide YY are associated with bone

mineral density in premenopausal exercising
women
J.L. Scheid, R.J. Toombs, J.C. Gibbs, G. Ducher, N.I. Williams, and M.J. De Souza
Department of Kinesiology, Women’s Health and Exercise Laboratory, Pennsylvania State
University, University Park, PA 16802, USA

Compared with ovulatory exercising women, we have re- with amenorrhea also experience an increase in bone resorp-
ported that exercising women with amenorrhea have ele- tion related to an estrogen deficiency, and a decrease in
vated fasting total peptide YY (PYY) concentrations, a bone formation related to an energy deficiency. The purpose
satiety hormone produced in the gut. Exercising women of this study was to assess the association between fasting

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
total PYY, average monthly estrogen exposure, and bone
mineral density (BMD) in nonobese premenopausal exercis-
ing women. Subjects in this observational study were pre-
menopausal exercising women (n = 44), aged 23.8 ±
0.9 years, with a mean body mass index of 21.2 ±
0.4 kg
m–2. Daily urine samples were assessed for metabo-
lites of estrone-1-glucuronide (E1G) and pregnanediol glu-
curonide for 1 menstrual cycle (if ovulatory) or one 28-day
monitoring period (if amenorrheic). Fasting serum samples
were pooled and analyzed for total PYY and leptin. BMD
and body composition were assessed by dual-energy X-ray
absorptiometry. Multiple regression analyses were per-
formed to determine the contribution of body composition,
estrogen status, exercise min per week, leptin, and PYY to
the variance in BMD at multiple sites. The women exercised
346 ± 48 min
week–1, and had a peak oxygen uptake of
49.1 ± 1.8 mL
kg–1
min–1. Thirty-nine percent (17/44) of the
Comparison of methods for determining resting
energy expenditure in physically active young
adults
J.R. Sexsmith and T. Terada
Faculty of Kinesiology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3, Canada
Resting energy expenditure (REE) comprises 60% to 70%
of the total daily energy expenditure (DEE). Several expen-
sive and (or) lab-based protocols exist to directly measure
REE, and numerous predictive equations have been devel-
oped that are often used to calculate DEE when determining
exercise and dietary prescriptions to achieve an energy bal-
ance. The predictive methods have limitations and substan-
tial variability when applied to active young adults, as they
were not developed from such a population. Technological
advances have led to the development of cost efficient and
unobtrusive multisensor instruments, such as the SenseWear
Pro3 Armband (SWA), which estimates caloric expenditure
continuously during daily living. This study compared the
REE assessed from the SWA during sleep (SWA-S), the
SWA lying down during indirect calorimetry (SWA-L and
IC, respectively), and 2 common predictive approaches —
Mifflin (Miff) and Dubois–Fleish (DF) — in 18 volunteer,
healthy, and physically active kinesiology students (9 fe-
S93
women had amenorrhea. Fasting total PYY concentrations
were negatively associated with total body BMD (r = –0.301,
p = 0.041) and total hip BMD (r = –0.307, p = 0.043).
Mean E1G concentrations were positively associated with
total body BMD (r = 0.323, p = 0.033) and lumbar spine
(L2–L4) BMD (r = 0.301, p = 0.047). Multiple stepwise
regression demonstrated that E1G cycle mean explained
the greatest variance in lumbar spine (L2–L4) BMD (r2 =
0.116, F = 5.272, p = 0.027), and that fasting total PYY
explained the greatest variance in hip BMD (r2 = 0.109,
F = 4.879, p = 0.033). E1G cycle mean, lean body mass,
and PYY explained the greatest proportion of variance in
total body BMD (r2 = 0.302, F = 5.770, p = 0.002). PYY,
estrogen and lean body mass estrogen contribute signifi-
cantly to BMD when subjects who range from ovulatory
to amenorrheic are included.
males: age, 22 ± 1 years; height, 169.1 ± 3.9 cm; weight,
69.0 ± 5.7 kg; 23.1% ± 4.2% body fat; 9 males: age, 22 ±
2 years; height, 177.1 ± 6.0 cm; weight, 76.4 ± 8.8 kg;
13.4% ± 2.8% body fat). Significant correlations found be-
tween all methods, ranging from 0.511 for SWA-L vs. IC to
0.996 for DF vs. Miff. GLM ANOVA (REE vs. method,
sex, subject), revealed the expected sex difference, and the
fact that the mean REE for IC and SWA-L were signifi-
cantly higher than the SWA-S and the 2 predictive equation
approaches (DF and Miff), although the SWA-L and SWA-S
were not different from each other. While the significant dif-
ferences in REE between methods appear to be very small,
from 0.0644 to 0.1994 kcal
min–1, over the course of a day
it accumulates from 93 up to 287 kcal, which can be more
than 15% of an individual’s DEE. These results support the
use and appropriateness of the SWA to determine REE in
this population, and the caution with which predictive REE
approaches should be used in prescriptive applications.
Published by NRC Research Press
S94 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

Evidence challenging a sympathetic mechanism

for the 0.1 Hz rhythms in blood pressure (Mayer
waves)
J.K. Shoemaker, R. Goswami, L. Liu, and M. Zamir
School of Kinesiology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada

It is commonly speculated that the so-called Mayer waves
(0.1 Hz rhythm) in blood pressure (BP) are generated and
(or) sustained by the sympathetic nervous system. However,
few previous studies have examined other contributors to
BP, namely cardiac output and peripheral vascular resist-
ance. To pursue this problem, 8 healthy individuals (5 fe-
male) were assessed for BP (Finometer), muscle
sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA; microneurography), and
cardiac output (Modelflow) during supine baseline,
–40 mm Hg and –60 mm Hg of lower body negative pres-
sure (LBNP). The data were searched at each level of baror-
eflex stress for the presence of the 0.1 Hz BP rhythm with
concurrent oscillations in MSNA or cardiac output. Spectral
analysis (FFT) was applied to each signal. For the purpose
of comparing the oscillatory component of one index with
that of another, the oscillatory waveforms were scaled by
their means to express the oscillations of each index as a
percentage of the mean for that index. In only 2 cases were
BP Mayer waves observed at baseline. In 4 cases, 0.1 Hz
rhythms were observed in MSNA but not in BP. In total,
BP Mayer waves were observed in 12 of the 24 experimen-
tal time segments. Both MSNA and BP oscillations were ob-
served in 10 of the 12 Mayer wave episodes. In contrast,
concurrent 0.1 Hz oscillations in cardiac output and BP
were observed in 12 of the 12 cases. Therefore, BP Mayer
waves may occur with or without concurrent MSNA oscilla-
tions, and oscillations in MSNA do not necessarily lead to
concurrent BP Mayer waves. Further, it appears that cardiac
output is a more consistent correlate with Mayer waves than
is sympathetic nerve activity. These observations point to a
hypothesis regarding the variability in regulation of BP and
BP oscillations, and call for directed experiments into the in-
tegrative relationship between the several determinants of
BP. (Supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Re-
search Council of Canada.)

Temporal-localization of hsp70 mRNA in rodent

myofibers early after exercise and heat stress
J.T. Silver, C.A. Fanelli, S.J. Deimling, T.A. Drysdale, and E.G. Noble
School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Western Ontario,
London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; Children’s Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners
Road East, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, University of
Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; Department of Biology, University of
Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; Department of Physiology and
Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada

Inducible hsp70 mRNA becomes elevated and preferen-
tially translated in response to exercise and heat stress as a
cytoprotective adaptation in myofibers. The temporal rela-
tionship between hsp70 mRNA expression and subsequent
protein accumulation has been well characterized for several
muscle types exposed to exercise and heat stress. However,
transcriptional and translational regulatory mechanisms di-
rectly connecting newly synthesized hsp mRNA to protein
synthesis at the level of the myofiber remain elusive. The
purpose of this investigation was to determine the differen-
tial effect of exercise vs. temperature per se on the tempo-
ral-localization of newly synthesized hsp70 mRNA in
myofibers. Eighteen male Sprague–Dawley rats were ran-
domly divided into 3 groups (n = 6): sedentary control
(CON); acute exercise (EX), subjected to one 1 h bout of
treadmill running at 30 m
min–1, 6% grade; heat stress
(HS), subjected to full-body heating for 15 min at 42.0 8C
core temperature. The white portion of the vastus lateralis
(WV), predominantly Type IIb/x muscle that normally ex-
presses low levels of Hsp70 protein, was harvested 1 h

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés S95

post-EX or HS condition. Samples were sectioned and ana-
lyzed for the in situ hybridization of hsp70 mRNA, using a
digoxigenin-labelled probe, and were subsequently counter-
stained for nuclei using DAPI. Both EX and HS samples
showed a marked elevation in the number of myofibers ex-
pressing hsp70 mRNA, compared with CON. hsp70 mRNA
expression was localized to the nucleus in all conditions.
hsp70 mRNA expression in EX was observed in specific
neighbouring fibers, whereas hsp70 mRNA expression fol-
lowing HS was found in many fibers throughout WV. Inter-
estingly, not all nuclei of EX myofibers expressing hsp70
mRNA colocalized with hsp70 mRNA. These results sup-
port previous data that indicate that temperature per se is
not the leading stimulus for inducing the heat shock re-
sponse postexercise. The results from this investigation raise
further questions regarding the exercise-related regulatory
mechanisms that govern differential nuclear induction of the
heat shock response within a single myofiber.

Alterations in arterial-cardiac baroreflex and

dynamic cerebral autoregulation following heart
transplantation
J.D. Smirl, P.N. Ainslie, K.R. Marsden, H. Jones, M.D. Nelson, V. Dolinsky,
K. Haykowsky, and M.J. Haykowsky
Department of Health and Social Development, University of British Columbia Okanagan,
Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences,
Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 5UX, England; Department of Physical
Therapy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB TG6 2G4, Canada

Heart transplantation is a life-saving surgical intervention
for select individuals with end-stage heart failure. Reduced
beat-to-beat heart rate variability (HRV), blood pressure var-
iability (BPV), and baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) have been
documented in heart transplant recipients (HTR). In healthy
individuals, there are certain compensatory interactions be-
tween mechanisms of BRS and cerebrovascular control;
these interactions have never before been examined in
HTR. Since adequate cerebral perfusion during common
daily physiological challenges requires the integrated control
of dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA) and BRS, we hy-
pothesized that reductions in BRS in HTR would be re-
flected in compensatory improvements in dCA. We
examined BRS, HRV, BPV, and dCA in clinically stable
HTR (n = 8; age, 62 ± 8 years) and age-matched healthy
controls (n = 7; age, 62 ± 7 years) during seated rest and
repeated squat–stand manoeuvres to induce large oscillations
in blood pressure (BP) at frequencies of 0.05 Hz (very low
frequency (VLF)) and 0.10 Hz (low frequency (LF)). Beat-
to-beat BP, R–R interval, bilateral middle cerebral artery ve-
locity (MCAv), and end-tidal PCO2 were monitored. Spec-
tral analysis and transfer function were used to quantify
arterial-cardiac BRS, HRV, and BPV, and to estimate dCA
(phase, gain, and coherence). Resting spectral analysis of
HRV, BPV, and MCAv variability revealed reductions (p <
0.05) in total power in HTR vs. controls; BRS was also re-
duced in HTR. Despite these alterations in BRS, BPV, and
MCAv variability, there were marked elevations (+436%;
p < 0.05) in the resting LF range phase relationship in the
HTR, indicative of enhanced dCA. Likewise, in the 0.05 Hz
squat–stand manoeuvres, an elevated phase (+92%, p <
0.05) and a reduced gain (–23%, p < 0.05) was evident in
HTR. The compensatory adjustments observed in the HTR
indicate that dCA may counterbalance the reductions in
BRS. Furthermore, these adjustments may account for the
maintenance and tight control of cerebral perfusion in this
patient group during large physiological oscillations in BP.

