Antonio Paoli - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Antonio Paoli

PeerJ, 2018

The objective of the present study was to compare the effects of equal-volume resistance training... more The objective of the present study was to compare the effects of equal-volume resistance training (RT) performed with different training frequencies on muscle size and strength in trained young men. Sixteen men with at least one year of RT experience were divided into two groups, G1 and G2, that trained each muscle group once and twice a week, respectively, for 10 weeks. Elbow flexor muscle thickness (MT) was measured using a B-Mode ultrasound and concentric peak torque of elbow extensors and flexors were assessed by an isokinetic dynamometer. ANOVA did not reveal group by time interactions for any variable, indicating no difference between groups for the changes in MT or PT of elbow flexors and extensors. Notwithstanding, MT of elbow flexors increased significantly (3.1%, < 0.05) only in G1. PT of elbow flexors and extensors did not increase significantly for any group. The present study suggest that there were no differences in the results promoted by equal-volume resistance t...

European journal of translational myology, Jan 12, 2018

Relationships between heart rate recovery after exercise (HRR, baseline heart rate variability me... more Relationships between heart rate recovery after exercise (HRR, baseline heart rate variability measures (HRV), and time to perform a 10Km running trial (t10Km) were evaluated in "master" athletes of endurance to assess whether the measured indexes may be useful for monitoring the training status of the athletes. Ten "master" athletes of endurance, aged 40-60 years, were recruited. After baseline measures of HRV, the athletes performed a graded maximal test on treadmill and HRR was measured at 1 and 2 minutes from recovery. Subsequently they performed a 10Km running trial and t10Km was related to HRV and HRR indexes. The time to perform a 10Km running trial was significantly correlated with baseline HRV indexes. No correlation was found between t10Km and HRR. Baseline HRV measures, but not HRR, were significantly correlated with the time of performance on 10km running in "master" athletes. The enhanced parasympathetic function at rest appears to be a con...

Applied physiology, nutrition, and metabolism = Physiologie appliquee, nutrition et metabolisme, Jan 21, 2018

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the changes in movement velocity during resistan... more The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the changes in movement velocity during resistance training with different loads while the trainees are attempting to move the load at a pre-determined repetition duration. Twenty-one resistance-trained men (age: 25.7 ± 5 years; height: 177.0 ± 7.2 cm; mass: 85.4 ± 13.56 kg) volunteered to participate in the study. Participants performed two tests sessions. The first to determine 1 repetition maximum (1RM) load, and the second to evaluate velocity loss during a set to failure performed at 75% and 50% of 1RM using a 2 second concentric and 2 second eccentric repetition duration, controlled by a mobile app metronome. When using 75% 1RM there was a significant loss of movement velocity between the antepenultimate and the penultimate repetition (5.33%, p<0.05), as well as during the penultimate and the last (22.11%, p<0.05). At 50% of 1 RM the participants performed the set until momentary failure without significant velocity loss. ...

Frontiers in physiology, 2017

The present study aimed to compare the effects of equal-volume resistance training performed with... more The present study aimed to compare the effects of equal-volume resistance training performed with single-joint (SJ) or multi-joint exercises (MJ) on VOmax, muscle strength and body composition in physically active males. Thirty-six participants were divided in two groups: SJ group (= 18, 182.1 ± 5.2, 80.03 ± 2.78 kg, 23.5 ± 2.7 years) exercised with only SJ exercises (e.g., dumbbell fly, knee extension, etc.) and MJ group (= 18, 185.3 ± 3.6 cm, 80.69 ± 2.98 kg, 25.5 ± 3.8 years) with only MJ exercises (e.g., bench press, squat, etc.). The total work volume (repetitions × sets × load) was equated between groups. Training was performed three times a week for 8 weeks. Before and after the training period, participants were tested for VOmax, body composition, 1 RM on the bench press, knee extension and squat. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to compare post training values between groups, using baseline values as covariates. According to the results, both groups decreased body f...

