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Background. Cornus mas is a plant rich in flavonoids, anthocyanins, vitamins and other important chemicals with beneficial effects in several pathological situations such as inflammation, hyperglycemia or noxious localized processes. Numerous studies have shown gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to be effective drug transporters to the target tissues. Aims. The present study evaluated the effects of Cornus mas L. extract administration, as a simple solution or as a functionalizing agent for AuNPs, on the oxidative stress and biochemical parameters in rats with experimentally diabetes mellitus. Methods. Streptozocin-induced diabetes mellitus in adult Sprague Dawley female rats was performed after 8 months of high fat diet that ensured the animal’s body weight increase (600 ± 20g). The animals were randomly allocated in the following groups: CMC group received carboxymethylcellulose (CMC); Insulin group with Insulin administration; Pioglitazone group received pioglitazone in CMC solution; AuNPsCM group was treated with solution of gold nanoparticles functionalized with Cornus mas L. extract (AuNPsCM) and Cornus mas group received solution with extract of Cornus mas. The parameters of the oxidative stress were evaluated in serum, heart and aorta wall. In addition, biochemical parameters were investigated from the serum of all rats. Results. Cornus mas L. extract simple solution produced significant modifications: in aorta wall decreased significantly malondialdehyde, endothelin 1 and TNF-α; in heart homogenate decreased malondialdehyde, TNF-α and increased GSH/ GSSG ratio; in serum increased GSH/GSSG ratio and decreased C-reactive protein (CRP). AuNPsCM administration recorded significant modifications: iNOS increases and TNF-α decreases in aorta wall; malondialdehyde, TNF-α decreases and iNOS increases in heart homogenate; in serum, glucose, HDL and CRP decreases. Conclusions. Cornus mas L. extract simple solution presented beneficial effects in aorta and heart tissues, decreasing the oxidative stress and the inflammation that were generated in rats on high fat diet and experimentally induced diabetes mellitus. AuNPsCM administration showed conflicting inflammatory effects in aorta and heart homogenates but decreased the glucose levels in serum of rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Nanotechnology developed multiple systems that may be involved in drug delivery to the target tissue, among them, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) being considered potent and safe. Aims. The study aims to investigate oxidative stress and the modifications of the aorta wall after administration of gold nanoparticles, as the single component or functionalized with Cornus mas L. extract. Methods. Adult female rats received solutions by gavage, as follows: group C (control), saline solution; group I (citrate), trisodium citrate dehydrate; group II (AuNPs), gold nanoparticles solution; and group III (AuNPsCM) solution of gold nanoparticles functionalized with Cornus mas L. extract. Oxidative stress parameters were investigated in the serum and aorta, biochemical parameters from blood, diameters and blood flow velocity were measured and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was performed on ascending aorta ring sections. Results. LDL was significantly reduced; MDA decreased significantly in serum; in the aorta, endothelin 1 and TNF-α were significantly increased in AuNPs and AuNPsCM groups, iNOS increased and MDA decreased in all treated groups, compared to the control group. The aorta diameters significantly decreased, consequently the blood flow increased significantly in the treated groups, in comparison with the control group. TEM investigation showed intima and media alterations in groups that received citrate and AuNPs, and only intima modifications in the AuNPsCM group. Conclusions. The aorta wall presented oxidative stress and histological modifications in all treated rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Lighting conditions influence daily professional and physical activities of humans. Melatonin secretion is dependent on environmental photoperiodicity and its rhythm changes may contribute to systemic dysfunctions. Aims. The study evaluates the effect of natural and artificial lighting on exercise capacity and in the same conditions of natural and artificial lighting, the effect of melatonin supplementation on exercise capacity and cardiovascular changes. Methods. The research was conducted on 4 groups of animals (n = 10 animals/group) exposed to natural or artificial lighting, supplemented or not with melatonin and subjected to physical exercise. Results. Significant increases in aerobic exercise capacity (AEC) after training were observed in animals exposed to natural lighting, compared to those exposed to artificial lighting; there were significant decreases of AEC in animals supplemented with melatonin, exercise trained and subjected to natural and artificial lighting, compared to those obtained in animals without melatonin administration. The cardiovascular indicators, determined two weeks after exercise, showed impaired cardiovascular adaptation. Conclusions. Both natural and artificial lighting increased aerobic exercise capacity, though the latter in a more reduced manner. Melatonin supplementation decreased aerobic exercise capacity under natural and artificial lighting conditions. Artificial lighting, with and without melatonin supplementation, affected cardiovascular adaptation to exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Protection from oxinitrosative stress can be provided by dietary antioxidants and the supplementation with various antioxidant preparations that under exercise conditions can contribute to the maintenance of exercise capacity and post-exercise recovery. We chose a preparation with a complex antioxidant formula: vitamins, fruit and plant