bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age-related changes in selected morphological, physiological and biochemical variables of Indian field hockey players
Authors: Manna Indranil , Khanna Gulshan Lal , Dhara Prakash Chandra
Published: July 2011

The aim of the present study was to find out the age-related changes in selected morphological, physiological and biochemical variables of Indian field hockey players. One hundred and twenty (N = 120) field hockey players volunteered for this study. The players were divided equally into four groups (n=30): under 16 years (U16); under 19 years (U19); under 23 years (U23) and seniors (SR). Height, body mass, body fat, lean body mass (LBM), VO2max, anaerobic power, strength, haemoglobin (Hb), serum urea, uric acid, total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were measured in the laboratory. Analysis of variance with repeated measures followed by multiple comparison tests was performed to find out the significant difference in selected morphological, physiological and biochemical parameters among the selected age groups. Results showed significantly higher (p<0.05) body mass, height, LBM, anaerobic power, strength, Hb, serum urea, uric acid, TC, TG, HDL-C and LDL-C in the U23 and senior players compared with those in U16 and U19 players. However, significantly (p<0.05) lower body fat was noted in U16 and U19 players as compared with those in U23 and senior age group players. It was observed that VO2max elevated significantly (p<0.05) in U19 age group players, then declined (p<0.05) further in the senior age group players. The present study can be a handy tool and can act as a frame of reference for selection of field hockey players of different age groups.
Blood lactate recovery at different times of the day and menstrual cycle phases
Authors: Bambaeichi Effat , Rahnama Nader , Khani Akram
Published: July 2011

Lactate removal of body at the end of practices session is essential for subsequent performance. The aim of this study was to establish the time of day and the effect of menstrual cycle on lactate recovery after a maximal exercise. Twelve physical education female students (mean±SD, aged 20.75±1.60 years, height 164.75±3.62 cm, weight 55.08±5.45 kg) participated in this study. All subjects performed the Bruce test to exhaustion and then walked for 20 min, with 1.7 speed (mph) and 0% grade of slope at recovery period. Blood lactate samples were obtained from the tip of the subjects' index finger immediately after the test and at 5th, 10th and 20th min of recovery period at two times of day (06:00 and 18:00 h) and two phases of the menstrual cycle (mid-luteal and mid-follicular phases). A lactometer was used for analysis. A significant variation in blood lactate concentrations was found at the 5th, 10th and 20th min of recovery between 06:00 and 18:00 (F=2.99, p<0.05). No significant effect of menstrual cycle (F=1.10, p>0.05) and no significant interaction effects (menstrual cycle × time of day) were observed for lactate recovery (F=0.67, p>0.05). It can be concluded that lactate recovery in the afternoon occurred faster compared to that in the morning. But follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle had no effects on the lactate recovery.
The effect of aerobic training on selected variables in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Baharlouei Karim
Published: July 2011

The purpose of this research was to find out the effect of aerobic training on selected variables in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The method of this study was experimental research. The sample consisted of 22 subjects (11 males, 11 females), mean age and SE, 56.21 years, randomised to a 4-month ET programme. Training consisted of 45–60 min aerobic exercises (60–80% heart rate reserve) three times a week. Blood glucose, BF%, TG, BPs, BPd, HR rest levels and VO2max level were obtained before and after a 4-month training period. Results at p<0.05 significance showed the following results: the fasting blood glucose after 4 months training period did not change (p>0.05), but the BF%, TG, BPs, BPd and HR rest levels decreased and VO2max level increased.

Conclusion

4 months of regular physical activity had a positive effect on some physiological factors (BF%, TG, BPs, BPd, HR of rest and VO2max) but no effect on other factors such as fasting blood glucose.
Comparative effects of training, concentric training, eccentric training and their combination on strength of selected body segments
Authors: Pal Inder Singh
Published: July 2011