PeerJ, 2018

In basketball a maximum accuracy at every game intensity is required while shooting. The aim of t... more In basketball a maximum accuracy at every game intensity is required while shooting. The aim of the present study was to investigate the acute effect of three different drill intensity simulation protocols on jump shot accuracy in expert and junior basketball players. Eleven expert players (age 26 ± 6 yrs, weight 86 ± 11 kg, height 192 ± 8 cm) and ten junior players (age 18 ± 1 yrs, weight 75 ± 12 kg, height 184 ± 9 cm) completed three series of twenty jump shots at three different levels of exertion. Counter Movement Jump (CMJ) height was also measured after each series of jump shots. Exertion's intensity was induced manipulating the basketball drills. Heart rate was measured for the whole duration of the tests while the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was collected at the end of each series of shots. Heart rate and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were statistically different in the three conditions for both expert and junior players. CMJ height remained almost unchanged ...

International journal of sports medicine, Jan 5, 2018

Different stretching strategies and protocols are widely used to improve flexibility or maintain ... more Different stretching strategies and protocols are widely used to improve flexibility or maintain health, acting on the muscle tendon-unit, in order to improve the range of motion (ROM) of the joints. This review aims to evaluate the current body of literature in order to understand the relation between stretching typology and ROM, and secondly to evaluate if a relation exists between stretching volume (either as a single training session, weekly training and weekly frequency) and ROM, after long-term stretching. Twenty-three articles were considered eligible and included in the quantitative synthesis. All stretching typologies showed ROM improvements over a long-term period, however the static protocols showed significant gains (p<0.05) when compared to the ballistic or PNF protocols. Time spent stretching per week seems fundamental to elicit range of movement improvements when stretches are applied for at least or more than 5 min, whereas the time spent stretching within a singl...

Minerva gastroenterologica e dietologica, 2018

Ketogenic diet is being increasingly utilized in recent decades because of its success as an effe... more Ketogenic diet is being increasingly utilized in recent decades because of its success as an effective tool for short and intermediate-term weight loss. Promoting physiological ketosis from a drastically low carbohydrate diet is the fundamental basis for this diet regime. Though debated, these diets have been demonstrated to be effective, at least in the short- to medium terms, to manage excess weight, hyperlipidemia, and other cardiovascular risk factors. We reviewed the cardiovascular, metabolic, anesthetic, and postsurgical profiles in the literature and summarized technical issues of anesthesia and surgery along with long-term changes from published papers. Doubts with ketogenic diet were raised due to possible renal damage caused by significant excretion of nitrogen found in animal models, the effects of acidosis, and the concerns of increasing triglycerides and cholesterol levels. Though current literature supports the efficacy of very low carbohydrate keto-diets their potenti...

European journal of translational myology, Jan 5, 2017

The purpose of the study was to compare elbow flexion peak torque (PT) and fatigue index (FI) dur... more The purpose of the study was to compare elbow flexion peak torque (PT) and fatigue index (FI) during isokinetic concentric contractions in men and women with different training levels. Sixty-eight young men and women were divided into four groups: resistance trained men (RTM), non-resistance trained men (NRTM), resistance trained women (RTW) and non- resistance trained women (NRTW). Participants performed two tests on an isokinetic dynamometer, one to evaluate PT and one to evaluate FI. Significant interactions were found for sex and resistance training status with both PT and FI. In general, resistance-trained subjects had higher PT, and women showed lower PT than men. PT values were 67.12 ± 9.93 N·m for RTM, 49.9 ± 8.5 N·m for NRTM, 41.84 ± 7.52 N·m for RTW, and 26.05 ± 3.34 N·m for NRTW. Separate analysis revealed that RTM had higher PT than all other groups. However, FI was higher for NRTM than for RTM and NRTW and no difference was found between RTM and NRTW. FI was 37.86 ± 10....

The Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, Jan 8, 2017

In swimming one of the most employed training speed among coaches is the non-invasive Theoretical... more In swimming one of the most employed training speed among coaches is the non-invasive Theoretical Critical Velocity (TCV) defined as the velocity that can be maintained continuously without exhaustion. We calculated the 4mmol/L lactate Critical Velocity (MCV) in a group of swimmers of different ages (Young, Elite and Master), and compared results to the predicted TCV defined starting from the 200 and 400 m freestyle best seasonal performances. A steady-state test consisted in 20 repetitions of 100 m each was performed to study the effect of the imposed MCV in the three athletes' categories. TCV mean values resulted slightly higher than MCV mean values. A strong correlation between TCV and MCV was found considering the whole sample (r= 0.96, p < 0.001), the Masters (r= 0.97, p < 0.001) and the Elite (r= 0.93, p < 0.01). Lactate concentration of the three groups after the steady-state test was 4.2 mmol/l, 3.3 mmol/l and 4.9 mmol/l respectively for Young, Elite and Master ...

