bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age and growth of black scabbardfish (Aphanopus carbo Lowe, 1839) in the southern NE Atlantic
Authors: Vieira Ana Rita , Farias Inês , Figueiredo Ivone , Neves Ana , Morales-Nin Beatriz , Sequeira Vera , Martins Maria Rogélia , Serrano Gordo Leonel
Published: December 2009

Though whole otoliths are commonly adopted in age assignment of black scabbardfish, this study showed that sectioned otoliths are more appropriate because growth increments are more evident and ageing of larger specimens is easier. Vertebrae are not the most appropriate structure for ageing but, in the absence of otoliths, this structure may be useful in age assignment of this species. To verify possible differences between age and growth among specimens from the southern NE Atlantic, 1075 sectioned otoliths from specimens from mainland Portugal, 436 from Madeira and 107 from the Azores were analysed and the distribution of length-at-age obtained for each sex and region was determined. Significant differences were obtained in the comparison of the distribution of length-at-age between Madeira, the mainland and the Azores. The von Bertalanffy growth model was applied to back-calculated mean length-at-age data from Madeira (Lt = 1586 [1 – e –0.119(t+2.282)] females; Lt = 1461 [1 – e –0.146(t+1.441)] males) and mainland (Lt = 1354 [1 – e –0.170(t+2.040)] females; Lt = 1240 [1 – e –0.208(t+1.654)] males), and significant differences in the growth equations were obtained. Furthermore, a regression tree model was used to investigate how growth is conditioned by reproduction. The results showed a clear separation between individuals from the two areas, both females and males from the mainland (non-reproductive individuals) being characterised by a lower gonadosomatic index and a lower age.
Otolith shape analysis as a tool for stock discrimination of the black scabbardfish, Aphanopus carbo Lowe, 1839 (Pisces: Trichiuridae), in Portuguese waters
Authors: Farias Inês , Vieira Ana Rita , Serrano Gordo Leonel , Figueiredo Ivone
Published: December 2009

The variability in otolith contour shape of black scabbardfish (Aphanopus carbo) from Portuguese waters was analysed for stock discrimination purposes. The contour shape of otoliths from specimens caught off mainland Portugal, Madeira and Azores archipelagos was digitised and extracted according to the closed-form Fourier analysis technique. Mainland and Madeira specimens were compared through the adjustment of a MANOVA model to the normalised elliptic Fourier descriptor (NEFDs) obtained for the otoliths of 200 females and 200 males sampled at each area. Significant differences were found between areas and between sexes; the interaction term was not statistically significant. The effect of the area also proved to be significant when samples from the three regions were considered. These results were further supported by the discriminant analysis of the individual NEFDs for which the correct classifications were 87.5-89% when they were considered by sex and total length for the mainland and Madeira, and 90.9-97.7%, when NEFDs from the three areas were compared by sex and fish length. Otolith contour shape was shown to be a possible tool for differentiating between black scabbardfish stocks in the NE Atlantic.
Use of parasites as biological tags in stock identification of the black scabbardfish, Aphanopus carbo Lowe, 1839 (Osteichthyes: Trichiuridae) from Portuguese waters
Authors: Santos Maria João , Saraiva Aurélia , Cruz Cristina , Eiras Jorge C. , Hermida Margarida , Ventura Carla , Soares João Paulo
Published: December 2009

We studied the use of parasites as biological tags for discriminating fish stocks of Aphanopus carbo (Osteichthyes: Trichiuridae) from Portugal (Sesimbra on the mainland, Madeira and the Azores). Sixteen different metazoan parasites were found (14 from Madeira, 9 from Sesimbra and 7 from the Azores). Some parasites occurred only in fish from Madeira. The prevalence and mean intensity of the infection was recorded for each parasite and locality, and their values were statistically compared between the three sampling localities and related to host length classes. The differences between some of these parameters were statistically significant among the three localities or between two of them. It is suggested that 6 parasites (Tentacularia coryphaenae, Sphyriocephalus tergestinus, Campbelliella heteropoeciloacantha, Anisakis spp., Bolbosoma vasculosum and unidentified Acanthocephala larvae) can be used as biological tags to discriminate Portuguese stocks of Aphanopus carbo.
The black scabbardfish (Aphanopus carbo Lowe, 1839) fisheries from the Portuguese mainland and Madeira Island
Authors: Bordalo-Machado Pedro , Fernandes Ana Cláudia , Figueiredo Ivone , Moura Olga , Reis Sara , Pestana Graça , Serrano Gordo Leonel
Published: December 2009

