bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental random spot testing for drugs in sportsmen.
Authors: Lucking M. T.
Published: December 2008

Twenty-eight active international athletes agreed to be available for random spot urine collections at their homes, places of work and training. Suitable briefed collectors were arranged to conduct the spot collections and forward the specimens for analysis. An average number of 3.4 collections per athlete was made in the 9 month period of the trial. Overall there was a "failure to collect" percentage of 14 during the winter months and 54 during the summer months. The average time interval between initial contact with the athlete and collection was 11 hours 50 minutes. It is concluded that random spot collections of urine from active athletes in training is possible and practical. Improved collection rates could be achieved by additional spot collection at athletic events during the summer and by using regionally based mobile collectors responsible for several athletes.
Sleep and the athlete.
Authors: Shapiro C. M.
Published: December 2008

Sleep is generally considered to be restorative and the notion of exercise being associated with the changes in subsequent sleep is popular but has only recently been demonstrated. There are several facets of exercise performed that have an influence on sleep. These include the intensity and duration of the exercise, and the interval between the cessation of exercise and sleep onset. Other factors that may alter sleep after exercise are the age and fitness of the subject, and his lean body mass. Most studies on the effect of exercise on sleep can be interpreted as being partially or totally supportive of the restorative theory of sleep function.
Glycogen loading: advantages but possible disadvantages.
Authors: Sharman I. M.
Published: December 2008

Carbohydrate loading enables an athlete to build up stores of muscle glycogen. Such raised levels increase work times and are therefore of real benefit to long-distance runners. It is unclear how frequently the regimen can be repeated with the same advantageous results. There are possible disadvantages in the regimen, and even dangers in older subjects.
Immediate management of injuries.
Authors: Walkden L.
Published: December 2008

Specific injuries are not confined to any particular sport, but regular injury patterns will occur among the players of any given sport. Emphasis is placed on the need for primary treatment facilities, the experience of the attendant, and the importance of a working knowledge of the sport involved. Diagnostic difficulties are described with reference to cervical oral, ocular and other injuries. Immediate and long-term management of injuries to the lower limbs is considered.
The management of soft tissue ankle injuries.
Authors: Crean D.
Published: December 2008

The anatomy of the ankle, and the types of sporting injuries that occur in this joint, are described. Traditional treatment of soft tissue injuries involves immobilisation, and the value of this is questioned. An alternative treatment strategy is described, and involves immobilisation and compression for twenty-four hours, followed by rapid mobilisation using a balance board. This alternative strategy can bring about full functional mobility in 94% of patients within 14 days.
Injuries in professional footballers.
Authors: Muckle D. S.
Published: December 2008

The incidence of injuries in footballers is described. Nearly half of footballer's injuries involve the knee, with vertical tearing of the meniscus being common; surgical intervention may be required. Approximately one third of injuries involve the ankle, and will often require immobilisation. Other injuries include muscle damage, spondylosis of L4 or L5, concussion, and dislocations. The importance of prompt and correct treatment of injuries is emphasised.
Sports injuries and society.
Authors: Davies J. E.
Published: December 2008

Injuries are classified and examples of the ways in which they can arise are given. Treatment, rehabilitation and the value of exercise are considered. A review of the effects of increasing leisure time and sports have been given, the value of legislation, education, protective clothing and close supervision in preventing the occurrence of injuries in sport is discussed.
Management of subcalcaneal pain and Achilles tendonitis with heel inserts
Authors: Maclellan G. E. , Vyvyan Barbara
Published: December 2008

Soft tissue symptoms in the leg due to sporting activity are commonly associated with the force of heel strike. Conventional training shoes compromise between comfort and performance; few models are suitably designed for both considerations. Using a visco-elastic polymer insert the symptoms of heel pain and Achilles tendonitis have been largely or completely abolished in a preliminary study.
Physiological, psychological and performance measures during an endurance record for five-a-side soccer
Authors: Reilly T. , Walsh T. J.
Published: December 2008

Observations were made every 4 h on 2 teams during 91 h 45 min of 5-a-side soccer to investigate stresses on players. Variables monitored were subjective fatigue, state anxiety, grip strength, heart rate, activity, urine protein concentration and liquid intake. Circadian functions were identified in all variables except protein urine as well as significant intercorrelations. Periodicities were consistent with arousal theory with troughs at about 0500-0600 h and crests at 1800 h to 2100 h. Group mean anxiety values increased between days as play was prolonged whilst significant decrements were found in activity, exercise heart rate and urine protein. Mean heart rate for the duration of play was 98 (± S.D. = 10) beats min-1and the work severity was considered light. Behavioural abnormalities as found by other investigators in chronically sleep deprived subjects were common during the final two nights.
A nutritional study of Irish athletes
Authors: Barry A. , Cantwell T. , Doherty F. , Folan Jean C. , Ingoldsby M. , Kevany J. P. , O'Broin J. D. , O'Connor H. , O'Shea B. , Ryan B. A. , Vaughan J.
Published: December 2008

The aims of this study were (1) to carry out a nutritional assessment of selected Irish athletes and (2) to provide individual results and specific advice to each athlete on how to achieve an optimum diet.