Published by NRC Research Press

S96
FAT/CD36 is located on the outer mitochondrial
membrane and regulates palmitate but not
palmitoyl-CoA respiration
B.K. Smith, A. Bonen, and G.P. Holloway
Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph,
ON N1G 2W1, Canada
FAT/CD36, a plasma membrane fatty acid transport pro-
tein, has unexpectedly been found on mitochondrial mem-
branes in skeletal muscle, although this has recently been
challenged. It is therefore unclear if and where FAT/CD36 re-
sides on mitochondrial membranes, and what the functional
role is of this putative fatty acid transport protein in mitochon-
drial physiology. To determine the subcellular location of
FAT/CD36 on mitochondria, we utilized 2 different method-
ologies: separation of outer (OMM) and inner mitochondrial
membranes by differential centrifugation, combined with a
swell/shrink technique and digitonin digestion of isolated mi-
tochondria. Both of these approaches confirmed that FAT/
CD36 resides on mitochondrial membranes in skeletal
muscle, and more specifically on the OMM. To determine the
potential functional role of mitochondrial FAT/CD36 in regu-
lating fatty acid oxidation (FAO), we compared palmitate and
Does exercise training from early youth to
adulthood affect skeletal muscle growth?
H.K. Smith
Department of Sport and Exercise Science, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019,
Auckland 1142, New Zealand
Physical activity during childhood is promoted to avoid
excessive gains in fat, relative to lean, mass, and the associ-
ated metabolic and cardiovascular health risks. However, the
potential for exercise training to enhance the accrual of skel-
etal muscle (lean) mass from early youth to adulthood has
rarely been addressed. Thus, we compared increases in the
mass of individual hind leg muscles (soleus (Sol), gastrocne-
mius (Gas), tibialis anterior (TA), vastus lateralis (VL)) of
male rats housed in either standard cages (SED) or cages
with low-load, free-spinning (E-EX) or high-load, resist-
ance-exercise (R-EX) wheels from 4 to 5, 7, or 10 weeks of
age (n = 6 per group). The effect of the voluntary exercise
on muscle fiber size and, using immunocytochemistry, the
number of muscle fiber nuclei (satellite cell and myonuclei)
reached at young adulthood were also determined. Com-
pared with SED, both E-EX and R-EX resulted in greater
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
palmitoyl-CoA state III respiration rates in FAT/CD36 wild-
type (WT) and knockout (KO) mice, using saponin permeabi-
lized fibres (n = 6). Maximal palmitate supported respiration
was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in KO mice (10.4 ± 0.78 vs.
6.9 ± 0.48 pmol
mg–1
s–1 for WT and KO, respectively), while
the Km for palmitate was not altered. In contrast, maximal pal-
mitoyl-CoA respiration was not significantly different be-
tween strains (11.5 ± 1.28 vs. 11.5 ± 0.29 pmol
mg–1
s–1 for
WT and KO, respectively), nor were there differences in com-
plex 1 supported respiration (malate/glutamate), complex 1
and 2 supported respiration (malate/glutamate/succinate), or
maximal electron transport chain activity (titration of FCCP).
The present data suggest that in skeletal muscle, FAT/CD36 is
located on the OMM, upstream of long-chain acyl-CoA syn-
thetase, and contributes to mitochondrial FAO by influencing
provision of fatty acids to the mitochondria.
wet mass (absolute and relative to body mass) in Sol, Gas,
and VL, but not TA, by 7 and 10 weeks of age. At 10 weeks
of age, relative muscle mass was significantly greater in Sol
(17%), Gas (6%), and VL (6%) of E-EX and R-EX, com-
pared with SED, with no difference between EX loads. This
exercise-related muscle growth was small relative to the ma-
turational increases in the absolute mass from 4 to 10 weeks
of age in SED Sol (381%), Gas (547%), and VL (583%). At
10 weeks of age, an 8% greater mean muscle fiber cross-
sectional area and a rightward shift in the frequency distri-
bution and 11% greater mean number of nuclei per muscle
fiber were evident in Sol and VL, respectively, with R-EX
and E-EX, compared with SED. Thus, postnatal muscle
growth and the accretion of muscle fiber nuclei can be mod-
estly enhanced by low- and high-load voluntary exercise
training from early youth to adulthood.
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
The energetic cost of Ca2+ transport in resting
skeletal muscle is reduced following high-fat
feeding
I.C. Smith, E. Bombardier, S.M. Norris, C. Vigna, R.A. Sayer, and A.R. Tupling
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West,
Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
Changing dietary intake can alter the metabolic rate and
heat production of an organism in an attempt to maintain en-
ergy balance. It has been suggested that skeletal muscle, as a
highly active metabolic tissue, could be an integral site for
these thermogenic adaptations. Our laboratory has previ-
ously demonstrated that Ca2+ transport by the sarco(endo)-
plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) accounts for
*50% of resting V_ O2 in skeletal muscle. This study inves-
tigates the hypothesis that the energetic cost of Ca2+ trans-
port in resting skeletal muscle could be a target for
thermogenic adaptations. To investigate this hypothesis,
C57BL mice (n = 12 per group) were placed for 8 weeks
on ad libitum standard chow (CTL) or high-fat (HF) diets,
with 5% and 42% of calories derived from fat, respectively.
Basal V_ O2 was measured at 30 8C, and compared between
CTL and HF using intact soleus muscles mounted in an oxy-
genated physiological salt solution in a closed chamber with
an O2 electrode. Basal V_ O2 increased *22% following the
Parameter estimates for muscle deoxygenation
kinetics are similar between different spatially
resolved NIRS systems
M.D. Spencer, J.M. Murias, B.M.R. Gravelle, J.M. Kowalchuk, and D.H. Paterson
Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging, School of Kinesiology, The University of Western
Ontario, London, ON N6A 5B9, Canada
Examining the time-course of adjustment for muscle de-
oxygenation (D[HHb], derived from near-infrared spectro-
scopy (NIRS)), following a ‘‘step’’ increase in exercise
intensity, provides insight into the mechanism(s) that regu-
late oxygen uptake kinetics. Time-resolved NIRS systems
consider both a scattering coefficient and a calculated path-
length to derive an absolute change in D[HHb] (in mmol
L–1);
spatially resolved NIRS systems do not have such capabil-
ities. Yet, the use of spatially resolved systems remains
popular. Thus, this study compared D[HHb] kinetic param-
eter estimates from 2 commercially available spatially re-
solved NIRS systems during transitions to 2 discrete work
S97
diet protocol (CTL, 0.0868 ± 0.005 vs. HF, 0.106 ±
0.009 mL
kg–1
min–1; p = 0.08), demonstrating a thermo-
genic adaptation. To investigate the contribution of Ca2+
handling to the basal metabolic rate, 10 mmol
L–1 cyclopia-
zonic acid was added to the chamber as a highly specific
SERCA inhibitor, and the change in V_ O2 was measured.
The relative energetic contribution of Ca2+ handling to the
basal muscle V_ O2 was *42% lower in HF than in CTL
(HF, 29.0% ± 2.9% vs. CTL, 49.6% ± 1.4%; p < 0.05). As-
suming an equivalent of 5 kcal of energy expended per L of
O2 consumed, the absolute energetic cost of Ca2+ handling
was reduced by *21% in the HF mice, compared with
CTL mice (HF, 110.3 ± 15.5 nmol ATP
g muscle–1
s–1 vs.
CTL, 140.3 ± 8.12 nmol ATP
g muscle–1
s–1, p < 0.05).
These data demonstrate that the thermogenic adaptation oc-
curring in skeletal muscle following high-fat feeding cannot
be attributed to an increased cost of Ca2+ transport at rest.
rates within the moderate-intensity domain. Five males
(mean ± SD: 27 ± 7 years) each completed 2 repetitions
of leg cycling transitions from 20 W to 70 W and from
20 W to 110 W, respectively. Vastus lateralis muscle
D[HHb] profiles were measured simultaneously, with a
NIRO300 (N) on the right leg and PortaMon (P) on the
left leg. After time-aligning and ensemble-averaging the re-
spective signals from the 2 trials at a given intensity,
D[HHb] data were normalized to the respective N and P
peak amplitudes from an incremental ramp test to fatigue,
thus permitting comparisons of responses between the 2
machines. Finally, responses were modeled as a mono-
Published by NRC Research Press
S98
exponential using nonlinear regression. The calculated time
delay (TD-D[HHb]; 70 W, N70W = 11 ± 2s, P70W = 12 ±
2 s; 110 W, N110W = 9 ± 3 s, P110W = 11 ± 2 s), the
D[HHb] time constant (tD[HHb]; 70 W, N70W = 10 ± 3 s,
P70W = 11 ± 5 s; 110 W, N110W = 8 ± 3 s, P110W = 9 ±
6 s), and the effective response time (t’D[HHb] =
tD[HHb] + TD – D[HHb]; 70 W, N70W = 22 ± 3 s, P70W =
22 ± 4 s; 110 W, N110W = 19 ± 4 s, P110W = 18 ± 6 s)
did not differed between the 2 machines for transitions to
either 70 W or 110 W (p > 0.05). Only N detected a
greater absolute or normalized D[HHb] amplitude (p <
Postexercise hypotension and blood pressure
circadian rhythm in prehypertensive older adults
C. Spragg, S. Lacombe, and S.G. Thomas
Graduate Department of Exercise Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto,
ON M5S 2W6, Canada
Prehypertension (pre-HT) (blood pressure (BP) ‡120/80
to £140/90 mm Hg) increases the risk of developing hyper-
tension, but can be ameliorated by exercise. The effective-
ness of exercise is highly variable, and may be influenced
by the timing of exercise, since BP shows a daily circadian
rhythm. Our purpose was to compare the magnitude of post-
exercise hypotension (PEH) after morning and evening aero-
bic exercise in older (50–65 years) adults (men, n = 9;
women, n = 7). Participants were not training, had average
or below average aerobic fitness (V_ O2 max: men, 30.7 +
6.6 mL
kg–1
min–1; women, 20.7 + 3.2 mL
kg–1
min–1), and
were overweight (body mass index: men, 28 kg
m–2, women,
29 kg
m–2). Cardiovascular function was assessed for 30 min
pre- and 1 h postexercise. Participants engaged in cycling
Thermal consequences of mining clothing
systems during intermittent work in the heat
J. Stapleton, S. Hardcastle, and G.P. Kenny
Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics,
University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; CANMET Mining and Mineral
Sciences Laboratories, Natural Resources Canada, Sudbury, ON P3E 5P5, Canada
We evaluated the effects of a standard mining clothing
ensemble and a newly adopted mining enhanced work wear
ensemble against a seminude control condition on changes
in body heat content (DHb) during intermittent exercise
under heat stress conditions in an air calorimeter. Four male
participants undertook 6 experimental trials. Participants
performed six 15-min periods of cycling at a constant rate
of metabolic heat production of 360 W, interspersed with
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
0.05) during transitions to 110 W, compared with 70 W
(P: p = 0.09 (absolute), p = 0.11 (normalized)); the nor-
malized amplitude was similar between the 2 machines
during 70 W (N70W = 19.5% ± 3.1%; P70W = 22.0% ±
12.7%) and 110 W (N110W = 33.1% ± 7.4%; P110W =
36.8% ± 16.0%) transitions, respectively. These results
suggest that the noninvasive estimations of dynamically
measured D[HHb] kinetics do not differ between the
NIRO300 and the PortaMon NIRSs. (Supported by
NSERC, CIHR, and Standard Life Assurance Company of
Canada.)
exercise (60% V_ O2 max) on 2 occasions: 1.5 and 11 h follow-
ing waking. Resting pre-exercise BP differed between morn-
ing (men, 125/78 mm Hg; women, 118/76 mm Hg) and late
afternoon (men, 129/80 mm Hg; women, 129/81 mm Hg).
Systolic PEH responses affected by time of day differed by
gender (morning: men, –0.42 + 6.7 mm Hg; women, 0.01 +
8.9 mm Hg) (afternoon: men, –7.8 + 9.2; women, –2.2 +
11.3 mm Hg). Baseline heart rate was lower in men
(67 beats
min–1) than in women (74 beats
min–1), but
changed similarly in the postexercise period. Cardiac output
and total peripheral resistance were inconsistently reduced.
Time of day influences the magnitude of the acute postexer-
cise BP reduction to a larger extent in men.
5-min rest periods. Participants wore single-layered shorts
and sandals (CON); standard mining uniform (SMU; cover-
alls, cotton underwear and t-shirt, long johns, and close-toed
shoes); or modified mining uniform (MMU; ‘‘sports’’ type
wicking long-sleeve top and work pant with close-toed
shoes). Except for the footwear, the 2 mining ensembles
also included standard personal protective equipment (hard-
hat, ear-muffs, safety glasses, and gloves). Each clothing en-
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
semble was evaluated during exercise performed under hot–
dry (dry bulb, 46 8C; and relative humidity, 10%) and
warm–wet (dry bulb, 33 8C; and relative humidity, 60%).
Both conditions were equivalent to a wet bulb globe temper-
ature (WBGT) of 29–30 8C. DHb was determined by com-
bined direct and indirect calorimetry, while rectal
temperature (Tre) was measured continuously. We observed
a trend for greater DHb with increasing clothing insulation
within both the hot–dry (CON, 410 ± 38 kJ; MMU, 448 ±
40 kJ; and SMU, 509 ± 57 kJ) and warm–wet (CON, 460 ±
29 kJ; MMU, 527 ± 38 kJ; and SMU, 554 ± 146 kJ) ambi-
Relationship of aerobic capacity, muscular
strength, body composition, and bone mineral
density in college-aged females
B.I. Stefanov, K.S. Orser, and G.J. Mulligan
School of Exercise Science, Physical & Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria,
BC V8W 2Y2, Canada
Increased muscle strength has been shown to correlate
with increased total body bone mineral density (BMD).
Grip strength, in particular, has been found to be an indica-
tor of spine and hip BMD in both young and elderly active
women. The purpose of this study was to examine the rela-
tionship between muscular strength, aerobic capacity, body
composition (% fat), and BMD. Participants were 7 physi-
cally active college-aged females (mean age, 23.6 years;
range, 21–30 years). Maximal oxygen consumption
(V_ O2 max) was directly measured on a treadmill. BMD and
body composition were determined using dual X-ray absorp-
tiometry. Upper body strength was measured with a hand
grip dynamometer, and lower body strength (leg extension)
was measured using a cable tensiometer. A correlation ma-
trix and t tests were used to identify potential relationships.
As trunk % fat increased, pelvic (r = –0.604), total spine
(r = –0.595), and total body (r = –0.617) BMD decreased,
as did grip strength (r = –0.628). Relative (r = –0.603) and
Effect of 6-week dynamic warm-up program on
physical fitness in elementary school students
S. Suzuki and C. Fujimoto
Sendai University, Faculty of Physical Education, Miyagi, Japan
The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a
6-week dynamic warm-up program on physical fitness in el-
