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Purpose: To investigate the influence of menstrual-cycle (MC) phase on measures of recovery status, that is, resting heart rate, perceived sleep quality, and physical and mental readiness to train, among female endurance athletes. Methods: Daily data were recorded during 1 to 4 MCs (ie, duration ≥21 and ≤35 d, ovulatory, luteal phase ≥10 d) of 41 trained-to-elite-level female endurance athletes (mean [SD]: age 27 [8] y, weekly training: 9 [3] h). Resting heart rate was assessed daily using a standardized protocol, while perceived sleep quality and physical and mental readiness to train were assessed using a visual analog scale (1–10). Four MC phases (early follicular phase [EFP], late follicular phase, ovulatory phase, and midluteal phase [MLP]) were determined using the calendar-based counting method and urinary ovulation-prediction test. Data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models. Results: Resting heart rate was significantly higher in MLP (1.7 beats·min−1, P =.006) compared with EFP without significant differences between the other MC phases. Perceived sleep quality was impaired in MLP compared with late follicular phase (−0.3, P =.035). Physical readiness to train was lower both in ovulatory phase (−0.6, P =.015) and MLP (−0.5, P =.026) compared with EFP. Mental readiness to train did not show any significant differences between MC phases (P >.05). Conclusions: Although significant, the findings had negligible to small effect sizes, indicating that MC phase is likely not the main determinant of changes in measures of recovery status but, rather, one of the many possible stressors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resting heart rate (RHR), a simple physiological indicator, has been demonstrated to be associated with inflammation and even metabolic disorders. This study aimed to investigate whether RHR is associated with natural killer cell activity (NKA) in a large population of healthy adults using a novel assay to measure NKA. This cross-sectional study included 7,500 subjects in the final analysis. NKA was estimated by measuring the amount of interferon-gamma (IFN-g) released by activated natural killer cells; low NKA was defined as IFN-g level <500 pg/mL. Subjects were categorized into four groups according to RHR as follows: C1 (= 60 bpm), C2 (60-70 bpm), C3 (70-80 bpm), and C4 (= 80 bpm). Individuals with higher RHR exhibited poorer metabolic and inflammatory profiles, with the prevalence of low NKA being highest in the highest RHR category. Compared with C1 as reference, the fully adjusted odd ratios (ORs) [95% confidence intervals (CIs)] for low NKA were significantly higher in C3 (OR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.08-1.75) and C4 (OR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.20-2.00). In addition, RHR was shown to exert indirect effects on NKA upon consideration of the mediation effect of serum cortisol in path analysis. Our findings confirm a significant link between elevated RHR and low NKA, and suggest the usefulness of RHR, a simple indicator reflecting increased sympathetic nervous system activity and stress, in predicting reduced immune function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a form of interval training that involves alternating between short periods of high-intensity movements, elevating the heart rate to at least 80% of one's maximum, and brief intervals of lower-intensity activity. While there's a substantial body of evidence demonstrating the Psycho-physiological benefits of HIIT, there is indeed a recognized gap in research that specifically emphasizes HIIT's potential to induce sports-specific adaptations which leads to enhanced performance in chosen sports. By addressing the unique demands of the sport through targeted HIIT protocols, athletes may experience more transferable improvements in skills and fitness requirements. Closing this research gap is essential for providing athletes, coaches, and sports scientists with evidence-based insights into how HIIT can be optimized for specific sports training. As such, ongoing studies and future research endeavours focusing on sport-specific adaptations through HIIT are likely to contribute valuable insights to the field of sports science and conditioning. Purpose: This study seeks to examine the impact of a brief tailor made HighIntensity Interval Training (HIIT) program on key performance indicators, specifically Speed, Agility and Resting Heart Rate (RHR) levels in female rugby players. Understanding how short-term HIIT interventions influence these parameters can provide valuable insights into the potential benefits of this training approach for female athletes in a rugby context. Methods: 30 female rugby players (17-25 years of age) at the inter-collegiate level, representing various campuses of Calicut University, were chosen and randomly divided into two groups. The experimental group participated in an 8-week HighIntensity Interval Training (HIIT) program designed specifically for rugby players, whereas the control group did not undergo any training. Assessments of speed, Agility and Resting Heart Rate (RHR) levels were performed both before and after the completion of the HIIT training program. Assessments were done using 60 meters Sprint test for speed, RHR with the help of stethoscope and Agility by using Agility cone drill test. Results: Following an 8-week intervention, all measured indices showed significant improvement in the HIIT group, while no significant changes were observed in the control group. Significantly different outcomes between the scores of HIIT and control groups were evident in Speed, Agility and Resting Heart Rate (RHR) levels both before and after the HIIT program. Conclusion: The custom-designed High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) program implemented in the current study resulted in significant improvements in the speed, Agility, and resting heart rate levels, thereby enhancing the overall game performance of female rugby players. This underscores the efficacy of HIIT, emphasizing its adaptability to be specifically tailored to replicate the intensity and duration of movements pertinent to a particular sport, such as rugby. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association between lower resting heart rate and antisocial behavior has been suggested to be mediated by sensation-seeking. However, other theoretical models suggest that sensation-seeking has a moderating influence. This study sought to investigate the interplay between resting heart rate, sensation-seeking and antisocial behavior. Two subsets of participants from the Risk Factors for Antisocial Behavior (RFAB) project (n = 690, n = 391) were used. We conducted mediation analyses and logistic regression analyses to test for mediating and moderating effects of sensation-seeking on the association between resting heart rate and antisocial behavior by young adulthood. In general, sensation-seeking partially mediated the association between resting heart rate in childhood as well as adolescence and antisocial behavior by young adulthood. Resting heart rate in childhood and adolescence also interacted with sensation-seeking to predict antisocial behavior by young adulthood, such that a lower resting heart rate increased the odds of antisocial behavior among individuals with higher but not lower levels of sensation-seeking. Our results on a theoretical level suggest that sensation-seeking is important to understand the association between resting heart rate and antisocial behavior. Results further suggest that encouraging prosocial behaviors as a means of fulfilling the need for stimulation in individuals with a psychophysiological risk profile could serve as an effective approach in redirecting their behaviors towards positive outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Insulin resistance is closely associated with metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the resting heart rate (RHR) is an important marker of the autonomic nervous system's status. This study aimed to investigate the association between the RHR and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in Korean adults. Using data from the 2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES 2019), we analyzed 6118 adults and classified the participants into four groups based on their RHR (≤67, 68–71, 72–79, and ≥80 beats/min [bpm]). Logistic regression analysis considering demographic, lifestyle, and biochemical factors revealed that the odds of having a HOMA-IR of 2.5 or higher were significantly increased in the higher RHR groups. Specifically, compared to the ≤67 bpm group, the 68–71, 72–79, and ≥80 bpm groups had increased odds of 1.277, 1.599, and 1.919 times, respectively. These results are expected to contribute to the development of strategies for the early diagnosis and management of metabolic diseases through the RHR, and further research is needed to deepen the understanding of the physiological mechanisms of this relationship, including the management of the RHR through lifestyle modification and regular exercise and the effect of reducing insulin resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine the independent and combined association of resting heart rate (RHR) and physical activity (PA) with risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. RHR was categorized as < 60, 60–69, 70–79, and ≥ 80 bpm. Meeting PA guidelines was defined as ≥ 150 min/week of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Cox proportional hazard models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) for CVD mortality associated with RHR and PA. Among 31,697 participants, 311 CVD deaths occurred during 9.2 years of follow-up. Compared to RHR of 60–69 bpm, the risk of CVD mortality was higher in RHR of < 60 bpm (HR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.05–2.10) and ≥ 80 bpm (HR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.06–1.91). Participants who met PA guidelines had a lower risk of CVD mortality (HR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.44–0.78). Among physically inactive adults compared to participants in RHR of 60–69 bpm with meeting PA guidelines, the adjusted HR for CVD mortality was 2.41 (95% CI, 1.42–4.08) for RHR of < 60 bpm, 1.59 (95% CI, 1.01–2.49) for RHR of 60–69 bpm, 1.98 (95% CI, 1.23–3.20) for RHR of 70–79 bpm and 2.41 (95% CI, 1.50–3.89) for RHR of ≥ 80 bpm Exceeding the minimum level of PA guidelines may attenuate the risk of CVD mortality associated with RHR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Resting heart rate (HR) is increasingly recognized as an indicator of disease and overall morbidity and mortality. Whether chronic coffee consumption affects resting HR is an important consideration for individual consumers as well as from a public health perspective. Objective A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to examine the effectiveness of coffee consumption on resting HR. Data Sources Original RCTs assessing the effect of coffee consumption on resting HR and published prior to March 2023 were identified by searching online databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. Data Extraction and Analysis Data searches and extraction and risk-of-bias assessments were performed according to the Cochrane guidelines, and the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines for systematic reviews were followed. Data on study characteristics, type, and amount of coffee and net change and measurement resting HR were extracted. A random-effects or a fixed-effects model was used to estimate the pooled effect sizes. Homogeneity was determined with the Cochran Q test, and publication bias was assessed through Begg's test, Egger's test, and funnel plots. Results A total of 6 RCTs with 11 intervention trials or arms involving 485 individuals were included. The participants were generally healthy, although some had hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, or were overweight. The trial duration ranged from 2 weeks to 24 weeks. The overall pooled analysis showed that coffee consumption resulted in a negligible increase in resting HR of 0.40 beats per minute (95% CI: −0.78 to 1.57; P = 0.506), which was statistically insignificant. Subgroup analysis of all specified categories was consistent with the overall analysis. No heterogeneity was observed among included trials (I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.756). Conclusion The results of the present meta-analysis study demonstrate that daily coffee consumption of 3 to 6 cups for a period of 2 to 24 weeks has no statistically significant effect on resting HR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heart rate variability (HRV), respiratory rate (RR), and resting heart rate (RHR) are common variables measured by wrist-worn activity trackers to monitor health, fitness, and recovery in athletes. Variations in RR are observed in lower-respiratory infections, and preliminary data suggest changes in HRV and RR are linked to early detection of COVID-19 infection in nonathletes. Hypothesis: Wearable technology measuring HRV, RR, RHR, and recovery will be successful for early detection of COVID-19 in NCAA Division I female athletes. Study Design: Cohort study. Level of Evidence: Level 2. Methods: Female athletes wore WHOOP, Inc. bands through the 2020 to 2021 competitive season. Of the athletes who tested positive for COVID (n = 33), 14 had enough data to be assessed (N = 14; 20.0 ± 1.3 years; 69.8 ± 7.2 kg; 172.0 ± 8.3 cm). Roughly 2 weeks of noninfected days were used to set baseline levels of HRV, RR, recovery, and RHR to compare with -3, -2, and -1 days before a positive COVID-19 result. Results: Increases in RR (P = 0.02) were detected on day -3. RHR (P < 0.01) and RR increased (P < 0.01), while HRV decreased (P < 0.05) on day -1, compared with baseline. Differences were noted in all variables on the day of the positive COVID-19 result: decreased HRV (P < 0.05) and recovery scores (P < 0.01), and increased RHR (P < 0.01) and RR (P < 0.01). Conclusion: In female athletes, wearable technology was successful in predicting COVID-19 infection through changes in RR 3 days before a positive test, and also HRV and RHR the day before a positive test. Clinical Relevance: Wearable technology may be used, as part of a multifaceted approach, for the early detection of COVID-19 in elite athletes through monitoring of HRV, RR, and RHR for overall team health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Epidemiological evidence regarding the association between air pollution and resting heart rate (RHR), a predictor of cardiovascular disease and mortality, is limited and inconsistent. Objectives: We used wearable devices and time-series analysis to assess the exposure-response relationship over an extended lag period. Methods: Ninety-seven elderly individuals (>65 years) from the Taipei Basin participated from May to November 2020 and wore Garmin® smartwatches continuously until the end of 2021 for heart rate monitoring. RHR was defined as the daily average of the lowest 30-min heart rate. Air pollution exposure data, covering lag periods from 0 to 60 days, were obtained from nearby monitoring stations. We used distributed lag non-linear models and linear mixed-effect models to assess cumulative effects of air pollution. Principal component analysis was utilized to explore underlying patterns in air pollution exposure, and subgroup analyses with interaction terms were conducted to explore the modification effects of individual factors. Results: After adjusting for co-pollutants in the models, an interquartile range increase of 0.18 ppm in carbon monoxide (CO) was consistently associated with increased RHR across lag periods of 0–1 day (0.31, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 0.24–0.38), 0–7 days (0.68, 95 % CI: 0.57–0.79), and 0–50 days (1.02, 95 % CI: 0.82–1.21). Principal component analysis identified two factors, one primarily influenced by CO and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), indicative of traffic sources. Increases in the varimax-rotated traffic-related score were correlated with higher RHR over 0–1 day (0.36, 95 % CI: 0.25–0.47), 0–7 days (0.62, 95 % CI: 0.46–0.77), and 0–50 days (1.27, 95 % CI: 0.87–1.67) lag periods. Over a 0–7 day lag, RHR responses to traffic pollution were intensified by higher temperatures (β = 0.80 vs. 0.29; interaction p-value [P_int] = 0.011). Males (β = 0.66 vs. 0.60; P_int < 0.0001), hypertensive individuals (β = 0.85 vs. 0.45; P_int = 0.028), diabetics (β = 0.96 vs. 0.52; P_int = 0.042), and those with lower physical activity (β = 0.70 vs. 0.54; P_int < 0.0001) also exhibited stronger responses. Over a 0–50 day lag, males (β = 0.99 vs. 0.96; P_int < 0.0001), diabetics (β = 1.66 vs. 0.69; P_int < 0.0001), individuals with lower physical activity (β = 1.49 vs. 0.47; P_int = 0.0006), and those with fewer steps on lag day 1 (β = 1.17 vs. 0.71; P_int = 0.029) showed amplified responses. Conclusions: Prolonged exposure to traffic-related air pollution results in cumulative cardiovascular risks, persisting for up to 50 days. These effects are more pronounced on warmer days and in individuals with chronic conditions or inactive lifestyles.

