Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Variability of Strength Measurement in Postmenopausal Women Who are Overweight or Obese: A Monet Study

St-Onge, M, Mathieu, M-È, Tousignant, B, Faraj, M, and Lavoie, JM. Variability of strength measurement in postmenopausal women who are overweight or obese: a monet study. J Strength Cond Res 23(9): 2710-2717, 2009-The main objective of this study was to establish whether a stable measurement of strength could be obtained without prior exercise familiarization in postmenopausal women who were overweight or obese. A second objective was to evaluate the influence of physical activity on the variability of strength measurement. Thirty postmenopausal women (age: 57.9 yr; SD: 5 yr; body mass index: 31.0 kg/m2; SD: 4 kg/m2) underwent 3 strength testing sessions (48 hr apart) each including 3 exercises (leg press, chest press, and lat pull down). Energy expenditure was measured before the strength testing week with the doubly labelled water method over a 10-day period. Resting metabolic rate was measured by indirect calorimetry. Physical activity energy expenditure was calculated as follows: total energy expenditure × 0.9, minus the resting metabolic rate. Repeated analysis of variance and paired t-test were used to assess the difference and the reliability of the testing sequence. Results from leg press and chest press exercises indicated no significant difference among the 3 testing sessions. The lat pull down exercise was associated with a significant systematic bias between sessions 1 and 2 (mean difference: 1.4 kg; SD: 3 kg; 95% confidence intervals; 0.2-2.7 kg), but the difference disappeared at the third testing session (mean difference: 0.7 kg; SD: 3 kg; 95% confidence intervals; 0.5-2 kg). Physical activity did not influence the variability of the strength results. Overall, our results showed that a relatively stable strength measurement can be obtained within a maximum of 3 testing sessions without prior familiarization. In addition, physical activity did not influence strength testing in postmenopausal women who were overweight or obese.
Physical activity profiles and sedentary behaviour in people following stroke: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Purpose: To measure and compare physical activity profiles and sedentary time between community dwelling stroke survivors and healthy volunteers. Methods: Twenty-two stroke survivors (10 men, age 55.3 ± 9.9 years; 4.2 ± 4.0 years since their stroke) were recruited from local stroke support groups, and 22 controls were matched for sex, age and body mass index (BMI). All participants wore an ActivPAL™ physical activity monitor for seven days and from these data activity profiles, including the number of steps per day, time spent sedentary and time in different cadence bands, were recorded. Results: Stroke survivors took significantly fewer steps per day than the controls (4035 ± 2830 steps/day versus 8394 ± 2941 steps/day, p < 0.001) and sedentary time (including sleep time) was significantly higher for stroke participants compared to the controls (20.4 ± 2.7 h versus 17.5 ± 3.8 h, p < 0.001). People with stroke spent a significantly higher proportion of their walking time in lower self-selected cadences compared to the controls. Conclusions: Community dwelling stroke survivors spent more time sedentary, took fewer steps and walked at a slower self-selected cadence. Interventions to increase walking and reduce sedentary time following stroke are required which may have the added benefit of reducing cardiovascular risk in this group. Implications for Rehabilitation Stroke survivors are predisposed to reduced physical activity and increased cardiovascular risk. This study showed that community dwelling stroke survivors spent more time sedentary, took fewer steps and walked at a slower self-selected cadence. Interventions are required which focus on reducing sedentary time as well as increasing step counts in people following stroke.
Improving Repeated Sprint Ability in Young Elite Soccer Players: Repeated Shuttle Sprints Vs. Explosive Strength Training