ementary school students. Forty students (age, 11 years;
height, 141.2 ± 6.0 cm; mass, 33.8 ± 5.4 kg) participated in
S99
ent conditions. The same trend was observed for increases in
Tre for hot–dry (CON, 37.71 ± 0.12 8C; MMU, 37.84 ±
0.11 8C; and SMU, 38.05 ± 0.36 8C) and warm–wet (CON,
37.63 ± 0.18 8C; MMU, 37.65 ± 0.16 8C; and SMU, 37.88 ±
0.11 8C). Preliminary data suggest that the use of ‘‘wicking’’
undergarments in the modified mining uniform can reduce
body heat storage during work performed under hot–dry
conditions. However, the performance of the garment ap-
pears to produce less effect under warm–wet conditions.
(Support: Deep Mining Research Consortium (DMRC).)
absolute (r = –0.630) V_ O2 max increased as total body %
fat decreased. As absolute V_ O2 max increased, lower body
(r = 0.725), pelvic (r = 0.724), total spine (r = 0.694),
and total body (r = 0.705) BMD increased. Increased abso-
lute V_ O2 max was also correlated with increased lower body
strength (r =0.591). An increase in grip strength was also
seen as pelvic (r = 0.845) and total body (r = 0.879)
BMD increased. There was no significant correlation be-
tween spine, lower body, or total body BMD and lower
body strength. No significant correlations were identified
between grip strength and upper body BMD. In summary,
grip strength is a strong indicator of pelvic, spine, and total
body BMD; absolute V_ O2 max is also a strong indicator of
lower body, pelvic, spine, and total body BMD. Decreased
trunk adiposity correlated with increased pelvic, total spine,
and total body BMD.
the program, which consisted of 15-min sessions twice per
week; the curriculum included 12 exercises. Subjects were
divided into a boy’s group (n = 18) and a girl’s group (n =
22). Performance on the handgrip strength, side step, long
Published by NRC Research Press
S100
jump, soft ball throw, sit-ups, and 20 m shuttle run were as-
sessed at pre- and post-training. Boys showed a significant
increase in handgrip strength, side step, and long jump (p <
0.01). Girls showed a significant increase in side step and
long jump (p < 0.01). No significant differences between tri-
Effects of weight variability during adulthood on
cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality in
women
K.Y. Taing, C.I. Ardern, and J.L. Kuk
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3,
Canada
There is controversy surrounding whether or not weight
variability increases mortality risk. The aim of this study
was to examine the effect of weight variability throughout
adulthood and between specific time periods on cardiovas-
cular disease (CVD) and all-cause mortality risk in women.
Data were obtained from the Women’s Health Initiative ob-
servational study limited access dataset, acquired from the
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (n = 76 520; age,
50–79 years). Weight variability was calculated as weight
change between the ages of 18 and 35 years, 35 and
50 years, and 50 years and current age. Women with weight
changes of <5% across all time periods were classified as
being stable-weight. Weight-gainers were those with at least
1 period of gain (‡5%) without a period of loss (£–5%), and
weight-losers were those with at least 1 period of loss with-
out a gain in all time periods. Women who experienced pe-
riods of weight gain and loss were categorized as having
variable-weight. During the 7.1 ± 1.6 years follow-up, there
were 4747 deaths (1327 CVD). There was no increase in
CVD or all-cause mortality risk among weight-gainers,
Effect of inspiratory muscle training on
performance in college-aged Japanese rowers
H. Takemura, T. Abe, and S. Suzuki
Faculty of Sport Science, Sendai University, Miyagi, Japan
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of
inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on performance in col-
lege-aged Japanese rowers. Twelve male well-trained col-
lege-aged rowers participated in this study. The subjects
were divided into an IMT group (n = 6) and a control group
(n = 6). The IMT group performed 30 repetitions of inspira-
tory effort using the resistance equivalent to 50% of maxi-
mal inspiratory mouth pressure (PImax), 2 sessions per day
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
als were observed for the 20-m shuttle run, soft ball throw,
or sit-ups. Both groups showed a significant increase in side
step and long jump (p < 0.01). According to the data, the
dynamic warm-up program enhances agility and power.
whereas weight-losers had higher all-cause mortality risk
(hazard ratio (HR), 1.29; 95% confidence interval (CI),
1.01–1.64) than stable-weight after the exclusion of women
with pre-existing diseases (CVD, diabetes, cancer). The in-
creased mortality risk associated with weight variability was
no longer significant (p > 0.05) after the exclusion of
women with pre-existing diseases. Alternatively, weight loss
between 18 and 35 years (HR,1.19; 95% CI, 1.00–1.42) and
weight gain between 35 and 50 years (HR, 1.06; 95% CI,
1.01–1.13) or 50 years and current age (HR, 1.06; 95% CI,
1.02–1.11) was significantly associated with higher all-cause
mortality risk, even after excluding those with pre-existing
diseases. Moreover, weight gain between 35 and 50 years
(HR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.01–1.26) was also related to elevated
risk for CVD mortality. In conclusion, whether one gains or
loses weight across adulthood alone may not be sufficient to
fully describe mortality risk, and the timing of the weight
change may be as important to consider when examining
the association between weight variability and mortality risk.
for 4 week during the competitive period. All subjects
underwent a 2000 m maximal effort test and an intermittent
incremental load test on a rowing ergometer before and after
the experimental period. Rowing performance (time and
power), cardiopulmonary responses to exercise, resting
PImax, and daily training load were measured. Training vol-
ume of rowing during the experimental period was almost
equal in both groups. PImax, as an index of inspiratory
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
muscle strength, in the IMT group increased by 38.7% ±
31.5%, compared with only 7.7% ± 6.2% in the control
group (p < 0.05). In contrast, there was no significant differ-
ence in rowing performance, V_ O2 max, V_ E, or V_ O2/V_ E be-
tween groups. These results suggest that inspiratory muscle
Measurement method agreement in determining
time spent in physical activity
T. Terada and J.R. Sexsmith
Faculty of Kinesiology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3, Canada
Physical activity (PA) is one of the most important inter-
ventions for healthy living, and the American College of
Sports Medicine recommends the accumulation of more
than 30 min of moderate-intensity PA on most days of the
week for health benefits. Determination of PA has often
been completed using a activity log (AL) and activity record
(AR), which are cumbersome, subject to recording errors,
and involve subjective determination of activity intensity.
With advancement in technologies, cost-efficient and less
obtrusive instruments became available. SenseWear Pro3
Armband (SWA) is one such instrument that provides a pro-
file of daily activity and quantifies PA. Because a detailed
comparison employing SWA in active young adults has yet
to be conducted, the purpose of this study was to determine
the agreement in time spent in PA derived by the 3 methods.
Twenty-four volunteer, healthy, and physically active kinesi-
ology students (12 females, 12 males; height, 173.5 ±
9.0 cm, weight, 73.4 ± 10.8 kg) wore an SWA and kept AL
Heart-to-foot pulse wave velocity increases after
5 days of head-down bed rest
C. Tessmer, K. Zuj, S. Morrison, K. Fraser, and R. Hughson
University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
During conditions of weightlessness, physical inactivity is
exaggerated, and a reduced arterial shear stress in the lower
limb regions may lead to endothelial dysfunction. Bed rest is
frequently used to study cardiovascular changes caused by
exposure to microgravity. As part of a larger 2010 study,
7 healthy, young males underwent 5 days of 68 head-down
tilt. The pulse wave timing in 3 distinct arterial segments
(heart-carotid (HC), heart-finger (HF), and heart-ankle
(HA)) was investigated. Arterial blood pressure waveforms
were recorded at the left common carotid artery, as meas-
ured by applanation tonometry, using the Millar device; the
proper palmar digital artery of the left middle intermediate
phalange, using the Nexfin; and the left posterior tibial ar-
tery. using a sensitive pressure transducer placed posterior
S101
training for 4 weeks of the competitive period doesn’t im-
prove rowing performance or cardiopulmonary responses,
whereas the perception of dyspnia to exercise tended to de-
crease.
and AR on 2 weekdays and 1 weekend day. The time in-
volved in sedentary/light (<3 MET), moderate-intensity (3–
6 MET), and vigorous (>6 MET) physical activity was de-
termined for SWA, as measured over the 3-day period, and
calculated by the researcher for the AL and AR recordings.
Repeated ANOVA and Bland–Altman plots were used to de-
termine the difference and the degree of agreement, respec-
tively. The results demonstrated relatively good agreement
among all 3 methods, and no significant differences were
found between the AL and SWA measurements. No signifi-
cant difference was found in the time spent in moderate-in-
tensity PA (AL, 172 min; AR, 188 min; SWA, 173 min);
however, the SWA recorded significantly less time (25 min)
spent in vigorous PA than the AR (61 min). The AL deter-
mination was 41 min. Overall, as vigorous PA constitutes
less than *3% of a day for most individuals, these results
revealed that SWA is a promising tool to capture daily PA.
and inferior to the medial malleolus. For each blood pres-
sure waveform, a time-matched electrocardiogram (ECG)
was recorded. Pulse wave timing was measured as the time
delay between the R-wave on the ECG and the foot of the
blood pressure wave. Averages of at least 20 consecutive
cardiac cycles were recorded, capturing no less than 2 respi-
ratory cycles. Following 5 days of head-down bed rest, pulse
wave timing did not change in the HC segment (mean ± SD:
0.085 ± 0.005 s vs. 0.088 ± 0.007 s; p = 0.093) or the HF
segment (0.214 ± 0.008 s vs. 0.211 ± 0.006 s; p = 0.181),
but decreased in the HA segment (0.230 ± 0.023 s vs.
0.207 ± 0.015 s; p = 0.029). The endothelium is regarded as
a major regulator of vasomotor tone. In endothelial dysfunc-
tion, the contractile state and integrity of the vessel walls
Published by NRC Research Press
S102
may be altered. The pulse wave transit time from the heart
to the foot was decreased after bed rest, denoting an in-
creased pulse wave velocity (PWV) because arterial length
remained unchanged. Arterial stiffness, as measured by
Fatigue with low pretest cadence in all-out
isokinetic cycling
E.K. Tomaras and B.R. MacIntosh
Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary,
AB T2N 1N4, Canada
A pretest cadence of 50 r
min–1 for 1 min has been com-
monly used for the 30 s isokinetic Wingate test. At the end
of this 1 min period, subjects accelerate all-out until they at-
tain their predetermined optimal cadence (OC). This acceler-
ation takes a few seconds, and may result in fatigue before
reaching OC, which may lower peak power output (PPO).
The purpose of this study was to determine if fatigue during
the acceleration of an all-out isokinetic cycling test affected
PPO. Subjects were recreationally active males (n = 8;
weight, 78.4 ± 5.7 kg; height, 179.9 ± 7.2 cm; age, 24.5 ±
5.7 years) and females (n = 5; weight, 70.3 ± 13.5 kg;
height, 166.4 ± 10.4 cm; age, 20.2 ± 0.8 years) and highly
trained male track cyclists (n = 10; weight, 77.9 ± 7.2 kg;
height, 180.6 ± 7.6 cm; age, 33.5 ± 9.1 years). After a
10 min warm-up and 5 min rest, the recreational subjects
performed an OC test. This was followed 5 min later by
two 8 s all-out sprints, accelerating from a pretest cadence
of either 50 r
min–1 or 80% of optimal cadence (OC  0.8)
Community walking participation in lumbar spinal
stenosis and low back pain predicted by obesity,
pain, age, and gender; not by diagnosis
C.C. Tomkins, S. Christensen Holz, K. Yamakawa, J. Miner, V.V. Phalke, D. Quint,
and A.J. Haig
Mount Royal University, Department of Physical Education and Recreation, Calgary,
AB T3E 6K6, Canada; University of Michigan Spine Program, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA
Limited walking participation in the community can have
serious impacts on health and function in older adults. Peo-
ple with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) may be at even
greater risk for limitations in walking, owing to neurogenic
claudication symptoms, which include back pain, leg pain,
weakness, and numbness brought on by walking. However,
we do not know which factors predict such walking limita-
tions, whether they are unique to LSS, or whether they are
modifiable. The purpose of this study was to examine pre-
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
PWV, has been directly linked with cardiovascular morbid-
ity and mortality, suggesting exposure to microgravity might
increase cardiovascular risk.
to OC, in random order. The highly trained cyclists per-
formed a warm-up that involved 15.5 min with a progressive
increase in intensity to 85% of maximal HR, followed by a
6 s sprint. After this they rested for 30 min before doing a
self-selected low-intensity 10 min warm-up, followed by an
OC test, and 5 min later by accelerating with a pretest ca-
dence of OC  0.8. The recreational subjects achieved sig-
nificantly greater (p < 0.001) PPO when the pretest cadence
was OC  0.8 (1029 ± 86 W) than when the pretest cadence
was 50 r
min–1 (963 ± 89 W). There was no significant dif-
ference in PPO (p = 0.982) between tests for the highly
trained cyclists (1401 ± 95 W and 1389 ± 89 W for OC 
0.8 and 50 r
min–1 tests, respectively). Fatigue was evident
in the recreational subjects during the OC test, and fatigue
probably contributed to less PPO when pretest cadence was
low. There was no evidence of fatigue affecting the highly
trained cyclists.
dictors of walking performance and walking capacity in peo-
ple with LSS, compared with individuals with low back pain
and asymptomatic controls. A total of 126 subjects partici-
pated, including 51 people with LSS, 44 with low back pain
only, and 31 who were asymptomatic. Main outcome meas-
ures included 7-day community walking distance, measured
by pedometer (walking performance), and a 15-min walking
capacity test. Clinical measures (potential predictors) in-
cluded physical examination findings, magnetic resonance
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés S103