Background and aims: Most studies have analyzed the relationship between resting heart rate (RHR) measured at only one time point and future clinical events. The current study aims to investigate the impact of long-term RHR changes on future clinical outcomes in a decade-long cohort with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: The two-staged follow-up involved 2,513 T2DM participants. The first stage (2008-2014) intended to identify levels and trends in RHR changes, while the second stage (2014-2018) attempted to collect new occurrence records of clinical results. Cox proportional hazards models were applied to predict hazard ratios (HRs), along with 95% confidence interval (CI) for the correlation between RHR changes and future events. Results: There is no significant correlation between baseline RHR levels and long-term clinical events. According to the range of RHR change, compared with the stable RHR group, the adjusted HRs for cardiovascular events and all-cause death in the large increase group were 3.40 (95% CI: 1.33-8.71, p=0.010) and 3.22 (95% CI: 1.07-9.64, p=0.037), respectively. While the adjusted HRs for all-cause death and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) in the moderate decrease group were 0.55 (95% CI: 0.31-0.96, p=0.037) and 0.51 (95% CI: 0.26-0.98, p=0.046). According to the trend of RHR, compared with the normal-normal group, the adjusted HRs for composite endpoint events and cerebrovascular events in the normal-high group were 1.64 (95% CI: 1.00-2.68, p=0.047) and 2.82 (95% CI: 1.03-7.76, p=0.043), respectively. Conclusion: Changes in RHR had predictive value for long-term clinical events in diabetic populations. Individuals with significantly elevated RHR over a particular period of time showed an increased risk of adverse events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heart rate variability (HRV) is a parameter useful in monitoring post stroke cardiac dysautonomia. Our study is aimed at investigating HRV modifications in patients with stroke; (2) Methods: We investigated HRV parameters in 35 men and 35 women with stroke, data compared to 70 age and sex similar healthy subjects. We collected and interpreted HRV data related to resting state, deep breathing, and standing situations; (3) Results: The variables identified by classification methods to be discriminative in stroke groups for men and women classes are VLFms2, LFms2, LFnu, HFnu, and ApEn in resting state conditions, mean RR, HR, pNN50, VLFms2, LFnu, HFnu, ApEn and SampEn in deep breathing conditions, and mean RR, HR, HFnu, ApEn, and DFA1 in standing conditions; (4) Conclusions: Monitoring of HRV in patients who have suffered an ischemic stroke is essential, as it is known that stoke contributes to an increased risk of cardiac autonomic dysfunction and consequently to a second unwanted vascular event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biopsychosocial criminological theories suggest that it is important to consider interactions between risk factors from different domains in the prediction of externalizing behavior. Lower resting heart rate is considered the best replicated biological risk factor for externalizing behavior. The psychological construct of empathy has also shown to be predictive of such behavior, but little is known about the potential interaction between these two different risk factors in predicting externalizing behavior. We examined the moderating role of empathy on the association between resting heart rate in childhood and adolescence with externalizing behavior by young adulthood using two subsets of participants from the Longitudinal Risk Factors for Antisocial Behavior project: Subsample 1 (n = 697) at ages 9–10 and 19–20 years and Subsample 2 (n = 394) at ages 14–15 and 19–20 years. Linear and logistic regressions showed that empathy moderated the association between resting heart rate in adolescence and externalizing behavior by young adulthood. Among individuals with low but not high levels of empathy, increased resting heart rate predicted lower levels of externalizing behavior. Interventions enhancing empathic skills in individuals with psychophysiological risk profiles could be beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Observational studies have demonstrated that a higher resting heart rate (RHR) is associated with an increased risk of dementia. However, it is not clear whether the association is causal. This study aimed to determine the causal effects of higher genetically predicted RHR on the risk of dementia. Methods: We performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis to investigate the causal effect of higher genetically predicted RHR on Alzheimer's disease (AD) using summary statistics from genome-wide association studies. The generalized summary Mendelian randomization (GSMR) analysis was used to analyze the corresponding effects of RHR on following different outcomes: 1) diagnosis of AD (International Genomics of Alzheimer's Project), 2) family history (maternal and paternal) of AD from UK Biobank, 3) combined meta-analysis including these three GWAS results. Further analyses were conducted to determine the possibility of reverse causal association by adjusting for RHR modifying medication. Results: The results of GSMR showed no significant causal effect of higher genetically predicted RHR on the risk of AD (βGSMR = 0.12, P = 0.30). GSMR applied to the maternal family history of AD (βGSMR = -0.18, P = 0.13) and to the paternal family history of AD (βGSMR = -0.14, P = 0.39) showed the same results. Furthermore, the results were robust after adjusting for RHR modifying drugs (βGSMR = -0.03, P = 0.72). Conclusion: Our study did not find any evidence that supports a causal effect of RHR on dementia. Previous observational associations between RHR and dementia are likely attributed to the correlation between RHR and other cardiovascular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comparative study investigates the relationship between nutritional obesity, body mass index (BMI), and resting heart rate (RHR) among practicing and nonpracticing students at the University of Zakho. The research aimed to identify the correlation between BMI and variables such as weight, height, and resting pulse, as well as to determine if there are significant differences in BMI and RHR between practicing and nonpracticing students. The study employed a descriptive approach with a comparative method of correlational relationships, using a sample of 71 students from the Departments of Physical Education and Sports Sciences and General Psychology. Key findings include a strong positive correlation between BMI and body weight, a positive correlation between BMI and RHR, and a non-significant correlation between BMI and height. The study also revealed significantly higher mean BMI and RHR in the nonpracticing group compared to the practicing group. These results highlight the beneficial effects of regular physical activity on weight management, obesity prevention, and cardiovascular fitness. The insights gained from this study can inform the development of targeted interventions and health promotion strategies to address obesity-related concerns among university students.