extracts, patented lycopene, grape and olive extracts. Aims. The effect of antioxidant complex supplementation on the aerobic exercise capacity of rats was monitored. Methods. The groups were divided as follows: group I - exercise trained; group II - exercise trained and supplemented with an antioxidant complex; group III - loaded with 15% of weight and exercise trained; group IV - loaded with 15% of weight, exercise trained and supplemented with an antioxidant complex. Aerobic exercise capacity was measured using the running test. Results. Antioxidant supplementation and moderate intensity physical exercise cause a significant increase in aerobic exercise capacity compared to physical exercise of the same intensity without supplementation. Antioxidant supplementation and high intensity physical exercise induce a significant increase in aerobic exercise capacity compared to physical exercise of the same intensity without supplementation. Conclusions. Antioxidant supplementation and high intensity physical exercise determine a significant decrease in aerobic exercise capacity compared to moderate intensity physical exercise with and without antioxidant supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The use of atypical antipsychotics to increase the antidepressant pharmacological treatment in the experimental depressive disorder was analyzed. Aims. We aimed to study experimentally, on a model of rat-induced depression, the effects of an atypical antipsychotic (Quetiapine) and major antidepressant (Agomelatine), associated with Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, on emotional and locomotor behavior and motor learning. Methods. The animals were assigned to five groups as follows: G I – control animals; G II – animals with reserpine-induced depression; G III – animals with reserpine-induced depression, treated with Quetiapine; G IV - animals with reserpineinduced depression and treated with Quetiapine and Agomelatine; G V - animals with reserpine-induced depression, treated with Quetiapine, Agomelatine and supplemented with Omega-3 fatty acids, in which emotional and locomotor behavior were tested by the open field test, whereas motor and memory learning were tested by the Morris Water Maze Test. Results. Thirty days later, the treatment with Quetiapine caused, in sedentary animals with reserpine-induced experimental depression, a decrease in excitability, involuntary mobility, in the learning ability and control, compared to control animals with depression. The co-treatment with Quetiapine and Agomelatine (a major antidepressant) in sedentary animals with reserpine-induced depression decreased excitability, increased involuntary mobility, learning ability, and its control after 30 days, compared to control animals with depression and those treated with Quetiapine. The co-treatment with Quetiapine, Agomelatine, and Omega-3 fatty acids supplements of sedentary animals with reserpine-induced depression caused a decrease in excitability and an increase in involuntary motility after 30 days, and an increase in the learning ability, decreasing its control over the group not supplemented with Omega-3 fatty acids. Conclusions. The therapeutic combination used - antipsychotic and antidepressant, with and without the addition of Omega-3 fatty acids, has favorable neurobehavioral effects in experimental depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Depression is a mental disorder characterized by pervasive low mood and loss of pleasure or interest in usual activities, which induces cognitive, especially memory and learning dysfunctions. Aims. We aimed to study neurobehavioral changes in depressed animals, based on the effects of paliperidone and exercise on the motor memory and learning ability. Methods. The research was conducted in 4 groups of animals, divided as follows: group I - control animals, group II - animals with reserpine-induced depression, group III - animals with reserpine-induced depression and paliperidone administration, group IV - animals with reserpine-induced depression, paliperidone administration and exercise. Results. Long-term paliperidone treatment alone and associated with exercise has favorable effects on the learning ability of depressed animals at T30 compared to controls and compared to values at T14. Paliperidone treatment associated or not with exercise has an unfavorable influence on the memory ability of depressed animals at T14 and T30. Conclusions. Exercise has favorable effects on the learning ability of depressed animals treated with an atypical antipsychotic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Depression is a mental disorder that has an important place among both psychiatric and non-psychiatric disorders. Aims. We aimed to study, in an experimental model of depression induced in rats, the effects of an atypical antipsychotic associated with exercise on emotional and locomotor behavior. Methods. The research was conducted in 4 groups of animals, divided as follows: group I - control animals, group II - animals with reserpine-induced depression, group III - animals with reserpine-induced depression and paliperidone administration, group IV - animals with reserpine-induced depression, paliperidone administration and exercise. Results. Reserpine, used experimentally as a depression-inducing pharmacological agent, determines an increase in emotional behavior and a decrease in locomotor activity. Treatment with paliperidone (an atypical antipsychotic) in sedentary animals with experimental depression induces an increase in emotional behavior and a decrease in locomotor activity. Treatment with paliperidone in exercise-trained animals with experimental depression determines a moderate increase in emotional behavior and the maintenance of locomotor activity within normal limits. Conclusions. Exercise has favorable effects on locomotor activity in depressed animals treated with an atypical antipsychotic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Thyroid