The purpose of the study was to find out the effects of three different types of isotonic training programme, viz. eccentric, concentric and combination of both on strength of selected body segments, and the study was confined to strength variables of leg and arms only. Only female students of age ranging between 14 and 16 years, studying in classes 7, 8 and 9 were randomly selected from Dorins, New Delhi as subjects for the study and they were assigned to three experimental groups (A, B and C) and a control group ‘D’, on the basis of initial test performance of standing broad jump for the leg strength and pull ups and modified push ups for the arm strength. The subjects selected were day scholars and were not undergoing any physical training; the health records of the institution revealed that all the subjects were healthy and fit to undergo the training programme. The random group design was chosen for the study. The explosive strength of leg, which was measured by administering test of standing broad jump, was horizontal. The leg strength score was the distance covered by the subject to the nearest centimetres, while arm strength is calculated by the formula, that is (pull ups + modified push ups) (w/10 + H-60), for which pull ups and modified push ups test were conducted, which is the maximum number of pull ups and modified push ups completed by the subjects, for computing the formula height and weight were also found in feet and pound, respectively. The training was carried out for a period of 10 weeks excluding the time required for conducting pretest and post-test. The subjects were trained thrice in a week that is, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. On the basis of finding from three experimental groups and one control group, pretest and post-test were examined by applying of co-variance (F-ratio) with regard to the three experimental groups and also for difference between pretest and post-test means, the t test was applied. All the three experimental treatments, concentric, eccentric and combination of both the training were significantly effective in improving the leg and arm strength. No significant difference was observed among the experimental group (eccentric, concentric and combination) of both types of training when compared with one another. No significant improvement was noticed in the control group which may be a reflection of inactivity, which showed that all the types of training were equally effective.
New regimen for eccentric calf muscle training in insertional achilles tendinopathy: a pilot study
Authors: DasSarma Sandipan , Mallick Anirban , Bhattacharyya Manabendra
Published: July 2011

Chronic painful insertional achilles tendinopathy is seen both in physically active and non-active population. The conventional eccentric protocol which loaded the achilles in dorsiflexion does not show good result and article reviews refer 32% positive result. The aim of the study was to investigate a model of eccentric training and effect on chronic insertional achilles tendinopathy. 27 patients (12 men and 15 women with mean age of 30) both active and non-active with a total of 34 painful achilles with a mean duration of pain for 6 months participated. Diagnosis of achilles' tendinopathy is through VISA-A questionnaire. Improvement was measured with comparative VISA-A score and subjective satisfaction. New regimen is followed without loading into dorsiflexion. Protocol followed as three sets of 15 rep, twice a day, 7 days a week for 8 weeks. 67% patients showed significant VISA-A score improvement and a VAS decreased from 69.9 (SD 18.9) to 21 (SD 20.6). Rest shows VAS significant reduction but not fully satisfied. The pilot study shows an overall p value <0.001 in 67% satisfied patient. In this short-term pilot study, this new model showed promising clinical result of 67% patients in comparison to 32% as predicted for traditional protocol.
Effect of sand running on speed and cardiorespiratory endurance of university male students
Authors: Kondapalli Sreenivasa Rao
Published: July 2011

The purpose of the study was to find out the effect of sand running on speed and cardiorespiratory endurance. To achieve this, 30 male students studying in the Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Acharya Nagarjuana University, Nagarjuna Nagar, Andhra Pradesh, India, were selected as subjects at random. The age of the subjects ranged from 18 to 24 years. The selected subjects were divided into two equal groups of 15 subjects each, such as sand running group and control group. Group I underwent sand running programme for 3 days/week for 12 weeks. Group II acting as control group did not participate in any special training programmes apart from their regular physical education activities per their curriculum. The following variables such as speed and cardiorespiratory endurance were selected as criterion variables. All the subjects of three groups were tested on selected criterion variables prior to and immediately after the training programme by using 50-m run and Cooper's 12-min run/walk test, respectively. The analysis of covariance was used to analyse the significant difference, if any, between the groups. The level of significance to the test ‘F’ ratio obtained by the analysis of covariance was tested at 0.05 level of confidence, which was considered appropriate. The results of the study revealed that there was significant difference between sand running group and control group on selected speed and endurance parameters, namely speed and cardiorespiratory endurance.
The chronic effect of plyometric training on haemotological parameters in Alpine Skiers
Authors: İbiş Serkan , Hazar Serkan , Demirci İbrahim
Published: July 2011

The aim of this study was to determine and evaluate chronic effects of plyometric training on haematological parameters of the Turkish National Alpine Ski Team athletes during 12-week preparation period. In the study, 12 sportsmen volunteers participated whose mean age was 17.50 years. Participants performed 12-week plyometric training protocol. The training programme was applied for 12 weeks and 5 days a week in total 60 training unit. As the programme proceeded, the intensity and content of training increased. Blood samples were taken before and after the training programme. The red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC), granulocyte (GR), haematocrit (HCT), haemoglobin (HGB), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) measurement were analysed on blood samples with automatic haematological analyser (Toshiba Accute PPS TBA-40FR). Wilcoxon signed rank test was used in order to compare statistical values of before and after exercise and significance level α was set at 0.05. Before and after training programme, values were compared for RBC, WBC, GR, MCV, MCH, MCHC and no significant changes have been observed for these values. However, there was significant (p>0.05) increase in HCT and HGB values. We concluded that as a result of the study, 12-week plyometric training programme increased the RBCs and HGB levels and as a result improved oxygen carriage capacity of the Turkish National Alpine Ski Team athletes.
The effect of run and walk exercise programme on blood lipids and chronic inflammation in sedentary males with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Hazar Serkan , Koç Muzaffer , Hazar Muhsin
Published: July 2011