Abstract Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses a significant health challenge, yet early detection remains difficult. Resting heart rate (RHR) has been shown to be a reliable indicator of type 2 diabetes, prompting interest in its potential as an independent predictor of CKD. This study aimed to investigate the association between RHR and CKD prevalence, as well as explore potential interactions between RHR and other risk factors for CKD in a sample of 25,246 adults. Methods Data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2011–2014) were utilized for this study, with 19,210 participants included after screening. Logistic regression analysis was employed to examine the relationship between RHR and CKD prevalence. Stratified analyses were conducted based on known risk factors for CKD. Results Participants with an RHR ≥ 90 bpm exhibited a 2.07-fold [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.28–3.34] and 2.22-fold (95% CI: 1.42–3.48) higher prevalence of CKD in men and women, respectively, compared to those with an RHR

Background. Cardiovascular concerns in hypertensive elderly men, evaluating the effectiveness of a walking football program for targeted health improvement in this population. Study purpose. This study aims to clarify and characterize changes in cardiovascular health due to a 12-week walking football training program in male seniors (60-70 years) with hypertension. Materials and methods. This study engaged 60 male participants aged 60 to 70 years from diverse regions of Kashmir, India with hypertension. Purposive sampling was used to select individuals who hadn't participated in physical activities for six months. In addition, participants were split into two groups: experimental and control. The study's design and objectives were explained to participants one week before testing. Baseline data was collected a week prior to the 12-week program. The experimental group attended thrice-weekly, 1-hour walking football sessions with 10-minute warm-up, a 45-minute game, and 5 minute cool-down. Assessments were conducted at the end of the 4th, 8th, and 12th weeks. To analyze the data, a 2 (group: experimental, and control) X 4 (time: baseline, 4th week, 8th week, and 12th week) mixed ANOVA was conducted. Results. During the study, the control group displayed a slight decrease in systolic blood pressure (SBP) by week 8, which returned to baseline levels by week 12. Conversely, the experimental group demonstrated a consistent decline in systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), as well as resting heart rate (RHR), with a significant decrease observed by week 12. Additionally, basal metabolic rate (BMR) steadily increased in the experimental group over the 12 weeks. On the other hand, the control group exhibited no significant changes in DBP, RHR, or BMR throughout the duration of the training program. Conclusions. Walking football proves beneficial for hypertension, highlighting its public health potential. Research advocates its integration into interventions for community well-being.

Elevated resting heart rate (RHR) is known to be associated with increased mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) whose pulmonary function is reduced. On the other hand, no study has reported on the association between RHR and pulmonary function in healthy individuals without COPD. Thus, this study investigated the association between RHR and pulmonary function in healthy adult males. This study was conducted on 3351 adult males aged 30–60 years, who visited the National Fitness Center (located in Seoul, South Korea) for health examination from Jan 2015 to Dec 2017. The RHR uses data measured using a standard 12-lead electrocardiogram, in the interquartile range (>60 bpm, 60–69 bpm, 70–79 bpm, ≥80 bpm). To test the pulmonary function, a spirometer was used to measure the forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and the FEV1/FVC. The diagnostic criterion of COPD was FEV1/FVC ≤70%. While FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC showed no significant variation according to RHR, a correlation was found between RHR and FVC (p < 0.05). However, no correlation was found between FEV1 and FEV1/FVC. The relative risk of COPD according to RHR showed no significant variation. RHR and pulmonary function in healthy adult males, the indicator of lung capacity, FVC, showed a significant correlation. To more accurately determine the cause-effect relationship between RHR and pulmonary function, a prospective cohort study should be conducted in the future.

Background and purpose: Cardiovascular disease is the main cause of death in the world, including Iran. Cardiac rehabilitation is associated with improving patients' performance and reducing mortality from all causes of death. This study aimed to investigate the changes in exercise capacity and hemodynamic factors following cardiac rehabilitation in patients referred to the cardiac rehabilitation department of Mazandaran Heart Center. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out by examining the medical records of 262 patients referred between February 2018 to February 2020. Each of the three groups of patients with coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, and chronic heart failure were separately examined in terms of values before and after cardiac rehabilitation related to systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and resting heart rate (HR). Data were analyzed with SPSS-22, STAT-15 software. Results: In each of the three mentioned groups of cardiac patients, the mean SBP, DBP, and MAP variables had a significant decrease (P0.2). Conclusion: Cardiac rehabilitation may improve exercise capacity and hemodynamic factors, including SBP, DBP, and MAP in patients with various heart diseases and is recommended as a class І suggestion in eligible patients.