For several decades, the black scabbardfish (Aphanopus carbo, Lowe 1839) has been a valuable resource for fishing communities in Madeira and more recently for those in mainland Portugal. The evaluation of the species’ exploitation status was conducted only in the late 20th century and separated for the two areas of the Portuguese Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Nowadays, species stock assessment studies are usually conducted in the framework of scientific working groups from regional fisheries organizations: ICES analyses data from the fishery operating in continental waters, whereas CECAF deals with the data pertaining to the Madeiran fishery. This paper presents the first attempt to combine the information available from the two longline fisheries targeting black scabbardfish in Portuguese waters in one single analysis. A description of the two fleets’ technical characteristics was conducted and a unique model was developed for the standardization of the fishing effort aimed at the species in the Portuguese EEZ. From this model, weekly landings-per-unit-effort time series were estimated by region for the period 2005-2007 and compared using a non-parametric statistical test. Percentages of discarded species, in number and weight, were calculated and reveal consistently low figures. These discards seem to depend on the number of hooks, soaking time and depth.
Mercury, cadmium and lead in black scabbardfish (Aphanopus carbo Lowe, 1839) from mainland Portugal and the Azores and Madeira archipelagos
Authors: Costa Valentina , Lourenço Helena Maria , Figueiredo Ivone , Carvalho Lucília , Lopes Humberto , Farias Inês , Pires Luís , Afonso Cláudia , Vieira Ana Rita , Nunes Maria Leonor , Serrano Gordo Leonel
Published: December 2009

Total mercury (THg), cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) concentrations were investigated in muscle, liver and gonad tissue of black scabbardfish (Aphanopus carbo) from the southern northeast Atlantic at three Portuguese locations: the mainland and the archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira. Particular emphasis was placed on the comparison of metal levels between geographic locations. Other factors such as size, sex and sexual maturity were also investigated. The median concentrations (mg/kg ww) of THg showed a decreasing trend in the order liver>muscle>gonad. Cadmium levels decreased in the order liver>gonad>muscle and Pb levels decreased in the order gonad>liver>muscle. According to the EU limits, the concentration observed in some specimens, particularly those of THg, raises some food safety concerns. In all the tissues the concentrations of each toxic metal differed between locations. In particular: i) THg concentrations in specimens from Madeira were significantly higher than those from the Azores and the mainland; ii) Cd levels in specimens from the mainland were significantly higher than those from Madeira and the Azores; and iii) for all analysed tissues Pb levels were significantly higher in specimens from the Azores than in those from the mainland. The differences in toxic metal levels between locations were further discussed in relation to aspects of species dynamics and the influence of the main environmental features at each location.
Chemical composition and nutritional value of raw and cooked black scabbardfish (Aphanopus carbo)
Authors: Bandarra Narcisa Maria , Batista Irineu , Nunes Mari Leonor
Published: December 2009

The objective of the present study was to follow the seasonal chemical changes and to study the effect of culinary treatments on the nutritional value of black scabbardfish (Aphanopus carbo). The proximate chemical composition of black scabbardfish (BSF) landed in Sesimbra (Portugal) was followed for one year. The nutritional quality (proximate chemical composition, amino acid and fatty acid profiles, cholesterol and minerals) of raw, fried and grilled BSF was evaluated in one period of the year. BSF is a semi-fatty species, the protein content was 15-17.5% and the most abundant amino acids were glutamic acid, aspartic acid and lysine. The dominant fatty acids were monounsaturated (66%), followed by saturated (19%) and polyunsaturated (10%) ones. Potassium, phosphorus and sodium were the most abundant minerals. Some dehydration occurred in cooked BSF but fat content was the most affected nutrient, particularly in fried fish. These results may suggest that the absorption of frying oil led to important changes in the fatty acid profile, and particularly in the linoleic acid level. The highest protein losses were recorded in fried BSF. In general, the nutritional quality of grilled fish seemed to be more balanced than that of fried fish.
Parasitic infection levels by Anisakis spp. larvae (Nematoda: Anisakidae) in the black scabbardfish Aphanopus carbo (Osteichthyes: Trichiuridae) from Portuguese waters
Authors: Cruz Cristina , Saraiva Aurélia , Santos Maria João , Eiras Jorge C. , Ventura Carla , Soares João Paulo , Hermida Margarida
Published: December 2009

Aphanopus carbo, black scabbardfish, specimens from 3 Portuguese regions (the mainland, Madeira and the Azores) during four (mainland and Madeira) or two (Azores) seasons of the year were examined for the presence of Anisakis. All the fish examined (n=287) were infected with Anisakis L3 larvae (prevalence = 100%). Significant geographical differences in intensity were found: the Azores showed the lowest mean intensity value (53.7) and Madeira the highest one (253.9). The intensity of infection was positively correlated with the host length in specimens of Sesimbra and Madeira. Significant seasonal differences in intensity were found in the studied regions. The very high values in prevalence and intensity strongly suggest that the consumption of raw or undercooked black scabbard fish is a potential risk for human health.
The Combined Tool Approach for Face Mask Removal During On-field Conditions
Authors: Gale Stephanie D. , Decoster Laura C. , Swartz Erik E.
Published: December 2009

Context:

An effective approach to emergency removal of the face mask (FM) from a football helmet should include successful removal of the FM and limitation of both the time required and the movement created during the process. Current recommendations and practice are to use a cutting tool to remove the FM. Researchers recently have suggested an alternate approach that combines the use of a cordless screwdriver and a cutting tool. This combined tool approach has not been studied, and FM removal has not been studied in a practical setting.