The aim of the study was to determine and evaluate the effect of 8-week run-walk exercises on blood lipids and chronic inflammation in sedentary males with metabolic syndrome. 13 volunteer males with metabolic syndrome were chosen for the study who applied to participate. Inclusion criteria were diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome of National Cholesterol Education Program (ATP III). Blood samples were taken before and after exercise programme. Blood lipids and C reactive protein (CRP) levels were determined by an autoanalyser (Cobas Integra 800; Roche, Mannheim, Germany). Wilcoxon signed rank test was used for data evaluation and significance level α was set at 0.05. Participants performed run and walk for an hour 3 days a week for 8 weeks. In the first week, exercise started for 4 km in an hour, in the later weeks exercise continued for 6 km. After the exercise programme, a significant decrease was observed in the weight, BMI and waist circumference of the participants, whereas the decreases in cholesterol, LDL and triglyceride levels of the participants were statically insignificant. On the other hand, there was statistically significant increase in HDL level. After the exercise programme, decrease of CRP values was statically insignificant. As a result, the 8-week run-walk exercises positively affected some anthropometric characteristics as weight, BMI and waist circumference. But it did not affect blood lipids and chronic inflammation. This exercise was normally expected do make metabolic effect as well as anthropometric effect in a positive way. However, the 8-week run-walk exercise programme can be said to have been not long enough for the participants with metabolic syndrome to make a significant effect.
Temporal evaluation of sprint bounding in sprinters and jumpers
Authors: Singh Wazir
Published: July 2011

Sprint running contributes in varying degree to successful performance in many sports. A variety of training regimens are commonly used to improve the sprinting performance. The plyometric exercises have become very popular because of the dynamic nature. The plyometric training represents the bridge between pure strength training and event-specific training for actual event. According to the principle of specificity, anything, which is more similar or identical to the competition demands, has more transfer effect, based on Young's (1992)sprint bounding, as it has relatively short stretch-shortening time, which enhances its specificity as a training exercise for sprinters and jumpers. The purpose of the present study is to determine the relationship of sprint bounding with the sprint ability of sprinters and jumpers. Thirty male national level sprinters and jumpers who were attending the national coaching camp at Patiala were the subjects of the present study. To evaluate the sprint ability time over 20 m (fly start), 30 m (standing start) and 30 m sprint bounds was recorded. In 30 m sprint bounds, the numbers of bounds were also counted. The time was recorded by electronic timer (Speed Light; Australia). The trigger to the timer was event regulated by the optoelectronic light barriers. The sprint bound index (SBI) was computed as the number of bounds completed multiplied by the time taken to cover 30 m distance as proposed by Young (1992). Unpaired ‘t’ test was used to find out the differences between the sprinters and jumpers in different parameters. The mean values of different parameters are presented in part-A of the table. The table shows that there are no statistically significant differences in the mean values of different parameters between sprinters and jumpers. This may be due to the fact that both the sprinters and jumpers are habitual of doing the same nature of bounding exercises in their training programme. The part-B of the table shows that there is statistically significant relationship of SBI with time of 20 m fly, 30 m standing run, 30 m sprint bounds and stride numbers. It is suggested that the coaches in their training programme incorporate sprint bounding exercises due to its specificity and identical movement structure.
Exercise in osteoporosis
Authors: Shenoy Shweta
Published: July 2011

Osteoporosis is a systemic disease characterised by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, with a consequent increase in skeletal fragility and susceptibility to fractures (Consensus Report 1993). Decreased bone mass in the elderly arises because of the degradation of normal balance between bone resorption and bone formation observed in the young adult (Basset al1999 and Hansenet al1991). Pharmacological treatment of osteoporosis entails the use of medications that favourably alter bone remodelling. Current strategies include the administration of antiresorptive agents to inhibit the elevated rate of resorption and the administration of anabolic agents that stimulate osteoblastic bone formation (Mc Dermottet al2004) options that are extremely limited. Mechanical loading of the bone through the application of exercise has substantial potential to induce bone formation. Yet, studies exploring the use of exercise in humans for the purpose of increasing bone mass have met with mixed results (Turneret al1994). This article explores the practical considerations for the use of exercise strategies in the enhancement of bone mass.
Velocity and starting block variables during a 30 m sprint run
Authors: Ilbeigi Saeed , Hagman Friso , Van Gheluwe Bart
Published: July 2011