Dietary intakes were measured by a three-day weighed dietary record technique designed to evaluate each athlete's usual eating habits. The results were evaluated against a set of dietary standards in order to determine adequacy.

Nutritional status was also assessed in a limited form by selected anthropometric and biochemical measurements.

A total of 148 subjects took part in the assessment which began in May, 1979 and continued until April, 1980. The sports involved included: canoeing, cycling, rowing, swimming, hockey, squash and track and field events.

The results indicated a range of sub-optimal dietary patterns relating in particular to abnormal intakes of folate, iron, pyridoxine and calcium. The significance and applications of these findings are discussed.
Biomechanical analysis of sprinting: decathletes versus champions.
Authors: Kunz H. , Kaufmann D. A.
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to compare some biomechanical variables of decathletes and world class sprinters while running the 100 metre race. Sixteen Swiss national decathletes and three world class American sprinters were filmed by a 16 mm Locam (100 fps) camera at the 70 m mark of the race. The co-ordinates for a 26-point stick figure were digitised and then submitted to analysis by a computer programme which produced quantitative data for 12 biomechanical variables. The data indicated that world-class sprinters differed from decathletes in running the 100 m dash by having (1) an optimal combination of a larger stride length and higher stride frequency (2) a smaller thigh angle at contact which shortens the contact time (3) a larger stride landing angle (4) a greater average acceleration of the thigh angle was (5) a larger trunk angle which contributes to a larger trunk/thigh angle. Although other factors such as culture, training, physique and racial differences may influence differences in performance between American world-class sprinters and Swiss decathletes, these data do indicate that biomechanical variables may contribute to differences in 100 m dash performance.
Sports medicine—health care information—supply and demand
Authors: Markee Katherine M.
Published: December 2008

One field for health practitioners and specialists that is becoming of increasing importance is sports medicine. Many of the techniques have been used in the treatment of diseases or injuries such as broken bones or sprains, but an element in this practice is the speed with which the injury is treated and rehabilitated. The literature is diffused throughout the biomedical and biological science fields. As this is a growing specialty, it opens a challenge and an opportunity for the health science librarian. Availability of the literature is enhanced by on-line access to computerised bibliographic material and data such as MEDLINE; Toxicology Data Bank; Biosis Previews (Biological Abstracts/Bioresearch Index); Excerpta Medica; AVLINE; CATLINE; Health Planning and Administration and their corresponding reviews.

The 1980 Olympics have increased the number of reviews and discussions in the literature. This paper is a review of the demand and supply for sports medicine information in the English language in Purdue University. Emphasis is given to the physical, social, and psychological rehabilitation of the athlete patient and the impact on the medical librarian in the provision of information demanded by the sports medicine specialist. Computerised access to the literature sources is discussed as an introduction to their use in this field.
A thermophysiological rationale for endurance training for racquet games
Authors: Hancock P. A.
Published: December 2008

Three male athletes performed incremental work: Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR), 100 W and 150 W in two levels of controlled environmental heat. Conditions inside an environmental chamber were preset at 25°C 40% RH and 30°C 50% RH being 22°C and 29°C on the Effective Temperature Scale. Expired air and six body temperatures—two invasive and four skin sites—were monitored. Core and mean body temperatures, calculated from these figures, correlated highly with expired air values for all the anthropometrically homogeneous group. Results were in agreement with unpublished data of Bundgaard, i.e. the higher the V̇O2max of the subject the smaller the range of expired air values and the smaller the increase in both mean and core body temperature during heat stress. Such thermophysiological reaction helps the athlete to prevent the onset of mild hyperthermia and the accompanying fatigue, independent of mitigating behavioural support.

The intermittent bursts of heavy physical activity required of the racquet athlete argue for a similar cardio-vascular training regimen. Data from this study suggest that such athletes would be wise to augment training schedules with prolonged cardio-vascular endurance work especially when the possibility of competing in high ambient temperature is foreseen.
Some haematological characteristics of competitive swimmers
Authors: Willan P. L. T. , Bagnall K. M. , Mahon M. , Kellett D. W.
Published: December 2008

Some basic haematological characteristics of a group of competitive swimmers were compared with haematological “normal standards” and with a “control” group of non-athletes, unmatched for age. In the women, the values for red blood cell count, haemoglobin concentration, and mean red cell volume for both the swimmers and the controls were not significantly different from the normal standards. In the groups of men, both swimmers and controls, red cell counts were significantly lower than the normal standard values, although individual values lay within the “normal range” (mean ± 2 standard deviations).