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses a significant health challenge, yet early detection remains difficult. Resting heart rate (RHR) has been shown to be a reliable indicator of type 2 diabetes, prompting interest in its potential as an independent predictor of CKD. This study aimed to investigate the association between RHR and CKD prevalence, as well as explore potential interactions between RHR and other risk factors for CKD in a sample of 25,246 adults. Methods: Data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2011–2014) were utilized for this study, with 19,210 participants included after screening. Logistic regression analysis was employed to examine the relationship between RHR and CKD prevalence. Stratified analyses were conducted based on known risk factors for CKD. Results: Participants with an RHR ≥ 90 bpm exhibited a 2.07-fold [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.28–3.34] and 2.22-fold (95% CI: 1.42–3.48) higher prevalence of CKD in men and women, respectively, compared to those with an RHR < 60 bpm. The association between RHR and CKD prevalence was particularly pronounced in younger participants (40–59 years vs. ≥ 60 years), individuals with diabetes (yes vs. no), and those with a longer duration of diabetes (≥ 7 years vs. < 7 years). Conclusion: Elevated RHR was found to be significantly associated with a higher prevalence of CKD in both men and women, independent of demographic, lifestyle, and medical factors. These findings suggest that RHR could serve as a valuable predictor for undiagnosed CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiovascular health is a fundamental determinant of overall well-being, and understanding how it varies between genders is of paramount importance in the field of exercise physiology and public health. This comparative cross-sectional study aimed to investigate gender differences in cardiovascular responses to exercise, focusing on resting heart rate (RHR), heart rate during exercise, blood pressure responses, recovery time, and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). Methods: Male and female participants underwent a standardized exercise protocol, during which RHR and heart rate during exercise were monitored. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) at rest and during exercise were recorded. Recovery time for heart rate to return to baseline was measured post-exercise. VO2max was assessed using established methods. Results: The study included male (n=100) and female (n=100) participants. While RHR showed a modest gender difference (-4.7 bpm, p=0.12), heart rate during exercise revealed a significant gap between genders (10.3 bpm, p<0.05). Males exhibited higher SBP at rest (+1.6 mm Hg, p<0.05) and a more pronounced increase during exercise (+6.4 mm Hg, p<0.05). DBP response during exercise did not differ significantly (p=0.18). Recovery time for males was faster by 5.4 minutes (p<0.05). Importantly, males demonstrated a significantly higher VO2max compared to females (+7.8 ml/kg/min, p<0.01). Conclusion: Gender differences in cardiovascular responses to exercise were evident in this study. While RHR showed no statistical disparity, males exhibited a greater increase in heart rate during exercise, higher SBP at rest, faster recovery time, and superior aerobic capacity (VO2max). These findings underscore the importance of tailoring exercise interventions and cardiovascular assessments to gender-specific characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cardiac Autonomic Dysfunction (CAD) is an overlooked cardiovascular risk factor in individuals with obesity-related hypertension. Despite its clinical significance, there is a notable lack of clarity regarding the pathophysiological correlates involved in its onset and progression. Aim: The present study aimed to identify potential predictors of CAD in obesity-related hypertension. Methods: A total of 72 participants (34 men and 38 women) were enrolled. Comprehensive evaluations were conducted, including cardiac autonomic function assessments, body composition estimation and biochemical analysis. Participants were categorized as CAD-positive or CAD-negative based on Ewing's criteria for autonomic dysfunction. Univariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify potential predictors for CAD. Multivariate logistic regression models were further constructed by adjusting clinically relevant covariates to identify independent predictors of CAD. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that resting heart rate (HRrest), (odds ratio, confidence interval: 0.85, 0.78–0.93; p = 0.001) and percentage body fat (BF%), (odds ratio, confidence interval: 0.78, 0.64–0.96; p = 0.018) were significant independent predictors of CAD. Receiver Operating Characteristic curve analysis depicted optimal cut-off values for HRrest and BF% as > 74.1 bpm and > 33.6%, respectively. Multicolinearity analysis showed variance inflation factors (VIF) below the cautionary threshold of 3. Conclusions: The HRrest and BF% emerged as significant independent predictors of CAD in obesity-related hypertension. Therapeutic strategies should target HRrest < 74.1 bpm and BF% < 33.6% to mitigate CAD risk in this population. Future trials are required to establish causal relationships and may consider additional confounding variables in obesity-related hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Personality traits are known factors that may influence levels of physical activity and other healthy lifestyle measures and behaviors that ultimately lead to health problems later in life. PARTICIPANTS AND PROCEDURE The aim of this study was to examine the association between personality traits (HEXACO) and levels of physical activity and resting heart rate (RHR) - measured using Fitbits, BMI, and a self-reported whole-person healthy lifestyle score for N = 2580 college students. Data were collected and analyzed for students enrolled in a University Success type course from August 2017 to May 2021. The relationships between HEXACO personality traits and various physical activity and healthy lifestyle behaviors were analyzed by building several multiple regression models using R version 4.0.2. RESULTS In general, students who are extraverted were more physically active and students who are more open to experience had a higher RHR, even when controlling for gender. Females and males however had different profiles as to how personality influenced physical activity and other health-related measures. Male extraverts with high negative emotionality scores tend to be more physically active, whereas females tend to be more physically active when they were high in extroversion and conscientiousness, and low in openness to experience. BMI values were higher for female participants with high honesty-humility and low agreeableness and conscientiousness scores. Females also had a lower RHR for high honesty-humility and emotionality and low conscientiousness scores. CONCLUSIONS Personality can influence levels of physical activity, RHR, and BMI. This is especially true of women. Being aware of one's personality and the relationship of personality traits to levels of physical activity and other measures of leading a healthy lifestyle can be beneficial in determining strategies to improve long-term health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study purpose. Examining the physiological and physical effects of Tabata training with Kempo sports movement techniques. Materials and methods. The study participants were 16 adolescents divided into two distinct groups: the Tabata group and the non-Tabata group. The training was conducted for 6 weeks, 3 times per week, with each session lasting 2 hours. The training components for kicks and punches included Gyaku Geri, Jun Mawashi Geri, Jun Zuki, and Gyaku Mawashi Geri. Each teenager did physical exercise once a week for 2 hours. A normality test (Shapiro-Wilk) was used to assess the normality of the data. A Two-Way ANOVA with a significance level of less than 0.05 was conducted to examine the difference in means between the two groups. Furthermore, the researchers also tested the N-Gain Score to assess the effectiveness of the 6-week Tabata training program. All tests were conducted using SPSS version 23 and GraphPad Prisma version 10 for graph creation. Results. The statistics indicate that a 6-week training with Tabata can effectively reduce resting heart rate and improve Standing Broad Jump (SBJ) performance by a value of sig. <0.05. In the pretest-posttest difference test within the group, the results show sig. <0.05. The results of the N-Gain Score test show that Kempo training using the Tabata method is effective in reducing resting heart rate by up to 88%, but is not effective in increasing power (SBJ) by a value of 10%. Conclusions. The study revealed that incorporating the Tabata method into Kempo training, with necessary adjustments for 6 weeks, led to a notable reduction in resting heart rate. A decrease in resting heart rate is a dependable indicator of the advancement in physical fitness and general well-being in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveThe purpose of this meta-analysis was to investigate the effect of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on arterial stiffness (AS) and vascular function in persons at high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).MethodsWe conducted a comprehensive search of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase, and Ebsco) since their inception through October 2023 to evaluate the effect of HIIT on AS and vascular function in persons at high risk for CVD. The weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 test.ResultsThis study included 661 participants from 16 studies. HIIT significantly reduced pulse wave velocity (PWV) in persons at high risk for CVD [weighted mean difference (WMD), −0.62; 95% CI, −0.86–−0.38; P

Insulin resistance is closely associated with metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the resting heart rate (RHR) is an important marker of the autonomic nervous system’s status. This study aimed to investigate the association between the RHR and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in Korean adults. Using data from the 2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES 2019), we analyzed 6118 adults and classified the participants into four groups based on their RHR (≤67, 68–71, 72–79, and ≥80 beats/min [bpm]). Logistic regression analysis considering demographic, lifestyle, and biochemical factors revealed that the odds of having a HOMA-IR of 2.5 or higher were significantly increased in the higher RHR groups. Specifically, compared to the ≤67 bpm group, the 68–71, 72–79, and ≥80 bpm groups had increased odds of 1.277, 1.599, and 1.919 times, respectively. These results are expected to contribute to the development of strategies for the early diagnosis and management of metabolic diseases through the RHR, and further research is needed to deepen the understanding of the physiological mechanisms of this relationship, including the management of the RHR through lifestyle modification and regular exercise and the effect of reducing insulin resistance.