Objective:

To investigate the effectiveness and speed of using a combined tool approach to remove the FMs from football helmets during on-field conditions throughout the course of a football season.

Design:

Randomized multigroup design.

Setting:

Practice field of 1 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II football college.

Patients or Other Participants:

Eighty-four members of 1 football team.

Intervention(s):

We used a battery-operated screwdriver for FM removal and resorted to using a cutting tool as needed.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

We tracked FM removal success and failure and trial time and compared results based on helmet characteristics, weather variables, and the seasonal timing of the removal trial.

Results:

Of the 84 players, 76 were available for data-collection trials. Overall, 98.6% (75/76) of FM removal trials were successful and resulted in a mean removal time of 40.09 ± 15.1 seconds. We found no differences in FM removal time throughout the course of the season. No differences in effectiveness or trial time were found among helmet characteristics, weather variables, or the timing of the trial.

Conclusions:

Combining the cordless screwdriver and cutting tool provided a fast and reliable means of on-field FM removal in this Division II setting. Despite the excellent overall result, 1 FM was not removed in a timely manner. Therefore, we recommend that athletic trainers practice helmet removal to be prepared should FM removal fail.
Eccentric Plantar-Flexor Torque Deficits in Participants With Functional Ankle Instability
Authors: Fox Jason , Docherty Carrie L. , Schrader John , Applegate Trent
Published: December 2009

Context: Inversion ankle sprains can lead to a chronic condition called functional ankle instability (FAI). Limited research has been reported regarding isokinetic measures for the plantar flexors and dorsiflexors of the ankle.

Objective: To examine the isokinetic eccentric torque measures of the ankle musculature in participants with stable ankles and participants with functionally unstable ankles during inversion, eversion, plantar flexion, and dorsiflexion.

Design: Case-control study.

Setting: Athletic training research laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants: Twenty participants with a history of “giving way” were included in the FAI group. Inclusion criteria for the FAI group included a history of at least 1 ankle sprain and repeated episodes of giving way. Twenty participants with no prior history of ankle injury were included in the control group.

Intervention(s): Isokinetic eccentric torque was assessed in each participant.

Main Outcome Measure(s): Isokinetic eccentric testing was conducted for inversion-eversion and plantar-flexion–dorsiflexion movements. Peak torque values were standardized to each participant's body weight. The average of the 3 trials for each direction was used for statistical analysis.

Results: A significant side-by-group interaction was noted for eccentric plantar flexion torque (P < .01). Follow-up t tests revealed a significant difference between the FAI limb in the FAI group and the matched limb in the control group. Additionally, a significant difference was seen between the sides of the control group (P = .03). No significant interactions were identified for eccentric inversion, eversion, or dorsiflexion torques (P > .05).

Conclusions: A deficit in plantar flexion torque was identified in the functionally unstable ankles. No deficits were identified for inversion, eversion, or dorsiflexion torque. Therefore, eccentric plantar flexion strength may be an important contributing factor to functional ankle instability.
Thermoregulatory Influence of a Cooling Vest on Hyperthermic Athletes
Authors: Lopez Rebecca M. , Cleary Michelle A. , Jones Leon C. , Zuri Ron E.
Published: December 2009

Context:

Athletic trainers must have sound evidence for the best practices in treating and preventing heat-related emergencies and potentially catastrophic events.

Objective:

To examine the effectiveness of a superficial cooling vest on core body temperature (Tc) and skin temperature (Tsk) in hypohydrated hyperthermic male participants.

Design:

A randomized control design with 2 experimental groups.

Setting:

Participants exercised by completing the heat-stress trial in a hot, humid environment (ambient temperature  =  33.1 ± 3.1°C, relative humidity  =  55.1 ± 8.9%, wind speed  =  2.1 ± 1.1 km/hr) until a Tc of 38.7 ± 0.3°C and a body mass loss of 3.27 ± 0.1% were achieved.

Patients or Other Participants:

Ten healthy males (age  =  25.6 ± 1.6 years, mass  =  80.3 ± 13.7 kg).

Intervention(s):

Recovery in a thermoneutral environment wearing a cooling vest or without wearing a cooling vest until Tc returned to baseline.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Rectal Tc, arm Tsk, time to return to baseline Tc, and cooling rate.

Results:

During the heat-stress trial, Tc significantly increased (3.6%) and, at 30 minutes of recovery, Tc had decreased significantly (2.6%) for both groups. Although not significant, the time for return to baseline Tc was 22.6% faster for the vest group (43.8 ± 15.1 minutes) than for the no-vest group (56.6 ± 18.0 minutes), and the cooling rate for the vest group (0.0298 ± 0.0072°C/min) was not significantly different from the cooling rate for the no-vest group (0.0280 ± 0.0074°C/min). The Tsk during recovery was significantly higher (2.1%) in the vest group than in the no-vest group and was significantly lower (7.1%) at 30 minutes than at 0 minutes for both groups.