Performance in sprinting is mainly determined by the ability to accelerate, to increase maximal velocity and to maintain velocity during the race. These factors are strongly influenced by structural and metabolic characteristics, anthropometric components but also certainly by biomechanical considerations (Meroet al., 1992). Sixty Flemish adolescent sprint athletes (mean age 14.8 ± 1.7 years) volunteered. Anthropometrical measurements were used to calculate corrected thigh girth, corrected calf girth and total body skeletal muscle mass (Poortmanset al., 2005). The running velocity and time during a 30-m sprint was recorded using a laser device (IBEO Lasertechnik). The horizontal propulsion forces while in contact with the start blocks were registered by two start blocks (Berg, Olympia). The velocity of the sprinters after leaving the blocks continuously increased during the 30-m sprint. Moreover, the results presented a significant influence of age, gender and other anthropometrical parameters on block velocity, block acceleration, force and impulse, where the older boys displayed significantly higher block variable values than girls. In the present study, age, skeletal muscle mass and thigh girth circumference were found to be the best predictors for the velocity during 30 m sprints, block velocity and maximal forces applying on the blocks. In this way, it has been well documented that a successful sprint start can be attributed to the ability of an athlete to exert large horizontal forces (Baumann, 1976; Harland & Steele, 1997). This is made evident by the strong relationship between block velocity and horizontal force production. Therefore, the horizontal force production that is related to muscle mass and muscle volume can be a good predictor for the velocity of the sprinters.
Running training on different surfaces have different effects on performance
Authors: Karve Rajkumar , Tiwari Pratap Singh
Published: July 2011

Introduction

The surfaces on which athletes run can play a large role in determining how well they perform. Calf circumference increased significantly in sand runners. Both treatment groups showed a similar significant increase in vertical jump. The 12-min run/walk was significantly increased in sand runners. This study shows that a 6-week sand running programme may result in the most physiological and performance changes in young men.

Sample

120 PU college athletes from different colleges of Gulbarga District were selected as subjects by random sampling method and divided into four equal groups of 30 athletes in each group: Ex. Group I running training on sand, Ex. Group II running training on red mud track, Group III running training on cinder track and Group IV served as control group.

Objectives

To study the effect of different running surfaces training on the performance of athletes. To assess the effect of training on different running surfaces on the calf and thigh circumference of athletes. To analyse the differences in the performance of 12 min run and walk test and vertical jump test of three different experimental groups and control group.

Methodology

Before the training on different running surfaces, the performances of 12 min run and walk test and vertical jump and also calf and thigh circumference of each athlete is measured as pre-test results. Eight weeks training programme on different surfaces is conducted to all the three groups simultaneously and no training was given to control group. After the training the calf and thigh circumference of each athlete is measured as post-test results, further vertical jump test is administered and also Cooper's 12 min run and walk test is conducted on the cinder track.

Conclusions

There is a significant effect of running training on different surfaces on the performances of three groups. There is a significant effect of running training on different surfaces on the performance of Group III (running training on sand) as compared to other two groups. Calf and thigh circumference increased significantly in sand runners. Both treatment groups showed a similar significant increase in vertical jump. The 12-min run/walk was significantly increased in sand runners. This kind of basic intervention training programme (ie, training on different running surfaces) would help to find a marathon runner.
Muscle activity pattern in Olympic lifting: latissimus dorsi and pectoralis major – an EMG study
Authors: Narayana Mohan C
Published: July 2011

An electromyography study was conducted to identify the response of latissimus dorsi (LD) and pectoralis major (PM) during the Olympic style of weightlifting, that is, two types of lifting were included in the study. ‘Snatch’ and ‘Clean & Jerk’ in various loads from 20 kg, 40%, 60% and 80% of lifter's maximum lifts were studied. The electrical signal of the muscles (EMG) was recorded using a multichannel recorder (Sensor medic R 612; The Netherlands). The signal conditioning was made through a couple (direct/average EMG type 9852A), preamplifier (type 820) and amplifier (type 412). The gain of amplification was selected according to the level of activity of the particular muscle. The activity of the LD was for a long duration in phase I and II for both the Olympic lifts. In 2nd phase of C & J there was 100% activity at all loads. In 3rd and 4th phase the duration of activity came down remarkably. Duration of activity of PM was very short in phases II and IV for both the Olympic lifts. Second and 3rd phase showed considerably long duration. In phase V, the activity was moderate for C & J. Study shows remarkably high electrical activity of LD in phase I of both the lifts and in phase II it was maintained. PM showed very short response in all the phases especially in phase I and IV where it was considerably short. The pattern of electrical activity at all loads and in all the phase was identical.
A comparison of posterior wall thickness, interventricular septum thickness and relative wall thickness of left ventricle of heart in male athletes (badminton and karate) and non-athletes
Authors: Abdi Hasan , Hajighasemi Alireza , Tayebisany Seyed Mostafa
Published: July 2011