Heart rate (HR) is an important indicator of work intensity during physical activity. Maximum heart rate (MHR) is a physiological measure that is frequently used as a benchmark for maximal exercise intensity. The aim of this study was to establish reference curves for maximum heart rate (MHR) and resting heart rate (RHR) and to develop an estimated equation for Tunisian adolescent footballers. The study involved 801 adolescent players, aged 11 to 18, who belonged to five Tunisian first-division soccer teams. The LMS method was used for smoothing the curves and the multivariate linear regression to develop a prediction equation of MHR. Our results showed that MHR and RHR reference curves decrease with age. The values of the median curves of MHR and RHR ranged from 208.64 bpm (11 years) to 196.93 (18 years) and 73.86 (11 years) to 63.64 (18 years), respectively. The prediction equation obtained from the model was MHR= 225.08 – 1.55 X Age (years) (R2 = 0.317; P < 0.001; standard error of the estimate (SEE) = 5.22). The comparisons between the estimated values and the measured values have found that our model (- 0.004 ±5.22 bpm) was to be more accurate than two other widely known models. BOX's equation underestimates the measured MHR values by -3.17 ± 5.37 bpm and TANAKA's equation overestimates by + 4.33 ±5.5 bpm. The reference curves can be used by coaches and physical trainers to classify the resting heart rate (RHR) and maximum heart rate (MHR) of each adolescent player, track their evolution over time, and design tailored training programs with specific intensities for Tunisian soccer players.

Background The relationship between resting heart rate (RHR) and the risk of end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) among those without cardiovascular disease remains unclear. We aim to establish temporal consistency and elucidate the independent relationship between RHR and the risk of ESRD. Methods and Results This cohort enrolled participants from 476 347 individuals who had taken part in a screening program from 1996 to 2017. We identified 2504 participants who had ESRD, and the median follow‐up was 13 years. RHR was extracted from electrocardiography results, and the study assessed the relationship between RHR and the risk of ESRD using the Cox proportional hazards model. Of the participants, 32.6% had an RHR of 60 to 69 beats per minute (bpm), and 22.2% had an RHR of ≥80 bpm. Participants with an RHR of ≥80 bpm had a higher stage of chronic kidney disease, lower estimated glomerular filtration rate, and more proteinuria than those with an RHR of 60 to 69 bpm. Participants with an RHR of 80 to 89 and ≥90 bpm had a 24% (hazard ratio [HR], 1.24 [95% CI, 1.09–1.42]) and 64% (HR, 1.64 [95% CI, 1.42–1.90]) higher risk of ESRD, respectively. The risk of ESRD remained significantly elevated (HR, 1.32 [95% CI, 1.10–1.58] per 10‐beat increase from 60 bpm) after excluding participants who smoked; had hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia; or were overweight. Conclusions An RHR of ≥80 bpm is significantly associated with an increased risk of ESRD. These results suggest that RHR may serve as a risk factor for kidney disease in individuals without established cardiovascular disease risk factors.