Conclusions:

We do not recommend using the cooling vest to rapidly reduce elevated Tc. Ice-water immersion should remain the standard of care for rapidly cooling severely hyperthermic individuals.
The 6-Plus–Person Lift Transfer Technique Compared With Other Methods of Spine Boarding
Authors: Del Rossi Gianluca , Horodyski Mary Beth H. , Conrad Bryan P. , Di Paola Christian P. , Di Paola Matthew J. , Rechtine Glenn R.
Published: December 2009

Context:

To achieve full spinal immobilization during on-the-field management of an actual or potential spinal injury, rescuers transfer and secure patients to a long spine board. Several techniques can be used to facilitate this patient transfer.

Objective:

To compare spinal segment motion of cadavers during the execution of the 6-plus–person (6+) lift, lift-and-slide (LS), and logroll (LR) spine-board transfer techniques.

Design:

Crossover study.

Setting:

Laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants:

Eight medical professionals (1 woman, 7 men) with 5 to 32 years of experience were enlisted to help carry out the transfer techniques. In addition, test conditions were performed on 5 fresh cadavers (3 males, 2 females) with a mean age of 86.2 ± 11.4 years.

Main Outcomes Measure(s):

Three-dimensional angular and linear motions initially were recorded during execution of transfer techniques, initially using cadavers with intact spines and then after C5-C6 spinal segment destabilization. The mean maximal linear displacement and angular motion obtained and calculated from the 3 trials for each test condition were included in the statistical analysis.

Results:

Flexion-extension angular motion, as well as anteroposterior and distraction-compression linear motion, did not vary between the LR and either the 6+ lift or LS. Compared with the execution of the 6+ lift and LS, the execution of the LR generated significantly more axial rotation (P  =  .008 and .001, respectively), more lateral flexion (P  =  .005 and .003, respectively), and more medial-lateral translation (P  =  .003 and .004, respectively).

Conclusions:

A small amount of spinal motion is inevitable when executing spine-board transfer techniques; however, the execution of the 6+ lift or LS appears to minimize the extent of motion generated across a globally unstable spinal segment.
Choosing a Career in Athletic Training: Exploring the Perceptions of Potential Recruits
Authors: Mensch James , Mitchell Murray
Published: December 2009

Context: The success of any academic program, including athletic training, depends upon attracting and keeping quality students. Therefore, understanding potential recruits' perceptions of athletic training is important.

Objective: To (1) gain insight regarding undergraduate students' decisions to enter or not enter an athletic training education program (ATEP), and (2) examine potential athletic training recruits' perceptions of the roles and responsibilities of certified athletic trainers.

Design: We used a descriptive study employing a grounded theory approach to explore perceptions of the athletic training profession by college students with various levels of interest in athletic training.

Setting: Athletic training education program from a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I research-intensive university.

Patients or Other Participants: Forty-six undergraduate students (23 interested in applying to an ATEP and 23 who were aware of but not interested in applying to an ATEP).

Main Outcome Measure(s): Data from in-depth, semi-structured interviews were transcribed and analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding procedures. Member checks and peer-debriefing techniques were used to ensure trustworthiness of the study.

Results: Three contributing factors appeared to influence the recruitment of students to a career in athletic training: (1) a strong affiliation to a sports/team model, (2) initial exposure at the high school level, and (3) an incomplete understanding of athletic training.

Conclusions: Awareness of how students are recruited into ATEPs is important information for our profession. Educators and administrators must create a comprehensive recruitment strategy using factors that influence potential recruits' decisions to enter the athletic training profession, specifically their association with sports and their experiences during high school.
Development of the Mental, Emotional, and Bodily Toughness Inventory in Collegiate Athletes and Nonathletes
Authors: Mack Mick G. , Ragan Brian G.
Published: December 2009

Context:

The assessment of an individual's mental toughness would assist clinicians in enhancing an individual's performance, improving compliance with the rehabilitation program, and improving the individual treatment program. However, no sound measure of mental toughness exists.

Objective:

To develop a new measure of mental toughness, the Mental, Emotional, and Bodily Toughness Inventory (MeBTough).

Design:

Participants were invited to complete a 45-item questionnaire.

Setting:

University research laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants:

A total of 261 undergraduate students were recruited to complete the questionnaire.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

The Rasch-calibrated item difficulties, fit statistics, and persons' mental toughness ability estimates were examined for model-data fit of the MeBTough.

Results:

Forty-three of the 45 items had good model-data fit with acceptable fit statistics. Results indicated that the distribution of items was fittingly targeted to the people and the collapsed rating scale functioned well. The item separation index (6.31) and separation reliability statistic (.98) provided evidence that the items had good variability with a high degree of confidence in replicating placement of the items from another sample.

Conclusions:

Results provided support for using the new measure of mental, emotional, and bodily toughness.
Muscle Activation During Side-Step Cutting Maneuvers in Male and Female Soccer Athletes
Authors: Hanson Ashley M. , Padua Darin A. , Troy Blackburn J. , Prentice William E. , Hirth Christopher J.
Published: December 2009

Context: Female soccer athletes are at greater risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury than males. Sex differences in muscle activation may contribute to the increased incidence of ACL injuries in female soccer athletes.