Buchheit, M, Mendez-Villanueva, A, Delhomel, G, Brughelli, M, and Ahmaidi, S. Improving repeated sprint ability in young elite soccer players: repeated shuttle sprints vs. explosive strength training. J Strength Cond Res 24(10): 2715-2722, 2010-To compare the effects of explosive strength (ExpS) vs. repeated shuttle sprint (RS) training on repeated sprint ability (RSA) in young elite soccer players, 15 elite male adolescents (14.5 ± 0.5 years) performed, in addition to their soccer training program, RS (n = 7) or ExpS (n = 8) training once a week for a total of 10 weeks. RS training consisted of 2-3 sets of 5-6 × 15- to 20-m repeated shuttle sprints interspersed with 14 seconds of passive or 23 seconds of active recovery (≈2 m·s−1); ExpS training consisted of 4-6 series of 4-6 exercises (e.g., maximal unilateral countermovement jumps (CMJs), calf and squat plyometric jumps, and short sprints). Before and after training, performance was assessed by 10 and 30 m (10 and 30 m) sprint times, best (RSAbest) and mean (RSAmean) times on a repeated shuttle sprint ability test, a CMJ, and a hopping (Hop) test. After training, except for 10 m (p = 0.22), all performances were significantly improved in both groups (all p's < 0.05). Relative changes in 30 m (−2.1 ± 2.0%) were similar for both groups (p = 0.45). RS training induced greater improvement in RSAbest (−2.90 ± 2.1 vs. −0.08 ± 3.3%, p = 0.04) and tended to enhance RSAmean more (−2.61 ± 2.8 vs. −0.75 ± 2.5%, p = 0.10, effect size [ES] = 0.70) than ExpS. In contrast, ExpS tended to induce greater improvements in CMJ (14.8 ± 7.7 vs. 6.8 ± 3.7%, p = 0.02) and Hop height (27.5 ± 19.2 vs. 13.5 ± 13.2%, p = 0.08, ES = 0.9) compared with RS. Improvements in the repeated shuttle sprint test were only observed after RS training, whereas CMJ height was only increased after ExpS. Because RS and ExpS were equally efficient at enhancing maximal sprinting speed, RS training-induced improvements in RSA were likely more related to progresses in the ability to change direction.
Comparison Between Linear and Daily Undulating Periodized Resistance Training to Increase Strength

Prestes, J, Frollini, AB, De Lima, C, Donatto, FF, Foschini, D, de Marqueti, RC, Figueira Jr, A, and Fleck, SJ. Comparison between linear and daily undulating periodized resistance training to increase strength. J Strength Cond Res 23(9): 2437-2442, 2009-To determine the most effective periodization model for strength and hypertrophy is an important step for strength and conditioning professionals. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of linear (LP) and daily undulating periodized (DUP) resistance training on body composition and maximal strength levels. Forty men aged 21.5 ± 8.3 and with a minimum 1-year strength training experience were assigned to an LP (n = 20) or DUP group (n = 20). Subjects were tested for maximal strength in bench press, leg press 45°, and arm curl (1 repetition maximum [RM]) at baseline (T1), after 8 weeks (T2), and after 12 weeks of training (T3). Increases of 18.2 and 25.08% in bench press 1 RM were observed for LP and DUP groups in T3 compared with T1, respectively (p ≤ 0.05). In leg press 45°, LP group exhibited an increase of 24.71% and DUP of 40.61% at T3 compared with T1. Additionally, DUP showed an increase of 12.23% at T2 compared with T1 and 25.48% at T3 compared with T2. For the arm curl exercise, LP group increased 14.15% and DUP 23.53% at T3 when compared with T1. An increase of 20% was also found at T2 when compared with T1, for DUP. Although the DUP group increased strength the most in all exercises, no statistical differences were found between groups. In conclusion, undulating periodized strength training induced higher increases in maximal strength than the linear model in strength-trained men. For maximizing strength increases, daily intensity and volume variations were more effective than weekly variations.
Influence of Length-Restricted Strength Training on Athlete's Power-Load Curves of Knee Extensors and Flexors