The aim of this study was to study a comparison of posterior wall thickness, interventricular septum thickness and relative wall thickness of left ventricle of heart in male athlete and non–athlete, and to investigate the effect of selected submaximal tests for estimating of VO2max (because of frequently use of them), as submaximal short duration activities, on ST segment changes in active young men. For this purpose, 20 healthy men were randomly selected from the athletics at Shahrood city. They had at least 3 years experience in regular physical activity and sport participation. Measurements were made during four consecutive days (every day, 10:00). At the 1st day, age (23.4±1.8 years), height (173.2±3.5 cm), weight (68.7±4.1 kg) and pretest ECGs were recorded. Subjects performed PWC195test, Katch-McArdle step test and Astrand ergometer test at 2nd, 3rd and 4th days, randomly. Immediately after the tests, post-test ECGs were recorded. Data were analysed using paired-sample t test (for comparison between pretest and each of post-tests) and one-way analysis of variance (for comparison among post-tests). Statistical significances were accepted at p<0.001 and p<0.05. Analysis of data indicated that all of three tests had significant effects on ST segment voltage (p<0.001). Also, there were no significant differences between mean ST segment voltages of post-tests (p<0.05) (rest: 0.051±0.019, PWC195test 0.024±0.012, Katch-McArdle step test 0.024±0.014, Astrand ergometer test 0.024±0.007 mv(. Our findings suggest that submaximal short duration activities (and tests) statistically reduce the voltage of ST segment, but, these depressions are not pathologically significant, because they were less than 0.1 mv.
Effect of 10 week progressive resistance training on serum leptin and adiponectin concentration in obese men
Authors: Atashak Sirvan , Mohammad Ghaderi , Faeze Sohrabi
Published: July 2011

Background

Adiponectin and leptin are closely related to weight control and energy balance, whereas exercise training has beneficial effects in obese men. Hence, the objective of this study was to determine the effects of 10 weeks of progressive resistance training on serum leptin and adiponectin concentrations in obese men.

Methods

Sixteen obese men (BMI≥ 30, 18–32 years) in a randomised controlled design were divided into two equal groups (exercise (n=8) and control (n=8) groups). The experimental subjects received resistance training programme. Progressive resistance training was performed three times a week on alternate days for 10 weeks and included seven exercises. At baseline and after 10 weeks, blood samples were taken in fasting state from all subjects and leptin and adiponectin determined by an ELISA technique that was commercially available. The one-way analysis of variance was used in the statistical analysis.

Results

Compared to pre-training, the leptin levels decreased (p<0.05) and the adiponectin levels increased (p<0.05) significantly after 10 weeks of progressive resistance exercise in the trained subjects, while it remained unchanged in control subjects (p>0.05).

Conclusions

Therefore, according to this results it can be suggested that progressive resistance training for 10 weeks has been an effective therapeutic devise to favourable changes in leptin and adiponectin concentration in obese men.
Early life mammalian biology and later life physical performance: maximising physiological adaptation
Authors: Carrillo Andres E , Koutedakis Yiannis , Flouris Andreas D
Published: July 2011

The malleability of mammalian biology during early life, which carries considerable weight throughout the course of the lifespan, may contribute to the creation of a human phenotype ideal for prime physical performance. In this article, the authors consider the East African cohort of exceptional athletes that dominate marathon performance. Since entering international marathon competition in 1960, East Africans have competed at the front of the pack and now hold the top 10 men's marathon times. The authors present lines of evidence supporting that exposure to factors such as altitude and early metabolic adjustments that are inherent in East African early life exert a strong influence in later life physical performance and may collide with a genetic advantage to induce biological changes that allow for a more robust biological response to training in later life.
Mortality and associated risk factors in consecutive patients admitted to a UK NHS trust with community acquired bacteraemia
Authors: Hounsom Luke , Grayson Kate , Melzer Mark
Published: July 2011

Purpose

Within the UK, there is lack of contemporary data on clinical outcomes in patients admitted to hospital with severe community acquired infection. The purpose of this study was to determine outcomes and risk factors associated with mortality in consecutive patients admitted to a UK NHS trust with community acquired infections that cause bacteraemia.

Methods

From September 2007 to August 2008, demographic, clinical and microbiological data were collected on patients with laboratory confirmed bacteraemia. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the association between predicted variables and likelihood of death.

Results

686 bacteraemic episodes occurred in 681 patients. The most common sites of infection were non-catheter associated urinary tract infections (140, 20.4%) and biliary tract infections (62, 9.1%). The most common organisms were Escherichia coli (238, 34.7%), Staphylococcus aureus (84, 12.2%) and Streptococcus pneumoniae (40, 5.8%). Of the E coli infections, extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producers accounted for 21/238 (8.8%), and of the S aureus infections, methicillin resistant S aureus (MRSA) accounted for 14/84 (16.7%). 124 (18.2%, 95% CI 15.3% to 21.1%) people died within 7 days and 170 (25.0%, 95% CI 21.7% to 28.2%) within 30 days. Age (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.54 to 3.06), Charlson comorbidity index (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.34), and Pitt score (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.32 to 1.67) were highly significantly associated with 30 day mortality (p<0.001). Delay in appropriate antibiotic treatment (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.75) and an undefined site of infection (OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.19 to 3.53) were less significantly associated with 30 day mortality (p<0.05).