Objective: To examine sex differences in lower extremity muscle activation between male and female soccer athletes at the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I level during 2 side-step cutting maneuvers.

Design: Cross-sectional with 1 between-subjects factor (sex) and 2 within-subjects factors (cutting task and phase of contact).

Setting: Sports medicine research laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants: Twenty males (age = 19.4 ± 1.4 years, height = 176.5 ± 5.5 cm, mass = 74.6 ± 6.0 kg) and 20 females (age = 19.8 ± 1.1 years, height = 165.7 ± 4.3 cm, mass = 62.2 ± 7.2 kg).

Intervention(s): In a single testing session, participants performed the running-approach side-step cut and the box-jump side-step cut tasks.

Main Outcome Measure(s): Surface electromyographic activity of the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, medial hamstrings, lateral hamstrings, gluteus medius, and gluteus maximus was recorded for each subject. Separate mixed-model, repeated-measures analysis of variance tests were used to compare the dependent variables across sex during the preparatory and loading contact phases of each cutting task.

Results: Females displayed greater vastus lateralis activity and quadriceps to hamstrings coactivation ratios during the preparatory and loading phases, as well as greater gluteus medius activation during the preparatory phase only. No significant differences were noted between the sexes for muscle activation in the other muscles analyzed during each task.

Conclusions: The quadriceps-dominant muscle activation pattern observed in recreationally active females is also present in female soccer athletes at the Division I level when compared with similarly trained male soccer athletes. The relationship between increased quadriceps activation and greater incidence of noncontact ACL injury in female soccer athletes versus males requires further study.
Triple-Hop Distance as a Valid Predictor of Lower Limb Strength and Power
Authors: Hamilton R. Tyler , Shultz Sandra J. , Schmitz Randy J. , Perrin David H.
Published: December 2009

Context:

Hop tests are functional tests that reportedly require strength, power, and postural stability to perform. The extent to which a triple-hop distance (THD) test measures each of these characteristics is relatively unknown.

Objective:

To determine the extent to which the THD predicts performance on clinical measures of power, strength, and balance in athletic individuals.

Design:

Within-subjects correlational study.

Setting:

Station-based, preseason screening of athletes.

Patients or Other Participants:

Forty National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I-AA men's and women's soccer student-athletes (20 women, 20 men; age  =  20.0 ± 1.4 years, height  =  172.8 ± 9.2 cm, mass  =  71.9 ± 8.9 kg).

Intervention(s):

As part of a comprehensive preseason screening of athletes, participants completed the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) test, 3 trials each of the THD and vertical jump, and 5 repetitions each of concentric isokinetic quadriceps and hamstrings strength testing at 60°/s and 180°/s. Bivariate correlations and linear regression analyses determined the extent to which THD (cm) predicted each of the strength, power, and balance measures.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Maximal vertical jump height (cm), total BESS error scores, and quadriceps (Quad60, Quad180) and hamstrings (Ham60, Ham180) isokinetic maximum peak torque (Nm) at 60°/s and 180°/s, respectively.

Results:

Triple-hop distance was a strong predictor of vertical jump height, explaining 69.5% of the variance (P < .01). THD also predicted 56.7% of the variance in Ham60 (P < .01), 55.5% of the variance in Ham180 (P < .01), 49.0% of the variance in Quad60 (P < .01), and 58.8% of the variance in Quad180 (P < .01). No relationships between THD and BESS scores were noted.

Conclusions:

Triple-hop distance is a useful clinical test to predict an athlete's lower extremity strength and power. Although THD was not a predictor of static balance, further research is needed to examine its relationship with more dynamic balance tests.
Fatigue and the Electromechanical Efficiency of the Vastus Medialis and Vastus Lateralis Muscles
Authors: Ebersole Kyle T. , Malek David M.
Published: December 2009

Context:

The relationship between the amplitudes of the mechanomyographic (MMG) and electromyographic (EMG) signals has been used to examine the “electromechanical efficiency” (EME) of normal and diseased muscle. The EME may help us to better understand the neuromuscular relationship between the vastus medialis and vastus lateralis muscles.

Objective:

To examine the EME of the vastus medialis and vastus lateralis muscles during a fatiguing task.

Design:

Repeated-measures design.

Setting:

Research laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants:

Ten healthy males (age  =  23.2 ± 1.2 years) with no history of knee injury.

Intervention(s):

Seventy-five consecutive, maximal concentric isokinetic leg extensions at a velocity of 180°/s.

Main Outcomes Measure(s):

Bipolar surface EMG electrodes were placed over the vastus medialis and vastus lateralis muscles, with an MMG contact sensor placed adjacent to the superior EMG electrode on each muscle. The MMG and EMG amplitude values (root mean squares) were calculated for each of the 75 repetitions and normalized to the highest value from the 75 repetitions. The EME was expressed as the ratio of the log-transformed normalized MMG amplitude to the normalized EMG amplitude. For each muscle, the linear relationship for the normalized-group mean EME was determined across the 75 repetitions.

