Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Prophylactic ankle bracing reduces rearfoot motion during sudden inversion

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of ankle bracing on rearfoot angular displacement and angular velocity during a sudden inversion movement. A 1 × 3 factorial design was used. The single independent variable was ankle brace condition with three levels: semi‐rigid, lace‐up and control. The two dependent variables were rearfoot average angular displacement and average angular velocity. Twenty‐four healthy volunteers participated in this study. A motion analysis system was used to capture, model and calculate two‐dimensional rearfoot motion while the subjects' ankle/foot complex was inverted to 35° on a platform device. All subjects performed five trials of each ankle brace condition, and the average of these trials was used for statistical analysis. The semi‐rigid brace significantly reduced rearfoot angular displacement and angular velocity compared with the lace‐up (P<0.05) and control conditions (P<0.05). Additionally, the lace‐up style brace demonstrated significantly less rearfoot angular displacement and angular velocity compared with the control condition (P<0.05). These results demonstrate that a semi‐rigid ankle brace is more superior then a lace‐up style brace in limiting rearfoot angular displacement and angular velocity. Moreover, the lace‐up style brace offers significant restriction of these measures compared with no support.
Muscular strength, functional performances and injury risk in professional and junior elite soccer players

Muscle strength and anaerobic power of the lower extremities are neuromuscular variables that influence performance in many sports activities, including soccer. Despite frequent contradictions in the literature, it may be assumed that muscle strength and balance play a key role in targeted acute muscle injuries. The purpose of the present study was to provide and compare pre‐season muscular strength and power profiles in professional and junior elite soccer players throughout the developmental years of 15–21. One original aspect of our study was that isokinetic data were considered alongside the past history of injury in these players. Fifty‐seven elite and junior elite male soccer players were assigned to three groups: PRO, n=19; U‐21, n=20 and U‐17, n=18. Players benefited from knee flexor and extensor isokinetic testing consisting of concentric and eccentric exercises. A context of lingering muscle disorder was defined using statistically selected cut‐offs. Functional performance was evaluated throughout a squat jump and 10 m sprint. The PRO group ran faster and jumped higher than the U‐17 group (P<0.05). No significant difference in isokinetic muscle strength performance was observed between the three groups when considering normalized body mass parameters. Individual isokinetic profiles enabled the identification of 32/57 (56%) subjects presenting lower limb muscular imbalance. Thirty‐six out of 57 players were identified as having sustained a previous major lower limb injury. Of these 36 players, 23 still showed significant muscular imbalance (64%). New trends in rational training could focus more on the risk of imbalance and implement antagonist strengthening aimed at injury prevention. Such an intervention would benefit not only athletes recovering from injury, but also uninjured players. An interdisciplinary approach involving trainers, a physical coach, and medical staff would be of interest to consider in implementing a prevention programme.
Skeletal muscle fiber‐type distribution and habitual physical activity in daily life

The capacity to perform physical activity largely depends on physical fitness. Muscle fiber‐type distribution (MuscleFTD) is associated with physical fitness and may influence the capacity to perform physical activity. The purpose of this study was to determine whether habitual physical activity in daily life (PADL) and MuscleFTD are related. Thirty‐eight healthy non‐athletes (31 women, 7 men) were recruited. PADL was measured twice for 14 days using a tri‐axial accelerometer for movement registration (Tracmor). From Tracmor output, the proportion of time subjects were physically active at low, moderate, and high intensities was determined (%Low, %Moderate, and %High, respectively). A total activity index (PAindex) and sub‐scores on work, leisure‐time and sports were obtained using the Baecke questionnaire. MuscleFTD was determined using immuno‐fluorescence against respective myosin heavy chain isoforms. No relationship was observed between PADL and MuscleFTD. %Low, %Moderate, and %High, as well as PAindex and its sub‐scores, were not related to MuscleFTD either. The time spent on sports was associated with the proportion of type I and IIX fibers (P=0.06 and P<0.01, respectively). In conclusion, MuscleFTD probably cannot explain why some people are more prone to engaging in physical activities than others.
L‐type voltage‐operated calcium channels contribute to astrocyte activation In vitro