The ranges of the values for individuals were found to be narrow. There were no significant differences between these ranges over periods of five consecutive weeks and five consecutive months. Relatively large changes in results for individuals could occur before the results would be considered abnormal, that is, before the results fall outside the “normal range”. Early detection of changes may perhaps be facilitated if the range of values for individual athletes is determined by monitoring.
Body density differences between negro and caucasian professional football players
Authors: Adams J. , Bagnall K. M. , McFadden K. D. , Mottola M.
Published: December 2008

Other workers have shown that the bone density for the average negro is greater than for the average caucasian. This would lead to greater values of body density for the average negro but it is confused because the average negro has a different body form (and consequently different proportions of body components) compared with the average caucasian. This study of body density of a group of professional Canadian football players investigates whether or not to separate negroes from caucasians when considering the formation of regression equations for prediction of body density. Accordingly, a group of 7 negroes and 7 caucasians were matched somatotypically and a comparison was made of their body density values obtained using a hydrostatic weighing technique and a closed-circuit helium dilution technique for measuring lung volumes. The results show that if somatotype is taken into account then no significant difference in body density values is found between negro and caucasian professional football players. The players do not have to be placed in separate groups but it remains to be seen whether or not these results apply to general members of the population.
Peroneus longus tenosynovitis.
Authors: Folan J. C.
Published: December 2008

Tenosynovitis of the tendon of peroneus longus has rarely been described in the literature (Aberle-Horstenegg, 1932; Burman and Lapidus, 1931). This is a report on the condition in two athletes and in one of whom the os peroneum was absent on the side of the tenosynovitis. It emphasises the importance of a detailed review of athletes' training patterns when assessing their injuries.
Seasonal changes in cyclists' performance. Part II. The British Olympic track squad.
Authors: White J. A. , Quinn G. , Al-Dawalibi M. , Mulhall J.
Published: December 2008

In Part II of the study, the British Olympic track (sprint) squad cyclists demonstrated reductions in body fat index, % body fat and endomorphy (p greater than .05), increased Hb and PCV % (p greater than .05), and lowered HR at rest and in warm-up exercise (p greater than .05), but no change in leg power. Repeated interval sprints of short duration, maximal exercise on an "ergowheel" ergometer, at standardised power output, showed increased anaerobic index (p greater than .05) and acceleratory power (p greater than .01) but no change in sustained power output. Compared with "non-select" riders, a case study of the single "select" rider showed anthropometric differences in terms of lower height, weight, body fat index, % body fat and endomorphy, but enhanced mesomorphy and FEV %. Furthermore, the "select" rider demonstrated temporarily latent functional performance capabilities, in that increased anaerobic index, acceleratory and sustained power indices, as well as enhanced relative power output, were not identified until late in the competitive season.
Abdominal injury from sporting activities.
Authors: Bergqvist D. , Hedelin H. , Karlsson G. , Lindblad B. , Mätzsch T.
Published: December 2008

The frequency of abdominal injury is rising. In an analysis of 1,354 cases of closed abdominal trauma sustained during a 30-year period (1950-1979) in Skaraborg County, Sweden, a distinct increase was found in the numbers associated with sporting activities. The severity of the injuries caused by sports likewise showed an increase. The representation of injured organs was of the same order as in the total series of closed abdominal injuries. An analysis of the 136 cases of sports-associated injury is presented with regard to cause and type of the injuries, diagnosis and prognosis.
Effects of pollen extract upon adolescent swimmers.
Authors: Maughan R. J. , Evans S. P.
Published: December 2008

Many competitive sportsmen in this country regularly use pollen extract as a dietary supplement in the belief that it can lead to an improvement in performance. We have investigated the effects of a six-week course of pollen extract administration on a variety of physiological parameters in a group (n = 20) of adolescent swimmers. At the time of the study, all subjects were training on a daily basis. During the course of the study, maximum oxygen uptake increased in both the treatment group and the placebo group, no difference between the response of the two groups being observed. Vital capacity showed a significant increase in the treatment group, but not in the placebo group. The results indicate that no positive benefit was obtained from the use of pollen supplementation. However, the number of training days missed due to upper respiratory tract infections was much less in the pollen treatment group (4 days) than in the placebo group (27 days). In a study of longer duration, this difference could lead to an improved performance by the pollen treatment group due to fewer interruptions to training.
Anabolic steroids and Norwegian weightlifters.
Authors: Solberg S.
Published: December 2008

The mean bodyweight, in kilograms, and mean weightlifting result, in points, for the ten best weightlifters at the annual Norwegian championships 1962-82 have been studied. During the 21 years, the mean bodyweight for these ten increased by 18 kg, probably due to the effect of androgens. The weightlifting results improved rapidly from 1968 onwards, probably reflecting an increasingly widespread use of anabolic steroids by Norwegian weightlifters. In 1977 doping tests were introduced, and from then on, rate of improvement has increased much more slowly. The annual sale of anabolic steroids 1963-81 and testosterone 1974-81, in Norway have been recorded. The sale of anabolic steroids increased irregularly until 1974-75, and has since shown a 42% decrease. The sale of testosterone 1974-81 showed a slight reduction, thus giving no support to the suggestion that doping tests for anabolic steroids would lead to a transfer to testosterone abuse.
Age at menarche in Nigerian athletes.
Authors: Mathur D. N. , Toriola A. L.
Published: December 2008