imaging, electromyography, and visual analog pain scales.
Regression analysis was used to examine predictors of com-
munity walking performance (7-day pedometer distance) and
walking capacity (15-min walking test) in subjects with
LSS, low back pain, and symptomatic controls. Higher body
mass index, higher age, higher pain, and female gender pre-
dicted lower 7-day walking distance (r2 = 0.41) and lower
walking capacity (r2 = 0.41). The diagnosis of LSS itself
had no clear independent relationship with either walking
variable. It is concluded that walking performance in the
community is limited to a greater extent in people with LSS
than in those with low back pain and asymptomatic controls.
Obesity and pain are modifiable predictors of walking defi-
cits, which could be targets for future intervention studies
aimed at increasing physical activity and overall health in
people with LSS.

Systematic review of the relationship between

sedentary behaviour and health indicators in
school-aged children and youth
M.S. Tremblay, A.G. LeBlanc, R. Colley, G. Goldfield, T. Saunders, and R. Larouche
Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute Healthy Active Living and
Obesity Research Group, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada; Department of
Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada

Emerging research has shown that both physical activity
and sedentary behaviours have independent effects on health
status, and must be differentiated when making lifestyle rec-
ommendations. That is, time spent engaging in sedentary be-
haviours is a unique indicator for many health risks, even
after controlling for physical activity. The purpose of this re-
view was to consolidate the evidence base to inform and
help develop Canadian sedentary behaviour guidelines for
children and youth (ages 5–17 years). These guidelines will
complement and be used alongside current Canadian physi-
cal activity guidelines for children and youth. Literature was
identified through a systematic search of health databases
(Medline, EMBASE, psycINFO, Cochrane Central Library),
personal libraries, and government reports from Canada, the
United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Any
study that assessed the relationship between measured sed-
entary behaviour (i.e., sitting, low activity measured by ac-
celerometry, television viewing, video gaming, nonschool
computer use, and screen total time) and a health indicator
was included in this review. After deduplication, the search
provided 5259 articles. Titles and abstracts of potentially
relevant articles were screened for inclusion by 2 reviewers.
In all, 848 full text articles were retrieved for further review.
Two independent reviewers examined all full text articles
and, in all cases, consensus was met to include or exclude
the article in the review. The final review included 220 ar-
ticles. The outcomes included were body composition
(155 articles), fitness (11 articles), markers for metabolic
syndrome and cardiovascular disease (10 articles), self-esteem
(14 articles), prosocial behaviour (16 articles), and aca-
demic achievement (27 articles). Data extraction was com-
pleted by one reviewer and scanned for errors and missing
information by a second reviewer. The majority of studies
(81%) showed that increased time spent being sedentary
was consistently associated with poorer health outcomes;
few studies (12%) showed no association. This systematic
review provides necessary background evidence to help in-
form Canadian sedentary behaviour guidelines for children
and youth.