Ullrich, B, Kleinöder, H, and Brüggemann, G-P. Influence of length-restricted strength training on athlete's power-load curves of knee extensors and flexors. J Strength Cond Res 24(3): 668-678, 2010-This study investigated whether different length-restricted strength training regimens affect voluntary explosive concentric power-load curves of the quadriceps femoris (QF) and hamstring (HAM) muscles. Thirty-two athletes were divided into 3 different training groups (G1-G3): G1 performed isometric training at knee joint angles corresponding to long muscle-tendon unit (MTU) length for QF and HAM; G2 conducted concentric-eccentric contraction cycles that were restricted to a knee joint range of motion corresponding to predominantly long MTU length for QF and HAM; and G3 combined the protocols of G1 and G2. Knee joint angle-dependent power-load curves during maximal voluntary explosive concentric knee extensions and flexions were measured for loads corresponding to 40, 60, and 80% of individual 1 repetition maximum at 5 different occasions: 2 times before, after 5 and 8 weeks of training, and 4 weeks post training. Power values of each subject were normalized to the largest value produced at any knee joint position (percent maximum). Obtained by curve fitting, the optimal knee joint angle for power production of QF and HAM remained unaltered throughout the course of the study for all testing loads and training groups. Therefore, different strength training regimens with a common restriction to long MTU lengths failed to induce length-dependent alterations in athlete's voluntary concentric power-load curves of knee extensors and flexors. The approach to develop strength training programs that induce systematic shifts in length-dependent power production of QF and HAM is of direct practical relevance for athletic activities such as cycling, ice skating, and skiing. However, restricting the muscle excursion range during loading seems to be an inappropriate trigger to cause length-dependent alterations in athlete's voluntary concentric power-load curves.
Teachers’ perceptions of virtual worlds as a medium for social inclusion for adults with intellectual disability

Abstract Purpose: The aim of this research was to explore educators’ perceptions of a virtual world Second Life TM as an environment for social interaction and social inclusion for the Norwegian adult students with intellectual disability that they supported. Method: Five educators who supported a total of 10 adult students with intellectual disability in computer classes in community Adult Education Centres participated in individual in-depth interviews. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using a content analysis. Results: Participants were positive about Second Life although they did not perceive that it offered a successful context for social interaction or inclusion. They identified a number of benefits to using a virtual world and for students participating in virtual world research. Barriers identified included language, literacy, and technology issues along with the complexity of participating independently in a virtual world. Conclusions: Some people with intellectual disability can use virtual worlds but the skills required need additional research. Virtual worlds may provide a stimulating, safe, and exciting context for a range of activities but the level of support required by many people is high and consequently expensive. Implications for Rehabilitation Educators can use virtual worlds such as Second LifeTM with people with intellectual disability as an enjoyable medium to experience new activities and gain feelings of independence. People with intellectual disability can use Second Life with support and those with good literacy and computer skills can be trained to use it independently. Technology support is needed as virtual worlds are not easy to use for those who have problems with literacy or with speaking or reading English and if the virtual world platform is not stable, the ensuing problems with sound and/or images can be frustrating. Further research is required to explore how virtual worlds could be used to expand teaching programs and allow individuals to build on independent and new experiences in the virtual world safely.
Foot and ankle impairments affect balance and mobility in stroke (FAiMiS): the views and experiences of people with stroke

Abstract Purpose: To explore the nature and impact of foot and ankle impairments on mobility and balance in community-dwelling, chronic stroke survivors. Methods: A qualitative research design using face to face semi-structured, audio recorded interviews. Thirteen community-dwelling stroke survivors, all of whom had self-reported foot and ankle impairments, were interviewed (female n = 6, mean age = 67 years, SD = 12 years, mean time since stroke = 4 years, SD = 6 years, right stroke n = 7, left stroke n = 6). A framework analysis approach was used to analyse and interpret transcribed interviews. Results: Three themes emerged: (1) Impact. The influence of foot and ankle impairments on mobility and balance. (2) Standing out. How participants felt they “stood out” because of their impairments and wanted to be normal. (3) Help. The specific help and advice participants received in managing their problems. Conclusions: Foot and ankle impairments such as pain, altered somatosensory input and weakness significantly contribute to problems with community ambulation, balance and fear of falling in people with chronic stroke. Specific foot and ankle impairments may also negatively contribute to perceptions of physical appearance and self-esteem. Therapeutic management approaches within clinical practice appear to focus mostly on the gross performance of the lower limb with little emphasis on the specific assessment or treatment of the foot or ankle. Implications for Rehabilitation Foot pain, sensory impairments and muscle weakness in the foot and ankle can impact on community ambulation, balance and fear of falling following stroke. Foot and ankle function post-stroke should be routinely assessed and monitored. Clinicians should be aware of the potentially distressing negative perceptions associated with altered gait patterns, footwear and orthotic use.
A Practical Approach to Monitoring Recovery: Development of a Perceived Recovery Status Scale