Aims: A high resting heart rate (RHR) and low systolic blood pressure (SBP) are a risk factor and a risk indicator, respectively, for poor heart failure (HF) outcomes. This analysis evaluated the associations between baseline RHR and SBP with outcomes and treatment patterns in patients with HF and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) in the QUALIFY (QUality of Adherence to guideline recommendations for LIFe‐saving treatment in heart failure surveY) international registry. Methods and results: Between September 2013 and December 2014, 7317 HFrEF patients with a previous HF hospitalization within 1–15 months were enrolled in the QUALIFY registry. Complete follow‐up data were available for 5138 patients. The relationships between RHR and SBP and outcomes were assessed using a Cox proportional hazards model and were analysed according to baseline values as high RHR (H‐RHR) ≥75 bpm versus low RHR (L‐RHR) <75 bpm and high SBP (H‐SBP) ≥110 mmHg versus low SBP (L‐SBP) <110 mmHg and analysed according to each of the following four phenotypes: H‐RHR/L‐SBP, L‐RHR/L‐SBP, H‐RHR/H‐SBP and L‐RHR/H‐SBP (reference group). Compared to the reference group, H‐RHR/L‐SBP was associated with the worst outcomes for the combined primary endpoint of cardiovascular death and HF hospitalization (hazard ratio [HR] 1.83, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.51–2.21, p < 0.001), cardiovascular death (HR 2.70, 95% CI 1.69–4.33, p < 0.001), and HF hospitalization (HR 1.62, 95% CI 1.30–2.01, p < 0.001). Low‐risk patients with L‐RHR/H‐SBP achieved more frequently ≥50% of target doses of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and beta‐blockers (BBs) than the other groups. However, 48% and 46% of low‐risk patients were not well treated with ACEIs and BBs, respectively (≤50% of target dose or no treatment). Conclusion: In patients with HFrEF and recent hospitalization, elevated RHR and lower SBP identify patients at increased risk for cardiovascular endpoints. While SBP and RHR are often recognized as barriers that deter physicians from treating with high doses of recommended drugs, they are not the only reason leaving many patients suboptimally treated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sedentary lifestyle is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, making it crucial to identify effective interventions to improve cardiovascular function in this population. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has emerged as a time-efficient and effective exercise intervention to improve cardiovascular health. Aim: To investigate the effects of HIIT on cardiovascular function in sedentary individuals. Methods: Fifty sedentary individuals (25 males and 25 females) were recruited and randomly assigned into either an experimental (HIIT) or a control group. The experimental group underwent a 12-week HIIT program, while the control group maintained their sedentary lifestyle. Cardiovascular function was assessed by measuring resting heart rate (RHR), blood pressure (BP), and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) at baseline and after 12 weeks. Results: At baseline, there were no significant differences between the HIIT and control groups in RHR, BP, or VO2max. After 12 weeks, the HIIT group had a significant decrease in RHR (from 75.2 ± 8.3 bpm to 68.3 ± 7.5 bpm, p < 0.001) and BP (systolic BP from 124.7 ± 11.5 mmHg to 118.3 ± 9.9 mmHg, p = 0.001; diastolic BP from 78.6 ± 8.5 mmHg to 72.9 ± 6.8 mmHg, p < 0.001), and a significant increase in VO2max (from 31.6 ± 4.1 ml/kg/min to 36.8 ± 4.3 ml/kg/min, p < 0.001) compared to the control group. In contrast, there were no significant changes in RHR, BP, or VO2max in the control group. Conclusion: The results suggest that HIIT may be an effective intervention to improve cardiovascular function in sedentary individuals. These findings have important implications for developing interventions to prevent or treat cardiovascular diseases in sedentary populations. Future research should investigate the long-term effects of HIIT on cardiovascular function and other health outcomes in sedentary individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Emerging evidence has linked elevated resting heart rate (RHR) with poor cognitive function in older adults, but the mechanisms underlying their association are poorly understood. Methods: This population-based cross-sectional study included 4510 dementia-free participants (age ≥ 65 years; 56.9% females; 38.3% no formal education) in the baseline examination of the Multidomain Interventions to Delay Dementia and Disability in Rural China study. Of these, 1,386 had data on serum proinflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules. RHR was measured using 12-lead electrocardiograph. We used the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and a neuropsychological test battery to assess cognitive function. Data were analyzed using the general linear and restricted cubic splines models. Results: People with high RHR were more likely to have cardiometabolic diseases and worse cognitive function (p < 0.05). There was an inverted J-shaped association of RHR with MMSE and attention scores. Having RHR ≥ 80 bpm (vs. 60–69 bpm) was significantly associated with the multivariable-adjusted β coefficients of − 0.58 [95% confidence interval (CI), − 1.00, − 0.16] for MMSE score and − 0.08 (− 0.15, − 0.01) for attention score. In the serum biomarker subsample, RHR was linearly associated with serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) (β coefficient = 0.19; 95%CI 0.14, 0.24), IL-8 (0.08; 0.02, 0.13), IL-10 (0.09; 0.04, 0.15), tumor necrosis factor-α (0.06; 0.01, 0.11), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (0.09; 0.04, 0.15), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (0.16; 0.11, 0.22), and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (0.11; 0.06, 0.16). Conclusions: There is an inverted J-shaped association of RHR with attention and global cognition. Poor cognitive function and high RHR may be linked through systemic low-grade inflammation and endothelial injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Longitudinal patterns of resting heart rate (RHR) in patients with diabetes mellitus and their association with health outcomes are not well-characterized. Objective: We sought to explore the RHR trajectories in patients with diabetes mellitus and their association with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all-cause mortality. Design: The Kailuan Study is a prospective cohort study. Participants underwent health examinations biennially starting in 2006 and were followed until December 31, 2020. Setting: General community. Participants: A total of 8218 diabetic participants who attended at least 3 of the examinations conducted in 2006, 2008, 2010, and 2012 were included. Main outcome measures: CVD and all-cause mortality. Results: We identified 4 RHR trajectories in participants with diabetes mellitus between 2006 and 2012: low-stable (range, 66.83-64.91 beats/min; n = 1705), moderate-stable (range, 76.30-76.95 beats/min; n = 5437), high-decreasing (mean decreased from 92.14 to 85.60 beats/min; n = 862), and high-increasing (mean increased from 84.03 to 111.62 beats/min; n = 214). During an average follow-up of 7.25 years, 977 cases of CVD and 1162 deaths were identified. Compared with the low-stable trajectory, adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for CVD were 1.48 (95% CI, 1.02-2.14; P = .04) for the high-increasing trajectory, adjusted HRs for all-cause mortality were 1.34 (95% CI, 1.14-1.58; P < .01) for the moderate-stable trajectory, 1.68 (95% CI, 1.35-2.10; P < .01) for the high-decreasing trajectory, and 2.47 (95% CI, 1.85-3.31; P < .01) for the high-increasing trajectory. Conclusions: RHR trajectories were associated with the subsequent risks of CVD and all-cause mortality in patients with diabetes mellitus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims A low resting heart rate (RHR) implies a more efficient heart function and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. However, observational studies have reported a U-shaped association between RHR and atrial fibrillation (AF). In contrast, Mendelian randomization (MR) studies have found an inverse causal association between RHR and AF. Hence, the causal nature of the relationship is not clear. The aim is to investigate the causal association and its shape between RHR on AF using linear and non-linear MR (NLMR). Methods and results Linear and non-linear MR were performed on individual-level data in the Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT) and UK Biobank (UKB). HUNT consists of 69 155 individuals with 7,062 AF cases, while UKB provides data on 431 852 individuals with 20 452 AF cases. The linear MR found an inverse relationship between RHR and AF with an OR = 0.95 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.93–0.98] and OR = 0.96 (95% CI: 0.95–0.97) per unit decrease in RHR in HUNT and UKB, respectively. The NLMR was supportive of an inverse linear relationship in both HUNT and UKB for RHR values <90 beats per minute (bpm). Several sensitivity analyses were also consistent. Conclusion In contrast with the current observational knowledge of RHR and AF, an inverse causal association between RHR and AF was demonstrated in both linear and non-linear MR for RHR values up to 90 bpm. Further exploring the underlying mechanisms of the genetic instrument for RHR may shed light on whether pleiotropy is biasing this association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Elevated resting heart rate (RHR) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all-cause mortality. However, the findings of cohort studies differed. Thus, the impact of RHR on CVD mortality might be different according to the background of the population. Therefore, we examined the relationship of RHR and CVD mortality according to serum albumin (ALB) levels in a Japanese general population. Methods: In total, 8,363 individuals without a history of CVD were followed for 24.0 years. The participants were divided into four groups according to the quartiles of RHR (Q1–Q4), and they were further classified into the high and low ALB groups based on a median value of 44 g/L. We estimated the multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) of CVD mortality in each RHR group based on ALB levels, and the interaction between RHR and ALB groups on CVD mortality was evaluated. Results: We found no significant association between RHR and CVD mortality. However, the Q4 of RHR was significantly associated with an increased risk for CVD mortality (HR 1.27; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02–1.57) in participants with a low ALB level. Meanwhile, the Q4 of RHR was significantly correlated with a decreased risk for CVD morality in those with a high ALB level (HR 0.61; 95% CI, 0.47–0.79) after adjusting for covariates. A significant interaction between RHR and ALB for CVD mortality was shown (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The impact of RHR on CVD mortality differed according to ALB levels in a general Japanese population.

Background Personality traits are known factors that may influence levels of physical activity and other healthy lifestyle measures and behaviors that ultimately lead to health problems later in life. Participants and procedure The aim of this study was to examine the association between personality traits (HEXACO) and levels of physical activity and resting heart rate (RHR) – measured using Fitbits, BMI, and a self-reported whole-person healthy lifestyle score for N = 2580 college students. Data were collected and analyzed for students enrolled in a University Success type course from August 2017 to May 2021. The relationships between HEXACO personality traits and various physical activity and healthy lifestyle behaviors were analyzed by building several multiple regression models using R version 4.0.2. Results In general, students who are extraverted were more physically active and students who are more open to experience had a higher RHR, even when controlling for gender. Females and males however had different profiles as to how personality influenced physical activity and other health-related measures. Male extraverts with high negative emotionality scores tend to be more physically active, whereas females tend to be more physically active when they were high in extroversion and conscientiousness, and low in openness to experience. BMI values were higher for female participants with high honesty-humility and low agreeableness and conscientiousness scores. Females also had a lower RHR for high honesty-humility and emotionality and low conscientiousness scores. Conclusions Personality can influence levels of physical activity, RHR, and BMI. This is especially true of women. Being aware of one’s personality and the relationship of personality traits to levels of physical activity and other measures of leading a healthy lifestyle can be beneficial in determining strategies to improve long-term health outcomes.

Background: Heart rate variability (HRV) is a parameter useful in monitoring post stroke cardiac dysautonomia. Our study is aimed at investigating HRV modifications in patients with stroke; (2) Methods: We investigated HRV parameters in 35 men and 35 women with stroke, data com-pared to 70 age and sex similar healthy subjects. We collected and interpreted HRV data related to resting state, deep breathing, and standing situations; (3) Results: The variables identified by classification methods to be discriminative in stroke groups for men and women classes are VLFms2, LFms2, LFnu, HFnu, and ApEn in resting state conditions, mean RR, HR, pNN50, VLFms2, LFnu, HFnu, ApEn and SampEn in deep breathing conditions, and mean RR, HR, HFnu, ApEn, and DFA1 in standing conditions; (4) Conclusions: Monitoring of HRV in patients who have suffered an ischemic stroke is essential, as it is known that stoke contributes to an increased risk of cardiac autonomic dysfunction and consequently to a second unwanted vascular event.