The subjects of the study were 418 highly successful female athletes and 512 female non-athletes drawn from all over Nigeria. Recall procedures were used to ascertain the age at menarche. The study gave the following results: In general, over-all mean menarcheal age of athletes (14.13 years) was significantly higher (p less than .05) than that of non-athletes (13.57 years). Menarche was significantly (p less than .05) delayed (14.41 years) in those athletes (n = 272) who started physical activities before the onset of menstruation. The mean menarcheal age of non-athletes i.e. general population was significantly lower (p less than .05) than that established thirty years ago in Nigerian women.
Trait and state anxiety in male and female cross-country runners.
Authors: Sanderson F. H. , Reilly T.
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships between state/trait anxiety and competitive cross-country performance for males and females. A-trait and A-state pre- and post-competition were monitored in 38 females and 26 males at major meetings. The females' A-trait was correlated with pre-race A-state (p less than .05) which was itself correlated significantly with race performance (p less than .05). A significant post-race A-state reduction occurred only with the better runners. The correlation between A-trait and pre-race A-state was also found in the male athletes (p less than .05) while A-trait significantly correlated with race performance (p less than .05). A-state was significantly reduced post-race, the greatest decrease being observed in the top performers. It is concluded that trait as well as transient dispositions are relevant when psychological determinants of performance are considered.
Maximal anaerobic power in Indian national hockey players.
Authors: Bhanot J. L. , Sidhu L. S.
Published: December 2008

Anaerobic power in relation to field position of 90 Indian hockey players has been studied. These players included 10 goalkeepers, 16 backs, 20 half-backs and 44 forwards. The goalkeepers possess maximum and forwards possess minimum anaerobic power while in vertical velocity, the former are the fastest and the latter are the slowest. In body weight the backs are heaviest followed by half-backs, goalkeepers and forwards. Among backs, the lefts are heavier, faster and have more anaerobic power than rights. In half-line players, the centre-half-backs are followed by left-half-backs and right-half-backs both in body weight and anaerobic power, while in vertical velocity, the left-half-backs are the fastest and centre-half-backs are the slowest. Among forwards, the centre-forwards are heaviest with maximum anaerobic power and are followed by inside-forwards and outside-forwards, whereas, in vertical velocity the inside-forwards are fastest followed by centre-forwards and outside-forwards.
Effects of menstruation and contraceptive pill on the performance of physical education students.
Authors: Bale P. , Davies J.
Published: December 2008

Of the 109 specialist female physical education students who answered a detailed questionnaire on menstruation and the contraceptive pill in relation to exercise, 91 (83.5%) reported that they suffered menstrual problems. These included stomach ache, depression, abdominal cramps and backache. Over two-thirds of the students considered that these problems adversely influenced their physical performance. However, whether they had a mainly physiological or psychological effect is not clear. Many of the students with menstrual problems thought that exercise had a beneficial effect and helped alleviate their discomfort. A small number of students reported problems such as amenorrhoea and reduced menses possibly due to excessive training. Just under half the students in the investigation took the contraceptive pill, and though as many students taking the pill complained of menstrual problems as those not taking it, they reported less problems and to a lesser degree. Most students claimed that taking the contraceptive pill had no effect upon their performance.
The hydration and electrolyte maintenance properties of an experimental sports drink.
Authors: White J. , Ford M. A.
Published: December 2008

Seven highly trained subjects underwent exercise dehydration without fluid replacement (X), resulting in approximately 1.9% and approximately 3.5% body weight (fluid) losses at one and two hours, respectively. Subsequently, subjects underwent two identical exercise trials with isovolumetric fluid replacement of water (W) and an experimental formulation (Q). An anti-dehydration schedule was initiated prior to, and continued throughout the exercise, with W and Q supplied every 15 minutes at 16 degrees C in volumes related to each subject's fluid loss estimate derived from trial X. A rehydration schedule was maintained for two hours of recovery, with total fluid replacement equivalent to the body weight decrement due to fluid losses. In both W and Q trials, selected physiological indices of work performance were maintained closer to homeostatic levels during exercise, with a more rapid return to pre-exercise resting levels during recovery than during that trial X. Furthermore, W and Q were equally effective in preventing plasma volume changes during exercise and restoration to pre-exercise levels during recovery, as well as in preventing plasma osmolality disturbances during exercise and recovery, although minimal plasma electrolyte changes were associated with Q.
Physiological changes seen after six weeks sequence training.
Authors: Macdonald R. P.
Published: December 2008