Undersea & hyperbaric medicine : journal of the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society, Inc

A patient suffered from an envenomation that, at his hospitalization, was judged severe: Grade 3 ... more A patient suffered from an envenomation that, at his hospitalization, was judged severe: Grade 3 out of 3, as defined in clinical studies for CroFab™ antidote [Crotalidae Polyvalent Immune Fab (Ovine)]. In addition to the usual antivenom treatment we applied adjunctive hyperbaric oxygen (HBO₂) therapy. Our aim was to facilitate better control of the lesions, already presenting as problematic wounds and at high risk of necrotizing soft tissue infection with compartment aspects. The regimen consisted of six treatments, one daily at 2.4 atmospheres absolute at 25 minutes x3 (75 minutes) at FiO₂=1, with two five-minute air breaks interposed. The therapy was well tolerated in spite of the patient's declared trait of claustrophobia. Our findings at a long-term follow up suggest that HBO₂ therapy may be reasonably and effectively administered at least in the post-acute phase of such occurrences.

Work (Reading, Mass.), Jan 6, 2017

Research supports a link between exercise and falls prevention in the older population. Our aims ... more Research supports a link between exercise and falls prevention in the older population. Our aims were to evaluate pain perception and balance skills in a group of elderly subjects and to examine the consequences of a standardized equipment-free exercise program intervention on these variables. The study utilized a randomized controlled trial method. 92 subjects were recruited from a rural Sicilian village (Resuttano, Sicily, Italy). Subjects were randomly split into two groups, an experimental group (EG; n = 49) and a control group (CG; n = 43). Qualified fitness instructors delivered the standardized physical exercise program for the EG whilst the CG did not receive this exercise intervention. The Berg Balance Scale and the Oswestry Disability Index were administered in both groups before (T0) and after the intervention (T1). At T1, the EG group significantly improvement in balance (p < 0.0001) and pain perception (p < 0.0001). No significant differences were found within the...

European Journal of Translational Myology, 2017

The purpose of this study was to report and analyze the practices adopted by bodybuilders in ligh... more The purpose of this study was to report and analyze the practices adopted by bodybuilders in light of scientific evidence and to propose evidence-based alternatives. Six (four male and two female) bodybuilders and their coaches were directly interviewed. According to the reports, the quantity of anabolic steroids used by the men was 500–750 mg/week during the bulking phase and 720–1160 mg during the cutting phase. The values for women were 400 and 740 mg, respectively. The participants also used ephedrine and hydrochlorothiazide during the cutting phase. Resistance training was designed to train each muscle once per week and all participants performed aerobic exercise in the fasted state in order to reduce body fat. During the bulking phase, bodybuilders ingested ~2.5 g of protein/kg of body weight. During the cutting phase, protein ingestion increased to ~3 g/kg and carbohydrate ingestion decreased by 10–20%. During all phases, fat ingestion corresponded to ~15% of the calories ing...

Journal of strength and conditioning research, Jan 21, 2017

Powerlifters and strongman athletes have a necessity for optimal levels of muscular strength whil... more Powerlifters and strongman athletes have a necessity for optimal levels of muscular strength whilst maintaining sufficient aerobic capacity to perform and recover between events. HIIT has been popularized for its efficacy in improving both aerobic fitness and strength but never assessed within the aforementioned population group. The present study looked to compare the effect of exercise modality, e.g. a traditional aerobic mode (AM), and strength mode, (SM), during HIIT upon aerobic fitness and strength. Sixteen well resistance trained male participants, currently competing in powerlifting and strongman events, completed 8 weeks of approximately effort- and volume-matched HIIT in 2 groups: AM (cycling, n=8) and SM (resistance training, n=8). Aerobic fitness was measured as predicted V O_2Max using the YMCA 3 minute step test and strength as predicted 1RM from a 4-6RM test using a leg extension. Both groups showed significant improvements in both strength and aerobic fitness. There ...

