bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activation of Influenza A Viruses by Host Proteases from Swine Airway Epithelium
Authors: Peitsch Catharina , Klenk Hans-Dieter , Garten Wolfgang , Böttcher-Friebertshäuser Eva
Published: October 2013

Pigs are important natural hosts of influenza A viruses, and due to their susceptibility to swine, avian, and human viruses, they may serve as intermediate hosts supporting adaptation and genetic reassortment. Cleavage of the influenza virus surface glycoprotein hemagglutinin (HA) by host cell proteases is essential for viral infectivity. Most influenza viruses, including human and swine viruses, are activated at a monobasic HA cleavage site, and we previously identified TMPRSS2 and HAT to be relevant proteases present in human airways. We investigated the proteolytic activation of influenza viruses in primary porcine tracheal and bronchial epithelial cells (PTEC and PBEC, respectively). Human H1N1 and H3N2 viruses replicated efficiently in PTECs and PBECs, and viruses containing cleaved HA were released from infected cells. Moreover, the cells supported the proteolytic activation of HA at the stage of entry. We found that swine proteases homologous to TMPRSS2 and HAT, designated swTMPRSS2 and swAT, respectively, were expressed in several parts of the porcine respiratory tract. Both proteases cloned from primary PBECs were shown to activate HA with a monobasic cleavage site upon coexpression and support multicycle replication of influenza viruses. swAT was predominantly localized at the plasma membrane, where it was present as an active protease that mediated activation of incoming virus. In contrast, swTMPRSS2 accumulated in the trans-Golgi network, suggesting that it cleaves HA in this compartment. In conclusion, our data show that HA activation in porcine airways may occur by similar proteases and at similar stages of the viral life cycle as in human airways.
CD4 T Cell Help Is Limiting and Selective during the Primary B Cell Response to Influenza Virus Infection
Authors: Alam Shabnam , Knowlden Zackery A. G. , Sangster Mark Y. , Sant Andrea J.
Published: October 2013

Influenza virus vaccination strategies are focused upon the elicitation of protective antibody responses through administration of viral protein through either inactivated virions or live attenuated virus. Often overlooked in this strategy is the CD4 T cell response: how it develops into memory, and how it may support future primary B cell responses to heterologous infection. Through the utilization of a peptide-priming regimen, this study describes a strategy for developing CD4 T cell memory with the capacity to robustly expand in the lung-draining lymph node after live influenza virus infection. Not only were frequencies of antigen-specific CD4 T cells enhanced, but these cells also supported an accelerated primary B cell response to influenza virus-derived protein, evidenced by high anti-nucleoprotein (NP) serum antibody titers early, while there is still active viral replication ongoing in the lung. NP-specific antibody-secreting cells and heightened frequencies of germinal center B cells and follicular T helper cells were also readily detectable in the draining lymph node. Surprisingly, a boosted memory CD4 T cell response was not sufficient to provide intermolecular help for antibody responses. Our study demonstrates that CD4 T cell help is selective and limiting to the primary antibody response to influenza virus infection and that preemptive priming of CD4 T cell help can promote effective and rapid conversion of naive B cells to mature antibody-secreting cells.
Crystal Structure of pb9, the Distal Tail Protein of Bacteriophage T5: a Conserved Structural Motif among All Siphophages
Authors: Flayhan Ali , Vellieux Frédéric M. D. , Lurz Rudi , Maury Olivier , Contreras-Martel Carlos , Girard Eric , Boulanger Pascale , Breyton Cécile
Published: October 2013

The tail of
Caudovirales
bacteriophages serves as an adsorption device, a host cell wall-perforating machine, and a genome delivery pathway. In
Siphoviridae
, the assembly of the long and flexible tail is a highly cooperative and regulated process that is initiated from the proteins forming the distal tail tip complex. In Gram-positive-bacterium-infecting siphophages, the distal tail (Dit) protein has been structurally characterized and is proposed to represent a baseplate hub docking structure. It is organized as a hexameric ring that connects the tail tube and the adsorption device. In this study, we report the characterization of pb9, a tail tip protein of
Escherichia coli
bacteriophage T5. By immunolocalization, we show that pb9 is located in the upper part of the cone of the T5 tail tip, at the end of the tail tube. The crystal structure of pb9 reveals a two-domain protein. Domain A exhibits remarkable structural similarity with the N-terminal domain of known Dit proteins, while domain B adopts an oligosaccharide/oligonucleotide-binding fold (OB-fold) that is not shared by these proteins. We thus propose that pb9 is the Dit protein of T5, making it the first Dit protein described for a Gram-negative-bacterium-infecting siphophage. Multiple sequence alignments suggest that pb9 is a paradigm for a large family of Dit proteins of siphophages infecting mostly Gram-negative hosts. The modular structure of the Dit protein maintains the basic building block that would be conserved among all siphophages, combining it with a more divergent domain that might serve specific host adhesion properties.
The D10 Decapping Enzyme of Vaccinia Virus Contributes to Decay of Cellular and Viral mRNAs and to Virulence in Mice
Authors: Liu Shin-Wu , Wyatt Linda S. , Orandle Marlene S. , Minai Mahnaz , Moss Bernard
Published: October 2013