Conclusion

The 30 day mortality rate in consecutive patients with community acquired bacteraemic infection was 25.0%. These figures could be used as performance indicators to compare outcomes in different UK NHS trusts. With the exception of delay in appropriate antibiotic treatment, predictors of mortality at 30 days were non-modifiable.
International disease monitoring, April to June 2011
Authors: Roberts H. , Lopez M. , Hartley M.
Published: July 2011

African swine fever spreads to a new region in west Russia

Classical swine fever in Lithuania possibly introduced by livestock vehicles

Highly pathogenic avian influenza causing problems in South African ostriches

Low pathogenic avian influenza reported across Germany, transmitted by silent spread

Dourine reported in Italy for the first time in over 10 years

These are among matters discussed in the international disease monitoring report for April to June 2011, prepared by Defra's Food and Farming Group, Veterinary Science Team
Evidence-based risk assessment and recommendations for physical activity clearance: cognitive and psychological conditions1This paper is one of a selection of papers published in this Special Issue, entitled Evidence-based risk assessment and recommendations for physical activity clearance, and has undergone the Journal’s usual peer review process.
Authors: Rhodes Ryan E. , Temple Viviene A. , Tuokko Holly A.
Published: July 2011

Physical activity has established mental and physical health benefits, but related adverse events have not received attention. The purpose of this paper was to review the documented adverse events occurring from physical activity participation among individuals with psychological or cognitive conditions. Literature was identified through electronic database (e.g., MEDLINE, psychINFO) searching. Studies were eligible if they described a published paper examining the effect of changes on physical activity behaviour, included a diagnosed population with a cognitive or psychological disorder, and reported on the presence or absence of adverse events. Quality of included studies was assessed, and the analyses examined the overall evidence by available subcategories. Forty trials passed the eligibility criteria; these were grouped (not mutually exclusively) by dementia (n = 5), depression (n = 10), anxiety disorders (n = 12), eating disorders (n = 4), psychotic disorders (n = 4), and intellectual disability (n = 15). All studies displayed a possible risk of bias, ranging from moderate to high. The results showed a relatively low prevalence of adverse events. Populations with dementia, psychological disorders, or intellectual disability do not report considerable or consequential adverse events from physical activity independent of associated comorbidities. The one exception to these findings may be Down syndrome populations with atlantoaxial instability; in these cases, additional caution may be required during screening for physical activity. This review, however, highlights the relative paucity of the reported presence or absence of adverse events, and finds that many studies are at high risk of bias toward reporting naturally occurring adverse events.
Evidence-based risk assessment and recommendations for physical activity clearance: cancer1This paper is one of a selection of papers published in this Special Issue, entitled Evidence-based risk assessment and recommendations for physical activity clearance, and has undergone the Journal’s usual peer review process.
Authors: Jones Lee W.
Published: July 2011

Physical activity is becoming increasingly acknowledged as an integral component of in the multidisciplinary management of cancer patients. Intensive inquiry in this area is likely to increase further over the next decade; however, cancer-specific, evidence-based risk assessment and recommendations for physical activity are not available. A systematic literature review was performed of all studies conducting an exercise training intervention and (or) any form of objective exercise test among adults diagnosed with cancer. Studies were assessed according to evaluation criteria developed by a panel of experts. A total of 118 studies involving 5529 patients were deemed eligible. Overall, the results suggest that exercise training and maximal and submaximal exercise testing are relatively safe procedures with a total nonlife-threatening adverse event rate of <2%. There was only 1 exercise training-related death. However, the quality of exercise testing methodology and data reporting is less than optimal. Thus, whether the low incidence of events reflects the true safety of exercise training and exercise testing in cancer patients or less than optimal methodology and (or) data reporting remains to be determined. Evidence-based absolute and relative contraindications to physical activity and exercise training and testing are provided as well as probing decision-trees to optimize the adoption and safety of physical activity in persons diagnosed with cancer.
Evidence-based risk assessment and recommendations for physical activity clearance: established cardiovascular disease1This paper is one of a selection of papers published in this Special Issue, entitled Evidence-based risk assessment and recommendations for physical activity clearance, and has undergone the Journal’s usual peer review process.
Authors: Thomas Scott G. , Goodman Jack M. , Burr Jamie F.
Published: July 2011