Laurent, CM, Green, JM, Bishop, PA, Sjökvist, J, Schumacker, RE, Richardson, MT, and Curtner-Smith, M. A practical approach to monitoring recovery: development of a perceived recovery status scale. J Strength Cond Res 25(3): 620-628, 2011-The aim of this study was to develop and test the practical utility of a perceived recovery status (PRS) scale. Sixteen volunteers (8 men, 8 women) performed 4 bouts of high-intensity intermittent sprint exercise. After completion of the baseline trial, in a repeated-measures design, subjects were given variable counterbalanced recovery periods of 24, 48, and 72 hours whereupon they repeated an identical intermittent exercise protocol. After a warm-up period, but before beginning each subsequent bout of intermittent sprinting, each individual provided their perceived level of recovery with a newly developed PRS scale. Similar to perceived exertion during exercise, PRS was based on subjective feelings. The utility of the PRS scale was assessed by measuring the level of agreement of an individual's perceived recovery relative to their performance during the exercise bout. Perceived recovery status and change (both positive and negative) in sprint performance during multiple bouts of repeated sprint exercise were moderately negative correlated (r = −0.63). Additionally, subjects were able to accurately assess level of recovery using the PRS scale indicated by correspondence with negative and positive changes in total sprint time relative to their previous session. The ability to detect changes in performance using a noninvasive psychobiological tool to identify differences in performance was independent of other psychological and physiological markers measured during testing, because there were no differences (p > 0.05) among ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), heart rate, blood lactate concentration, or session RPE values among any of the performance trials. Although further study is needed, current results indicate a subjective approach may be an effective means for assessing recovery from day to day, at least under similar conditions.
Anabolic and Catabolic Hormones and Energy Balance of the Male Bodybuilders During the Preparation for the Competition

Mäestu, J, Eliakim, A, Jürimäe, J, Valter, I, and Jürimäe, T. Anabolic and catabolic hormones and energy balance of the male bodybuilders during the preparation for the competition. J Strength Cond Res 24(4): 1074-1081, 2010-The purpose of the study was to investigate simultaneous effects of energy balance, caloric intake, and the hormonal anabolic-catabolic balance in bodybuilders prior to competition. Fourteen male bodybuilders took part in an 11-week energy-restricted period to reduce body fat. The subjects were divided into the energy-restricted group (ERG) (n = 7), who were preparing for the competition, or the control group (CG) (n = 7) who continued to train regularly and did not change their dietary or training pattern. Participants were tested at 11 weeks (T1), 5 weeks (T2), and 3 days (T3) before competition for diet, body composition, and fasting hormonal assessment. Body mass and body fat percentage of ERG were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased during the study period. In ERG, insulinlike growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and insulin decreased significantly during the 11-week weight-reduction period (p < 0.05). Testosterone was decreased only from week 11 to week 5 (from 20.3 ± 6.0 to 18.0 ± 6.8 nmol/L). Changes in IGF-I concentration were significantly related to changes in insulin (r = 0.741), fat mass (r = 0.705), lean body mass (r = 0.696), and body mass (r = 0.652). Changes in insulin concentrations were significantly related to changes in fat mass (r = 0.630) and lean body mass (r = 0.725). These data indicate that severe energy restriction to extremely low body energy reserves decreases significantly the concentrations of 3 anabolic pathways despite high protein intake. Monitoring of insulin and IGF-1 concentration is suggested to prevent losses in muscle mass in energy-restricted conditions. Other nutritional strategies might be needed to prevent possible catabolic effect during preparation of bodybuilders to competition.
β Blockers in older persons with heart failure: tolerability and impact on quality of life