Posttranscriptional mechanisms are important for regulation of cellular and viral gene expression. The presence of the 5′ cap structure m
7
G(5′)ppp(5′)Nm is a general feature of mRNAs that provides protection from exoribonuclease digestion and enhances translation. Vaccinia virus and other poxviruses encode enzymes for both cap synthesis and decapping. Decapping is mediated by two related enzymes, D9 and D10, which are synthesized before and after viral DNA replication, respectively. The timing of D10 synthesis correlates better with the shutdown of host gene expression, and deletion of this gene has been shown to cause persistence of host and viral mRNAs in infected cells. Here, we constructed specific mutant viruses in which translation of D10 was prevented by stop codons or activity of D10 was abrogated by catalytic site mutations, without other genomic alterations. Both mutants formed plaques of normal size and replicated to similar extents as the parental virus in monkey epithelial cells and mouse embryonic fibroblasts. The synthesis of viral proteins was slightly delayed, and cellular and viral mRNAs persisted longer in cells infected with the mutants compared to either the parental virus or clonal revertant. Despite the mild effects
in vitro
, both mutants were more attenuated than the revertants in intranasal and intraperitoneal mouse models, and less infectious virus was recovered from organs. In addition, there was less lung histopathology following intranasal infection with mutant viruses. These data suggest that the D10 decapping enzyme may help restrict antiviral responses by accelerating host mRNA degradation during poxvirus infection.
Discovery of Novel Ribonucleoside Analogs with Activity against Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1
Authors: Dapp Michael J. , Bonnac Laurent , Patterson Steven E. , Mansky Louis M.
Published: October 2013

Reverse transcription is an important early step in retrovirus replication and is a key point targeted by evolutionarily conserved host restriction factors (e.g., APOBEC3G, SamHD1). Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) reverse transcriptase (RT) is a major target of antiretroviral drugs, and concerns regarding drug resistance and off-target effects have led to continued efforts for identifying novel approaches to targeting HIV-1 RT. Several observations, including those obtained from monocyte-derived macrophages, have argued that ribonucleotides and their analogs can, intriguingly, impact reverse transcription. For example, we have previously demonstrated that 5-azacytidine has its greatest antiviral potency during reverse transcription by enhancement of G-to-C transversion mutations. In the study described here, we investigated a panel of ribonucleoside analogs for their ability to affect HIV-1 replication during the reverse transcription process. We discovered five ribonucleosides—8-azaadenosine, formycin A, 3-deazauridine, 5-fluorocytidine, and 2′-
C
-methylcytidine—that possess anti-HIV-1 activity, and one of these (i.e., 3-deazauridine) has a primary antiviral mechanism that involves increased HIV-1 mutational loads, while quantitative PCR analysis determined that the others resulted in premature chain termination. Taken together, our findings provide the first demonstration of a series of ribonucleoside analogs that can target HIV-1 reverse transcription with primary antiretroviral mechanisms that include premature termination of viral DNA synthesis or enhanced viral mutagenesis.
Powerful Sequence Similarity Search Methods and In-Depth Manual Analyses Can Identify Remote Homologs in Many Apparently “Orphan” Viral Proteins
Authors: Kuchibhatla Durga B. , Sherman Westley A. , Chung Betty Y. W. , Cook Shelley , Schneider Georg , Eisenhaber Birgit , Karlin David G.
Published: October 2013

The genome sequences of new viruses often contain many “orphan” or “taxon-specific” proteins apparently lacking homologs. However, because viral proteins evolve very fast, commonly used sequence similarity detection methods such as BLAST may overlook homologs. We analyzed a data set of proteins from RNA viruses characterized as “genus specific” by BLAST. More powerful methods developed recently, such as HHblits or HHpred (available through web-based, user-friendly interfaces), could detect distant homologs of a quarter of these proteins, suggesting that these methods should be used to annotate viral genomes. In-depth manual analyses of a subset of the remaining sequences, guided by contextual information such as taxonomy, gene order, or domain cooccurrence, identified distant homologs of another third. Thus, a combination of powerful automated methods and manual analyses can uncover distant homologs of many proteins thought to be orphans. We expect these methodological results to be also applicable to cellular organisms, since they generally evolve much more slowly than RNA viruses. As an application, we reanalyzed the genome of a bee pathogen,
Chronic bee paralysis virus
(CBPV). We could identify homologs of most of its proteins thought to be orphans; in each case, identifying homologs provided functional clues. We discovered that CBPV encodes a domain homologous to the
Alphavirus
methyltransferase-guanylyltransferase; a putative membrane protein, SP24, with homologs in unrelated insect viruses and insect-transmitted plant viruses having different morphologies (cileviruses, higreviruses, blunerviruses, negeviruses); and a putative virion glycoprotein, ORF2, also found in negeviruses. SP24 and ORF2 are probably major structural components of the virions.
Switching a Replication-Defective Adenoviral Vector into a Replication-Competent, Oncolytic Adenovirus
Authors: Nakashima Hiroshi , Chiocca E. Antonio
Published: October 2013