Journal of enzyme inhibition and medicinal chemistry, 2017

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has beneficial effects on avascular necrosis of femoral head (AN... more Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has beneficial effects on avascular necrosis of femoral head (ANFH), but its mechanism of action is still unclear. We investigated if HBOT upregulates serum osteoprotegerin (OPG) and/or inhibits osteoclast activation. 23 patients with unilateral ANFH at stage I, II and III consented to the study: the patients received standard HBOT. Serum OPG levels were obtained at the beginning of HBOT (T0), after 15 sessions (T1), 30 sessions (T2), after a 30-day break (T3), and after 60 sessions (T4). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was obtained at T0 and about one year from the end of HBO treatments. Lesion size was compared between pre- and post-HBOT. 19 patients completed the study. HBOT reduced pain symptoms in all patients. HBOT significantly reduced lesion size in all stage I and II patients and in 2 of 11 stage III patients. HBOT increased serum OPG levels but receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) levels did not change.

Journal of Human Kinetics, 2017

The purpose of this study was to compare strength gains in the lower limbs, assessed by one maxim... more The purpose of this study was to compare strength gains in the lower limbs, assessed by one maximum repetition (1RM) and isokinetic peak torque (PT), in young men undergoing a resistance training (RT) program. Twenty-seven young men performed resistance training twice a week for 11 weeks. Training involved two exercises for the lower body, two for the upper body and one for the midsection performed with three sets of 8-12 repetitions to momentary muscle failure. Before and after the training period, participants performed the 1RM test in the 45° leg press and knee extension PT in isokinetic dynamometry. The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to assess the relationship between the changes in 1RM and PT, and the Bland-Altman test was performed to check for agreement between the strength changes of both tests. There were significant changes in 1RM and PT of 23.98% and 15.96%, respectively (

Frontiers in physiology, 2017

Lung, 2016

In the original publication of the article, the given and family names of all the authors were sw... more In the original publication of the article, the given and family names of all the authors were swapped. This has been corrected with this erratum.

Diving and hyperbaric medicine, 2016

Some patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) might require repetitive hyperbaric oxyge... more Some patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) might require repetitive hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) while receiving critical care. In such cases, the presence of a hyperbaric chamber located inside or near an ICU is preferable; however, this set-up is not always possible. In Padua, the "Associazione Tecnici IPerbarici" hyperbaric centre is a stand-alone facility outside of a hospital. Despite this, selected ICU patients receive HBOT at this facility. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records from 2003 to 2013 of 75 consecutive, critically-ill patients, 28 of whom were initially intubated and mechanically ventilated whilst undergoing HBOT. We evaluated the methods adopted in Padua to guarantee the safety and continuity of care during transfer for and during HBOT in this specially-equipped multiplace chamber. The 75 patients collectively received 315 HBOT sessions, 192 of which were with the patients intubated and mechanically ventilated. The diagnoses ...

Journal of Medicinal Food, 2016

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects on blood sugar concentrations through the calcul... more The aim of this study was to analyze the effects on blood sugar concentrations through the calculation of the glycemic score (GS) of 10 different high-protein low-carbohydrates (CHOs) proprietary foods that are commonly used as meals during very low-CHO ketogenic diets or during low-CHO diets. Fourteen healthy females were tested for their glycemic response curve elicited by 1000 kJ of glucose three times within a 3-week period (one test each week) compared with one of 10 test foods once on separate days twice a week. After determining the GS of each food in each individual, the mean GS of each test food was calculated. All test foods, compared with glucose, produced a significantly lower glycemic response. The GS of all test food resulted in being lower than 25 and the difference between the mean glycemia after the intake of glucose (mean 122-15 mg/ dL) and after the intake of the sweet test foods (mean 89-7 mg/dL) was 33 mg/dL (P < .001), whereas the difference between the mean glycemia after the intake of glucose and after the intake of savory test foods (mean 91-8 mg/dL) was of 31 mg/dL (P < .001). Conclusions: The reformulation of ultraprocessed ready-to-consume foods in a low-CHO, high-protein version can produce a significantly lower glycemic response whilst maintaining the valued ready-to-use format and high palatability demanded by consumers. The low impact on postprandial glycemia and the nutritional characteristics of these proprietary foods makes them useful in both weight control management strategies and in the care management of diabetes.

Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 2015

PeerJ, 2018

The objective of the present study was to compare the effects of equal-volume resistance training... more The objective of the present study was to compare the effects of equal-volume resistance training (RT) performed with different training frequencies on muscle size and strength in trained young men. Sixteen men with at least one year of RT experience were divided into two groups, G1 and G2, that trained each muscle group once and twice a week, respectively, for 10 weeks. Elbow flexor muscle thickness (MT) was measured using a B-Mode ultrasound and concentric peak torque of elbow extensors and flexors were assessed by an isokinetic dynamometer. ANOVA did not reveal group by time interactions for any variable, indicating no difference between groups for the changes in MT or PT of elbow flexors and extensors. Notwithstanding, MT of elbow flexors increased significantly (3.1%, < 0.05) only in G1. PT of elbow flexors and extensors did not increase significantly for any group. The present study suggest that there were no differences in the results promoted by equal-volume resistance t...

European journal of translational myology, Jan 12, 2018

Relationships between heart rate recovery after exercise (HRR, baseline heart rate variability me... more Relationships between heart rate recovery after exercise (HRR, baseline heart rate variability measures (HRV), and time to perform a 10Km running trial (t10Km) were evaluated in "master" athletes of endurance to assess whether the measured indexes may be useful for monitoring the training status of the athletes. Ten "master" athletes of endurance, aged 40-60 years, were recruited. After baseline measures of HRV, the athletes performed a graded maximal test on treadmill and HRR was measured at 1 and 2 minutes from recovery. Subsequently they performed a 10Km running trial and t10Km was related to HRV and HRR indexes. The time to perform a 10Km running trial was significantly correlated with baseline HRV indexes. No correlation was found between t10Km and HRR. Baseline HRV measures, but not HRR, were significantly correlated with the time of performance on 10km running in "master" athletes. The enhanced parasympathetic function at rest appears to be a con...

Applied physiology, nutrition, and metabolism = Physiologie appliquee, nutrition et metabolisme, Jan 21, 2018

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the changes in movement velocity during resistan... more The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the changes in movement velocity during resistance training with different loads while the trainees are attempting to move the load at a pre-determined repetition duration. Twenty-one resistance-trained men (age: 25.7 ± 5 years; height: 177.0 ± 7.2 cm; mass: 85.4 ± 13.56 kg) volunteered to participate in the study. Participants performed two tests sessions. The first to determine 1 repetition maximum (1RM) load, and the second to evaluate velocity loss during a set to failure performed at 75% and 50% of 1RM using a 2 second concentric and 2 second eccentric repetition duration, controlled by a mobile app metronome. When using 75% 1RM there was a significant loss of movement velocity between the antepenultimate and the penultimate repetition (5.33%, p<0.05), as well as during the penultimate and the last (22.11%, p<0.05). At 50% of 1 RM the participants performed the set until momentary failure without significant velocity loss. ...

Frontiers in physiology, 2017

The present study aimed to compare the effects of equal-volume resistance training performed with... more The present study aimed to compare the effects of equal-volume resistance training performed with single-joint (SJ) or multi-joint exercises (MJ) on VOmax, muscle strength and body composition in physically active males. Thirty-six participants were divided in two groups: SJ group (= 18, 182.1 ± 5.2, 80.03 ± 2.78 kg, 23.5 ± 2.7 years) exercised with only SJ exercises (e.g., dumbbell fly, knee extension, etc.) and MJ group (= 18, 185.3 ± 3.6 cm, 80.69 ± 2.98 kg, 25.5 ± 3.8 years) with only MJ exercises (e.g., bench press, squat, etc.). The total work volume (repetitions × sets × load) was equated between groups. Training was performed three times a week for 8 weeks. Before and after the training period, participants were tested for VOmax, body composition, 1 RM on the bench press, knee extension and squat. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to compare post training values between groups, using baseline values as covariates. According to the results, both groups decreased body f...