Physical activity is an effective lifestyle therapy for patients at risk for, or with, documented cardiovascular disease (CVD). Current screening tools — the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) and the Physical Activity Readiness Medical Evaluation (PARmed-X) — require updating to align with risk/benefit evidence. We provide evidence-based recommendations to identify individuals with CVD at lower risk, intermediate risk, or higher risk of adverse events when participating in physical activity. Forms of exercise and the settings that will appropriately manage the risks are identified. A computer-assisted search of electronic databases, using search terms for CVD and physical activity risks and benefits, was employed. The Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation were applied to assess the evidence and assign a strength of evidence rating. A strength rating for the physical activity participation clearance recommendation was assigned on the basis of the evidence. Recommendations for physical activity clearance were made for specific CVD groups. Evidence indicates that those who are medically stable, who are involved with physical activity, and who have adequate physical ability can participate in physical activity of lower to moderate risk. Patients at higher risk can exercise in medically supervised programs. Systematic evaluation of evidence indicates that clinically stable individuals with CVD may participate in physical activity with little risk of adverse events. Therefore, changes in the PAR-Q should be undertaken and a process of assessment and consultation to replace the PARmed-X should be developed. Patients at lower risk may exercise at low to moderate intensities with minimal supervision. Those at intermediate risk should exercise with guidance from a qualified exercise professional. Patients at higher risk should exercise in medically supervised programs.
Evidence-based risk assessment and recommendations for physical activity clearance: Consensus Document 20111This paper is one of a selection of papers published in this Special Issue, entitled Evidence-based risk assessment and recommendations for physical activity clearance, and has undergone the Journal’s usual peer review process.
Authors: Warburton Darren E.R. , Gledhill Norman , Jamnik Veronica K. , Bredin Shannon S.D. , McKenzie Don C. , Stone James , Charlesworth Sarah , Shephard Roy J.
Published: July 2011

The Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) and the Physical Activity Readiness Medical Evaluation (PARmed-X) are internationally known preparticipation screening tools developed on the basis of expert opinion. The primary purposes of this consensus document were to seek evidence-based support for the PAR-Q and PARmed-X forms, to identify whether further revisions of these instruments are warranted, to determine how people responding positively to questions on the PAR-Q can be safely cleared without medical referral, and to develop exercise clearance procedures appropriate for various clinical conditions across the human lifespan. Seven systematic reviews were conducted, examining physical-activity-related risks and effective risk-stratification procedures for various prevalent chronic conditions. An additional systematic review assessed the risks associated with exercise testing and training of the general population. Two gap areas were identified and evaluated systematically: the role of the qualified exercise professional and the requisite core competencies required by those working with various chronic conditions; and the risks associated with physical activity during pregnancy. The risks associated with being physically inactive are markedly higher than transient risks during and following an acute bout of exercise in both asymptomatic and symptomatic populations across the lifespan. Further refinements of the PAR-Q and the PARmed-X (including online versions of the forms) are required to address the unique limitations imposed by various chronic health conditions, and to allow the inclusion of individuals across their entire lifespan. A probing decision-tree process is proposed to assist in risk stratification and to reduce barriers to physical activity. Qualified exercise professionals will play an essential role in this revised physical activity clearance process.
Evidence-based risk assessment and recommendations for physical activity clearance: diabetes mellitus and related comorbidities1This paper is one of a selection of papers published in this Special Issue, entitled Evidence-based risk assessment and recommendations for physical activity clearance, and has undergone the Journal’s usual peer review process.
Authors: Riddell Michael C. , Burr Jamie
Published: July 2011

Physical activity (PA) is one of the most powerful treatment options for persons with prediabetes or diabetes. However, some elevation in risk occurs with increased PA, at least initially, and certain precautions need to be made to lower these risks, particularly if these persons are unaccustomed to exercise. We conducted a standardized search of all adverse events associated with increased PA in persons with prediabetes or diabetes (type 1 or type 2) and provided evidence-based guidelines on PA screening in these apparently high-risk individuals. A systematic literature review was performed of all studies reporting on adverse events in persons with prediabetes or diabetes. Studies included were from all designs (retrospective and prospective including randomized controlled trials) and were assessed according to evaluation criteria adapted by a consensus panel. A total of 47 studies, involving >8000 individuals, were deemed eligible. A number of these studies identified a range of mild to severe acute risks with exercise (musculoskeletal injury, hypoglycemia, foot ulceration, proliferative retinopathy, hypotension, sudden death) but the overall prevalence was low. Based on several randomized controlled trials and prospective studies in which prescribed exercise was performed at a wide range of intensities, it appears that increased PA is a relatively safe procedure with no evidence of a loss of life. Based on our assessment of the available literature, we provide a new PA risk algorithm for persons with prediabetes and diabetes and comment on the role of the patient, the qualified exercise professional, and the patient’s physician in the risk screening process.
CONTINUOUS EEG SIGNAL ANALYSIS FOR ASYNCHRONOUS BCI APPLICATION
Authors: HSU WEI-YEN
Published: July 2011