Objective: To determine tolerability and symptom changes associated with the introduction of bisoprolol treatment in older patients with heart failure. Design: Prospective observational cohort study. Setting: Geriatric medicine outpatient department of a university hospital. Patients: 51 patients (mean age 78 years, range 70–89 years) with stable symptomatic heart failure caused by left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Interventions: Bisoprolol tablets, 1.25–10.0 mg. Main outcome measures: Tolerability; changes in symptoms and exercise tolerance. Results: 69% of patients tolerated bisoprolol. Mean tolerated dose was 7.6 mg. There was no change in symptoms or exercise capacity in those who tolerated bisoprolol. Perceived health status and symptoms of anxiety and depression improved during the titration period. Conclusions: The rate of withdrawal from bisoprolol treatment in older patients with congestive heart failure was twice that previously reported in younger patients. The mean tolerated dose was similar to that found in trials reporting clinical efficacy. There was no evidence of a negative impact on symptoms or exercise capacity in patients who tolerated bisoprolol.
Molecular docking for drug discovery and development: a widely used approach but far from perfect.

It is usually the first step to find active compounds from existing chemicals for a drug discovery and development project. Although many pharmaceutical companies have their own libraries that may have millions of compounds, it is costly to maintain the library and to perform high-throughput screening. Virtual screening provides an alternative approach to fulfill the screening of millions of compounds within a few days [1]. Molecular docking is one of the most applied virtual screening methods, especially, when the 3D structure of target protein is available. This method could predict both the binding affinity between ligand and protein and the structure of protein–ligand complex, which is useful information for lead optimization. Indeed, molecular docking has been applied for more than three decades and a great number of new drugs have been discovered and developed accordingly [2]. Although there is no doubt that it will continue to play important role, molecular docking is still far from full success in terms of success rate. This is also the reason why high-throughput screening is still widely applied nowadays in many pharmaceutical companies. Docking-based virtual screening will never have chance to play an irreplaceable role in drug discovery and development until its success rate is essentially improved.
The Accuracy of Hand-to-Hand Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis in Predicting Body Composition in College-Age Female Athletes

Esco, MR, Olson, MS, Williford, HN, Lizana, SN, and Russell, AR. The accuracy of hand-to-hand bioelectrical impedance analysis in predicting body composition in college-age female athletes. J Strength Cond Res 25(4): 1040-1045, 2011-The purpose of this investigation was to determine the accuracy of hand-to-hand bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) for estimating body composition in college-age female athletes using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) as the criterion measure. Forty National Association for Intercollegiate Athletics college female athletes volunteered to participate in this study. For each participant, total body fat percentage (BF%) and fat-free mass (FFM) were obtained via BIA and DEXA. The mean BF% and FFM values obtained by BIA were compared with the criterion DEXA measure. The DEXA strongly correlated to the BIA for BF% (r = 0.74, R2 = 0.55, SEE = 3.60, and p < 0.01) and FFM (r = 0.84, R2 = 0.71, SEE = 2.45, p < 0.01). However, when compared with the DEXA, the mean values for BIA were significantly lower for BF% (DEXA = 27.6 ± 5.3%, BIA = 22.5 ± 3.5%, p < 0.01) and higher for FFM (DEXA = 47.2 ± 4.5 kg, BIA = 50.6 ± 4.6 kg, p < 0.01). The results of this investigation indicate that hand-to-hand BIA significantly underestimates BF% and overestimated FFM in college-age female athletes when compared with the criterion DEXA. Practitioners should use caution when analyzing body composition with hand-held BIA in a population of athletic women.