PeerJ, 2018

In basketball a maximum accuracy at every game intensity is required while shooting. The aim of t... more In basketball a maximum accuracy at every game intensity is required while shooting. The aim of the present study was to investigate the acute effect of three different drill intensity simulation protocols on jump shot accuracy in expert and junior basketball players. Eleven expert players (age 26 ± 6 yrs, weight 86 ± 11 kg, height 192 ± 8 cm) and ten junior players (age 18 ± 1 yrs, weight 75 ± 12 kg, height 184 ± 9 cm) completed three series of twenty jump shots at three different levels of exertion. Counter Movement Jump (CMJ) height was also measured after each series of jump shots. Exertion's intensity was induced manipulating the basketball drills. Heart rate was measured for the whole duration of the tests while the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was collected at the end of each series of shots. Heart rate and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were statistically different in the three conditions for both expert and junior players. CMJ height remained almost unchanged ...

International journal of sports medicine, Jan 5, 2018

Different stretching strategies and protocols are widely used to improve flexibility or maintain ... more Different stretching strategies and protocols are widely used to improve flexibility or maintain health, acting on the muscle tendon-unit, in order to improve the range of motion (ROM) of the joints. This review aims to evaluate the current body of literature in order to understand the relation between stretching typology and ROM, and secondly to evaluate if a relation exists between stretching volume (either as a single training session, weekly training and weekly frequency) and ROM, after long-term stretching. Twenty-three articles were considered eligible and included in the quantitative synthesis. All stretching typologies showed ROM improvements over a long-term period, however the static protocols showed significant gains (p<0.05) when compared to the ballistic or PNF protocols. Time spent stretching per week seems fundamental to elicit range of movement improvements when stretches are applied for at least or more than 5 min, whereas the time spent stretching within a singl...

Minerva gastroenterologica e dietologica, 2018

Ketogenic diet is being increasingly utilized in recent decades because of its success as an effe... more Ketogenic diet is being increasingly utilized in recent decades because of its success as an effective tool for short and intermediate-term weight loss. Promoting physiological ketosis from a drastically low carbohydrate diet is the fundamental basis for this diet regime. Though debated, these diets have been demonstrated to be effective, at least in the short- to medium terms, to manage excess weight, hyperlipidemia, and other cardiovascular risk factors. We reviewed the cardiovascular, metabolic, anesthetic, and postsurgical profiles in the literature and summarized technical issues of anesthesia and surgery along with long-term changes from published papers. Doubts with ketogenic diet were raised due to possible renal damage caused by significant excretion of nitrogen found in animal models, the effects of acidosis, and the concerns of increasing triglycerides and cholesterol levels. Though current literature supports the efficacy of very low carbohydrate keto-diets their potenti...

European journal of translational myology, Jan 5, 2017

The purpose of the study was to compare elbow flexion peak torque (PT) and fatigue index (FI) dur... more The purpose of the study was to compare elbow flexion peak torque (PT) and fatigue index (FI) during isokinetic concentric contractions in men and women with different training levels. Sixty-eight young men and women were divided into four groups: resistance trained men (RTM), non-resistance trained men (NRTM), resistance trained women (RTW) and non- resistance trained women (NRTW). Participants performed two tests on an isokinetic dynamometer, one to evaluate PT and one to evaluate FI. Significant interactions were found for sex and resistance training status with both PT and FI. In general, resistance-trained subjects had higher PT, and women showed lower PT than men. PT values were 67.12 ± 9.93 N·m for RTM, 49.9 ± 8.5 N·m for NRTM, 41.84 ± 7.52 N·m for RTW, and 26.05 ± 3.34 N·m for NRTW. Separate analysis revealed that RTM had higher PT than all other groups. However, FI was higher for NRTM than for RTM and NRTW and no difference was found between RTM and NRTW. FI was 37.86 ± 10....

The Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, Jan 8, 2017

In swimming one of the most employed training speed among coaches is the non-invasive Theoretical... more In swimming one of the most employed training speed among coaches is the non-invasive Theoretical Critical Velocity (TCV) defined as the velocity that can be maintained continuously without exhaustion. We calculated the 4mmol/L lactate Critical Velocity (MCV) in a group of swimmers of different ages (Young, Elite and Master), and compared results to the predicted TCV defined starting from the 200 and 400 m freestyle best seasonal performances. A steady-state test consisted in 20 repetitions of 100 m each was performed to study the effect of the imposed MCV in the three athletes' categories. TCV mean values resulted slightly higher than MCV mean values. A strong correlation between TCV and MCV was found considering the whole sample (r= 0.96, p < 0.001), the Masters (r= 0.97, p < 0.001) and the Elite (r= 0.93, p < 0.01). Lactate concentration of the three groups after the steady-state test was 4.2 mmol/l, 3.3 mmol/l and 4.9 mmol/l respectively for Young, Elite and Master ...