The adenovirus immediate early gene E1A initiates the program of viral gene transcription and reprograms multiple aspects of cell function and behavior. For adenoviral (Ad) vector-mediated gene transfer and therapy approaches, where replication-defective (RD) gene transfer is required, E1A has thus been the primary target for deletions. For oncolytic gene therapy for cancer, where replication-competent (RC) Ad viral gene expression is needed, E1A has been either mutated or placed under tumor-specific transcriptional control. A novel Ad vector that initially infected target tumor cells in an RD manner for transgene expression but that could be “switched” into an RC, oncolytic state when needed might represent an advance in vector technology. Here, we report that we designed such an Ad vector (proAdΔ24.GFP), where initial Ad replication is silenced by a green fluorescent protein (GFP) transgene that blocks cytomegalovirus (CMV)-mediated transcription of E1A. This vector functions as a bona fide E1A-deleted RD vector in infected tumor cells. However, because the silencing GFP transgene is flanked by FLP recombination target (FRT) sites, we show that it can be efficiently excised by Flp recombinase site-specific recombination, either when
Flp
is expressed constitutively in cells or when it is provided in
trans
by coinfection with a second RD herpes simplex virus (HSV) amplicon vector. This switches the RD Ad, proAdΔ24.GFP, into a fully RC, oncolytic Ad (rAdΔ24) that lyses tumor cells in culture and generates oncolytic progeny virions.
In vivo
, coinfection of established flank tumors with the RD proAdΔ24.GFP and the RD
Flp
-bearing HSV1 amplicon leads to generation of RC, oncolytic rAdΔ24. In an orthotopic human glioma xenograft tumor model, coinjection of the RD proAdΔ24.GFP and the RD
Flp
-bearing HSV1 amplicon also led to a significant increase in animal survival, compared to controls. Therefore,
Flp
-FRT site-specific recombination can be applied to switch RD Ad into fully oncolytic RC Ad for tumor therapy and is potentially applicable to a variety of gene therapy approaches.
Kinase Control of Latent HIV-1 Infection: PIM-1 Kinase as a Major Contributor to HIV-1 Reactivation
Authors: Duverger Alexandra , Wolschendorf Frank , Anderson Joshua C. , Wagner Frederic , Bosque Alberto , Shishido Takao , Jones Jennifer , Planelles Vicente , Willey Christopher , Cron Randall Q. , Kutsch Olaf
Published: October 2013

Despite the clinical relevance of latent HIV-1 infection as a block to HIV-1 eradication, the molecular biology of HIV-1 latency remains incompletely understood. We recently demonstrated the presence of a gatekeeper kinase function that controls latent HIV-1 infection. Using kinase array analysis, we here expand on this finding and demonstrate that the kinase activity profile of latently HIV-1-infected T cells is altered relative to that of uninfected T cells. A ranking of altered kinases generated from these kinome profile data predicted PIM-1 kinase as a key switch involved in HIV-1 latency control. Using genetic and pharmacologic perturbation strategies, we demonstrate that PIM-1 activity is indeed required for HIV-1 reactivation in T cell lines and primary CD4 T cells. The presented results thus confirm that kinases are key contributors to HIV-1 latency control. In addition, through mutational studies we link the inhibitory effect of PIM-1 inhibitor IV (PIMi IV) on HIV-1 reactivation to an AP-1 motif in the CD28-responsive element of the HIV-1 long terminal repeat (LTR). The results expand our conceptual understanding of the dynamic interactions of the host cell and the latent HIV-1 integration event and position kinome profiling as a research tool to reveal novel molecular mechanisms that can eventually be targeted to therapeutically trigger HIV-1 reactivation.
Latent Gammaherpesvirus 68 Infection Induces Distinct Transcriptional Changes in Different Organs
Authors: Canny Susan P. , Goel Gautam , Reese Tiffany A. , Zhang Xin , Xavier Ramnik , Virgin Herbert W.
Published: October 2013

Previous studies identified a role for latent herpesvirus infection in cross-protection against infection and exacerbation of chronic inflammatory diseases. Here, we identified more than 500 genes differentially expressed in spleens, livers, or brains of mice latently infected with gammaherpesvirus 68 and found that distinct sets of genes linked to different pathways were altered in the spleen compared to those in the liver. Several of the most differentially expressed latency-specific genes (e.g., the gamma interferon [IFN-γ], Cxcl9, and Ccl5 genes) are associated with known latency-specific phenotypes. Chronic herpesvirus infection, therefore, significantly alters the transcriptional status of host organs. We speculate that such changes may influence host physiology, the status of the immune system, and disease susceptibility.
Human Cytomegalovirus Infection of Langerhans-Type Dendritic Cells Does Not Require the Presence of the gH/gL/UL128-131A Complex and Is Blocked after Nuclear Deposition of Viral Genomes in Immature Cells
Authors: Lauron Elvin J. , Yu Dong , Fehr Anthony R. , Hertel Laura
Published: October 2013

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) enters its host via the oral and genital mucosae. Langerhans-type dendritic cells (LC) are the most abundant innate immune cells at these sites, where they constitute a first line of defense against a variety of pathogens. We previously showed that immature LC (iLC) are remarkably resistant to CMV infection, while mature LC (mLC) are more permissive, particularly when exposed to clinical-strain-like strains of CMV, which display a pentameric complex consisting of the viral glycoproteins gH, gL, UL128, UL130, and UL131A on their envelope. This complex was recently shown to be required for the infection of immature monocyte-derived dendritic cells. We thus sought to establish if the presence of this complex is also necessary for virion penetration of LC and if defects in entry might be the source of iLC resistance to CMV. Here we report that the efficiency of LC infection is reduced, but not completely abolished, in the absence of the pentameric complex. While virion penetration and nuclear deposition of viral genomes are not impaired in iLC, the transcription of the viral immediate early genes UL122 and UL123 and of the delayed early gene UL50 is substantially lower than that in mLC. Together, these data show that the UL128, UL130, and UL131A proteins are dispensable for CMV entry into LC and that progression of the viral cycle in iLC is restricted at the step of viral gene expression.
Clinical Effectiveness of Electroacupuncture in Meralgia Paraesthetica: A Case Series
Authors: Alexander Rosemary E
Published: October 2013

Background

Meralgia paraesthetica is a fairly common condition resulting from entrapment of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. I have found that acupuncture produces a rapid improvement, sometimes effecting a cure, after only one or two treatments. I therefore invited referrals in order to collect a case series.