We have found a significant upregulation of L‐type voltage‐operated Ca++ channels (VOCCs) in reactive astrocytes. To test if VOCCs are centrally involved in triggering astrocyte reactivity, we used in vitro models of astrocyte activation in combination with pharmacological inhibitors, siRNAs and the Cre/lox system to reduce the activity of L‐type VOCCs in primary cortical astrocytes. The endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) as well as high extracellular K+, glutamate, and ATP promote astrogliosis in vitro. L‐type VOCC inhibitors drastically reduce the number of reactive cells, astrocyte hypertrophy, and cell proliferation after these treatments. Astrocytes transfected with siRNAs for the Cav1.2 subunit that conducts L‐type Ca++ currents as well as Cav1.2 knockout astrocytes showed reduce Ca++ influx by ∼80% after plasma membrane depolarization. Importantly, Cav1.2 knock‐down/out prevents astrocyte activation and proliferation induced by LPS. Similar results were found using the scratch wound assay. After injuring the astrocyte monolayer, cells extend processes toward the cell‐free scratch region and subsequently migrate and populate the scratch. We found a significant increase in the activity of L‐type VOCCs in reactive astrocytes located in the growing line in comparison to quiescent astrocytes situated away from the scratch. Moreover, the migration of astrocytes from the scratching line as well as the number of proliferating astrocytes was reduced in Cav1.2 knock‐down/out cultures. In summary, our results suggest that Cav1.2 L‐type VOCCs play a fundamental role in the induction and/or proliferation of reactive astrocytes, and indicate that the inhibition of these Ca++ channels may be an effective way to prevent astrocyte activation. GLIA 2016. GLIA 2016;64:1396–1415
Microanatomical variations in the cerebellopontine angle associated with vestibular schwannomas (acoustic neuromas)

Great advances in neuroimaging, intraoperative cranial nerve monitoring, and microsurgical technique have shifted the focus of acoustic neuroma surgery from prolonging life to preserving cranial nerve function in patients. An appreciation of the vascular and cranial nerve microanatomy and the intimate relationship between neurovascular structures and the tumor is essential to achieve optimum results. In this paper the authors analyze the microanatomical variations in location of the facial and cochlear nerves in the cerebellopontine angle (CPA) associated with acoustic neuromas and, additionally, describe the frequency of involvement of surrounding neural and vascular structures with acoustic tumors of varying size. The authors base their findings on their experience treating 1006 consecutive patients who underwent surgery via a retrosigmoid or translabyrinthine approach. Between July 1969 and January 1998, the senior author (D.M.L.) performed surgery in 1022 patients for acoustic neuroma: 705 (69%) via t.
Salvia officinalis L. essential oils: effect of hydrodistillation time on the chemical composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities

Salvia officinalis L. oils were isolated from the plant's commercial dried aerial parts, by hydrodistillation, with different distillation times. The essential oils were analysed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The antioxidant ability was measured using a free radical scavenging activity assay using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), a thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay, a deoxyribose assay for the scavenging of hydroxyl radical, an assay for site-specific actions and a 5-lipoxygenase assay. Antibacterial activity was determined by the agar diffusion method. 1,8-Cineole, α-pinene and camphor were the dominant components of all the essential oils. The different hydrodistillation times did not affect the oil yield nor the relative amount of the oil components. The time of hydrodistillation influenced the antioxidant activity. With the DPPH method, the oils isolated for 2 and 3 h were stronger free radical scavengers, while with the TBARS method, the highest antioxidant values were obtained in the oils isolated for 30 min, 2 and 3 h. Hydroxyl radical scavenging and lipoxygenase activity assays showed the best results with oils isolated for 1 and 3 h. With the deoxyribose method, sage oils at concentrations <1000 mg L−1 showed better activity than mannitol. The essential oil of S. officinalis showed very weak antimicrobial activity.
Randomized trial comparing exercise therapy, alternating cold and hot therapy, and low intensity laser therapy for chronic lumbar muscle strain