Undersea & hyperbaric medicine : journal of the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society, Inc

A patient suffered from an envenomation that, at his hospitalization, was judged severe: Grade 3 ... more A patient suffered from an envenomation that, at his hospitalization, was judged severe: Grade 3 out of 3, as defined in clinical studies for CroFab™ antidote [Crotalidae Polyvalent Immune Fab (Ovine)]. In addition to the usual antivenom treatment we applied adjunctive hyperbaric oxygen (HBO₂) therapy. Our aim was to facilitate better control of the lesions, already presenting as problematic wounds and at high risk of necrotizing soft tissue infection with compartment aspects. The regimen consisted of six treatments, one daily at 2.4 atmospheres absolute at 25 minutes x3 (75 minutes) at FiO₂=1, with two five-minute air breaks interposed. The therapy was well tolerated in spite of the patient's declared trait of claustrophobia. Our findings at a long-term follow up suggest that HBO₂ therapy may be reasonably and effectively administered at least in the post-acute phase of such occurrences.

Work (Reading, Mass.), Jan 6, 2017

Research supports a link between exercise and falls prevention in the older population. Our aims ... more Research supports a link between exercise and falls prevention in the older population. Our aims were to evaluate pain perception and balance skills in a group of elderly subjects and to examine the consequences of a standardized equipment-free exercise program intervention on these variables. The study utilized a randomized controlled trial method. 92 subjects were recruited from a rural Sicilian village (Resuttano, Sicily, Italy). Subjects were randomly split into two groups, an experimental group (EG; n = 49) and a control group (CG; n = 43). Qualified fitness instructors delivered the standardized physical exercise program for the EG whilst the CG did not receive this exercise intervention. The Berg Balance Scale and the Oswestry Disability Index were administered in both groups before (T0) and after the intervention (T1). At T1, the EG group significantly improvement in balance (p < 0.0001) and pain perception (p < 0.0001). No significant differences were found within the...

European Journal of Translational Myology, 2017

The purpose of this study was to report and analyze the practices adopted by bodybuilders in ligh... more The purpose of this study was to report and analyze the practices adopted by bodybuilders in light of scientific evidence and to propose evidence-based alternatives. Six (four male and two female) bodybuilders and their coaches were directly interviewed. According to the reports, the quantity of anabolic steroids used by the men was 500–750 mg/week during the bulking phase and 720–1160 mg during the cutting phase. The values for women were 400 and 740 mg, respectively. The participants also used ephedrine and hydrochlorothiazide during the cutting phase. Resistance training was designed to train each muscle once per week and all participants performed aerobic exercise in the fasted state in order to reduce body fat. During the bulking phase, bodybuilders ingested ~2.5 g of protein/kg of body weight. During the cutting phase, protein ingestion increased to ~3 g/kg and carbohydrate ingestion decreased by 10–20%. During all phases, fat ingestion corresponded to ~15% of the calories ing...

Journal of strength and conditioning research, Jan 21, 2017

Powerlifters and strongman athletes have a necessity for optimal levels of muscular strength whil... more Powerlifters and strongman athletes have a necessity for optimal levels of muscular strength whilst maintaining sufficient aerobic capacity to perform and recover between events. HIIT has been popularized for its efficacy in improving both aerobic fitness and strength but never assessed within the aforementioned population group. The present study looked to compare the effect of exercise modality, e.g. a traditional aerobic mode (AM), and strength mode, (SM), during HIIT upon aerobic fitness and strength. Sixteen well resistance trained male participants, currently competing in powerlifting and strongman events, completed 8 weeks of approximately effort- and volume-matched HIIT in 2 groups: AM (cycling, n=8) and SM (resistance training, n=8). Aerobic fitness was measured as predicted V O_2Max using the YMCA 3 minute step test and strength as predicted 1RM from a 4-6RM test using a leg extension. Both groups showed significant improvements in both strength and aerobic fitness. There ...