Methods

A series of 10 patients, which included two who had refused surgery, but excluded those with significant lumbar spine problems, were treated. Visual Analogue Scale pain scores and analgesic intake were recorded weekly, starting before treatment. Four patients were receiving high doses of analgesics and the average period of symptoms was 3–4 years. Acupuncture points used were BL25, GB30, GB34, GB31, GB32, Huatuojiaji and ah shi points of the buttock and thigh, up to a depth of 7.5 cm. Electroacupuncture was normally given from the second treatment.

Results

Without exception, patients were specifically tender over GB31 before they started treatment. Most were also tender over the upper lumbar spine. An average of four to five sessions of acupuncture was given. The pain scores for all 10 patients improved by at least 50%, including that of a patient with a 20-year history. At follow-up (varying from 3 to 36 months), improvement was nearly 100%. Most patients were able to stop their analgesics.

Conclusions

Meralgia paraesthetica appears to respond rapidly to electroacupuncture. A significant trigger point at GB31 was universally present, which may aid diagnosis, although the reason for this is unclear. Further controlled studies are justified.
CORRELATES OF MOTIVATION TO PRACTICE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AMONG STUDENTS FROM PORTUGUESE MILITARY COLLEGE
Authors: Peralta M , Martins J , Marques A , Correia C
Published: October 2013

The study of physical activity (PA) is important for many reasons, including the need to identify determinants of physically active lifestyles for health, educational and social benefits. This study sought to examine the variables that can explain the motivation of students attending the military superior education to practice PA. 415 young men (age 22±2 y) participated in the study. Data were collected using a questionnaire about leisure time activities, PA participation, goal orientation, perceptions of health and competence, and attitudes towards school, PE and PA. A multiple linear regression was used for data processing. Nearly all participants participate in extracurricular PA (85.5%). On a scale of 1 to 10, the mean level of motivation to practice PA was 7.8±1.3. 93% had a positive attitude toward PA. The mean levels of task orientation were higher (mean=3.3±0.4) than ego orientation (2.3±1). Most students considered themselves competent (3.2±0.6), varying between 1 and 4. Finally, they were asked how important it was to be good at sports, also measured on a scale between 1 and 4.The mean level was 3.2±0.6. The model of multiple linear regression used to explain the variation of motivation to practice PA according to age, attitude toward PA, goal orientation, perception of competence and importance assigned to be good at sports is significant (F(8,406)=13.581, p<0.001) and explained 20% of motivation variations. The students’ motivation to practice PA could be explained by the attitude toward PA (p<0.001), perception of competence (p=0.001) and the importance assigned to be good at sports (p=0.005). This means it is possible to increase the students’ motivation to practice PA if the attitude and perception of competence increase. On the other hand, changing the school climate, valuating the practice of PA, seems to contribute to enhancing the levels of motivation and, consequently, the levels of PA.
THE EFFECT OF 10-WEEK TAE-BO INTERVENTION PROGRAMME ON PHYSICAL FITNESS AND HEALTH RELATED RISK FACTORS IN OVERWEIGHT/OBESE FEMALES
Authors: Mathunjwa ML , Semple SJ , Preez C du
Published: October 2013

The prevalence of obesity, sedentary lifestyle and associated cardiometabolic disease (CMD) is increasing among black African women and requires urgent attention in the form of preventative strategies. To date, there is limited scientific evidence highlighting the efficacy of Tae-bo as an intervention for reducing weight and CMD risk factors. The aim therefore was to establish the efficacy of Tae-bo as an intervention for increasing physical fitness components and reducing CMD risk factors. At the University of Zululand, South Africa, 60 previously sedentary participants [25±5 y] who were overweight (BMI>25–29.9 kg.m−2) or obese (BMI≥30–39.9 kg.m−2) were recruited for the study. Participants performed a 10-week aerobic (Tae-bo) programme 60 min/day for three days a week at moderate intensity for the first 5 weeks and high intensity for the last 5 weeks. Anthropometric parameters (height, weight, waist and hip circumference and sum of skinfolds), blood pressure, fasting glucose, lipoproteins and physical fitness components (sit and reach, step test, hand grip strength, push ups, Nelson hand test, ruler drop, stork stand test, horizontal jump, 20-m shuttle run) were measured at baseline, after six weeks and 24 hours after completion of the 10-week programme. Data was analysed using repeated measures ANOVA and a Tukey Post hoc test.The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 26.7% pre-intervention and decreased to 16.3% post intervention. There was an improvement (p≤0.05) in weight, BMI, waist and hip circumference, glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, resting heart rate and resting systolic and diastolic blood pressures following the intervention. A 10-week 30 session Tae-bo exercise programme was effective in reducing traditional risk factors associated with cardiometabolic disease in overweight/obese university students.
EXPECTANCY EFFECTS ON COMPETITIVE 5 KM TIME-TRIAL PERFORMANCE
Authors: Hurst P , Board L , Roberts J
Published: October 2013