Background: Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer in women. Reduced physical activity and overweight are associated with poor prognosis. Breast cancer patients have a high risk to gain weight, lose muscle mass and reduce physical activity during therapy. Concepts are urgently needed to motivate patients to engage in physical activity. Methods: 110 non-metastatic breast cancer patients were included in the prospective observational BEGYN-1 study. Physiological parameters and body composition were measured before the start of therapy and then quarterly for one year. Patients used a fitness tracker and documented their physical activity in a diary throughout the study. Results: Although the patients were not offered any guided exercise, and despite the restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, they increased their physical activity (metabolic equivalent of task (MET) -minutes): p<0.001), physical fitness (decreasing resting heart rate: p=0.001) and did not gain weight (median - 0.4kg) over the course of the study. Conclusion: Improved awareness of physical activity is associated with an increase in physical activity, fitness, and a stable weight during the first year of therapy in breast cancer patients. Counselling at diagnosis should motivate patients to engage in physical activity, wear a fitness tracker and document activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to examine the association between baseline level and change of autonomic nervous function with subsequent development of arterial stiffness. Autonomic nervous function was assessed in 4901 participants of the Whitehall II occupational cohort by heart rate variability (HRV) indices and resting heart rate (rHR) three times between 1997 and 2009, while arterial stiffness was assessed by carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) measured twice between 2007 and 2013. First, individual HRV/rHR levels and annual changes were estimated. Then, we modelled the development of PWV by HRV/rHR using linear mixed effect models. First, we adjusted for sex and ethnicity (model 1), and then for socioeconomic and lifestyle factors, various clinical measurements, and medications (model 2). A decrease in HRV and unchanged rHR was associated with subsequent higher levels of PWV, but the effect of a change in HRV was less pronounced at higher ages. A typical individual aged 65 years with a SDNN level of 30 ms and a 2% annual decrease in SDNN had 1.32 (0.95; 1.69) higher PWV compared to one with the same age and SDNN level but with a 1% annual decrease in SDNN. Further adjustment had no major effect on the results. People who experience a steeper decline in autonomic nervous function have higher levels of arterial stiffness. The association was stronger in younger people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescent health benefits of different physical activity (PA) intensities, especially of lower intensities, are debated due to challenges in accelerometer data processing and analyses. Using a new accelerometer data processing method and multivariate pattern analysis, this study investigated the association of PA intensities with indicators of cardiovascular and mental health. Adolescents (n = 1,235, mean age 13.6 years, 41% males) were examined for cardiovascular health: body mass index (BMI) z-score, waist circumference (WC), resting heart rate and blood pressure, white blood cell count (WBC), pulse wave velocity (PWV), and answered questionnaires assessing stress and psychosomatic symptoms. Sex, age, and socioeconomic status were confounders. Hip-worn accelerometer data were processed with 10 Hz frequency extended method and a spectrum of 22 PA intensity categories was analyzed for association with health using partial least squares regression. Total explained variances for BMI z-score, WC, resting heart rate, stress, and psychosomatic symptoms were higher (3.3%–8.7%) compared to diastolic blood pressure, WBC, and PWV (0.9%–1.4%). We found positive associations of high-end moderate PA and vigorous PA with cardiovascular and mental health indicators. More sedentary time and lower level of light PA were associated with higher BMI z-score, WC, resting heart rate, diastolic blood pressure, WBC, and PWV, but not with mental health indicators. Very vigorous PA was negatively associated with resting heart rate, stress, and psychosomatic symptoms. In adolescents, PA of varying intensities were generally found to be positively associated with better cardiovascular health, but only higher intensity PA was associated with better mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the consistency on the target heart rate for exercise determined by simple target heart rate (sTHR) based on resting heart rate (HRrest) and heart rate at anaerobic threshold (HRAT) in cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) for patients with chronic heart failure. This is a retrospective cohort study, in which CHF patients who underwent CPET in Tongji Hospital Cardiac Rehabilitation Center Affiliated to Tongji University from March 2007 to December 2018 were enrolled. The clinical data of the patients from the electronic medical record system, HRrest and HRAT measured by CPET were collected. Patients were further divided into subgroups according to gender, age (<60 years group and ≥ 60 years group), with or without beta-blocker therapy and subgroup of heart failure (heart failure with reduced, mid-range and preserved ejection fraction). The sTHR (HRrest plus 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 bpm) and HRAT were all calculated in each patient. Paired t- test was used for the difference between the two methods, correlation analysis was shown by pearson analysis and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated for consistency test. A total of 547 CHF patients were enrolled, including 447 males (81.7%), aged 63 (56,69) years, with BMI of 25.2 (23.5,26.4) kg/m2 and LVEF of 45.0 (36.0, 52.0) %. The target heart rate determined by HRAT method was (93.59 ± 13.95) bpm, and its counterpart determined by HRrest plus 20 bpm (HRrest +20) was (93.16 ± 7.69) bpm. There was no significant difference between the two methods (P >0.05). However, it was statistically different between HRrest plus 10, 15, 25, 30 bpm and HRAT respectively (P <0.001). And HRrest +20 was positively correlated with HRAT (r = 0.418, P <0.001). Therefore, HRrest +20 below was regarded as sTHR. The ICC of the consistency test between sTHR and HRAT was 0.523,95%CI 0.435–0.596 (P < 0.001) in all patients (n = 547). In patients with beta-blocker therapy (n = 464), the ICC of sTHR and HRAT consistency test was 0.534,95%CI 0.441–0.612, P < 0.001; The ICC of the consistency test between sTHR and HRAT of patients without beta-blocker therapy (n = 83) was 0.407,95%CI 0.083–0.616, P < 0.05. In the sinus rhythm group (n = 466), the ICC of sTHR and HRAT consistency test was 0.527,95%CI 0.433–0.606, P < 0.001; The ICC of the consistency test between sTHR and HRAT of atrial fibrillation patients in group (n = 81) was 0.482,95%CI 0.195–0.667, P < 0.05.The ICC of the consistency test between sTHR and HRAT was 0.501,95%CI 0.338–0.623 (P < 0.001) in patients under 60 years old (n = 195); The ICC of the consistency test between sTHR and HRAT in patients ≥60 years old (n = 352) was 0.533,95%CI 0.424–0.621, P < 0.001. In the male group (n = 447), the ICC of sTHR and HRAT consistency test was 0.577,95%CI 0.491–0.649, P < 0.001; The ICC of the consistency test between sTHR and HRAT of female patients in group (n = 100) was 0.344,95%CI 0.025–0.559, P < 0.05. The ICC of sTHR and HRAT consistency test in HFrEF group (n = 170) was 0.395,95%CI 0.181–0.553, P < 0.01; The ICC values of the consistency test between sTHR and HRAT was 0.543, 95%CI 0.405–0.649 (P < 0.001) in patients with HFmrEF (n = 222); In HFpEF group (n = 155), the ICC of sTHR and HRAT consistency test was 0.620,95%CI 0.478–0.723, P < 0.001. The exercise target heart rate calculated by HRrest is consistent with that determined by HRAT in patients with CHF. For primary hospitals without CPET, exercise prescription equivalent to AT intensity for patients with CHF can be determined by HRrest. However, the target heart rate calculated by HRrest can't replace that determined by HRAT in this patient cohort completely. • In patients with CHF, the exercise target heart rate determined by HRrest plus 20 bpm is consistent with by AT. • It's feasible to develop exercise prescription equivalent to AT intensity for CHF patients by HRrest without CPET. • HRrest plus 20 bpm can be of clinical value in exercise therapy for CHF patients in primary hospitals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alterations in heart rate (HR) may provide new information about physiological signatures of depression severity. This 2-year study in individuals with a history of recurrent major depressive disorder (MDD) explored the intra-individual variations in HR parameters and their relationship with depression severity. Methods: Data from 510 participants (Number of observations of the HR parameters = 6666) were collected from three centres in the Netherlands, Spain, and the UK, as a part of the remote assessment of disease and relapse-MDD study. We analysed the relationship between depression severity, assessed every 2 weeks with the Patient Health Questionnaire-8, with HR parameters in the week before the assessment, such as HR features during all day, resting periods during the day and at night, and activity periods during the day evaluated with a wrist-worn Fitbit device. Linear mixed models were used with random intercepts for participants and countries. Covariates included in the models were age, sex, BMI, smoking and alcohol consumption, antidepressant use and co-morbidities with other medical health conditions. Results: Decreases in HR variation during resting periods during the day were related with an increased severity of depression both in univariate and multivariate analyses. Mean HR during resting at night was higher in participants with more severe depressive symptoms. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that alterations in resting HR during all day and night are associated with depression severity. These findings may provide an early warning of worsening depression symptoms which could allow clinicians to take responsive treatment measures promptly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The variability of the clinical course of COVID-19 and the variety of the "geography" of its complications actualize the issue of monitoring and assessing the dynamics of the patients' condition for the most effective therapy and rehabilitation. Smart devices that track a number of physiological parameters allow you to monitor the health status and the course of the disease. Case description: We present a case of a past viral infection (COVID-19) in the aspect of assessing the dynamics of the patient's condition and the effectiveness of treatment by resting heart rate and the total index of motor activity using smart watch. The patient was a 64-year-old man with a history of hypertension, atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes mellitus and myocardial infarction. On certain days of viral infection, glucose levels, blood oxygen saturation, blood pressure and body temperature were measured. The patient was prescribed Ingavirin, Vitamins C and D, Doliprane, Azithromycin, Moxicin, Xarelto and Dexamethasone. Results and discussion: It was revealed that the dynamics of the clinical course showed the strongest correlation with resting heart rate and total index of motor activity. Resting heart rate demonstrated a very high sensitivity, also changing in response to stress factors. Thus modern smart devices are able to provide information about the COVID-19 clinical course and the effectiveness of therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Resting heart rate (RHR) has been linked with an increased risk of dementia. However, evidence characterizing the associations of RHR with different dementia subtypes and their underlying mechanisms remains scarce. This study aims to investigate the relationships of RHR with different dementia types, cognitive function, and brain structural abnormalities. Methods Three hundred thirty-nine thousand nine hundred one participants with no prior diagnosis of dementia from the UK biobank were analyzed. Cox regression and restricted cubic spline models examined the associations between RHR with all-cause dementia (ACD) and its major subtypes—Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD). Logistic regression models assessed the associations of RHR with cognitive function, and linear regression models estimated the associations with hippocampal subfield volume and white matter tract integrity indexed by magnetic resonance imaging data. Results During an average of 3148 (± 941.08) days of follow-up, 4177 individuals were diagnosed with dementia, including 2354 AD and 989 VaD cases. RHR ≥ 80bpm was associated with ACD (HR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.08–1.28, P < 0.001) and VaD (HR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.08–1.54, P = 0.005) but not AD in multi-adjusted models. A 10-bpm increment of RHR demonstrated non-linear effects in VaD, consisting of J-shape relationships. Several heterogeneities were indicated in stratified analysis, in which RHR measures only showed associations with dementia incidents in relatively younger populations (age ≤ 65) and females. Apart from dementia analysis, elevated RHR was associated with worsening performance in fluid intelligence and reaction time of cognitive tasks, decreased hippocampal subfields volume, and poor white matter tract integrity. Conclusions RHR is associated with increased risks of ACD and VaD but also presented with few heterogeneities across different sex and age groups. Elevated RHR also appears to have deleterious effects on cognitive function and is distinctively associated with volume reduction in hippocampal subfields and impaired white matter tract integrity.