Journal of enzyme inhibition and medicinal chemistry, 2017

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has beneficial effects on avascular necrosis of femoral head (AN... more Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has beneficial effects on avascular necrosis of femoral head (ANFH), but its mechanism of action is still unclear. We investigated if HBOT upregulates serum osteoprotegerin (OPG) and/or inhibits osteoclast activation. 23 patients with unilateral ANFH at stage I, II and III consented to the study: the patients received standard HBOT. Serum OPG levels were obtained at the beginning of HBOT (T0), after 15 sessions (T1), 30 sessions (T2), after a 30-day break (T3), and after 60 sessions (T4). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was obtained at T0 and about one year from the end of HBO treatments. Lesion size was compared between pre- and post-HBOT. 19 patients completed the study. HBOT reduced pain symptoms in all patients. HBOT significantly reduced lesion size in all stage I and II patients and in 2 of 11 stage III patients. HBOT increased serum OPG levels but receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) levels did not change.

Journal of Human Kinetics, 2017

The purpose of this study was to compare strength gains in the lower limbs, assessed by one maxim... more The purpose of this study was to compare strength gains in the lower limbs, assessed by one maximum repetition (1RM) and isokinetic peak torque (PT), in young men undergoing a resistance training (RT) program. Twenty-seven young men performed resistance training twice a week for 11 weeks. Training involved two exercises for the lower body, two for the upper body and one for the midsection performed with three sets of 8-12 repetitions to momentary muscle failure. Before and after the training period, participants performed the 1RM test in the 45° leg press and knee extension PT in isokinetic dynamometry. The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to assess the relationship between the changes in 1RM and PT, and the Bland-Altman test was performed to check for agreement between the strength changes of both tests. There were significant changes in 1RM and PT of 23.98% and 15.96%, respectively (

Frontiers in physiology, 2017

Lung, 2016

In the original publication of the article, the given and family names of all the authors were sw... more In the original publication of the article, the given and family names of all the authors were swapped. This has been corrected with this erratum.

Diving and hyperbaric medicine, 2016

Some patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) might require repetitive hyperbaric oxyge... more Some patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) might require repetitive hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) while receiving critical care. In such cases, the presence of a hyperbaric chamber located inside or near an ICU is preferable; however, this set-up is not always possible. In Padua, the "Associazione Tecnici IPerbarici" hyperbaric centre is a stand-alone facility outside of a hospital. Despite this, selected ICU patients receive HBOT at this facility. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records from 2003 to 2013 of 75 consecutive, critically-ill patients, 28 of whom were initially intubated and mechanically ventilated whilst undergoing HBOT. We evaluated the methods adopted in Padua to guarantee the safety and continuity of care during transfer for and during HBOT in this specially-equipped multiplace chamber. The 75 patients collectively received 315 HBOT sessions, 192 of which were with the patients intubated and mechanically ventilated. The diagnoses ...

Journal of Medicinal Food, 2016

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects on blood sugar concentrations through the calcul... more The aim of this study was to analyze the effects on blood sugar concentrations through the calculation of the glycemic score (GS) of 10 different high-protein low-carbohydrates (CHOs) proprietary foods that are commonly used as meals during very low-CHO ketogenic diets or during low-CHO diets. Fourteen healthy females were tested for their glycemic response curve elicited by 1000 kJ of glucose three times within a 3-week period (one test each week) compared with one of 10 test foods once on separate days twice a week. After determining the GS of each food in each individual, the mean GS of each test food was calculated. All test foods, compared with glucose, produced a significantly lower glycemic response. The GS of all test food resulted in being lower than 25 and the difference between the mean glycemia after the intake of glucose (mean 122-15 mg/ dL) and after the intake of the sweet test foods (mean 89-7 mg/dL) was 33 mg/dL (P < .001), whereas the difference between the mean glycemia after the intake of glucose and after the intake of savory test foods (mean 91-8 mg/dL) was of 31 mg/dL (P < .001). Conclusions: The reformulation of ultraprocessed ready-to-consume foods in a low-CHO, high-protein version can produce a significantly lower glycemic response whilst maintaining the valued ready-to-use format and high palatability demanded by consumers. The low impact on postprandial glycemia and the nutritional characteristics of these proprietary foods makes them useful in both weight control management strategies and in the care management of diabetes.

Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 2015