Published by NRC Research Press

S104
Sarcolipin ablation decreases the energy
requirements for Ca2+ transport by
sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPases in
resting skeletal muscle
A.R. Tupling, E. Bombardier, S.M. Norris, C. Vigna, I.C. Smith, R.A. Sayer, and
A. Trinh
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
Earlier experiments with sarcolipin knockout mice
(SLNKO) have shown that sarcolipin (SLN) uncouples ATP
hydrolysis from Ca2+ transport by the sarco(endo)plasmic re-
ticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA) and reduces the calculated
Ca2+ transport efficiency (coupling ratio) of SERCA pumps.
In this study, the basal oxygen consumption (V_ O2) of soleus
muscles isolated from wild-type (WT) and SLNKO mice,
and the contribution of energy utilized by SERCA pumps,
were compared. Resting V_ O2 (mL
g muscle–1
s–1) of isolated
intact soleus muscles at 30 8C was not significantly different
between WT and SLNKO. To quantify the specific contribu-
tion of SERCA pump activity to resting metabolic rate, we
measured the change in muscle V_ O2 following the addition
of cyclopiazonic acid (CPA, 10 mmol
L–1), a highly specific
inhibitor of SERCA pump activity. Muscle V_ O2 in both
WT and SLNKO soleus was significantly reduced follow-
ing CPA treatment, but the relative decrease was signifi-
cantly greater in WT than in SLNKO. As a result, the
Changes in ventilatory responses and energy
metabolism after acute short-term hypoxia
J. Uchimaru, S. Namba H. Takemura, H. Yamano, H. Takahashi, and S. Suzuki
Faculty of Sports Science, Sendai University, Miyagi, Japan
Many studies have shown that resting hypoxic ventilatory
response, which is an index of ventilatory chemosensitivity
to hypoxia, increased after short-term intermittent hypoxia
at rest. However, it is not clear whether acute short-term hy-
poxia has enhanced ventilatory responses and energy metab-
olism following acute short-term normobaric hypoxia. The
purpose of this study was to examine the changes in ventila-
tory responses and energy metabolism in a normoxic condi-
tion following acute short-term normobaric hypoxia at rest.
Six male university students participated in this study. They
randomly carried out both an acute normobaric hypoxia trial
(H trial; 14.5% O2) and a normobaric normoxia trial
(C trial), with a period of a wash-out (1 week) between
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
relative contribution of SERCA pumps to resting V_ O2 in
soleus is lower in SLNKO (*41%) than in WT (*50%)
mice. If we assume a caloric expenditure equivalent of
5 kcal
L–1 O2 consumed, then the calculated rate of ATP
consumption by SERCA pumps in resting soleus is 152 ±
9.4 nmol
g muscle–1
s–1 in SLNKO, compared with 183 ±
11 nmol
g muscle–1
s–1 in WT. We also found that uncou-
pling protein 3 (UCP3) was expressed at a higher (p <
0.03) concentration in soleus muscle of SLNKO than of
WT. Thus, UCP3 could, potentially, provide compensation,
resulting in higher basal V_ O2 in SLNKO mice than ex-
pected. These data show that at physiological SLN/SERCA
ratios, SLN uncouples ATP hydrolysis from SR Ca2+ up-
take in skeletal muscle, resulting in a lower contribution
of Ca2+ handling to basal V_ O2. Accordingly, we deduce
that SLN is a key regulator of both ATP utilization in
Ca2+ handling and overall energy metabolism in skeletal
muscle.
trials H and C. In H trial, subjects stayed in normobaric hy-
poxic air for 2 h. The normobaric hypoxic room system was
utilized for acute short-term hypoxia, and the oxygen levels
in the room were maintained at 14.5% ± 0.1% (simulated
3000 m altitude) for the H trial. We measured ventilation
(V_ E), oxygen uptake (V_ O2), carbon dioxide output (V_ CO2),
carbon dioxide end-tidal CO2 pressure (PETCO2), HR, and
energy expenditure (REE) for 3 h following normobaric hy-
poxia. REE, as index of energy metabolism, was also deter-
mined in each subject, using the Weir formula. We could
not find any significantly different parameters between the
H and C trials. However, V_ E, V_ O2, and REE in the H trial
showed a tendency toward increase, compared with the C
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés
trial. Change of PETCO2 in the H trial (34.89 ±
1.92 mm Hg) showed a tendency toward increase, compared
with C trial (35.47 ± 1.97 mm Hg). These results suggest
that acute short-term normobaric hypoxia would be effective
in increasing V_ E and (or) REE in a normoxic condition fol-
Effect of acute skeletal muscle contractions on
PGC-1a activation
G. Uguccioni, V. Ljubicic, I. Irrcher, and D.A. Hood
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Muscle Health Research Centre,
York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
The transcriptional coactivator, PPARg coactivator-1a
(PGC-1a), is an essential regulator of both basal and con-
tractile activity-induced mitochondrial biogenesis in skeletal
muscle. Although it is well established that PGC-1a levels
increase with chronic contractile activity, the function and
(or) activity of the coactivator has yet to be elucidated. To
characterize the ability of PGC-1a to transcriptionally regu-
late gene expression, we cotransfected C2C12 cells with a
chimeric gene encoding full-length PGC-1a fused to the
DNA-binding domain (DBD) of GAL4; and a luciferase
construct driven by GAL4 DBD consensus sequences. Fol-
lowing 5 days of differentiation, C2C12 myotubes were sub-
jected to 2 h of electrical-stimulation-evoked contractile
activity (9 V, 5 Hz). As expected, PGC-1a mRNA increased
by approximately 2-fold as a result of contractile activity.
Autophagy: a novel pathway of remodeling in
muscle
A. Vainshtein, M.F.N. O’Leary, and D.A. Hood
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, and the Muscle Health Research Centre,
York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
Autophagy is responsible for the recycling of dysfunc-
tional organelles and protein aggregates during cellular
adaptations. This pathway way has been implicated in cellu-
lar remodeling with response to stressful stimuli. Despite
this imperative function, the role of autophagy in the control
of muscle mass has only recently sparked the interest of re-
searchers, and not much is known about the role and regula-
tion of the autophagic pathway in skeletal muscle. Thus, we
set out to investigate the expression of regulatory proteins
involved in autophagy during conditions of chronic muscle
use and disuse. Denervation is a model of disuse that has
been shown to rapidly induce loss of oxidative capacity and
muscle mass by inducing cellular stress. In contrast, chronic
contractile activity (CCA), in the form of nerve stimulation,
S105
lowing hypoxic treatment. A prospective study is necessary
to confirm whether or not acute short-term hypoxia is af-
fected by exercise and (or) stress responses, and the differ-
ence in responses among sedentary people and (or) well-
trained athletes.
Phosphorylation of both AMPK and p38 were also concur-
rently augmented in cells subjected to acute stimulation.
Furthermore, contractile activity enhanced the activity of
PGC-1a. Coactivation of the GAL4 DBD by PGC-1a was
increased significantly by 50% as a result of contractile ac-
tivity, relative to nonstimulated, control cells. PGC-1a tran-
scriptional activity remained elevated, by 25% above control
levels, following 2 h of recovery. This experimental para-
digm allows us to investigate the effect of contractile activ-
ity on PGC-1a function. Our data reveal that the onset of
muscle contractions is characterized by an increase in sig-
nalling kinase activation that may lead to PGC-1a transcrip-
tional activity as an early event in the expression of nuclear
genes encoding mitochondrial proteins.
has been shown to rapidly increase mitochondrial content
and improve muscle health. Denervation (7 days) resulted
in a 16% decline in muscle mass and an 11% decrease in
mitochondrial content. Proautophagic factors Atg7, Ulk1,
LC3II, and beclin-1 protein levels were all increased 2- to
3-fold during denervation. In contrast, CCA (10 Hz, 7 days,
3 h
day–1) had little effect on muscle mass, but increased
mitochondrial content by 53%. Coincidentally, Atg7, Ulk1,
LC3II, and Beclin-1 were also increased 2- to 3-fold. Col-
lectively, these data implicate autophagy as a common path-
way for remodeling within the muscle cell under conditions
of chronic use and disuse. Thus, autophagy and its partners
may be important targets for pharmaceutical intervention to
help regulate and maintain muscle phenotype.
Published by NRC Research Press
S106
Effect of a yoga intervention on fitness and quality
of life in perimenopausal women
M.L.S. Verzosa and J.L. Copeland
Department of Kinesiology, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
Yoga is often recommended as a nonpharmacological ap-
proach for alleviating the wide range of symptoms associ-
ated with menopause. In popular literature, it is suggested
that the beneficial effects of yoga may result from changes
in hormone levels, such as those of the adrenal androgen
DHEA-S. The purpose of this study was to examine the ef-
fect of a 10-week yoga intervention on menopausal symp-
toms and musculoskeletal fitness, and to determine if there
were associated changes in circulating DHEA-S. Volunteer
participants were 17 inactive women, between the ages of
45 and 60 years, experiencing menopause-related symptoms.
Women were randomly assigned to either a 10-week Hatha
yoga program (n = 10; age, 51.6 ± 4.2 years; body mass in-
dex (BMI), 27.2 ± 5.8 kg
m–2) or an active control group
that completed a 10 week walking program (n = 7; age,
53.1 ± 4.1 years; BMI, 27.6 ± 6.7 kg
m–2). Both groups
completed the Menopause Specific Quality of Life question-
naire (MENQOL) before and after the intervention to assess
symptoms over 4 domains: vasomotor, psychosocial, physi-
Exercise-induced reductions in SR Ca2+ pump
activity in human skeletal muscle are prevented
by exercise preconditioning
C. Vigna, R.D. Stewart, E. Bombardier, A. Hopf, K. Hall, and A.R. Tupling
Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
This study investigated the effects of a preconditioning
exercise model and subsequent dual-legged cycling on sar-
co(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) and con-
tractile function in human vastus lateralis. Eight males
(V_ O2 max, 47.0 ± 3.2 mL
kg–1
min–1) completed the
preconditioning protocol, which consisted of 30 min of sin-
gle-legged intermittent (50% duty cycle) knee-extension ex-
ercise at 40% of their maximal voluntary contraction
(MVC). Seventy-two h later, subjects performed dual-legged
cycling at 70% V_ O2 max for 60 min. Immediately before
(PRE) and after (POST) each exercise protocol, MVC and
electrically evoked force production were measured, and a
skeletal muscle biopsy was taken from the vastus lateralis.
Muscle samples were homogenized for determination of
maximal Ca2+-ATPase activity (Vmax) or mounted for meas-
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
cal, and sexual. Musculoskeletal fitness was measured using
selected tests from the CPAFLA. Pre- and postintervention
blood samples were drawn and analysed for DHEA-S using
ELISA. ANOVA showed a trend for a group effect in the
physical (p = 0.09) domain of the MENQOL, suggesting
greater symptom relief in the yoga group. Paired tests
showed significant improvements in the physical domain of
the MENQOL for the yoga group only (p < 0.05). Flexibility
improved in both groups (p < 0.01), while muscular endur-
ance (push-ups) improved only in the walking group (p <
0.01). No changes were observed for either group in
DHEA-S levels. These results suggest that 10 weeks of
yoga will improve physical symptoms of menopause more
than a traditional exercise program, although this effect did
not appear to be associated with changes in DHEA-S. Yoga
and walking resulted in similar improvements in musculos-
keletal fitness. An intervention longer than 10 weeks may
be necessary to see changes in other domains of quality of
life among perimenopausal women.
urement of fibre-type-specific heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70)
content on serial cross-sections. The preconditioning exer-
cise increased Hsp70 content (p < 0.05) in Type I fibres by
*75%, and tended (p = 0.10) to increase Hsp70 content in
Type IIa fibres by *20%. Prior to the onset of cycling ex-
ercise, there were no significant differences in enzymatic
antioxidant protein content, Vmax, or muscle contractile prop-
erties between the control leg and the preconditioned leg.
Cycling reduced (p < 0.05) twitch force by *43% POST in
the control leg. However, twitch force in the preconditioned
leg was only 26% lower at POST than at PRE. A similar
trend was observed during 10 Hz stimulation. In contrast,
cycling reduced MVC force by 25%–29% in the control
and preconditioned leg, yet 100 Hz force was not altered by
the cycling exercise. Immediately POST cycling, Vmax was
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés S107

decreased (p < 0.05) by *17% in the control leg. However,
preconditioning completely prevented the exercise-induced
reduction in Vmax (PRE 135.9 ± 5.8 vs. POST 131.2 ±
10.3 mmol
L–1
g–1
min–1). Thus, preconditioning in human
skeletal muscle can prevent inactivation of SERCA activity
induced by dynamic exercise, and can attenuate some of the
reductions in muscle mechanical properties. The protective
effects of preconditioning observed in this study are associ-
ated with increases in muscle Hsp70.