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of exercise therapy, alternating cold and hot (ACH) therapy and low intensity laser (LIL) therapy in patients with chronic lumbar muscle strain (CLMS). Thirty-two patients were randomly allocated to four groups: exercise group, ACH group, LIL group, and combination group of exercise, ACH and LIL, eight in each group. Sixteen treatments were given over the course of 4 weeks. Lumbar muscle endurance, flexion and lateral flexion measures, visual analogue scale (VAS) and lumbar disability questionnaire (LDQ) were used in the clinical and functional evaluations before, immediately after, and 4 weeks after treatment. It was found that the values of endurance, VAS and LDQ in all groups were significantly improved from before to after treatment (P < 0.01). The combination group showed significantly larger reduction on pain level and functional disability than the other groups immediately and 4 weeks after treatment (P < 0.01). Pain level reduced significantly more in the ACH group than in the exercise group or the LIL group immediately and 4 weeks after treatment (P < 0.05). Lumbar muscle endurance and spinal ranges of motion in all groups were improved after treatment but there was no significant difference between any therapy groups. In conclusion, exercise therapy, ACH therapy and LIL therapy were effective in the treatment of CLMS. ACH therapy was more effective than exercise therapy or LIL therapy. The combination therapy of exercise, ACH and LIL had still better rehabilitative effects on CLMS.
Demyelination induced by oxidative stress is regulated by sphingosine 1‐phosphate receptors

Oxidative stress is a pathological condition defined as an imbalance between production and removal of reactive oxygen species. This process causes structural cell damage, disrupts DNA repair and induces mitochondrial dysfunction. Many in vitro studies have used direct bolus application of H2O2 to investigate the role of oxidative stress in cell culture. In this study, using mouse organotypic cerebellar slice cultures, the effects of H2O2‐induced oxidative stress on myelination state were examined, using bolus concentrations of H2O2 (0.1–1 mM) and low‐continuous H2O2 (∼20 μM) generated from glucose oxidase and catalase (GOX‐CAT). Using these models, the potential therapeutic effects of pFTY720, an oral therapy used in multiple sclerosis, was also examined. We found bolus treatment of H2O2 (0.5 mM) and, for the first time, low‐continuous H2O2 (GOX‐CAT) to induce demyelination in organotypic slices. Both bolus H2O2 and GOX‐CAT treatments significantly decreased vimentin expression in these slice cultures as well as increased cell death in isolated astrocyte cultures. Importantly, pre‐treatment with pFTY720 significantly attenuated both bolus H2O2 and GOX‐CAT‐induced demyelination and the GOX‐CAT‐induced decrease in vimentin in cerebellar slices, without altering levels of the proinflammatory cytokines such as IL‐6 and CX3CL1. We also observed increased SMI‐32 immunoreactivity in the white matter tract induced by GOX‐CAT indicating axonal damage, which was remarkably attenuated by pFTY720. Taken together, this data establishes a novel GOX‐CAT model of demyelination and demonstrates that pFTY720 can act independently of inflammatory cytokines to attenuate decreases in vimentin, as well as axonal damage and demyelination induced by oxidative stress.
Chemical compounds from Phoenician juniper berries (Juniperus phoenicea)

Natural chemical compounds are a widely researched topic worldwide because of their potential activity against cerebrovascular diseases. Chemicals from Juniperus phoenicea berries are reported in this study. Lipids (11%) from seeds are mainly unsaturated (86%). Minerals are also quantified like Na (63.8 mg per 100 g DW) or K (373.9 mg per 100 g DW). Total reduced sugars are ca 192.6 mg g−1 DW. Polyphenols and flavonoids from berries are highly present with an average of 1764 ± 174.3 mg gallic acid per 100 g DW and 890 ± 47.6 mg rutin per 100 g DW, respectively. Mean free radical scavenging activities, determined by DPPH and ABTS, are 1337 ± 126.2 mM TEAC per 100 g DW and 1105.7 ± 95.9 mM TEAC per 100 g DW, respectively. All findings improve the possible presence of biologically active fractions in phytocomplex that could be used as such and/or extracted for the formulation of supplements and/or ingredients for the pharmaceutical industry.
The novel synthetic microneurotrophin BNN27 protects mature oligodendrocytes against cuprizone‐induced death, through the NGF receptor TrkA