Results:

Linear regression indicated decreases in torque (R2  =  .96), vastus medialis EME (R2  =  .73), and vastus lateralis EME (R2  = .73). The slopes for the vastus medialis and vastus lateralis EME were not different (P > .10).

Conclusions:

The similarities in the fatigue-induced decreases in EME for the vastus medialis and vastus lateralis muscles suggested that symmetry was present between the muscles in the electric and mechanical responses to repeated, maximal muscle actions. The EME measurements may provide a unique insight into the influence of fatigue on the contractile properties of skeletal muscle, including alterations that occur to the intrinsic electric and mechanical components. The EME may be useful in assessing and quantifying clinically relevant asymmetries in vastus medialis and vastus lateralis muscle function in those with knee injuries.
Validity of the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure in Athletes With Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Carcia Christopher R. , Martin RobRoy L. , Drouin Joshua M.
Published: December 2009

Context:

The Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) is a region-specific, non–disease-specific outcome instrument that possesses many of the clinimetric qualities recommended for an outcome instrument. Evidence of validity to support the use of the FAAM is available in individuals with a wide array of ankle and foot disorders. However, additional evidence to support the use of the FAAM for those with chronic ankle instability (CAI) is needed.

Objective:

To provide evidence of construct validity for the FAAM based on hypothesis testing in athletes with CAI.

Design:

Between-groups comparison.

Setting:

Athletic training room.

Patients or Other Participants:

Thirty National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II athletes (16 men, 14 women) from one university.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

The FAAM including activities of daily living (ADL) and sports subscales and the global and categorical ratings of function.

Results:

For both the ADL and sports subscales, FAAM scores were greater in healthy participants (100 ± 0.0 and 99 ± 3.5, respectively) than in subjects with CAI (88 ± 7.7 and 76 ± 12.7, respectively; P < .001). Similarly, for both ADL and sports subscales, FAAM scores were greater in athletes who indicated that their ankles were normal (98 ± 6.3 and 96 ± 6.9, respectively) than in those who classified their ankles as either nearly normal or abnormal (87 ± 6.6 and 71 ± 11.1, respectively; P < .001). We found relationships between FAAM scores and self-reported global ratings of function for both ADL and sports subscales. Relationships were stronger when all athletes, rather than just those with CAI, were included in the analyses.

Conclusions:

The FAAM may be used to detect self-reported functional deficits related to CAI.
An Epidemiologic Comparison of High School Sports Injuries Sustained in Practice and Competition
Authors: Rechel Julie A. , Yard Ellen E. , Comstock R. Dawn
Published: December 2009

Context:

More than 7 million US high school students play sports.

Objective:

To compare practice and competition injury rates and patterns in 5 boys' sports (football, soccer, basketball, wrestling, and baseball) and 4 girls' sports (soccer, volleyball, basketball, and softball) during the 2005–2006 school year.

Design:

Prospective injury surveillance study.

Setting:

Injury data were collected from 100 nationally representative United States high schools via High School RIO (Reporting Information Online).

Patients or Other Participants:

Athletes from participating high schools injured while participating in a school-sanctioned practice or competition in one of the above sports.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Practice and competition injury rates, body site, diagnosis, and severity.

Results:

High school athletes participating in these 9 sports at participating schools sustained 4350 injuries during the 2005–2006 school year, which corresponds to an estimated 1 442 533 injuries nationally. The rate of injury per 1000 athlete-exposures was higher in competition (4.63) than in practice (1.69) (rate ratio [RR]  =  2.73, 95% confidence interval [CI]  =  2.58, 2.90). Of all sports, football had the highest competition (12.09) and practice (2.54) injury rates per 1000 athlete-exposures. Compared with injuries sustained during practice, higher proportions of competition injuries were head/face/neck injuries (proportion ratio [PR]  =  1.61, 95% CI  =  1.34, 1.94), particularly in boys' soccer (PR  =  7.74, 95% CI  =  2.53, 23.65) and girls' basketball (PR  =  6.03, 95% CI  =  2.39, 15.22). Competition injuries were more likely to be concussions (PR  =  2.02, 95% CI  =  1.56, 2.62), especially in boys' soccer (PR  =  6.94, 95% CI  =  2.01, 23.95) and girls' basketball (PR  =  5.83, 95% CI  =  2.06, 16.49). Higher proportions of competition injuries caused the athlete to miss more than 3 weeks of play (PR  =  1.28, 95% CI  =  1.08, 1.52), particularly in baseball (PR  =  3.47, 95% CI  =  1.48, 8.11) and volleyball (PR  =  2.88, 95% CI  =  1.01, 8.24).