Manipulating athletes’ beliefs and expectations through deception has been shown to improve sport performance in artificial environments, but this has not been demonstrated systematically in real life competition where the effects could easily be masked. This study investigated the placebo effect of belief in a new performance-enhancing supplement on 5 km competitive time-trial performance. Fifteen competitive male endurance runners (mean±s: Age=33±5; Height=175±8.1 cm; Weight=71.0±7.2 kg, 5 km personal best: 19:13±1:13 minutes) volunteered to participate in four 5 km competitive time trials over a three week period (two experimental and two baseline). In experimental trials, participants ingested a placebo drink that was informed to improve 5 km endurance performance. Conditions were randomised between baseline and experimental. Magnitude inferences and 95% confidence intervals were used to determine if a positive expectancy could have a smallest worthwhile effect on 5 km endurance performance of 0.5%. Mean 5 km performance time-trial for the expectation of receiving a beneficial supplement was different from that of baseline (1195±79 s; 95% confidence interval 1152 to 1239 vs. 1216±81s; 1171 to 1261s,P<0.001). Relative to baseline, a very likely beneficial main effect of receiving a positive expectation (1.72±1.03, 95% CI 1.00±2.44%) was demonstrated. The results suggest that the placebo effect could be used in a real life competitive environment to improve 5 km running performance.
A KINEMATIC COMPARISON OF BACKWARD TUCKED SOMERSAULT DISMOUNT PERFORMED ON HIGH BAR BY ELITE AND NON-ELITE GYMNASTS
Authors: Mosscrop E , Penitente G , Sands WA , de Vries JP
Published: October 2013

The backward tucked somersault dismount from the high bar, also known as a ‘fly-away’, is a basic gymnastic skill. While it is a common practice for gymnasts to practice high-difficulty dismounts upon stable execution of basic skills, there is little evidence to support this practice. The aim of this study was to investigate the kinematic differences of the fly-away dismount performed by elite and non-elite gymnasts. Four elite gymnasts (18±3 y; 166.7±4.3 cm, 61.4±10.4 kg) and four non-elite gymnasts (10±1 y; 137±2 cm, 34.6±8.7 kg) volunteered for the study. The sagittal plane of the release action up to the peak of the flight and the landing were recorded by two cameras at 50Hz. Simi Motion was used to digitize 7 markers placed on the gymnast's body. The angular position of the release measured from the handstand, the flexion-extension angles of hip and knee joints at the instants of release and landing, the vertical peak of the flight and the horizontal distance of the hip from the bar at the peak of flight were analysed. The differences in the variables were rank-ordered and a Mann Whitney test was used to compare the ranks for the elite and non-elite gymnasts. The angles of hip and knee joints at the instant of release for the elite gymnasts (Hip=mdn (range)=142°(49); Knee=69°(61)) were different from the non-elite gymnasts (Hip=161°(54); Knee=109°(87)). Vertical and horizontal distances at the peak of the flight were different between elite (Vert Peak=1.4 m (0.8); Hor distance=1.7 m (0.9) and non-elite gymnasts (Vert Peak=0.7 m (0.9); Hor distance=1.2 m (0.3)). To improve the performance of the fly away dismount, non-elite gymnasts should focus on their ability to rotate in a full tucked position stressing flexion of hip and knee joints; and control the increased angular momentum. It is assumed that by employing these strategies, a double rotation fly-away will be mastered more quickly.
THE PROFILE OF PATIENTS ATTENDING NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE SPORT AND EXERCISE MEDICINE CLINICS: A QUESTIONNAIRE BASED SURVEY
Authors: Watura C , O'Halloran P , Maffulli N , Hughes C , Morrissey D
Published: October 2013

In 2005, sport and exercise medicine (SEM) became a specialty in the United Kingdom to provide expert treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and promote physical activity (Cullenet al.BJSM2005;39:250). There is no published research on the utilisation of publicly-funded SEM clinics. We investigated National Health Service (NHS) SEM patient sociodemographics, exercise participation, injuries and management in order to assess clinic accessibility and inform the development of services and SEM specialist training to better meet patient demands. This was a longitudinal observational study using a two-part questionnaire, Part A completed by patients and Part B by clinicians. We attempted to include all patients during December 2011 to April 2012 at all NHS SEM clinics in the London Deanery and two in the Oxford and West Midlands Deaneries. Exercise medicine referrals were not seen in these clinics so could not be included. Two clinics in London, four clinicians, 27 patients participated. Overall 70% (19/27) male, 67% (18/27) white, mean age 30, all employed, in full-time education or retired. Injuries were chronic instability, joint sprain, muscle, cartilage and tendon injury, from running 26% (7/27), football, non-sports, other sports each 15% (4/27). Eleven percent (3/27) did no sport. Six of seven that answered required imaging. Onward referrals were to orthopaedics, physiotherapy, general practise and podiatry. Descriptive analysis showed clinic demographics reflected area residents. Most injuries were at the knee with high demand for MRI and referral to orthopaedic services. Future studies should increase sample sizes to better understand sociodemographics, whether patients see multiple physicians before appropriate referral to NHS SEM clinic (O'Halloranet al.BJSM2009;43(14):1143–8), if injury types are generalisable across clinics, and whether exercise medicine is being delivered alongside care of musculoskeletal injuries.
PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF CARDIOVASCULAR RESPONSE ON THE OBSERVATIONAL AND PRACTICAL TASK DIFFICULTY
Authors: Hoshino S
Published: October 2013