gland is susceptible to oxidative stress. It uses hydrogen peroxide for hormone synthesis and the removal of thyroid tissue may trigger the increase of pro-oxidant processes. Aims. We investigated the antioxidant effects of quercetin and curcumin on the oxidative stress parameters in rats with hemithyroidectomy. Methods. Male albino Wistar rats with hemithyroidectomy were used. The animals were randomly allocated in the following groups: group CMC -received carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) 1%; Que 20 group -quercetin 20 mg/kg/day; Que 40 group-quercetin 40 mg/kg/day; group Euthyrox -1.3 μg/kg/day of sodium levothyroxine; Curcumin 15 group -15 mg/kg/day of curcumin; Curcumin 30 group -revived 30 mg/kg/day of curcumin. The parameters of the oxidative stress were investigated in serum and thyroid homogenate. Thyroxine (T4) and TSH levels were also evaluated. Results. Quercetin 40 mg/kg/day or Curcumin 30 mg/kg/day administration produced significant modifications: in serum, decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) and increased catalase level; in thyroid gland, decreased MDA, increased glutathione (GSH) and catalase levels. Thyroxine and TSH levels were not modified significantly. Conclusions. Quercetin and curcumin protected against oxidative stress by decreasing the lipid peroxidation and increasing the antioxidant protection. Curcumin presented the best effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The incidence and complexity of breast cancer related lymphedema determined us to study the effect of an antioxidant complex and of physical activity on lymphedema in female rats. Aims. Redox homeostasis in animals with induced lymphedema, the effect of physical exercise and of supplementation with an antioxidant complex with phyto-homeopathic properties were studied. Methods. The research was conducted on female Wistar rats, assigned to 5 groups (n = 10 animals/group): group I - control group; groups 11-IV were operated for right axillary lymph node excision; group III was subjected to physical exercise; group IV was supplemented with an antioxidant complex; group V was subjected to physical exercise and supplemented with an antioxidant complex. Forelimb volume was measured to assess lymphedema before surgery and on days 3, 7, 14, 21 postsurgery. Redox homeostasis was determined based on the values of malonaldehyde (MDA) and thiol groups (SH) on day 21 post-surgery. Results. At 21 days, we found a reduction in the volume of the affected limb after the regular exercise program and supplementation with the antioxidant complex. Conclusions. Supplementation with the antioxidant complex has a positive role in improving lymphedema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Data obtained on the administration of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on heart weight in trained animals led us to study the effects of administration on relative weight and density of the liver. Aims. We aimed to study the changes induced in liver weight and volume by exercise and CoQ10 supplementation in experimental dysmetabolic conditions. Methods. The experiment was conducted on 12 groups (n = 10 animals/group) of adult male Wistar rats, with three types of diet: standard, high-carbohydrate, and high-fat, supplemented or not with CoQ10, sedentary or exercise trained. 6 groups were subjected to daily exercise (swimming) for one hour per day for 4 weeks, the other half were sedentary. At the end of the experiment, the animals were sacrificed, body weight and liver weight and volume were measured. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 20 and Excel 2010 tools. Results. The relative liver weight was significantly influenced only by physical training. Liver density was influenced by both physical training and CoQ10 supplementation. Conclusions. In trained animals with a high calorie diet, a reduction of relative liver weight was observed, regardless of CoQ10 supplementation. Sedentary animals with CoQ10 supplementation had an increased liver density, regardless of the type of diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The paradoxical effect of exercise as a pro-oxidant at high intensities over short durations and as an antioxidant at moderate intensities over prolonged periods, as well as the influence of nutritional or non-nutritional antioxidant administration on the oxidant-antioxidant balance under exercise conditions are now known. Aims. The beneficial effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) as a non-nutritional antioxidant on exercise capacity, its role in weight normalization and cardiovascular protection led us to study experimentally the effect of CoQ10 supplementation on body and heart weight in animals trained to exercise that were given a high calorie diet to achieve dysmetabolic syndrome. Methods. The experiment was conducted on 12 groups (n = 10 animals/group) of adult male Wistar rats, with three types of food: four groups received a standard diet, four groups were fed a high-carbohydrate diet, four groups a high-fat diet; 6 groups were supplemented with CoQ10. 6 groups were subjected to daily physical exercise (by the swimming test) for 28 days, 60 minutes a day, the other 6 groups being sedentary. At the end of the experiment, the animals were sacrificed, and the body and heart weight was measured. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20 and Excel 2010. Results. The average daily weight gain was lower in the exercise trained groups, significantly in the groups supplemented with CoQ10. The relative weight of the heart was lower in the groups supplemented with CoQ10. Conclusions. A normal calorie diet with additional CoQ10 limits weight gain in both sedentary and trained animals. A high calorie diet supplemented with CoQ10 leads to lower weight gain and limits cardiac hypertrophy both in trained and sedentary animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Oxidative stress, the result of the oxidant/antioxidant imbalance, is involved in the pathogenesis of different diseases associated with inflammation. Aims. The study aimed to investigate the effects of orally administered gold nanoparticles phytoreduced with ellagic acid (AuNPs-EA) on oxidative stress in carrageenan-induced paw oedema, in Wistar rats. Methods. Paw oedema and oxidative stress parameters were investigated in rats after intraplantar carrageenan injection (0.2 ml 1% solution). Prior to this, the animals, randomly allocated into four groups, received, for 15 days, vehicle (1% carboxymethyl cellulose –CMC) (group C), 1 mg/kg/day indomethacin (group I), 40 mg/kg/day ellagic acid (group II) or 0.3 mg/kg/day AuNPs-EA (group III). The paw oedema was evaluated through plethysmometry before and at 2, 6 and 24 hours after carrageenan injection and blood samples, paw tissues and kidneys fragments were collected for oxidative stress investigation. Results. AuNPs-EA and indomethacin administration produced significant decreases of the paw oedema, compared to the control group. Lipid peroxidation was reduced significantly by the tested medication in the paw tissues, but it was increased significantly by AuNPs-EA in the kidneys. The antioxidant protection, evaluated through the GSH/GSSG ratio, was amplified significantly in all rats that received AuNPs-EA and indomethacin, in paw tissues and in serum. Ellagic acid provided antioxidant protection only in the serum. In the kidneys, only indomethacin administration increased significantly GSH/GSSG ratio. Conclusions. AuNPs-EA reduced the paw oedema and oxidative stress in inflamed tissue and in serum, in carrageenaninduced inflammation model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The antioxidant effects of lycopene, evidenced in vitro and in vivo under pathological conditions, led us to study in an experimental model of complex combined stress (exposure to moderate hypobaric hypoxia and physical exercise) the changes in the tissue oxidant/antioxidant (O/AO) balance following lycopene supplementation. Aims. The influence of chronic hypobaric hypoxia exposure and lycopene supplementation on tissue redox homeostasis under physical exercise conditions was studied in the brain, myocardium, lungs and striated muscles. Methods. The research was performed in 3 groups of white male Wistar rats: group I - control group, sedentary rats under normoxia conditions; group II - animals exposed to hypobaric hypoxia for 42 days (corresponding to the altitude of 2500 m), followed by exercise under normoxia conditions; group III - animals exposed to moderate hypobaric hypoxia for 42 days, followed by lycopene administration and daily exercise. Exposure was simulated in the hypobaric chamber for 42 days, 20 hours a day, at 2500 m. Groups II and III were trained daily for 42 days under normoxia conditions, using the swimming test. Group III received 0.0375 mg/kg body weight lycopene by oral gavage, before exercise, daily. In order to measure the indicators of the oxidant/antioxidant (O/AO) balance, tissue samples were taken from the brain, myocardium, lungs and femoral quadriceps muscle. On day 3, the following were determined: malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyls (PC), glutathione (GSH) and total sulfhydryl (SH) groups. Results. Our results support the protective effect of lycopene against OS, with a significant PC decrease in the myocardium and lungs and an insignificant PC decrease in the brain and muscles after chronic exposure to hypoxia and exercise. Antioxidant defense shows an insignificant decrease on account of GSH in the brain, myocardium and lungs and a significant decrease on account of the same indicator in the muscles of the group exposed to hypoxia, lycopene supplementation and exercise. Conclusions. Chronic hypoxia exposure and lycopene supplementation followed by physical exercise for 42 days has protective effects on the O/AO balance at muscular level, with a significant decrease in GSH and induces redox changes with a decrease in PC at myocardial and pulmonary level, and the maintenance of OS on account of a significant increase in MDA in the myocardium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Hypothermia and immobilization are stressful agents used in order to induce experimental stress. Aims. The study evaluated the effects of acute hypothermic (5°C) and restraint stress on spontaneous motility and emotivity in carnitine supplemented rats. Methods. The study has been performed on four groups of male rats, adult (n=10 animals/group), Wistar breed, for 3 days: group I - exposed to hypothermic stress (5°C), group II - exposed to anakinetic stress, group III - exposed to combined stress (hypothermic 5°C and anakinetic stress), group IV - supplemented with carnitine and exposed to combined stress. Spontaneous motility (movements and rearings) and emotivity (micturitions and defecations) were evaluated by Open Field Test. Results. The combined stress induced significant decreases of the spontaneous motility and significant increases of the emotivity as compared to the control group; carnitine supplementation in acute combined stress induced insignificant spontaneous motility increases when compared to the control animals. Conclusions. Acute combined stress induces hypomotility and hiperemotivity. Carnitine does not improve emotivity, but induces insignificant increases of motility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Peripheral nerve injuries represent a challenging medical problem regarding rehabilitation and finding an optimal treatment method. Currently, various drugs are used for the symptomatic treatment of peripheral nerve injuries (such as pain medication, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamins etc.) with inconsistent or short-term results, without providing an efficient recovery. Recently, the research has focused on different natural substances, such as chitosan, for