Conclusions:

Rates and patterns of high school sport injuries differed between practice and competition. Providing athletic trainers with this information is a crucial step in developing the targeted, evidence-based interventions required to effectively reduce injury rates among the millions of high school student-athletes.
Issues in Outcomes Research: An Overview of Randomization Techniques for Clinical Trials
Authors: Kang Minsoo , Ragan Brian G. , Park Jae-Hyeon
Published: December 2009

Objective:

To review and describe randomization techniques used in clinical trials, including simple, block, stratified, and covariate adaptive techniques.

Background:

Clinical trials are required to establish treatment efficacy of many athletic training procedures. In the past, we have relied on evidence of questionable scientific merit to aid the determination of treatment choices. Interest in evidence-based practice is growing rapidly within the athletic training profession, placing greater emphasis on the importance of well-conducted clinical trials. One critical component of clinical trials that strengthens results is random assignment of participants to control and treatment groups. Although randomization appears to be a simple concept, issues of balancing sample sizes and controlling the influence of covariates a priori are important. Various techniques have been developed to account for these issues, including block, stratified randomization, and covariate adaptive techniques.

Advantages:

Athletic training researchers and scholarly clinicians can use the information presented in this article to better conduct and interpret the results of clinical trials. Implementing these techniques will increase the power and validity of findings of athletic medicine clinical trials, which will ultimately improve the quality of care provided.
Force Production and Reactive Strength Capabilities After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Flanagan Eamonn P. , Galvin Lorcan , Harrison Andrew J.
Published: December 2009

Context:

Ambiguity exists in the literature regarding whether individuals can restore function to 100% after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The response of force production and reactive strength in stretch-shortening cycle activities after surgery has not been established.

Objective:

To compare reactive strength and force production capabilities between the involved and uninvolved legs of participants who had undergone ACL reconstruction and rehabilitation with the reactive strength and force production capabilities of a control group.

Design:

Repeated measures, cross-sectional.

Setting:

Research laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants:

Ten participants with ACL reconstructions who had returned to their chosen sports and 10 age-matched and activity-matched control subjects.

Intervention(s):

We screened the ACL group with the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Evaluation Form and functional performance tests to measure a basic level of function. We assessed force production capabilities and reactive strength using squat, countermovement, drop, and rebound jump protocols on a force sledge apparatus.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

The dependent variables were flight time, peak vertical ground reaction force, leg spring stiffness, and reactive strength index.

Results:

No participant in the ACL group exhibited functional deficits in comparison with normative values or the control group. Using the force sledge apparatus, we found no notable differences in force production capabilities and reactive strength in the ACL group when comparing the involved with uninvolved legs or the degree of difference between legs with the control group.

Conclusions:

After ACL reconstruction, rehabilitated participants did not exhibit deficits in force production or reactive strength capabilities. Our results suggest that force production and reactive strength capabilities can be restored to levels comparable with the uninjured control limb and may not be limiting factors in ACL recovery.
Role Strain in Collegiate Athletic Training Approved Clinical Instructors
Authors: Henning Jolene M. , Weidner Thomas G.
Published: December 2009

Context:

Certified athletic trainers who serve as Approved Clinical Instructors (ACIs) in the collegiate setting are balancing various roles (eg, patient care and related administrative tasks, clinical education). Whether this balancing act is associated with role strain in athletic trainers has not been examined.

Objective:

To examine the degree of, and contributing factors (eg, socialization experiences, professional and employment demographics, job congruency) to, role strain in collegiate ACIs.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey design.

Setting:

Geographically stratified random sample of ACIs affiliated with accredited athletic training education programs at National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I, II, and III institutions.

Patients or Other Participants:

118 collegiate ACIs (47 head athletic trainers, 45 assistant athletic trainers, 26 graduate assistant athletic trainers).

Main Outcome Measure(s):

The Athletic Training ACI Role Strain Inventory, which measures total degree of role strain, 7 subscales of role strain, socialization experiences, professional and employment characteristics, and congruency in job responsibilities.

Results:

A total of 49% (n  =  58) of the participants experienced a moderate to high degree of role strain. Role Overload was the highest contributing subscale to total role strain. No differences were noted between total role strain and role occupant groups, NCAA division, or sex. Graduate assistant athletic trainers experienced a greater degree of role incompetence than head athletic trainers did (P  =  .001). Division II ACIs reported a greater degree of inter-role conflict than those in Division I (P  =  .02). Female ACIs reported a greater degree of role incompetence than male ACIs (P  =  .01). Those ACIs who stated that the ACI training provided by their institution did not adequately prepare them for the role as an ACI experienced greater role strain (P < .001).

Conclusions:

The ACIs in the collegiate setting are experiencing role strain in balancing their roles as health care providers, clinical educators, and administrators. Methods to reduce role strain need to be considered.
Systematic Review of Postural Control and Lateral Ankle Instability, Part I: Can Deficits Be Detected With Instrumented Testing?
Authors: McKeon Patrick O. , Hertel Jay
Published: December 2009

Objective:

To answer the following clinical questions: (1) Is poor postural control associated with increased risk of a lateral ankle sprain? (2) Is postural control adversely affected after acute lateral ankle sprain? (3) Is postural control adversely affected in those with chronic ankle instability?