Players often observe games of the opponents before competing and may compare the own skill levels with the opponents’ skills (degree of task difficulty). However, even though they have the image of the opponents’ skills, players often cause confusion during the actual game. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychophysiological relationship between a task difficulty and a cardiovascular response from the point of an observation and a practice. In relation to the active coping approach to cardiovascular adjustments, motivational intensity has been operationalized by means of β-adrenaline influenced cardiovascular indices: particularly, increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure and increased HR with the level of task difficulty. Low cardiovascular reactivity is observed for tasks that are easy or impossible. High cardiovascular reactivity is observed in conditions of high difficulty or importance of success. In this study, Japanese university table tennis players (4 men and 7 women) were employed as the subjects. Experimental tasks were to evaluate the task difficulties and the prospect of success in the 5-ways of throwing a ball. And two conditions were set from the point of the observer and player. Psychological indices were measured a subjective task difficulty, a prospect of success, a motivational level, an arousal level, a hedonic tone, and the emotional states (excitement, anxiety, relaxation, boredom) by marking a 120-mm line visual analogue scales. Physiological indices were measured a systolic and a diastolic blood pressure and IBI by means of a continuous non-invasive blood pressure monitor. Spearman's correlation analyses were employed to examine the relationship between psychological and physiological indices. As a result, in both of the observational condition and the practical condition, the increase in blood pressure with increasing level of arousal, decrease in blood pressure with increasing level of unpleasant tendency was observed.
YOUTH SOCCER ATHLETES’ INVOLVEMENT IN DIFFERENT SPORT PRACTICE CONTEXTS
Authors: Santos AJ , Carvalho HM , Gonçalves CE
Published: October 2013

The sport can serve as an informal educational context, helping the youth development positive values and healthy habits. The ecological theories give importance to the contexts where the individual are inserted and to the involvement time on those, through the Process-Person-Context-Time model. The orientation to performance or to socialization and healthy habits can promote different values and behaviors in the youth athletes. We aim to: a) examine the contextual effects in youth soccer players; b) observe the effects of a season involvement in the developmental assets, attitudes and enjoyment; c) examine the sport involvement effects according to age in the developmental assets, attitudes and enjoyment in sport. The participants (n=135) were male soccer players aged 12–18 years (M=15,SD=2) from three different contexts: Professional Club (n=45), Amateur Urban Club (n=46), Amateur Rural Club (n=44). They fulfilled the Sources of enjoyment in youth sport questionnaire, Developmental Assets Profile and to Sport Attitudes Questionnaire. A multilevel analysis was performed. The Professional Club athletes reveal lower levels of assets, enjoyment and sport attitudes than the other contexts athletes, suggesting a disadvantage context for positive development. The sport involvement during a soccer season has negative effects in the athletes’ enjoyment and attitudes, revealing that a season exposure leads to athletes perceive less interest in being involved in those sport contexts. This findings reinforces the solicitudes of sport contexts influences in athletes development, as well the need to promote enjoyable and pro-social practice environment to augment the interest in being involved in sport.
GENERALIZED LIGAMENT LAXITY AND HIP ARTHROSCOPY IN AN ATHLETIC POPULATION
Authors: Akhtar MA , Campton L
Published: October 2013

This study was performed to assess the incidence of generalized ligament laxity (GLL) in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for intraarticular hip pathology diagnosed by clinical examination and confirmed with magnetic resonance arthrography. Prospective data were collected for 27 patients between Feb and May 2013 under the care of a specialist hip surgeon including demographic details; mechanism of injury, operative diagnosis, surgical treatments performed and GLL by using the Beighton score. The mean age was 32 years (range 18–56). There were 14 male (52%) and 13 (48%) female patients. 81% patients were involved in sports and football was the most common sports in 55%. The mean duration of symptoms was 4 years (range 1–16). The mean Non-arthritic hip score was 30 (range 20–46). 80% patients denied hip injury, 8% had significant hip injury, 8% were involved in road traffic accidents and 4% had a trivial injury. 21% patients had bilateral, 67% had right and 12% had left sided symptoms. 54% patients had Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) and an associated labral tear, 31% had an isolated labral tear and 15% had only impingement. 42% patients had labral debridement and osteochondroplasty of the femoral neck, 19% had labral debridement, 15% had osteochondroplasty, 15% had labral repair and osteochondroplasty and 8% had only labral repair. The mean Beighton score for these patients was 2.7 (range 0–9). 10 patients (37%) in this group had a Beighton score of 4 or more indicating GLL. We found that there was a high incidence (37%) of GLL in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy. 54% patients had FAI and associated labral tear, 80% denied hip injury and 21% had bilateral symptoms. Further research to study the effect of GLL on intraarticular hip pathology in young athletic population is required for appropriate advice about the risk of injuries.
DERIVATION OF VELOCITY/DISTANCE CURVES FROM A WIRELESS INERTIAL MEASUREMENT UNIT INSTRUMENTED BOB-SKELETON SLED AND COMPARISON TO LIGHT GATE AND VIDEO DERIVED VALUES
Authors: Gaffney M , Walsh M , O'Flynn B , O'Mathuna C
Published: October 2013