Changes in body fat, cardiovascular endurance, muscular endurance, flexibility and strength were assessed in 22 women and 16 men after 6 weeks sequence training. It was found that two training sessions per week were sufficient to cause a significant increase in the majority of measurements made. The extent of the improvement in women was inversely related to the starting value, with most measurements, whereas this was not found in men. The measurements in this small group were comparable to those found in a large series in Canada, with the exception of the proportion of body fat which was lower in this UK series.
Exercise metabolism in runners.
Authors: Hardman A. E. , Williams C.
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to re-examine the commonly accepted association between high maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max) values and the characteristics of metabolic adaptation to endurance training. The metabolic responses of 9 active males and 8 endurance trained females were observed during one hour of treadmill running at two speeds. One speed was common to both groups (3.58 m s-1. Test 1) whereas the second speed represented approximately 62% VO2 max for each individual (Test 2). The VO2 max values of the males were significantly (p less than 0.01) higher than those of the females but observations of the respiratory exchange ratio and of the changes in the concentrations of metabolites were indicative of greater fat metabolism in the well-trained female group in both Tests. Thus the results of this study suggest that the benefits of endurance training are independent of the absolute values of VO2 max.
Incidence of training-related injuries among marathon runners.
Authors: Maughan R. J. , Miller J. D.
Published: December 2008

A questionnaire was sent to all 960 entrants in a major city marathon race to obtain information on training-related injuries. A total of 497 replies were received; of these 287 (58%) had incurred some form of injury during preparation for the race. Seventy-one of these individuals reported more than one injury. Almost all injuries affected the lower limb, with 113 cases (32%) involving pain or disability in the knee. More than half the injured runners (158, 55%) sought no professional advice; approximately half (146, 51%) received no treatment other than rest, which was not generally considered a form of therapy. Only 18 runners (6%) reported no improvement in their condition, while 143 individuals (51%) reported a full recovery. Injury incurred during training was thought by 98 runners (35%) to have had an adverse effect on their racing performance. These results suggest that runners preparing to compete in marathon races can expect their training to be interrupted by injury.
The specificity of energy utilisation by trained and untrained adolescent boys.
Authors: Armstrong N. , Davies B. , Heal M.
Published: December 2008

This study examined the relationship between estimates of alactacid anaerobic power, lactacid anaerobic power and aerobic power in a sample of trained swimmers (age 14.4 yr., n = 8) and a sample of untrained boys (age 13.7 yr., n = 13). The anaerobic power outputs were estimated using a modification of the Wingate Anaerobic Test and aerobic power was estimated using a continuous, incremental cycle ergometer test. In addition to leg power outputs the swimmers' arm power using each energy system was estimated and compared with the corresponding leg value. There was no relationship between the estimates of the power of the three energy systems with either the trained or untrained boys. Furthermore with the trained boys there was no relationship between estimates of the power of the same energy system utilised by different limbs. The data support a specificity hypothesis of energy utilisation during exercise with both trained and untrained adolescent boys.
The 1982 epidemic--roller skating injuries.
Authors: Bunker T. D.
Published: December 2008

A series of 100 roller skating injuries is presented. Roller skating injuries have been occurring at a higher rate than the previously reported skateboarding epidemic of 1977. The severity of injury has been lower, 32% fractures and dislocations occurring whilst roller skating, compared to 60% whilst skateboarding. In particular a striking reduction is seen in ankle fractures. Fifty questionnaires detailing method of injury were analysed.
Influence of 12-week jogging on body fat and serum lipids.
Authors: Toriola A. L.
Published: December 2008

This study examined the influence of different levels of distance running on percent body fat and serum lipids in untrained male University students (n = 40) with a mean age of 24.1 years. Subjects were assigned randomly to four groups (n = 10) in each group): Group 1 (control), Group 2 (1.6 km joggers), Group 3 (3.2 km joggers) and Group 4 (4.8 km joggers). Subjects in the exercise groups jogged the prescribed distances three times a week for 12 weeks at about 85 percent of maximal heart rate. Percent body fat, serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels were estimated before and after the training programme. In comparison with control group, exercise groups showed statistically significant (p less than .05) decrease of body fat values (1.6 km joggers 6%; 3.2 km joggers 5.33%; 3.2 km joggers 11%; 4.8 km joggers 9.42%). However, Newman-Keul's post hoc analysis showed a significant (p less than .05) reduction in serum triglyceride only in 3.2 km joggers. This was attributed to the high pre-training level of serum triglyceride in the group. Cholesterol values showed insignificant changes. It was concluded that moderate physical activities of different intensities have lowering effects on body fat and serum lipids.
Patello-femoral arthralgia in athletes attending a Sports Injury Clinic.
Authors: Devereaux M. D. , Lachmann S. M.
Published: December 2008

Over a five year period, 137 athletes presented to a Sports Injury Clinic with patello-femoral arthralgia. This was 5.4% of the total injuries seen and a quarter of all knee problems treated. Running contributed to 32% of the athletes with patello-femoral pain. There was a 4:1 male:female ratio and nearly 70% were in the 16-25 year age range. A follow-up questionnaire was sent to 72 athletes seen in the last two years with a 78% response rate. Symptoms and treatment are discussed. After conservative therapy only 28.6% were entirely symptom free with a mean follow up of 13.1 months.
An "unavoidable" death in a people's marathon.
Authors: Parsons M. A. , Anderson P. B. , Williams B. T.
Published: December 2008