Data Sources:

PubMed and CINAHL entries from 1966 through October 2006 were searched using the terms ankle sprain, ankle instability, balance, chronic ankle instability, functional ankle instability, postural control, and postural sway.

Study Selection:

Only studies assessing postural control measures in participants on a stable force plate performing the modified Romberg test were included. To be included, a study had to address at least 1 of the 3 clinical questions stated above and provide adequate results for calculation of effect sizes or odds ratios where applicable.

Data Extraction:

We calculated odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals for studies assessing postural control as a risk factor for lateral ankle sprains. Effect sizes were estimated with the Cohen d and associated 95% confidence intervals for comparisons of postural control performance between healthy and injured groups, or healthy and injured limbs, respectively.

Data Synthesis:

Poor postural control is most likely associated with an increased risk of sustaining an acute ankle sprain. Postural control is impaired after acute lateral ankle sprain, with deficits identified in both the injured and uninjured sides compared with controls. Although chronic ankle instability has been purported to be associated with altered postural control, these impairments have not been detected consistently with the use of traditional instrumented measures.

Conclusions:

Instrumented postural control testing on stable force plates is better at identifying deficits that are associated with an increased risk of ankle sprain and that occur after acute ankle sprains than at detecting deficits related to chronic ankle instability.
Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome: Evidence-Based Prevention
Authors: Craig Debbie I.
Published: December 2009

Reference:

Thacker SB, Gilchrist J, Stroup DF, Kimsey CD. The prevention of shin splints in sports: a systematic review of literature. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2002;34(1):32–40.

Clinical Question:

Among physically active individuals, which medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) prevention methods are most effective to decrease injury rates?

Data Sources:

Studies were identified by searching MEDLINE (1966–2000), Current Contents (1996–2000), Biomedical Collection (1993–1999), and Dissertation Abstracts. Reference lists of identified studies were searched manually until no further studies were identified. Experts in the field were contacted, including first authors of randomized controlled trials addressing prevention of MTSS. The Cochrane Collaboration (early stage of Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews) was contacted.

Study Selection:

Inclusion criteria included randomized controlled trials or clinical trials comparing different MTSS prevention methods with control groups. Excluded were studies that did not provide primary research data or that addressed treatment and rehabilitation rather than prevention of incident MTSS.

Data Extraction:

A total of 199 citations were identified. Of these, 4 studies compared prevention methods for MTSS. Three reviewers independently scored the 4 studies. Reviewers were blinded to the authors' names and affiliations but not the results. Each study was evaluated independently for methodologic quality using a 100-point checklist. Final scores were averages of the 3 reviewers' scores.

Main Results:

Prevention methods studied were shock-absorbent insoles, foam heel pads, Achilles tendon stretching, footwear, and graduated running programs. No statistically significant results were noted for any of the prevention methods. Median quality scores ranged from 29 to 47, revealing flaws in design, control for bias, and statistical methods.

Conclusions:

No current evidence supports any single prevention method for MTSS. The most promising outcomes support the use of shock-absorbing insoles. Well-designed and controlled trials are critically needed to decrease the incidence of this common injury.
Talocrural Dislocation With Associated Weber Type C Fibular Fracture in a Collegiate Football Player: A Case Report
Authors: Ricci R. Daniel , Cerullo James , Blanc Robert O. , McMahon Patrick J. , Buoncritiani Anthony M. , Stone David A. , Fu Freddie H.
Published: December 2009

Objective:

To present the case of a talocrural dislocation with a Weber type C fibular fracture in a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I football athlete.

Background:

The athlete, while attempting to make a tackle during a game, collided with an opponent, who in turn stepped on the lateral aspect of the athlete's ankle, resulting in forced ankle eversion and external rotation. On-field evaluation showed a laterally displaced talocrural dislocation. Immediate reduction was performed in the athletic training room to maintain skin integrity. Post-reduction radiographs revealed a Weber type C fibular fracture and increased medial joint clear space. A below-knee, fiberglass splint was applied to stabilize the ankle joint complex.

Differential Diagnosis:

Subtalar dislocation, Maisonneuve fracture, malleolar fracture, deltoid ligament rupture, syndesmosis disruption.

Treatment:

The sports medicine staff immediately splinted and transported the athlete to the athletic training room to reduce the dislocation. The athlete then underwent an open reduction and internal fixation procedure to stabilize the injury: 2 syndesmosis screws and a fibular plate were placed to keep the ankle joint in an anatomically reduced position. With the guidance of the athletic training staff, the athlete underwent an accelerated physical rehabilitation protocol in an effort to return to sport as quickly and safely as possible.

Uniqueness:

Most talocrural dislocations and associated Weber type C fibular fractures are due to motor vehicle accidents or falls. We are the first to describe this injury in a Division I football player and to present a general rehabilitation protocol for a high-level athlete.

Conclusions:

Sports medicine practitioners must recognize that this injury can occur in the athletic environment. Prompt reduction, early surgical intervention, sufficient resources, and an accelerated rehabilitation protocol all contributed to a successful outcome in the patient.