the treatment of peripheral nerve injuries. Aims. The present research analyzed the effects of chitosan oral administration on an experimentally induced peripheral nerve injury.Methods. In the present applicative study, a peripheral nerve injury was induced on sixteen white male Wistar rats, divided into two equal groups. The effects of chitosan were examined during 21 days, compared to the control group, by assessing the following parameters: sciatic functional index (SFI), total body weight of the animal, pain-like behavior, serum nerve growth factor (NGF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels, and also by histological studies.Results. The obtained results were statistically evaluated using different methods (t-test, Bonferroni correction, GraphPad Software, ANOVA, Mann–Whitney U test), with the p-value significance level set at p<0.05. The animals treated with chitosan had a statistically significant functional improvement, compared to the control group regarding all investigated parameters and it was confirmed by the histological studies. Conclusions. The present research suggests that chitosan administered orally can become an optimal conservative treatment method for peripheral nerve injuries, but more studies are needed to confirm these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Carrageenan-induced inflammation implies the release of inflammatory cytokines and also, oxidative stress, with high amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Aims. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of a unique dose of chlorogenic acid, orally administered at one hour after a paw inflammation was produced. Methods. The paw edema and oxidative stress parameters in rats that were injected with 0.2 ml carrageenan solution 1% for paw inflammation production were investigated, and after 1 hour they received a single dose of either chlorogenic acid (100 mg/kg or 150 mg/kg) or indomethacin (1 mg/kg), by oral gavage. The paw edema was investigated using the plethysmometer test (at 2, 6 and 24 hours after carrageenan injection) and oxidative stress by spectrophotometry. Malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) levels were investigated from blood samples, paw inflamed skin and kidneys. Results. The present study showed that chlorogenic acid (both doses) and indomethacin produced significant decreases of inflamed paw volume, compared to the control group (rats without treatment). Lipid peroxidation was reduced significantly and the antioxidant protection investigated through the GSH/GSSG ratio was increased significantly in all rats that received medication, in all the tested samples: inflamed skin, serum, kidneys. Conclusions. Chlorogenic acid may reduce efficiently oxidative stress and edema if it is administered during the first phase of carrageenan-induced inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Pulmonary diseases associated with inflammation are largely found in humans. The lungs are continuously exposed to oxidative stress, a process that, through the release of reactive oxygen species, leads to tissue damage and to an increase in the initial inflammatory reaction. Therefore, it is necessary to find a therapy that is able to counteract the noxious effects of reactive species and of inflammation. Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol with anti-inflammatory effects, having the capacity to limit the production of pro-inflammatory factors such as interleukins and prostaglandins. Quercetin, a flavonoid with known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, inhibits phospholipase A2 and the enzymes of lipid peroxidation, reducing the synthesis of leukotrienes. Aims. The antioxidant effects of resveratrol and quercetin were studied in an experimental model of carrageenan-induced pleural inflammation. Methods. The study was performed using male rats, divided into 2 groups, each group containing a further 4 groups (control, administration of carrageenan, resveratrol and carrageenan, and quercetin and carrageenan, respectively). The oxidant/antioxidant balance was evaluated in the serum and in the lung tissue at 4 hours (groups I-IV) and at 24 hours (groups V-VIII). Results. In serum, at 4 and at 24 hours after carrageenan administration, the malondialdehyde levels were decreased significantly by resveratrol and quercetin, and the ceruloplasmin concentration in the rats that were pre-treated with these chemicals was increased significantly, in comparison with the control and carrageenan groups. In lung homogenate, at 4 and at 24 hours, significant decreases of malondialdehyde in the groups that received antioxidants were recorded, compared to unprotected groups; increases of glutathione levels were recorded at 24 hours only in the resveratrol group. Conclusions. In serum, both compounds, resveratrol and quercetin, presented antioxidant effects. In the lungs, at 24 hours, resveratrol had superior antioxidant effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Antioxidant supplementation can influence histological changes in myocardial and nerve tissues, after altitude exposure and physical exercise, conditions under which oxidative stress occurs. Aims. To study the histopathological changes induced in the myocardium and the encephalon by physical exercise and antioxidant supplementation after exposure to hypobaric hypoxia. Methods. The research was performed using the Hi-Lo model, in 4 groups of white male Wistar rats, under laboratory conditions corresponding to the altitude of 364 m, O2 = 20.93%: group I - sedentary controls, kept under normoxia conditions; group II - sedentary animals, kept under normoxia conditions and supplemented with an antioxidant complex daily, for 28 days; group III - animals exposed to hypobaric hypoxia corresponding to a 5500 m altitude for 28 days, followed by exercise under normoxia conditions; group IV - animals exposed to hypobaric hypoxia for 28 days, followed by the administration of