With the increase in jogging and distance running as a means of attaining and maintaining fitness, and in the light of the difficulty in advising certain groups of patients about their capacity for such exercise, we report on several potentially avoidable factors in the death of a 45 year old Sheffield Marathon runner in June 1983.
Developing physical fitness for the elderly through sport and exercise.
Authors: Meusel H.
Published: December 2008

For maintaining and developing motor mobility in old age motor activity is essential. We can take from the phylogenesis and ontogenesis of the human being how important physical activity is for personality development and for maintaining physical fitness in old age. Many phenomena, which have so far been thought to be due to natural consequences of the ageing process, can now be traced back to lack of physical activity. These findings are illustrated by examples referring to the most important subsystems of our organism (such as the central nervous system, the cardiovascular system, etc.). To keep these subsystems and with them our organism as a whole functioning as well as possible, we must improve their specific adaptability through sports and exercise. Sports and exercise for the elderly as well as gymnastics for senior citizens should therefore adequately improve co-ordinative skills, the ability of the muscles to relax, joint flexibility, muscle strength, endurance, vegetative adaptability, stress tolerance, controlling body-weight, and resistance to infections.
Runner's stress fracture produced by an aerobic dance routine
Authors: Read M. T. F.
Published: December 2008

Astride jumps in an aerobic dance routine has produced a “runner's” stress fracture.
Step tests of cardiorespiratory fitness suitable for mass testing.
Authors: Watkins J.
Published: December 2008

Step tests have been widely used to assess cardiorespiratory fitness. Work rate is determined by step height and step frequency, whereas the total amount of work done depends upon the number and duration of work periods. In all step tests which are suitable for mass testing, performance is based on heart rate during recovery. A review of the literature strongly suggests that step tests can give reliable and valid measures of cardiorespiratory fitness provided that (a) the subjects have received adequate instruction and practice in taking the test prior to the criterion test performance, and (b) the work load is above a certain threshold.
Back pain in athletes.
Authors: Cannon S. R. , James S. E.
Published: December 2008

There were one hundred and ninety seven patients who presented with back pain to an Athletes Clinic over four years. Their mode of presentation, investigations, diagnoses and treatments are analysed. The majority of patients were male and below 30 years of age. The average duration of symptoms prior to presentation, despite an easy access policy, was 42 weeks. Injury was usually related to six popular sports. Radiological examination was a rewarding investigation in these patients and included an A-P view of the pelvis. The diagnostic label of prolapsed intervertebral disc appears to have been used too frequently. Physiotherapy was the most useful treatment modality regardless of age, mode of onset and duration of symptoms.
Acute sports injuries in Oslo: a one-year study.
Authors: Maehlum S. , Daljord O. A.
Published: December 2008

All sport injuries treated at the Emergency Department, Ullevål Hospital in Oslo (OKL) were registered for one year. They accounted for 6.3% of the total number of patients treated at OKL in that period. 4673 patients were seen; 3292 males and 1381 females. The women were younger than the men, 55% were below 20 years of age; 41% of the males (p less than 0.05). Most of the men (64%) were injured in connection with competitive sports, but 52% of the women sustained their injury pursuing recreational sports. Football and skiing accounted for 49% of the total number of injuries. In males football caused most injuries--35%. In females handball accounted for most injuries--18%. Nearly 3/4 of the injuries affected the extremities; the most common injury being the ankle sprain (16%). Almost 1/4 of the patients had a fracture, and 218 patients (4.7%) were admitted to hospital, the rest being treated as outpatients. In all, the sports injuries required 7658 consultations.
Football injuries in Oslo: a one-year study.
Authors: Maehlum S. , Daljord O. A.
Published: December 2008

All football injuries treated at the Emergency Department, Oslo City Hospital, 1329 patients, 1167 males and 162 females, were recorded for one year, accounting for 28.4% of all sports injuries. Most injuries seen were in the 15-19 years age group in females and 20-24 years age group in males; 68% of the females and 42% of the males (p less than 0.001) were below 20 years of age, and 87% of the injuries occurred in competitive football. During matches, 695 players were injured giving an incidence of 34.5 injuries/10,000 player matches. The injuries occurred all year with a peak in June. Sprains accounted for 41% of the injuries, 23% were contusions and 19% fractures. Most injuries (59%) affected the legs. Hospital admission was required for three females and 57 males. The football injuries required 1966 consultations and necessitated that 349 patients had to stay away from work for a total of 6137 days.
Maximal oxygen intake estimated from submaximal heart rate.
Authors: Dotson C. O. , Caprarola M. A.
Published: December 2008