The sprinting push-start in the Winter Olympic sport of Bob-Skeleton, constitutes 2% and 8% of the 1500 m distance and 70 s duration of each run (Official Results & Track Data, www.fibt.com, Apr 2013). This phase is critical to performance (Zanolettiet al.JSCR2006;20(3):579–583), but the sport's small size, seasonal nature and other issues i.e. access to tracks, the challenging environment, or even restrictions by the governing body (Bob-Skeleton Rules: 10.11, 14.1 & 16.9, www.fibt.com, Apr 2013), mean no studies-with or sources-of fine-grained real-world data are available. A Wireless Inertial Measurement Unit (WIMU) system was used to instrument a Bob- Skeleton training sled to gather such data. A WIMU streamed 256Hz Accelerometer data; light-gate, video and track-shape data were also gathered. A 65 kg female athlete in her 20 s performed 11 runs with varying step count, push side and handedness. An adaptive integration method using track-shape compensation and filtered raw data, converted Acceleration to velocity/distance curves and compared it to values interpolated from combined timing data from 6.5–20.5 m after push-off. WIMU data from 7 runs was used (average of data points 486±96). The adaptive integration method results tracked timing data velocity/distance curves well. The average velocity error was 0.462±0.248 m/s (7.57±4.12%), best & worst runs were 0.176±0.143 m/s (2.97±2.63%) & 0.800±0.251 m/s (13.2±3.55%) respectively. WIMUs show promise for recording fine-grained Bob-Skeleton velocity/distance data, but results so far are not good enough for high-end users (<0.1 m/s accuracy). Improved systems with higher sampling, better sensors, in-the-field re-calibration, integrated timing, and synchronisation capabilities could likely achieve this. Acknowledgements Supported by Science Foundation Ireland via CLARITY: Centre for Sensor Web Technologies under grant 07/CE/I1147 with the assistance of University of Bath & UK Sports.
EVALUATION OF THE PREVALENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES RELATING TO β-ALANINE USE AMONG ATHLETES
Authors: Kelly VG , Jenkins DG , Leveritt MD , Brennan CT , Slater GJ
Published: October 2013

β-alanine is an amino acid involved in the synthesis of carnosine, an intramuscular compound that buffers pH and has been associated with improvements in high intensity exercise performance. Little is currently known about the supplementation habits of β-alanine in professional athletes. The aim of this study was to investigate β-alanine supplementation use amongst professional athletes. Surveys assessing β-alanine practices beliefs and sources of information were completed by 570 professional footballers from Super Rugby (SR), Rugby League (NRL) and Australian Rules Football (AFL) in Australia. Approximately 61% of athletes reported β-alanine use, but use by AFL players was below that of SR and NRL. 90% of respondents had misconceptions on β-alanine's use, or were not using β-alanine in accordance with recommendations. Up to 60% of users experienced paraesthesia symptoms from β-alanine use and 70% of users sourced their information from strength and conditioning coaches, dietitians (∼50%), trainers(∼25%), and/or sport scientists (∼15%). Compared to NRL and AFL players, SR players had both a greater knowledge of β-alanine supplementation and better supplementation practices. This survey data of Australian professional football athletes indicates that, despite over half the athlete population using β-alanine, the majority of athletes had misconceptions relating to its use.
THE ACUTE EFFECTS OF EXERCISE ON POST-EXERCISE INFLAMMATION AND IRON REGULATION: A COMPARISON BETWEEN TRAINED AND UNTRAINED MEN
Authors: Zwygart KA , Howe C , Moir HJ
Published: October 2013

This study examined whether the magnitude of the effects of an exercise bout on inflammatory markers and iron regulation in humans differs between trained and untrained men. Changes in cell count (red blood cell, white blood cell, haemoglobin, haematocrit, lymphocytes, monocytes, granulocytes) Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and serum iron in response to a running bout were compared between both groups. Seven untrained (VO2max 47.4±4.1 ml·kg−1·min−1) and seven trained (56.9±4.5 ml·kg−1·min−1) men aged 19–48 years completed a Bruce protocol treadmill test and a subsequent treadmill run (45 min at 75% of VO2max). Ethical approval was granted by Kingston University Faculty Ethics Committee and conducted in accordance to the Declaration of Helsinki. Venous whole blood was collected before, and at 0, 3, 6 and 24 after exercise. Exercise-induced plasma volume changes were accounted for. Mixed Model ANOVA was performed to examine differences within groups. Independent t-tests identified which time points differed between groups, and dependent t-tests were applied to examine changes within groups over time. Significance was accepted atP<0.05. Differences between groups were observed for haemoglobin (P<0.005) and red blood cell (P=0.007) at all time points, as well as for haematocrit at all time points except at baseline (P=0.013). Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Granulocytes, IL-6 and iron levels did not differ between groups. IL-6 levels were increased post-exercise in both groups, and iron was different 3 h post-exercise to 6 h post-exercise (P<0.05). Findings suggest haemoglobin, haematocrit and red bloods to be lower in trained individuals due to adaptations of endurance training. The single exercise running bout elicited an acute inflammatory response represented by an increase in IL-6 and decrease in serum iron. Alterations in IL-6 were not different between trained and untrained men, indicating a lack of effect of training status.
AN AGGRESSIVE WEIGHT AND FAT LOSS NUTRITIONAL STRATEGY IN A MALE ARTISTIC GYMNAST: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Keil M , Farquarhson R , Little A , Fawcett L
Published: October 2013