an antioxidant complex and daily exercise. Groups II and III received a complex of antioxidants - Antioxidant Optimizer, produced by the Jarow company (2010 Jarow Formulas, Los Angeles), distributed by Secom, in a dose of 45 mg/kg body weight, by oral gavage, daily, before exercise. The histopathological study was performed on the myocardium and 3 encephalic areas: hippocampus (Ammon's horn), thalamus and cerebral cortex. Results. Hypobaric hypoxia exposure followed by exercise has beneficial effects on the heart, with a reduction in the number of the foci of chronic progressive cardiomyopathy, and on the nervous system, with the reduction in the number of apoptotic necrotic neurons. The administration of an antioxidant complex does not influence the cardioprotective and neuroprotective effects of hypoxic preconditioning, followed by physical exercise. Conclusions. The Hi-Lo model involving the association of severe chronic intermittent hypobaric hypoxia and aerobic physical exercise under normoxia conditions has favorable cardioprotective and neuroprotective effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Studies regarding the serum biochemical changes in redox homeostasis determined by chronic immobilization led us to investigate the serum and muscular effects of physical remobilization by exercise on the oxidant/antioxidant balance. Aims. We investigated whether physical exercise preceded by complex stress through repeated immobilization can influence the prooxidant effects of immobilization. Methods. The research was performed in 3 groups of white male Wistar rats: group I - control group, sedentary animals; group II - animals exercise trained for 28 days; group III - animals exposed to anakinetic stress (immobilization) for 3 hours daily and exercise trained for 28 days. The indicators of the oxidant/antioxidant balance were determined in the serum and muscle tissue. The moments included in the study were T1 and T28. Results. The chronic combined intermittent stress program - physical exercise preceded by immobilization (group III) induced, compared to the exercise trained group (group II), a diminution of oxidative stress with a significant decrease in serum malondialdehyde and a significant diminution of antioxidant defense on account of muscle glutathione, with insignificant changes in the other studied indicators, which supports the use of glutathione in antioxidant defense. Conclusions. Daily training for 28 days induces an increase of oxidative stress in the serum and muscles, a decrease of antioxidant defense in the serum and an increase of it in muscles. Daily training preceded by anakinetic stress for 28 days determines a decrease of oxidative stress in the serum and a decrease of antioxidant defense in muscles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The favorable effect on in vitro cellular growth and development, produced by the reactive species of oxygen and nitrogen and the beneficial antioxidant effect of moderate exercise could stimulate the peripheral nerve regeneration and could have neuroprotective action. Aims. We intended to study the exercise influence on early phase of neuromotoric functional recovery by measuring the sciatic functional index (SFI) in rats with peripheral nerve lesions. Methods. The sciatic nerve was acutely injured by crush lesion in Wistar rats, white, male. The control group (n=10) was sedentary; the exercise group (n=10) was subjected to 14 days of swimming exercise training, starting with the 14th day after surgery. Results. During the early phase of the recovery period, exercise training enhanced functional recovery. The SFI was significantly better in the trained group than in the control group. Conclusions. 1) Exercise training enhances the return of motoric function in the early phase of recovery from peripheral nerve lesion. 2) The beneficial effects of 14 days of swimming training after crush could persist in the late phase of peripheral nerve recovery. 3) The exercise represents a kinetotherapeutic intervention which must be applied from the early phase of peripheral nerve regeneration, together with other therapeutic interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Starting from existing studies on the influence of acute anakinetic stress on the motor and emotional behavior of rats, we studied the influence of chronic anakinetic stress on the same indicators. Aims. The influence of experimental chronic anakinetic stress on aerobic exercise capacity, on spontaneous motility and emotional behavior was studied. Methods. Groups (n = 10 animals/group): group I - exercise trained animals for 42 days; group II - training (21 days) preceded by anakinetic stress through immobilization (21 days); group III - training (21 days) preceded by anakinetic stress alternating with physical exercise (21 days). Anakinetic stress was induced by the immobilization of the rats for 3 hours/day. In order to determine exercise capacity, the running test was used. The monitored indicators were emotional behavior and motility. The time moments included in the study were T1, T21, and T42. Statistical calculations were performed using the SPSS 13.0, Statistica 8.0 and Microsoft Excel applications. Results. Experimental immobilization contributes to the diminution of hyperkinetic stress controlled by exercise, as well as of involuntary motility and emotional behavior. Training determines significant increases in aerobic exercise capacity and significant decreases in the spontaneous motility and emotional behavior score, which might contribute to the improvement of physical performance in athletes. Conclusions. Anakinetic stress followed by physical exercise has an unfavorable influence on aerobic exercise capacity, it increases the spontaneous motility score and decreases the emotional behavior score. Training preceded by alternating anakinetic and hyperkinetic stress determines significant increases in aerobic exercise capacity, insignificant decreases in the motility score, and significant decreases in the emotional behavior score. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Our previous research regarding the favorable effect of dietary supplementation with hemp (Cannabis sativa) oil on the aerobic capacity of rats led us to study the histological changes induced in tissues under the same conditions. Aims. We studied the experimental effect of training at different intensities, with or without hemp seed oil supplementation, on the brain and myocardium of rats. Methods. The research was conducted in four groups (n = 10 animals/group) of adult male Wistar rats, trained at different intensities. Groups I and III included animals supplemented with hemp oil. In all groups we studied the histological changes in the brain and myocardium. Exercise training was conducted for 28 days. Results. Training with loading induced histological changes of necrosis/apoptosis in the brain and did not cause histological changes in the myocardium during the study. Conclusions. Post-exercise neuronal changes of necrosis/apoptosis support the experimental hypothesis of brain neurogenesis and plasticity in the central nervous system. Hemp oil supplementation has a reduced neuroprotective effect in trained animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Maternal smoking during pregnancy is a major public health problem, with obvious consequences on the mother and the newborn. Studies on nicotine indicate a high risk for ADHD-like disorders in children whose mothers have smoked during pregnancy. Aims. The motor and emotional behavior of the offspring of pregnant animals exposed to cigarette smoke, as well as behavior differences depending on the sex and age of the offspring were evaluated. Methods. Researches were performed in Wistar rats of both sexes, born to females that were prenatally exposed to cigarette smoke for 14 days, assigned to 4 groups as follows: group I (L I) - female offspring of control pregnant females; group II (L II) - male offspring of control pregnant females; group III (L III) - female offspring of pregnant females prenatally exposed to nicotine; group IV (L IV) - male offspring of pregnant females prenatally exposed to nicotine. The offspring rats, maintained under adequate vivarium conditions, were tested at 3 times: T1 - day 21; T2 - day 42; T3 - day 90. The tests used were the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) test and the Open Field Test (OFT). Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 13.0, Statistica 8.0 and Microsoft Excel applications. Results. The prenatal exposure of rats to cigarette smoke (passive smoking) is associated with behavior changes in the offspring, males being more vulnerable compared to females. The male offspring of pregnant women exposed to cigarette smoke are characterized by hypermotility, hyperemotionality and hypoanxiety. Conclusions. The changes found in male offspring are ADHD-like changes and they occur early. Prenatal cigarette smoke exposure can be a risk factor for ADHD in male offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Alcohol is the most widely consumed drug in the world. The effects of alcohol consumption during pregnancy manifest on both the mother and the offspring. Some studies consider maternal alcohol consumption as a risk factor for ADHD. Aims. The changes in the spontaneous motor and emotional behavior of the offspring of female rats that were administered alcohol during pregnancy were studied. Methods. Researches were performed in Wistar rats of both sexes, born to females that were administered ethyl alcohol intraperitoneally, for 14 days during pregnancy. The offspring rats separated from the pregnant females were assigned to 4 groups as follows: group I (L I) - female offspring of control pregnant females; group II (L II) - male offspring of control pregnant females; group III (L III) - female offspring of pregnant females receiving prenatal alcohol; group IV (L IV) - male offspring of pregnant females receiving prenatal alcohol. The offspring rats, maintained under adequate vivarium conditions, were tested at 3 times: T1 - day 21; T2 - day 42; T3 - day 90. The tests used were the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) test and the Open Field Test (OFT). Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 13.0, Statistica 8.0 and Microsoft Excel applications. Results. The disorders of motor and emotional behavior found in the male offspring of pregnant females that were administered alcohol during pregnancy are characterized by hypermotility, hyperemotionality and hypoanxiety. The changes found are ADHD-like changes; they occur early, last for a long time and increase with adult age. Conclusions. Prenatal alcohol consumption can be a risk factor for ADHD in male offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Immobilization is a stressful agent used in order to induce experimental laboratory stress. The controversies regarding the effects of carnitine administration on motility and emotivity in sportsmen, determined us to perform experimental studies. Aims. The study evaluated the effects of restraint stress on spontaneous motility and emotivity in carnitine supplemented rats. Methods. The study was made on four groups of male rats, adult (n=10 animals/group) Wistar breed, kept for 3 days in standard laboratory temperature (18-20°C): Group I - control, group II - exposed to anakinetic stress, group III - supplemented with carnitine, group IV - supplemented with carnitine and exposed to anakinetic stress. Spontaneous motility and emotivity was evaluated by Open Field Test. Results. The restraint stress determined significant decreases of the spontaneous motility (movement and rearings) and significant increases of the emotivity (defecations and micturitions). Carnitine supplementation in acute restraint stress exposed animals induces significant spontaneous motility decrease and significant emotivity increase