The impact of pulmonary rehabilitation on daily

physical activity in patients with chronic
respiratory disease
N.L. Vogan, S.M. Holm, R.G. Haennel, W.M. Rodgers, A.M. McCarthy, and
M.K. Stickland
Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation; Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine; Faculty
of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2J3, Canada

Patients with chronic respiratory disease are characterized
by marked inactivity. Through exercise training, the goal of
pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is to increase exercise ca-
pacity so patients develop a more physically active lifestyle.
While the increase in exercise capacity from PR is well
documented, it is unclear if PR results in more daily physi-
cal activity. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to ex-
amine the impact of PR on daily physical activity in patients
with chronic lung disease. A total of 103 patients with
chronic respiratory disease (FEV1, 60% ± 2%; age, 66.2 ±
1.3 years) were recruited at the start of PR; 96 participants
completed the 8-week program. Patients wore a biaxial ac-
celerometer (SenseWear Pro3 Armband, Bodymedia) for
3 days (10 h
day–1; 1 PR day and 2 non-PR days) at the be-
ginning and end of the program to monitor physical activity.
Physical activity was quantified in minutes at absolute meta-
bolic equivalents (METs). The 6-min walk distance
(6MWD) increased from 400 ± 13.3 m pre-PR to 454 ±
16.4 m with PR (p < 0.01), and peak METs, obtained during
a cardiopulmonary exercise test, increased from 4.38 ± 0.22
to 5.19 ± 0.25 with PR (p < 0.01). Concluding PR, patients
were shown to spend less time inactive (*1 MET; 924 ±
47 min to 847 ± 50 min; p < 0.01) and more time perform-
ing mild physical activity (1.5–3.0 METs; 416 ± 20 min to
441 ± 20 min; p < 0.05). Time spent above 3 METs was un-
changed with PR (161 vs. 167 min). When looking at only
the 2 h of exercise during PR class, no significant differen-
ces were found pre- vs. post-PR, indicating the increase in
3-day physical activity occurred during the time away from
the program. In addition to increases in exercise perform-
ance, PR appears to increase daily physical activity in pa-
tients with chronic respiratory disease. (Funding sources:
Alberta Lung Association, SSHRC, CIHR.)

Detecting effects of physical training on

cardiac performance using noninvasive
ballistocardiography
E.S.M. Vogt, J.P. Neary, D.S. MacQuarrie, and T.K. Len
Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Regina, Regina, SK S4S 0A4,
Canada

Ballistocardiography (BCG) has been used to record the
ultra-low-frequency vibrations of the heart, which allows
the measurement of cardiac cycle events, including timing
and amplitudes of contraction. The purpose of this study
was to characterize cardiac performance in different subject
groups. We hypothesized that resting BCG could be used to
differentiate cardiac adaptations to exercise training. Partici-
pants included a group of untrained (UNT) university stu-
dents (n = 20; age, 22.5 ± 2.4 years) and junior (JR)
hockey players (n = 24; age, 18.3 ± 1.3 years). A total of
525 UNT and 612 JR heart beats were analyzed and com-
pared between groups at rest (62.8 ± 9.2 vs. 60.5 ±
10.7 beats
min–1). Independent-samples t test showed signif-
icant differences between groups for cardiac timing and am-

Published by NRC Research Press

S108
plitude of contraction. There were notable contractile (milli-
gravity (mG)) differences of the cardiac cycle events be-
tween UNT and JR groups, including isovolumic cardiac
movement (28.9 ± 6.1 vs. 48.1 ± 13.4 mG), mitral valve
open (21.6 ± 6.8 vs. 42.7 ± 10.5 mG), early diastole (8.9 ±
3.7 vs. 16.8 ± 6.4 mG), late diastole (6.8 ± 4.4 vs.11.5 ± 6.5
mG), aortic valve open (27.5 ± 7.7 vs. 43.3 ± 16.9 mG), and
rapid ejection (3.9 ± 3.0 vs. 6.9 ± 5.4 mG). Cardiac timing
of isovolumic relaxation time (100.5 ± 13.9 vs. 111.2 ±
16.6 ms), isovolumic contraction time (52.6 ± 8.7 vs.
55.0 ± 8.6 ms), pressure half time (54.7 ± 8.1 vs. 58.4 ±
Physiological responses to cokeoven standpipe
cleaning
M.L. Wallace, M.L. Oliver, D.M. Munro, and J.R. Sexsmith
School of Engineering, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; Faculty of
Kinesiology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3, Canada
To chip carbon build-up on the walls and lid of a cokeoven
standpipe, workers use high-frequency, high-impact forces
under high heat loads, while dressed in full body safety gear,
including hard hat, face shield, respirator, and Nomex suit.
The physiological and biomechanical demands of cokeoven
standpipe cleaning were assessed to guide the design of engi-
neering interventions. Four of 7 standpipe cleaners volun-
teered to participate (age, 42 ± 5.9 years; height, 180 ±
4.3 cm; weight, 89.8 ± 4.9 kg; all smokers; 24-h energy ex-
penditure, 3395 ± 645 kcal). Two shifts of cleaning 3–6
standpipes per 8-h shift (10+ min break after the third stand-
pipe) were assessed using a Polar heart rate (HR) monitor
and BodyMedia SenseWear Armband (SWA) in July 2008
(mean ambient temperature, 34.5 ± 3.9 8C; peak, 48.5 8C;
relative humidity, 31.39% ± 4.47%). Over the shift, mean
HR was 141 ± 11.2 beats
min–1 (highest peak, 192
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
11.3 ms), early diastolic filling to atrial systole (469.2 ±
143.3 vs. 497.4 ± 167.9 ms), and systole (230.4 ± 15.4 vs.
226.4 ± 22.8 ms) were significantly different between
groups. Our data support the fact that physical training re-
sults in altered cardiac function, and that BCG can be used
to measure cardiac performance. Additional research using
BCG will provide new insights into the effects of physical
training on cardiac performance. (Supported by the Heart
and Stroke Foundation of Saskatchewan, CIHR, and Heart
Force Medical.)
beats
min–1), and energy expenditure was 4.11 ± 0.74 METs
or 6.28 ± 1.23 kcal
min–1. Galvanic skin response increased
linearly when cleaning standpipes 1 through 3, plateaued
through the break and the fourth standpipe, with a further in-
crease to 5 times the resting baseline following the fifth
standpipe. A similar trend occurred in the skin and near
body temperatures, which averaged 35.5 ± 1.7 8C and 35.4 ±
1.7 8C, respectively. Heat flux was typically negative while
cleaning (–6.85 ± 45.4 W
m–2), compared with before the be-
ginning of a shift (55.3 ± 21.1 W
m–2). These results are
comparable to other high-intensity and (or) high heat activ-
ities, such as fire fighter training, and aluminum smelter and
lumber work operations, showing that cokeoven standpipe
cleaning is strenuous. Advanced measurement tools, such as
the SWA, and HR and temperature sensors can allow for
targeted design of engineering interventions.
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés S109

Bolus protein feeding is more beneficial than

pulse feeding for enhancing myofibrillar protein
synthesis
D.W.D. West, N.A. Burd, V.G. Coffey, A.W. Staples, S.K. Baker, L.M. Burke,
J.A. Hawley, and S.M. Phillips
Departments of Kinesiology and Neurology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1,
Canada; Health Innovations Research Institute, School of Medical Science, RMIT
University, Bundoora, Australia; Sports Nutrition, Australian Institute of Sport, Canberra,
Australia

Casein and whey, milk proteins with similar amino acid
composition but contrasting digestion rates and resultant
blood aminoacidemia, have been termed slow and fast pro-
teins, respectively. It is suggested that the faster appearance
of essential amino acids (EAA) in the blood after whey in-
gestion is responsible for a greater rate of muscle protein
synthesis after resistance exercise compared with casein.
We manipulated the feeding pattern of whey to determine
the effect of divergent blood amino acid profiles on myofi-
brillar protein synthesis (MPS) and anabolic signaling after
resistance exercise. Using a randomized crossover design,
8 men (age, 21.5 ± 1 years; body mass index, 24.3 ±
0.8 kg
m–2) consumed either a single 25 g bolus (BOLUS)
of whey protein or 10 small feedings to mimic a slow pro-
tein (PULSE; 2.5 g every 20 min) immediately after knee
extension resistance exercise (8 sets  8–10 repetitions).
Participants received a primed, constant infusion of L-[ring-
13C ]phenylalanine, and muscle biopsies were taken to deter-
6
mine MPS at rest and after resistance exercise in each con-
dition. BOLUS resulted in a 162% increase in plasma EAA
concentration 60 min postexercise, which returned to base-
line at 120 min, whereas PULSE resulted in a smaller, sus-
tained increase (53% at 60 min, p < 0.001), which remained
elevated above BOLUS 180, 200, and 220 min postexercise
(all p < 0.05). Importantly, the 2 conditions generated an
equal area under the plasma EAA curve (p = 0.99). MPS
was elevated above basal levels to a greater extent after ex-
ercise (1–5 h) with BOLUS (128%) vs. PULSE (55%; p <
0.05). In addition, the enhanced MPS with BOLUS was as-
sociated with greater S6KThr389 and rpS6Ser235/6 phosphoryla-
tion vs. PULSE 60-min postexercise (all p < 0.05). These
data demonstrate that the greater initial increase in plasma
EAA after bolus protein ingestion enhances anabolic signal-
ing and the feeding-induced rise in MPS to a greater extent
than an equal dose of protein consumed in small repeated
pulses after resistance exercise.