BNN27, a member of a chemical library of C17‐spiroepoxy derivatives of the neurosteroid DHEA, has been shown to regulate neuronal survival through its selective interaction with NGF receptors (TrkA and p75NTR), but its role on glial populations has not been studied. Here, we present evidence that BNN27 provides trophic action (rescue from apoptosis), in a TrkA‐dependent manner, to mature oligodendrocytes when they are challenged with the cuprizone toxin in culture. BNN27 treatment also increases oligodendrocyte maturation and diminishes microglia activation in vitro. The effect of BNN27 in the cuprizone mouse model of demyelination in vivo has also been investigated. In this model, that does not directly involve the adaptive immune system, BNN27 can protect from demyelination without affecting the remyelinating process. BNN27 preserves mature oligodendrocyte during demyelination, while reducing microgliosis and astrogliosis. Our findings suggest that BNN27 may serve as a lead molecule to develop neurotrophin‐like blood–brain barrier (BBB)‐permeable protective agents of oligodendrocyte populations and myelin, with potential applications in the treatment of demyelinating disorders.
Inhibition of glial hemichannels by boldine treatment reduces neuronal suffering in a murine model of Alzheimer's disease

The contribution of reactive gliosis to the pathological phenotype of Alzheimer's disease (AD) opened the way for therapeutic strategies targeting glial cells instead of neurons. In such context, connexin hemichannels were proposed recently as potential targets since neuronal suffering is alleviated when connexin expression is genetically suppressed in astrocytes of a murine model of AD. Here, we show that boldine, an alkaloid from the boldo tree, inhibited hemichannel activity in astrocytes and microglia without affecting gap junctional communication in culture and acute hippocampal slices. Long‐term oral administration of boldine in AD mice prevented the increase in glial hemichannel activity, astrocytic Ca2+ signal, ATP and glutamate release and alleviated hippocampal neuronal suffering. These findings highlight the important pathological role of hemichannels in AD mice. The neuroprotective effect of boldine treatment might provide the basis for future pharmacological strategies that target glial hemichannels to reduce neuronal damage in neurodegenerative diseases.
The upper extremity of the professional tennis player: muscle volumes, fiber‐type distribution and muscle strength

The effects of professional tennis participation on dominant and non‐dominant upper extremity muscle volumes, and on fiber types of triceps brachii (lateral head) and vastus lateralis muscles were assessed in 15 professional tennis players. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI, n=8) examination and dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA, n=7) were used to assess muscle volumes and lean body mass. Muscle fiber‐type distribution assessed by biopsy sampling was similar in both triceps brachii (2/3 were type 2 and 1/3 type 1 fibers). The VL was composed of 1/3 of type 2 and 2/3 of type 1 fibers. The dominant had 12–15% higher lean mass (DXA/MRI) than the non‐dominant (P<0.05). Type 1, 2a and 2x muscle fibers of the dominant were hypertrophied compared with the non‐dominant by 20%, 22% and 34% (all P<0.01), respectively. The deltoid, triceps brachii, arm flexors and forearm superficial flexor muscles of the dominant were hypertrophied (MRI) compared with the non‐dominant by 11–15%. These muscles represented a similar fraction of the whole muscle volume in both upper extremities. Dominant muscle volume was correlated with 1RM on the one‐arm cable triceps pushdown exercise (r=0.84, P<0.05). Peak power during vertical jump correlated with VL muscle fibers's cross‐sectional area (r=0.82–0.95, P<0.05).
Antioxidant and antibacterial activity of essential oil and extracts of bay laurel Laurus nobilis Linnaeus (Lauraceae) from Portugal