as compared to the control group. Conclusions. Acute anakinetic stress with and without carnitine supplementation induces hypomotility and hiperemotivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The optimization of sports training involves two components: biological training for competition and performance and recovery with the protection of the health of the athlete. Aims. The effect of the administration of some preparations for the maintenance and recovery of aerobic exercise capacity was monitored. Methods. Research was performed in 5 groups of white male Wistar rats, as follows: group I - control group, exercise trained; group II - exercise trained and supplemented with Preparation I before exercise; group III - loaded with 15% of weight, exercise trained and supplemented with Preparation I before exercise; group IV - exercise trained and supplemented with Preparation II after exercise; group V - loaded with 15% of weight, exercise trained and supplemented with Preparation II after exercise. For aerobic exercise capacity, the treadmill running test was used. The timing included in the study was: T1 - day 1; T3 - day 3; T5 - day 5; T7 - day 7; T9 - day 9; T11 - day 11; T13 - day 13; T15 - day 15; T17 - day 17; T19 - day 19; T21 - day 21. The pharmacological preparations used were: Preparation I - a complex for nutritional support, containing taurine, inositol, policosanols, vitamin C; Preparation II - a complex for post-exercise recovery, containing lycopene, polyphenols, β-carotene, vitamin E, vitamin C, and selenium. Administration was daily, by oropharyngeal gavage. Results. In group I, exercise trained, there was a significant increase in the running time starting with moment T3 until moment T13, compared to groups III and V, and a significant decrease in the running time compared to groups II and IV, after moment T13 until moment T21. In group II, there was a significant increase in the running time from moment T3 until the end of the experiment, compared to group III, and from moment T13 to moment T19, compared to groups I, III and V. The highest values were reached at moment T21. Group III had the lowest significant values of the running time during the experiment compared to groups I, II and IV. Group IV had the highest significant values compared to groups I, II, III and V until moment T19 of the experiment. Group V had the lowest significant values of the running time compared to the rest of the groups and particularly group IV. Conclusions. 1) The preparations for the maintenance and recovery of aerobic exercise capacity in animals have different effects depending on the duration and intensity of exercise. 2) Preparation I, for maintenance, is more effective in the long term. 3) Preparation II, for recovery, is more effective in the short term. 4) An increase in the intensity of physical exercise by loading results in a decrease in aerobic exercise capacity both in animals supplemented with Preparation I and those supplemented with Preparation II; decreases are more important after supplementation with Preparation II. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vitamin-like compound with a direct and indirect antioxidant role, energetic role and with an increase of the immune system. The modifications of oxidant/antioxidant (O/AO) balance in exercise with the oxidative stress (SO) production, determined us to study the effects of CoQ10 supplementation on the leucocytes phagocytic capacity, which through the phagocytic function on the reactive species of oxigen (SRO) production have a favourable role in the antimicrobian defence in the body. Aims. The following were studied: 1. influence of CoQ10 supplementation on the aerobic exercise capacity; 2. influence of exercise and CoQ10 supplement on the leukocytes and phagocytic capacity. Methods. The investigation was carried out in 3 groups of 10 male albino Wistar rats: group I: animals trained to exercise; group II: animals trained to exercise with CoQ10 supplementation; group III: sedentary animals with CoQ10 supplementation. Venous blood samples were taken from the retroorbitar vein on the 1st day, 14th day and 28th day. Leukocytes count and the leukograme (polymorphonuclear neutrophil leucocytes: PMNN; monocytes: MO), phagocytic capacity (phagocytic index: FI; phagocytic activity: FA; peroxidase activity: Px) were detected. Results. The training determined significant increases of the aerobic exercise capacity, with or without CoQ10 supplementation. The exercise influence the phagocytic capacity, with the significant decreases of FI on the 14th day and on the 28th day as compared with the 1st day, the significant increases of FA on the 14th day and restoration to the initial values on the 28th day, and without significantly influence on the Px. The exercise and CoQ10 supplementation did not determine significant changes of the counts of leucocytes and PMNN, but produced significant MO increases, with maximum values on the 14th day, as compared with the 1st day; influencing favourably the phagocytic capacity, while supplementation in the sedentary animals determined a significant decrease of FI after 14 days and 28 days, and significant increases of FI and FA after 28 days; Px decreased significantly, as compared with the 1st day. The CoQ10 supplementation in sedentary animals determined the significant decrease of FI after 14 days and 28 days, and increases of FA which are significant after 28 days; Px increased significantly during the exercise, as compared with the 1st day. Conclusions. CoQ10 supplementation determined significant increases of the aerobic exercise capacity, without significant changes of the total leukocytes count; phagocytic capacity increased based on the FI and on the FA, but decreased because of Px. These changes can be attributed to the direct or indirect antioxidant role of the CoQ10 and to its energetic generating effect on the exercise capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]