Published by NRC Research Press

S110 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

Exacerbation of postexercise cardiovagal

baroreflex hysteresis is explained by selective
reductions in carotid baroreflex neural
transduction
C.K. Willie, C. Taylor, P.Y.W. Sin, H. Jones, Y.C. Tzeng, and P.N. Ainslie
Department of Human Kinetics, Faculty of Health and Social Development, University of
British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; Research Institute for Sport
and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK; Physiological
Rhythms Unit, Department of Surgery & Anesthesia, University of Otago, Wellington, New
Zealand

A single bout of exercise is associated with postexercise
hypotension, transient decreases in autonomic function, and
changes in baroreflex sensitivity (BRS). The baroreflex is
less sensitive to falling blood pressure (Gdown) than to rising
blood pressure (Gup); therefore, we aimed to characterize
cardiac baroreflex hysteresis and to describe any postexer-
cise changes in the mechanical and neural baroreflex com-
ponents. Since orthostatic tolerance is reduced following
exercise, we hypothesized that hysteresis would be exacer-
bated following exercise, because of a greater relative de-
crease in Gdown. In 9 healthy young humans (5 male), we
used bolus injections of sodium nitroprusside and phenyl-
ephrine hydrochloride to drive transient decreases and in-
creases in blood pressure, respectively, to quantify cardiac
BRS to falling and rising blood pressure (the modified Ox-
ford technique). This intervention was completed before,
and at 10, 30, and 60 min following 40 min of cycling at
60% of maximal oxygen consumption. Analysis of beat-to-
beat blood pressure, R–R intervals, and carotid artery diam-
eter were used to determine the integrated cardiac baroreflex
response; this was further quantified into a mechanical com-
ponent (i.e., the transduction of systolic blood pressure into
carotid stretch) and a neural component (i.e., transduction of
stretch into R–R interval changes). There were 2 principle
findings: baroreflex hysteresis was exacerbated, as reflected
in a greater decrease in Gdown than Gup at 10 and 30 min
postexercise (–70% vs. –50%; –60% vs. –32%, respec-
tively); and the increased hysteresis following exercise was
mainly attributable to increased neural, but not mechanical,
hysteresis. The ability of the baroreflex to respond to hypo-
tensive stimuli is, therefore, likely attenuated following ex-
ercise by reductions in neural baroreflex gain. These data
have implications for the understanding of the occurrence of
syncope following exercise in young populations. We sug-
gest that impaired neural transduction of the cardiac barore-
flex is, therefore, implicated in the postexercise vasovagal
response observed in a young population. The practical im-
plications are that, at least for this realistic duration and in-
tensity, recovery is complete within 60 min following
exercise.

Endurance exercise training alters spinal

motoneuron mRNA levels: potential mechanisms
for enhanced excitability
L.E. Woodrow, P. Sheppard, K. Gardiner, and P.F. Gardiner
Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg,
MB R3T 2N2, Canada; Spinal Cord Research Centre, Department of Physiology,
University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada

Motoneurons express a variety of ion channels and neuro- cal activity is known to increase motoneuron excitability;
transmitter receptors, allowing fine-tuning of motoneuron however, the changes in ion channel subunit and (or) neuro-
excitability to ensure optimal motor output. Chronic physi- transmitter receptor gene expression that may contribute to

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés S111

these changes are unknown. Therefore, the purpose of this
study was to examine the effect of exercise on the mRNA
levels of 24 genes related to motoneuron excitability in lum-
bar motoneurons. Twelve female Sprague–Dawley rats were
assigned to either a treadmill exercise (n = 6) or a sedentary
control group (n = 6). The treadmill exercise protocol con-
sisted of 1 training session daily for 7 days, peaking at
22.9 m
min–1, with a 108 incline for 30 min during the final
session. Animals were sacrificed approximately 4 h after the
final training session. Lumbar spinal cords were fresh fro-
zen, sectioned (10 mm), slide-mounted, fixed, and stained in
preparation for laser capture microdissection (LCM). Indi-
vidual motoneurons were collected from the ventrolateral
lumbar spinal cord with LCM. RNA was isolated from these
samples. RNA integrity was measured and real-time reverse
transcription PCRs were performed to determine differences
in mRNA levels between exercised and sedentary animals
for each gene. Potassium channel subunit Kv1.1 (;21.49% ±
3.40%, p < 0.026), sodium channel subunits Navb1
(;17.62% ± 4.47%, p < 0.026) and Navb4 (;11.49% ±
2.85%, p < 0.026), and GABA receptor subtype GABAB1
(;14.59% ± 3.78%, p < 0.026) mRNA levels were sig-
nificantly lower in the lumbar motoneurons of treadmill-
exercised animals than in sedentary controls, using succi-
nate dehydrogenase complex subunit A as the reference
gene. These findings suggest that exercise training may
enhance motoneuron excitability through a decreased po-
tassium conductance (both directly and indirectly) and al-
tered voltage-gated sodium channel kinetics. (CIHR and
NSERC.)

The 6-min walk test: responses in healthy

Canadians aged 45–85 years
L. Woon, L. Wickerson, K. Hill, R. Goldstein, S. O’Hoski, A. Heidar Abady,
T. Overend, and D. Brooks
Department of Respirology, West Park Healthcare Centre, Toronto, ON M6M 2J5,
Canada; Department of Physical Therapy and Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto,
ON M5G 1B7, Canada; School of Physical Therapy, University of Western Ontario,
London, ON N6A 5B8, Canada

The 6-min walk test (6MWT) is a common field-based
test of exercise capacity. Previously published regression
equations estimating a 6-min walk distance (6MWD) in
healthy Canadian adults have neither performed the test ac-
cording to American Thoracic Society (ATS) guidelines nor
described normal cardiorespiratory responses to the test. The
aim of this study was to develop a regression equation to es-
timate a normal 6MWD and describe the normal cardiores-
piratory responses during the 6MWT in healthy Canadians
between 45 and 85 years. Three 6MWTs were conducted ac-
cording to ATS guidelines. Cardiorespiratory variables were
collected using a calibrated telemetric portable gas analysis
system (Cosmed K4b2). Measurements were obtained from
36 men (age, 63.8 ± 11 year; 6MWD, 667 ± 102 m) and
40 women (age, 64.6 ± 11.7 years; 6MWD, 612 ± 93 m). A
linear regression analysis was performed and a model was
developed to estimate 6MWD, using variables of age, gen-
der, height, and weight (r = 0.770). A significant increase
in 6MWD was found between the first and second 6MWT
(p < 0.001), but not between the second and third test (p =
0.857). There was no difference between genders in oxygen
uptake (men, 22.6 ± 6.9 mL
kg–1
min–1; women, 21.4 ±
6.7 mL
kg–1
min–1) or heart rate response (men, 129 ± 25;
women, 137 ± 36) during the last minute of the test. This
regression equation can be used to estimate 6MWD in
healthy Canadians, and can facilitate the interpretation of
6MWT results in patient populations. Only 1 practice walk
is needed for the 6MWT in healthy individuals.

Published by NRC Research Press

S112 Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010

Prolactin as a marker of heat stress fatigue during

slow and fast increases in core temperature
H.E. Wright, B.J. Friesen, and G.P. Kenny
Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics,
University of Ottawa, 125 University Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada

Circulating concentrations of prolactin (PRL) have re-
cently been suggested as an indicator of fatigue during exer-
tional heat stress, given its strong relationship with core
temperature (Tre). In addition, increased PRL secretion is as-
sociated with the increased 5-hydroxytyptamine (serotonin)
and decreased dopamine concentrations, which define cen-
tral fatigue. However, the strength of the PRL and Tre rela-
tionship is unknown when different rates of Tre increase are
observed. This study examined the PRL response of endur-
ance-trained individuals as an indicator of fatigue during
slow and fast increases in Tre. Five trained individuals
(mean ± SE: age, 24.0 ± 2.0 years; 60.0 ± 2.2 mL
kg–1
min–1;
19.8% ± 2.9% fat, study ongoing) underwent 2 exertional
heat stress sessions (slow–walking vs. fast–running) on a
treadmill to a Tre of 39.5 8C in the heat (40 8C, 30% rela-
tive humidity), while wearing an impermeable rain suit,
followed by natural recovery (SN and FN, respectively).
Venous blood samples were obtained at rest (PRE; prior
to heat) and at a Tre of 38, 39, and 39.5 8C during exer-
cise, and at the start (RecPRE) and a Tre of 39 8C
(Rec39) and 38 8C (Rec38) during recovery. PRL was
measured with an ELISA. The SN session was signifi-
cantly longer (75.4 ± 6.7 min) than the FN session
(40.2 ± 3.9 min; p < 0.01). PRL exhibited a strong rela-
tionship with Tre in both SN and FN, during both exercise
and natural recovery. No differences existed for PRL be-
tween SN and FN during exercise or recovery. Perceptual
Strain Index (PeSI; incorporating ratings of thermal com-
fort and perceived exertion) increased with Tre, and was
not different between SN and FN. PRL and PeSI are mod-
erately correlated in SN (r = 0.48) and FN (r = 0.54).
Thus, given the strong temperature-dependent relationship
between Tre and PRL, regardless of the rate of Tre increase,
additional support exists for the use of PRL as an indicator
of fatigue during exertional heat stress. (Funded by
NSERC and CFI.)

Greater fluctuations in blood glucose seen both

during and after aerobic exercise, compared with
resistance or no exercise in type 1 diabetes:
a study using continuous glucose monitoring
J.E. Yardley, G.P. Kenny, B.A. Perkins, M.C. Riddell, J.C. Malcolm, and R.J. Sigal
Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada;
School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1A 6N5, Canada;
University Health Network, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada;
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3,
Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 7W9, Canada;
Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9, Canada

Most previous trials examining the effects of aerobic
(AER) exercise training in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM)
have found no effect on blood glucose (BG) control, as
measured by hemoglobin A1c (A1C). In contrast, resistance
exercise (RES) training in T1DM improved HbA1c in 2
small studies. We hypothesized that RES would produce a
more gradual decline in BG during exercise than AER. On
separate days, 12 physically active individuals with well-
controlled T1DM (HbA1c = 7.2 ± 1.0) performed 45 min of
AER (treadmill running at 60% of V_ O2 max), 45 min of RES
(3 sets of 7 exercises at 8 rep max), or no exercise (CON),
all starting at the same time of day (1700 hours). BG was
measured by continuous glucose monitoring, and is reported
in mmol
L–1 ± SE. Participants were instructed to maintain