Laurus nobilis L. is an aromatic plant frequently used as a spice in Mediterranean cookery and as a traditional medicine for the treatment of several infectious diseases. The aim of this study was to characterise the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of bay laurel essential oil (EO), ethanolic extract (EE) and hot/cold aqueous extract (AE). The major components detected in bay laurel EO were eucalyptol (27.2%), α-terpinenyl acetate (10.2%), linalool (8.4%), methyleugenol (5.4%), sabinene (4.0%) and carvacrol (3.2%). The EO exhibited strong antibacterial activity against all tested foodborne spoilage and pathogenic bacteria, whereas this activity was less pronounced or even nonexistent in the EE and AE. In contrast, EO exhibited low antioxidant activity compared to extracts (EX), and among the EX, the hot AE revealed the highest antioxidant ability. The results show that bay laurel EO and its EX have potential as natural alternatives to synthetic food preservatives, in order to enhance food safety and increase food shelf life.
Measurement of Knee Laxity and Pivot-Shift Kinematics With Magnetic Sensors

This article describes work to develop a system to measure translational and rotational knee laxity and complex "dynamic" tests, such as the pivot-shift test, by the use of electromagnetic sensors mounted onto the limb segments with specially developed splints and clamps. We have measured in vitro and in vivo the motion of bone-mounted sensors versus skin-mounted sensors, and thus shown that there was an overall accuracy of approximately ±1 mm in translation and ±1° in rotation when the movements were relatively slow. It was found that, for clinical pivot-shift testing, the dynamic motion led to inaccuracy because of the inertia of the sensor mounting system, which led to the peaks of the sudden reduction motions not being measured; this system requires further development. We show that it also is possible to use this system in the clinic to record both rotational and translational knee laxity motions, both of which are integral to the pivot-shift instability. The force and torque were applied to the limb with sets of constant-force springs, which allowed the knee to be flexed while maintaining a constant load across the knee. This maneuver led to graphs showing the limits of translation and rotation laxity, across the range of knee flexion, for a series of 60 patients. It was then shown that the pivot-shift motion occurred within these laxity limits. The level of measurement accuracy means that the system described should be clinically useful.
Chemical composition of the essential oil of aerial parts of Haussknechtia elymaitica Boiss. from Iran: a good natural source for trans-asaron

The chemical composition of the essential oil of Haussknechtia elymaitica Boiss. was investigated by capillary GC and GC/MS for the first time. Twelve components were identified which accounting for 99.7% of the oil composition. The major compounds were trans-asarone (59.9%), trans-methyl isoeugenol (22.4%), α-zingiberene (7.96%), β-sesquiphellandrene (4.7%) and β-bisabolene (4.3%). The first three compounds considered as the main components of the essential oil were isolated and characterised by spectroscopic techniques.
Pancreas vs. islet transplantation: a call on the future

Purpose of reviewThe aim of this article is to review recent reports on whole pancreas and islet cell transplantation. It focuses on ‘what the call to the future looks like’ for both therapies as treatment options for those type 1 diabetes patients who do not respond well to conventional therapy. Recent findingsThe major benefit of pancreas transplantation is the reversal of diabetes improvement of diabetes complications. Although the procedure requires major surgery and life-long immunosuppression, it remains the gold standard for a specific population of patients who suffer from type 1 diabetes and who do not respond to conventional therapy. Allogeneic islet transplantation is a promising alternative to pancreas transplantation, but patient outcomes remain less than optimal and significant progress is required in order for this procedure to be considered a reliable therapy. ConclusionSeveral factors have to be taken into consideration before making the decision of which of these procedures would better suit a patient with type 1 diabetes.
Preventing overtraining in athletes in high‐intensity sports and stress/recovery monitoring

In sports, the importance of optimizing the recovery–stress state is critical. Effective recovery from intense training loads often faced by elite athletes can often determine sporting success or failure. In recent decades, athletes, coaches, and sport scientists have been keen to find creative, new methods for improving the quality and quantity of training for athletes. These efforts have consistently faced barriers, including overtraining, fatigue, injury, illness, and burnout. Physiological and psychological limits dictate a need for research that addresses the avoidance of overtraining, maximizes recovery, and successfully negotiates the fine line between high and excessive training loads. Monitoring instruments like the Recovery–Stress Questionnaire for Athletes can assist with this research by providing a tool to assess their perceived state of recovery. This article will highlight the importance of recovery for elite athletes and provide an overview of monitoring instruments.