In this study, we propose a two-stage recognition system for continuous analysis of electroencephalogram (EEG) signals. An independent component analysis (ICA) and correlation coefficient are used to automatically eliminate the electrooculography (EOG) artifacts. Based on the continuous wavelet transform (CWT) and Student's two-sample t-statistics, active segment selection then detects the location of active segment in the time-frequency domain. Next, multiresolution fractal feature vectors (MFFVs) are extracted with the proposed modified fractal dimension from wavelet data. Finally, the support vector machine (SVM) is adopted for the robust classification of MFFVs. The EEG signals are continuously analyzed in 1-s segments, and every 0.5 second moves forward to simulate asynchronous BCI works in the two-stage recognition architecture. The segment is first recognized as lifted or not in the first stage, and then is classified as left or right finger lifting at stage two if the segment is recognized as lifting in the first stage. Several statistical analyses are used to evaluate the performance of the proposed system. The results indicate that it is a promising system in the applications of asynchronous BCI work.
The time course and persistence of “concurrent contraction” during normal peristalsis
Authors: Pandolfino John E. , Lin Zhiyue , Roman Sabine , Kahrilas Peter J.
Published: July 2011

Whereas conventional manometry depicts peristalsis as pressure variation over time, high-resolution manometry makes it equally feasible to depict pressure variation along the lumen (spatial pressure variation plots). This study analyzed the characteristics of spatial pressure variation plots during normal peristalsis. High-resolution manometry studies of 72 normal subjects were analyzed with custom MATLAB programs. A coordinate-based strategy was used to normalize both timing of peristalsis and esophageal length. A spatial pressure variation function was devised to localize the proximal (P) and the distal troughs (D) on each subject's composite pressure topography and track the length within the P-D segment contracting concurrently in the course of peristalsis. The timing at which this function peaked was compared with that of the contractile deceleration point (CDP). The length of concurrent contraction during normal peristalsis had an average span of 9.3 cm, encompassing 61% of the distal P-D length of the esophagus. The timing of the CDP position closely matched that of maximal length within the P-D segment contracting concurrently ( r = 0.90, P < 0.001). The pressure morphology of the maximal concurrent contraction was that of a smooth curve, and it was extremely rare to see multiple peaks along the vertical axis (seen in 4 of 72 subjects). Concurrent contraction involving ∼60% of the P-D span occurred with normal peristalsis. The segment of concurrent contraction progressively increased as peristalsis progressed, peaked at the CDP, and then progressively decreased. How abnormalities of the extent or timing of concurrent contraction relate to clinical syndromes requires further investigation.
Myoendothelial gap junctional signaling induces differentiation of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells
Authors: Gairhe Salina , Bauer Natalie N. , Gebb Sarah A. , McMurtry Ivan F.
Published: July 2011

Myoendothelial gap junctions are involved in regulating systemic arterial smooth muscle cell phenotype and function, but their role in the regulation of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell (PASMC) phenotype is unknown. We therefore investigated in cocultured pulmonary arterial endothelial cells (PAECs) and PASMCs whether myoendothelial gap junctional signaling played a role in PAEC-dependent regulation of PASMC phenotype. Rat PAECs and PASMCs were cocultured on opposite sides of a porous Transwell membrane that permitted formation of heterotypic cell-cell contacts. Immunostaining showed expression of the gap junctional protein connexin 43 (Cx43) on projections extending into the membrane from both cell types. Dye transfer exhibited functional gap junctional communication from PAECs to PASMCs. PASMCs cocultured with PAECs had a more contractile-like phenotype (spindle shape and increased expression of the contractile proteins myosin heavy chain, H1-calponin, and α-smooth muscle cell-actin) than PASMCs cocultured with PASMCs or cocultured without direct contact with PAECs. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 signaling was activated in PASMCs cocultured with PAECs, and the PASMC differentiation was inhibited by TGF-β type I receptor blockade. Inhibition of gap junctional communication pharmacologically or by knock down of Cx43 in PAECs blocked TGF-β signaling and PASMC differentiation. These results implicate myoendothelial gap junctions as a gateway for PAEC-derived signals required for maintaining TGF-β-dependent PASMC differentiation. This study identifies an alternative pathway to paracrine signaling to convey regulatory signals from PAECs to PASMCs and raises the possibility that dysregulation of this direct interaction is involved in the pathogenesis of hypertensive pulmonary vascular remodeling.