Published by NRC Research Press

Abstracts / Résumés
consistent food and insulin intakes 24 h before and 24 h
after each of the sessions. On average, a nonsignificant in-
crease in BG (0.59 ± 1.29, p = 0.154) was seen in CON,
while RES produced a slight decrease (–0.91 ± 1.10, p =
0.017) and AER a much larger decrease (–2.71 ± 1.10, p =
0.007) in BG over the 45 min exercise period. Glucose sup-
plementation occurred in 9 of 12 AER sessions, 3 of 12 RES
sessions, and 2 of 12 CON sessions. Mean BG was compa-
rable across trials during the first 3 h postexercise, but was
higher in the AER session between the third and sixth hours
Utilization of the Physical Activity Line by health
professionals
L. Zehr, K.N. Lane, S.S.D. Bredin, and D.E.R. Warburton
Camosun College, Victoria, BC V9E 2C5, Canada; University of British Columbia,
Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP)–
Health and Fitness Program of British Columbia has devel-
oped a Physical Activity Support Line (PAL). The vision is
to be Canada’s authoritative resource for practical, evidence-
based, physical activity and healthy living information and
advice. A random sample of 40 health professionals partici-
pated in an early pilot project to determine who, why, and
how the PAL is being used. In all, 88% of the health profes-
sionals were female, and the majority (80%) were from
Vancouver or the Lower Mainland. The health professionals
were classified as either registered dietitians (22%); nurses
(22%); non-CSEP health and fitness professionals (22%);
CSEP-certified professionals (18%); and other outreach pro-
fessionals (16%), such as physiotherapists, occupational
therapists, and diabetes and mental health educators. During
the 5-month pilot project, each of the 40 health professionals
contacted the PAL 1–3 times; 55% of the contacts were by
telephone, 30% were by email, and 15% were in person at
the PAL office. For each contact made by telephone, the
Effects of endurance training on CPT-1
expressions of skeletal muscles in a2-AMPK
knockout mice
Y. Zhang
Institute of Human Sports Science, Beijing Sport University, Beijing 100084, China
The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of
endurance training on CPT-1 mRNA and protein expressions
of skeletal muscles in a2-AMPK whole-body knockout
(KO) mice, and to explore the possible role of a2-AMPK in
S113
postexercise. Carbohydrate and insulin intake before, during,
and after exercise were similar across exercise conditions,
with the exception of AER, where an average of 18 g of ad-
ditional carbohydrate was needed during exercise to prevent
hypoglycemia. The carbohydrate consumption required to
prevent hypoglycemia during AER may also lead to higher
late postexercise BG levels in T1DM. This late hyperglyce-
mia might be responsible for the lack of improvement in
glucose control in aerobic exercise training studies in type 1
diabetes.
length of the call ranged from 5 to 30 min (average, 14.7 ±
7.31 min). The health professionals were referred to the
PAL through word of mouth (54%); the local health author-
ity (20%); the Web (11%); print material (6%); a health fair
(6%); or other telehealth line services in British Columbia
(3%). In terms of the types of information requested, the
majority of health professionals were seeking information
about the services offered by PAL for themselves, their or-
ganization, or their clients (43%), and (or) were seeking
physical activity advice for their clients (40%). On occasion,
the health professionals called to request a PAL expert
speaker (17%). Most health professionals preferred that the
information and materials be provided through email (44%)
and in person (40%), instead of by traditional mail (16%).
The information gathered in this early pilot project will as-
sist with the identification of the types of information, re-
sources, and services that the PAL may be able to provide
as a resource to the greater health professional community.
regulating fatty acid oxidation in endurance training.
C57BL/6J wild-type (WT) mice (n = 20) and a2-AMPK
whole-body KO mice (n = 20), 2 months old, were ran-
domly divided into control and exercise groups. Quadriceps
Published by NRC Research Press
S114
femoris muscles were removed after 4 weeks of treadmill
running (12 m
min–1, 1 h
day–1). Expression of CPT-1
mRNA and protein, blood serum free fatty acid, and trigly-
ceride levels were measured. After 4 weeks of endurance
training, skeletal muscle CPT-1 mRNA and protein expres-
sion of WT and KO mice were significantly higher than in
Effects of the menstrual cycle and monophasic
contraceptive use on thermoeffector thresholds
N.L. Zouros, N. Dies, J.D. Vescovi, P. Klentrou, and S.S. Cheung
Department of Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada;
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3,
Canada
Basal body temperature (BBT) increases following ovula-
tion in many women. If thermoregulatory thresholds are al-
tered as a result, then tolerance to heat stress or cold
exposure may vary throughout the menstrual cycle. To com-
pensate, thermoregulatory studies are typically confined to
the follicular phase, although this disregards a significant
portion of the overall time period of a female’s cycle.
Therefore, we investigated whether thermoregulatory thresh-
olds for sweating and shivering are altered throughout the
menstrual cycle. Further, as many females use oral contra-
ceptives, we investigated thermoregulatory responses while
on monophasic hormonal contraceptives. Six women in a
noncontraceptive (NC) group were tested during the follicu-
lar (days 2–5) and luteal (4–8 days following positive ovula-
tion test) phases of the menstrual cycle. Ovulation in NC
was tested with home-detection kits and confirmed with uri-
nary estrogen and progestin assays. Five women taking
monophasic combined hormonal contraceptives (HC) were
also tested twice during the active hormone period (days 2–
5 and 18–21). While immersed in 28 8C water to the axilla,
participants exercised for 20–30 min on an underwater cycle
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
the control group. At the same time, there were no signifi-
cant differences between the 2 exercise groups. a2-AMPK
is not the only upstream regulatory factor of CPT-1 in en-
durance training; there could be other factors that regulate
CPT-1 expressions during exercise training.
ergometer to increase rectal temperature (Tre) and elicit
steady-state sweating. Once steady-state sweating had oc-
curred, they remained immersed and rested until metabolism
increased 2-fold because of shivering. This immersion proto-
col thus permitted isolation of core temperature by
‘‘clamping’’ skin temperature throughout. BBT was not dif-
ferent between trials for either NC (trial 1, 37.34 ± 0.16 8C;
trial 2, 37.35 ± 0.27 8C) or HC (trial 1, 37.34 ± 0.18 8C;
trial 2, 37.41 ± 0.12 8C) participants. In HC participants, Tre
at the cessation of forehead sweating increased during trial 2
(trial 1, 37.46 ± 0.36 8C; trial 2, 37.96 ± 0.28 8C), but not at
the onset of shivering (trial 1, 36.82 ± 0.26 8C; trial 2,
37.06 ± 0.09 8C), resulting in similar interthreshold zone
widths between trials (trial 1, 0.63 ± 0.23 8C; trial 2, 0.89 ±
0.32 8C). Neither sweating (trial 1, 37.64 ± 0.43 8C; trial 2,
37.86 ± 0.59 8C) nor shivering (trial 1, 36.98 ± 0.66 8C; trial
2, 37.09 ± 0.64 8C) thresholds were altered in NC partici-
pants, again resulting in similar interthreshold zones (trial 1,
0.66 ± 0.24 8C; trial 2, 0.77 ± 0.44 8C). In conclusion, men-
strual phase did not elicit a systemic change in resting core
temperature or thermoeffector thresholds.
Published by NRC Research Press
Abstracts / Résumés S115

Validity and reproducibility of infrared sensor

measurement of arterial stiffness in overweight
and obese women
G. Zubic, A.R. Josse, L.M. Cotie, N. Tordi, S.M. Phillips, and M.J. MacDonald
Exercise Metabolism Research Group, Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University,
1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada; Explorations Fonctionnelles
Respiratoires, Besancon, France

Overweight and obese individuals are at an elevated risk
for cardiovascular disease incidence and progression. Ele-
vated arterial stiffness, an early marker for cardiovascular
wall damage, is present in obese individuals. Pulse wave ve-
locity (PWV), the velocity of the arterial pulse wave through
an arterial segment, is a representation of arterial stiffness.
Infrared (IR) sensors can be used to detect the arterial pulse
wave at superficial arterial sites. The IR sensors produce and
detect IR light, and the intensity of the light detected is al-
tered by the volume of blood in the vessel irradiated. The
objective of the current study was to determine PWV in a
group of overweight and obese women with the IR method
and the gold standard method, tonometry, with an aim to
validate the use of the IR sensor in this clinical population.
PWV data were assessed in 30 women (age range, 21–
45 years), with an average weight of 87.8 ± 12.7 kg, body
mass index of 32.5 ± 3.8 kg
m–2, and percent body fat of
40.1% ± 4.74%, using both IR probes and tonometers. Cor-
relation analysis between IR and tonometer PWV values in-
dicated a significant moderate correlation, with a validity
coefficient of 0.6353. The Bland–Altman analysis of IR val-
idity revealed an average bias of 0.23 m
s–1 and a range of
–2.20 m
s–1 to 2.66 m
s–1. The standard error of the estimate
for IR validity indicated a large variability around the resid-
uals (r2 = 0.404, STEYX = 0.96). The Bland–Altman analy-
sis for IR reproducibility produced an average bias of
–0.47 m
s–1 and a range of –3.59 m
s–1 to 2.66 m
s–1.
Although the Bland–Altman analysis for both IR validity
and reproducibility revealed small average bias, the range
of individual bias is clinically large, potentially limiting the
use of these sensors for assessing PWV in overweight and
obese women. (Supported by NSERC (MacDonald), Dairy
Farmers of Canada, and the United States National Dairy
Council (Phillips).)

Cerebrovascular responses to tilt after 5 days of

68 head-down bed rest
K.A. Zuj, P. Arbeille, S. Morrison, and R.L. Hughson
Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo,
Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada; Unite Med Physiol Spatiale, CERCOM–EFMP CHU
Trousseau, 37044, Tours, France

Exposure to microgravity environments has been associ-
ated with an increased incidence in orthostatic intolerance
(OI) and syncope. As syncope is ultimately caused by a
lack of cerebral perfusion, the study of cerebral blood flow
control can be informative in understanding mechanisms in-
volved in postflight OI. Head-down bed rest (HDBR) is
commonly used as an Earth-based model for the investiga-
tion of the effects of microgravity exposure; therefore, this
study aimed to further characterize the effect of 5 days of
HDBR on cerebrovascular responses to head up tilt. Six
men participated in this study. Tilt testing was conducted
2 days before the start of HDBR, and immediately upon ex-
iting bed rest. The tilt consisted of 5 min of supine rest,
after which subjects were tilted to 808 head up for 30 min
of quiet standing. Cerebrovascular responses were analyzed
in supine rest and after 5 min of tilt. Cerebral blood velocity
(CBFV) was continuously monitored in the right middle cer-
ebral artery (MCA), using transcranial Doppler ultrasound.
A cerebrovascular resistance index was calculated as the
mean arterial blood pressure at the level of the MCA div-
ided by the mean CBFV. Preliminary results indicate a basal
reduction in CBFV with HDBR (–2.4 ± 2.9 cm
s–1, p <
0.05), with a trend toward increased CVRi (0.156 ±
0.203 mm Hg
cm–1
s–1, p = 0.06). No difference was seen

Published by NRC Research Press

S116
in the CBFV response to tilt with HDBR, as CBFV de-
creased by 6.3 ± 2.4 cm
s–1 and 6.3 ± 1.3 cm
s–1 pre- and
post-HDBR, respectively. Conversely, CVRi showed a greater
decrease post-HDBR (–0.224 ± 0.194 mm Hg
cm–1
s–1) than
pre HDBR (–0.006 ± 0.245 mm Hg
cm–1
s–1, p < 0.05).
Appl. Physiol. Nutr. Metab. Vol. 35, 2010
These results indicate that post-HDBR, a greater cerebro-
vascular resistance response was required to maintain a
similar CBFV response to tilt. Therefore, post-HDBR, the
limits of cerebral autoregulation may be reached at an ear-
lier time point, thus contributing to OI.
Published by NRC Research Press
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