Abstract Background Chemoradiotherapy (CRT), which might affect the autonomic system, is the mainstay therapy for advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Autonomic dysfunction has been found to possibly lead to cancer mortality in those with elevated resting heart rates (RHR). Skin sympathetic nerve activity (SKNA) is a new method of stimulating electrical signals in skin to evaluate autonomic function from sympathetic tone. In this study, we investigated the association between changes in RHR and autonomic function and ESCC mortality. Methods Thirty-nine stage II-IV ESCC patients receiving CRT between March 2019 and November 2020 were prospectively enrolled and carefully selected, followed up and received the same meticulous supportive care. Serial RHR was recorded every two weeks from before CRT to eight weeks after CRT and average SKNA were recorded before and four weeks after CRT. All-cause mortality was defined as primary outcome. Results We found the RHR of ESCC patients to be significantly elevated and peaking at four weeks after CRT (p

Introduction: A few studies have explored the association of resting heart rate (RHR) with mortality and/or other oncological outcomes in patients with specific cancers such as breast, colorectal, and lung cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the association between the RHR and oncological outcomes in patients with early-stage cervical cancer (CC) who underwent radical surgical resection. Methods: We included 622 patients with early-stage CC (stages IA2–IB1). The patients were divided into four groups based on the RHR as follows: quartile 1, ≤64; quartile 2, 65–70; quartile 3, 71–76; and quartile 4, >76 beats per min (bpm), with the lowest quartile being the reference group. We evaluated the associations of the RHR and clinicopathological features with oncological outcomes using Cox proportional-hazards regression. Results: There were clear among-group differences. Further, there was a significant positive correlation of RHR with tumor size and deep stromal invasion. Multivariate analysis revealed that RHR was an independent prognostic factor for disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Compared with patients with an RHR ≤70 bpm, those with an RHR of 71–76 bpm had a 1.84- and 3.05-times higher likelihood of DFS (p = 0.016) and OS (p = 0.030), respectively, while those with RHR >76 bpm had a 2.20-times higher likelihood of DFS (p = 0.016). Conclusion: This is the first study to demonstrate that RHR may be an independent prognostic factor for oncological outcomes in patients with CC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundBreast cancer is the most frequent cancer in women. Reduced physical activity and overweight are associated with poor prognosis. Breast cancer patients have a high risk to gain weight, lose muscle mass and reduce physical activity during therapy. Concepts are urgently needed to motivate patients to engage in physical activity.Methods110 non-metastatic breast cancer patients were included in the prospective observational BEGYN-1 study. Physiological parameters and body composition were measured before the start of therapy and then quarterly for one year. Patients used a fitness tracker and documented their physical activity in a diary throughout the study.ResultsAlthough the patients were not offered any guided exercise, and despite the restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, they increased their physical activity (metabolic equivalent of task (MET) -minutes): p

Background: Few studies have examined the relationship between the fluctuation of heart rate control over time and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation. Our study sought to evaluate the independent association between time in target range (TIR) of resting heart rate and cardiovascular outcomes in the AFFIRM (Atrial Fibrillation Follow-Up Investigation of Rhythm Management) study. Methods: Target range of resting heart was defined as less than 80 beats per minute (bpm) for both rate and rhythm control groups. Time in target range was estimated over the first 8 months of follow-up using Rosendaal interpolation method. The association between TIR of resting heart rate and cardiovascular outcomes was estimated using adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression models. Results: Time in target range of resting heart rate (months 0 through 8) was 71 ± 34% in the rate control group and 83 ± 27% in the rhythm control group. Each 1-SD increase in TIR of resting heart rate was significantly associated with lower risk of major adverse cardiovascular events after full adjustment for demographics, medical history and history of prior heart surgery, as well as all-cause mortality. Conclusions: Time in target range of resting heart rate independently predicts the risk of cardiovascular outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation. Long-term maintenance of heart rate on target is of great importance for patients with atrial fibrillation.

AimTo examine the direction, strength and causality of the associations of resting heart rate (RHR) with cardiac morphology and function in 20,062 UK Biobank participants.Methods and resultsParticipants underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) and we extracted CMR biventricular structural and functional metrics using automated pipelines. Multivariate linear regression adjusted for the main cardiovascular risk factors and Two-sample Mendelian Randomization analyses were performed to assess the potential relationship, grouped by heart rate and stratified by sex. Each 10 beats per minute increase in RHR was linked with smaller ventricular structure (lower biventricular end-diastolic volume and end-systolic volume), poorer left ventricular (LV) function (lower LV ejection fraction, global longitude strain and global function index) and unhealthy pattern of LV remodeling (higher values of myocardial contraction fraction), but there is no statistical difference in LV wall thickness. These trends are more pronounced among males and consistent with the causal effect direction of genetic variants interpretation. These observations reflect that RHR has an independent and broad impact on LV remodeling, however, genetically-predicted RHR is not statistically related to heart failure.ConclusionWe demonstrate higher RHR cause smaller ventricular chamber volume, poorer systolic function and unhealthy cardiac remodeling pattern. Our findings provide effective evidence for the potential mechanism of cardiac remodeling and help to explore the potential scope or benefit of intervention.