A case study describing the nutritional interventions with an elite artistic male gymnast, whose performance was being inhibited by repeated injury. We aimed to obtain a rapid reduction in body fat (BF) and body mass (BM), to reduce the load through the knee, ankle joints, and connective tissues. Training and nutritional strategies were adjusted to maximise BF and BM loss, whilst maintaining lean mass (LM). A prescriptive nutritional programme was designed which varied each day, to account for changes in daily training sessions. Protein was maintained at 2 g/kg BM, split in to regular 15 g snacks or 25–30 g meals. Calcium was maintained at 1000 mg through low-fat dairy consumption. Omega 3 fats were obtained through a supplement and 30 g portions of mixed seeds. Carbohydrates were obtained through low-moderate glycaemic index foods at all meal times. On rest days, carbohydrates were omitted from the evening meal. Caffeine was used prior to specific training sessions. A maintenance dose of creatine (5 g/d) and branched chain amino acid (5 g/d) supplement was used to help maintain LM. High antioxidant foods were consumed throughout the day to maintain polyphenol intake. Weight was monitored on a weekly basis. Body composition before and after was assessed using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and skinfolds were used to monitor BF before and at the mid-point, between DXA. BM reduced from 71.4 kg to 66.5 kg over a 6 week period, totalling 4.9 kg reduction. BF fell by 5.3 kg, taking fat from 16.8% to 9.7%. LM increased from 56.6 kg to 57.1 kg and bone mineral content (kg) and density (g/cm3) remained unchanged. Sum of 8 skinfolds fell from 85 mm to 59 mm. A well-controlled nutritional plan combining energy restrictions with training modifications was successful in reducing BM and BF. LM increased during this period. Self-reported immune status was not compromised, with the absence of any symptoms of illness/infection.
EFFECTS OF MILK AS A RECOVERY DRINK FOLLOWING EXERCISE ON SUBSEQUENT APPETITE AND ENERGY INTAKE IN FEMALE RECREATIONAL EXERCISERS
Authors: Shaw E , Campbell A , James L , Rumbold PLS , Stevenson EJ
Published: October 2013

Several studies have highlighted the beneficial effects of milk and dairy product consumption in the alleviation of exercise-induced muscle damage, post-exercise soreness sensations and indeed the satiating effects on subsequent appetite and energy intake in adult populations. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of skimmed milk as a recovery drink following exercise on subsequent appetite and energy intake in female recreational exercisers. Using a randomised cross-over design, nine female recreational exercisers (20±1 y) completed atest followed by two main exercise trials (matched for energy expenditure 1.78±0.14v.1.75±0.19 MJ;p=0.600). Main trials were conducted following a standardised breakfast and were carried out during the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. Following 30 minutes of moderate–vigorous cycling exercise (65%) 600 mL of skimmed milk or 600 mL of orange juice (475 mL orange, 125 mL water), which were isoenergetic, was ingested followed 60 minutes later with anad libitumpasta meal. Absolute energy intake was significantly less after consuming milk than after orange juice (2.39±0.70v.3.20±0.84 MJ, respectively;p=0.001). Relative energy intake (in relation to energy expenditure) was significantly lower after milk consumption compared to orange juice (0.61±0.72v.1.45±0.90 MJ, respectively;p=0.002). Relative energy intake (in relation to the energy content of the test beverages) was also significantly lower after milk consumption compared to orange juice (3.27±0.70v.4.13±0.84 MJ, respectively;p=0.003). There were no differences in AUC (x 3-h) subjective appetite parameters (hunger, fullness and desire to eat) between trials. In conclusion, the consumption of skimmed milk following 30 minutes of moderate-vigorous cycling exercise resulted in a reduction in subsequent energy intake, in female recreational exercisers.
INJURY IN ELITE MEN'S LACROSSE: AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY DURING THE 2010 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
Authors: Webb M , Davis C , Westacott D , Webb R , Price J
Published: October 2013

There is limited data on injuries sustained while playing men's lacrosse. As the sport gains popularity, practitioners will be more likely to treat lacrosse players. The aim was to gather and analyse injury surveillance data from the 2010 Men's Lacrosse World Championships to recognise potential injury patterns, establish risk of injury, and identify possible means for prevention. This is a prospective observational study of injuries reported during the 2010 Men's Lacrosse World Championships. Data was categorised into Body Part Injured, Diagnosis, Mechanism, and Time of Injury. Over nine days, 29 countries competed in 79 games, with 667 players taking part. A total of 150 injuries were sustained by 129 individuals aged 16 to 46 years old. Five times more injuries were reported to have occurred during games than during training or warm-up sessions (n=104(69%) versus n=20(13%), rate ratio =5.20). An injury rate of 39.5 injuries per 1000 hours played was calculated (95% CI=32.5, 48.0). The most frequent mechanism was contact (n=80, 53%), including direct impact with another player (n=45, 30%), with a stick (n=25, 17%) or ball (n=8, 5%). Change of direction, twisting and sprinting were the most common non-contact mechanisms of injury (n=41, 27%). The most frequently reported injuries were contusions (n=48, 32%), closely followed by sprains (n=34, 23%) and strains (n=34, 23%). The lower limb was the most injured body part, reported twice as often as upper limb injuries (n=76(51%) versus 35(23%), rate ratio =2.17). The ankle was the most commonly injured joint (n=21, 14%) followed by the shoulder (n=15, 10%). As participation in men's lacrosse expands, health professionals could be responsible for treating lacrosse players. The combination of physical play, athleticism and equipment used means players are susceptible to a range of injuries. Familiarity with the sport's common injury-patterns could help in treatment and prevention.