This study investigated the predictability of maximal oxygen intake from three different submaximal heart rates assessed during an initial and follow-up ride on a cycle ergometer. Twenty-four healthy male subjects performed workloads of 600, 750, and 900 kpm's for six minutes on each of two visits to the laboratory. Analysis of variance for a randomised complete blocks design, with subjects constituting blocks, was used to analyse heart rate, estimated maximal oxygen intake, and residual estimated maximal oxygen intake variations among the experimental conditions. Relationships between the actual and estimated maximal oxygen intakes were determined using the Pearson Product-Moment formula of correlation. The average estimated maximal oxygen intake was significantly increased from the first testing occasion to the second. Although errors of estimation decreased significantly (450 ml to 366 ml) in favour of the second testing condition, the decrease was neither consistent with workloads nor subjects. The correlation coefficients were consistently low at 600 kpm for both testing occasions (0.68 and 0.73, respectively), consistently high at 750 kpm (0.82 and 0.84, respectively), and quite variable at 900 kpm (0.71 and 0.84, respectively), indicated that the validity of the nomogram was not consistent with all workloads or testing occasions. Despite these inconsistencies, the nomogram is, for practical purposes, a valid predictor of maximal oxygen consumption.
Psychological, nutritional and physical status of olympic road cyclists.
Authors: Johnson A , Collins P , Higgins I , Harrington D , Connolly J , Dolphin C , McCreery M , Brady L , O'Brien M
Published: December 2008

Six members of the Irish Olympic Road Cycling Squad underwent a comprehensive medical, nutritional, psychological and biochemical assessment in January 1983. They were given specific medical and dietary recommendations and were reassessed in January 1984 after a period spanning the competitive racing season. The cyclists' diets at both sessions were comparable and generally conformed with recommended daily intakes. Supplementary ingestion was unnecessary to attain recommended daily intakes of vitamins. Serum levels of HDL-cholesterol increased and triglyceride decreased during the period of the study. The squad had characteristics indicating traits of self-sufficiency, toughness and practical mindedness. At the second assessment there was evidence of heightened ambition and competitiveness and an improvement in mood states with reduced ratings for confusion and tension.
Grip strength and forearm straps in tennis elbow.
Authors: Burton A K
Published: December 2008

Twenty-seven patients who presented with tennis elbow had their grip strengths measured without a forearm strap, with an elastic strap and with an inelastic strap. Of these 85% displayed an increased pain-free grip strength with one or both straps. The increase in pain-free grip strength was statistically significant for both types of strap (p less than 0.001) and the results showed no consistent difference between them. The possible mode of action is discussed.
Sports injuries of the knee ligaments--a prospective stress radiographic study.
Authors: Hede A , Hejgaard N , Sandberg H , Jacobsen K
Published: December 2008

Forty-six patients were entered into a prospective clinical and stress radiographic study done to assess the value of acute surgical treatment of injuries to the knee ligaments sustained during sports activities. After an average follow-up period of 5 1/2 years (range 4-6 1/2 years) medial instability was found only in two patients, both of whom were in the group with isolated rupture of the medial collateral ligament. Nine of the 29 patients in this group developed rotatory instability, but it was moderate and did not give rise to symptoms. Among the 17 patients with either injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament or combined injuries, anterior drawer instability persisted in seven, with an insufficient functional result in five. None of these 17 patients were able to resume competitive sport. Those patients who had not exercised physically just before the injury proved to have a significantly greater total instability than those who had. Therefore, routine limbering-up is recommended before sports activities.
Does exercise alter anaerobic threshold in coronary artery disease during beta blockade?
Authors: Koyal S N , Stuart R J , Lundstrom R , Thomas V , Ellestad M H
Published: December 2008

The effect of propranolol on cardiac patients undergoing exercise training is reported to increase exercise tolerance and maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max) but its effect on anaerobic threshold (AT) is unknown. It was the purpose of this study to determine the role of exercise training with propranolol on AT in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Eight men and one woman with significant (CAD) were selected for this study. Each patient completed a maximum treadmill stress test (MTST) following the Bruce protocol on propranolol 40-160 mg/day as a control study. Cardiorespiratory variables were measured at rest and at each stage of the treadmill test. These patients underwent an exercise training programme for 12-16 weeks on the same dose of propranolol. Training sessions were for a minimum of 30-40 minutes, 3 times a week, with training heart rate of 75%-85% of the pretraining peak heart rate. Training heart rate ranged from 98 to 128 beats/min. They were retested with a MTST after the training programme, on the same dose of propranolol. AT was calculated noninvasively by measuring respiratory variables every 30 seconds in relation to work increment. AT was identified by measuring the time course of VE, VCO2, VE/VO2, etc. in relation to incremental work. The mean values of VO2, O2P and % VO2 max at AT before and after training on propanolol were as follows: VO2 = 1.43 L/min +/- .25 and 1.86 L/min +/- .44, O2P = 14.35 +/- 2.40 and 18.73 +/- 4.00 ml/beat, % of VO2 max = 68.20 +/- 6.31 and 73.59 +/- 5.84. The mean changes of VO2 O2P, and % of VO2 max were + 0.43 L/min +/- 0.20 (P < .003), + 4.38 +/- 2.55 (P < .003) and +/- 5.07% +/- 4.84 (P < .001). After exercise training on propanolol, the mean peak exercise tolerance time and absolute VO2 max increased by 2.8 min (from 9.0 to 11.8 min) (P < .001) and 22.7% (P < .007), respectively. We conclude that the increase in anaerobic threshold in patients with coronary artery disease may be due to improvement in VO2 max, increased stroke volume, and peripheral O2 extraction.
Avulsion fracture involving the body of the patella.
Authors: Hughes A W
Published: December 2008

A report on an unusual transverse fracture through the body of the patella in a 13 year old high jumper is presented. The clinic features and treatment of the more usual avulsion injury of the patella is discussed.
Mouthguards, an evaluation of two types for Rugby players.
Authors: Upson N
Published: December 2008

At the beginning of the 1983/84 Rugby season a dental examination was carried out on 120 players, 55 of whom were fitted with the mouth-fitted type of mouthguard and 65 the laboratory-made type of mouthguard. At the end of the season only 98 players were available for the completion of the study. A further dental examination showed that there was no damage to the teeth when either type of mouthguard was worn. Variations in the attitudes of the players to each type of mouthguard were also recorded.
Shin splints--a literature review.
Authors: Bates P
Published: December 2008

"Shin splints" is not a specific diagnosis. It is merely a descriptive term that describes chronic exertional shin pain in an athlete. The evidence seems clear that shin splint pain has many different causes and this reflects the variation in the anatomy. It would be preferable to describe shin splint pain by location and aetiology, for example, lower medial tibial pain due to periostitis or upper lateral tibial pain due to elevated compartment pressure. This would aid communication between physicians and also direct therapy more accurately.
Predicting running speed from a simple questionnaire.
Authors: Campbell M J
Published: December 2008

Of 221 competitors in a University half marathon in 1983, 98 replied to a questionnaire before the race which asked for details of training, age, height, weight and resting pulse rate. Finishing times of all competitors were recorded. In a multiple regression analysis significant predictors of running speed were: amount of training, expressed as distance run per week and number of weeks training for the event, the Body Mass Index (weight/height) and resting pulse rate. We conclude that for assessing running speed amongst competitors with similar amounts of training, the Body Mass Index and the resting pulse rate are useful substitutes for more elaborate and expensive measures.
Endocrine responses to marathon running.
Authors: Semple C G , Thomson J A , Beastall G H
Published: December 2008

We have examined the hormone status of ten healthy adult males who completed the Glasgow marathon. Serum thyroxine, free thyroxine, triiodothyronine and thyroid stimulating hormone were unaffected by the exertion. Serum cortisol as well as other steroid hormones, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate and oestradiol showed distinct rises (p less than 0.01) but serum testosterone fell significantly (p less than 0.01). There was no change in sex hormone binding globulin capacity but a significant fall in LH levels (p less than 0.05) accompanied the fall in serum testosterone. The mechanism of the fall in serum testosterone in this situation requires clarification but it is unlikely to have adverse consequences.
Serum lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase during marathon training.
Authors: Rumley A G , Pettigrew A R , Colgan M E , Taylor R , Grant S , Manzie A , Findlay I , Dargie H , Elliott A
Published: December 2008

Serum total creatine kinase (CK) and the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) isoenzymes were studied in 38 sedentary middle-aged men (aged 35-50 yrs) during a 30 week marathon training programme. Basal CK activity rose by 33% after 15 weeks but a significant rise (27%) in LDH activity took 30 weeks to occur. Post-exercise (maximum test on a bicycle ergometer) CK and LDH activities were higher than pre-exercise levels but the increment in enzyme activity following exercise did not change. LDH1 and LDH2 isoenzyme activity increased by 2.5% and 4% of total LDH respectively while LDH3 and LDH5 decreased by 3.9% and 2.4% respectively over 30 weeks. Post marathon total CK did not correlate with finishing time at 30 mins or 30 hrs post race. The range of CK MB isoenzyme activity at 30 mins post race was 1.8-9.8% of total CK with 11 subjects having a value above 6%. The training programme appears not to have affected muscle CK and LDH release during exercise but isoenzyme distribution changes reflect the adaptations known to occur in muscle during endurance training. Unfortunately only 16 subjects were available for all the investigations, and it is these upon whom most of the data were obtained.
Soccer injuries of youth.
Authors: Schmidt-Olsen S , Bünemann L K , Lade V , Brassøe J O
Published: December 2008

During a soccer tournament with participation of 6,600 boys and girls (9-19 years) all injuries were evaluated, 5.2% of the players were injured; out of these 51% had "slight injuries", 42% "moderate injuries" and 7% "severe injuries". For the individual player the incidence of injury was 19.1/1,000 playing hours including all degrees of injuries; if "slight injuries" were excluded the incidence was 9.4/1,000 playing hours. The incidence rose with increasing age, girls were injured more often than boys. There were 81% of all injuries localised to the lower extremity, especially the ankle and foot. Contusion was the most frequent diagnosis, amounting to a third of all injuries. Blisters and exoriations amounted to nearly a fifth, 4% of the injuries were fractures, especially in the upper extremity; overuse injuries were seen only in 5.2% of the cases. Based on examination of the injury pattern in these children, injuries of youth seem to be relatively rare and mostly of a non-severe character.