bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aerobic exercise capacity at sea level and at altitude in Kenyan boys, junior and senior runners compared with Scandinavian runners
Authors: Saltin B. , Larsen H. , Terrados N. , Bangsbo J. , Bak T. , Kim C. K. , Svedenhag J. , Rolf C. J.
Published: July 2010

The aim of this study was to characterize Kenyan runners in regard to their oxygen uptake and blood and ammonia responses when running. Untrained Kenyan boys (14.2±0.2 years) and Scandinavian runners were included for comparison. The studies were performed at altitude (∼2.000 m.a.s.l.) and, for several Kenyan and Scandinavian runners, at sea level as well. At altitude sedentary adolescent Kenyan boys had a mean maximal oxygen uptake (Vo2max) of 47 (44–51) ml · kg−1· min−1, whereas similarly aged boys regularly walking or running but not training for competition reached above 62 (58–71) ml · kg−1· min−1 in Vo2max. Kenyan runners in active training had 68±1.4 ml · kg−1· min−1 at altitude and 79.9±1.4 ml · kg−1· min−1 at sea level, with individuals reaching 85 ml · kg−1· min−1. The best Scandinavian runners were not significantly different from the Kenyan runners in Vo2max both at altitude and at sea level, but none of the Scandinavians reached as high individual values as observed for some Kenyan runners. The running efficiency, determined as the oxygen cost at a given running speed, was less in the Kenyan runners, and the difference became more pronounced when body weight was expressed in ml · kg−0.75 min−1. Blood lactate concentration was in general lower in the Kenyan than in the Scandinavian runners, and the Kenyans also had extremely low ammonia accumulation in the blood even at very high exercise intensities. It is concluded that it is the physical activity during childhood, combined with intense training as teenagers that brings about the high Vo2max observed in some Kenyan runners. Their high aerobic capacity, as well as their good running economy, makes them such superior runners. In addition, their low blood lactate and ammonia accumulation in blood when running may also be contributing factors.
Sports, physical exercise and use of alcohol
Authors: Watten R. G.
Published: July 2010

In a general population study comprising 994 women and 1000 men (aged ≥ 15 years), we investigated differences in consumed amounts of alcohol related to participation in sports and physical exercise. Compared with the controls, women engaged in sports drank significantly more beer and had higher total consumption of alcohol. The differences in consumption disappeared when controlled for age and education. Men engaged in team sports had elevated consumption of beer and liquor and had a higher total consumption. Controlled for age and education, only differences in total liquor consumption remained significant. Frequency of exercising, irrespective of type of sports, was related to increased use of wine among men and women. There were no significant differences in use of beer, liquor or in total yearly consumption of alcohol.
Low back pain in elite cross‐country skiers
Authors: Eriksson K. , Németh G. , Eriksson E.
Published: July 2010

Low back pain is a common complaint among competitive cross‐country skiers. Fifty‐three top male and 34 female skiers in the age group 16–25 were interviewed with a questionnaire regarding anthropometric parameters, training variables, back pain and other injuries. The frequency of back pain was 64% in the whole group, men affected slightly more often than women. Back pain was defined as previous or present recurrent skiing correlated backache that more or less affected skiing ability. Diagonal skiing style was the most commonly back pain‐inducing style, whereas no skier experienced back pain when “skating” only. The low back was the predominant location of pain. Anthropometric and training variables seemed to be of little value in predicting back pain.
Exercise programs for subjects with low back disorders
Authors: Mälkiä E. , Ljunggren A. E.
Published: July 2010

Exercise has played a central role in rehabilitation of subjects with low back pain. The research in this field has intensified since the 1980s. Low back pain has been associated with both physically stressful and sedentary occupations. There is no clear association between low back pain and physical activity during leisure time. Many studies have shown that subjects with back pain have impairments in muscular and connective tissue, functional limitations in muscular strength, endurance, speed, and neuromuscular functions, and physical, social and psychological disabilities. The ultimate aims of the exercise‐based programs are to reduce and prevent these impairements, functional limitations and disabilities. The results of controlled studies with exercise programs have shown a positive effect on physical impairments and functional limitations for subjects with chronic low back pain. The outcome of exercise programs has not been so positive for disability, defined as an inability or a limitation in performance in social interactions including occupational activities.
Reconstruction of the peroneal retinaculum using the plantaris tendon: a case report
Authors: Hansen B. H.
Published: July 2010

Numerous surgical procedures have been described and used in the treatment of recurrent dislocation of the peroneal tendons. One case treated successfully by reconstructing the superior peroneal retinaculum using the plantaris tendon is described here. The advantages and disadvantages in previously used procedures, as well as long‐term results, are discussed.
Crisis‐related observations in competition: a case study in basketball
Authors: Bar‐Eli M. , Sachs S. , Tenenbaum G. , Pie J. S. , Falk B.
Published: July 2010

This study presents a unique observational approach to basketball, based on the theory of psychological performance crisis in competition. The approach used takes into account the responses of a player's actions to significant social factors such as team‐mates, spectators, the coach and the referees. The contribution of this approach beyond traditional observational techniques is discussed. In our investigation, a single case design was used, in which a professional basketball player was observed during 10 home and 3 away games of the regular season. The relations between the observations and the crisis concept are discussed in detail. In addition, some relevant methodological and applied aspects are presented.
Diagnosis and treatment of chronic tendon disorders in sports
Authors: Sandmeier R. , Renström P. A. F. H.
Published: July 2010

Sports and physical activity are becoming more important and more emphasized in the lives of the average person as the health benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle are recognized. In the past most people were primarily active in sports during their time in school. The trend is for more people to continue vigorous activity through middle age and beyond. In addition, as high level athletes continue to reach higher levels of performance more amateur athletes attempt to reach similar levels of intensity, which they may not be able to handle with their level or method of training. This has led to an increase in overuse injuries and chronic tendon injuries. It has been estimated that overuse type injuries account for 30–50% of sports injuries (1).
Conservative treatment of a partial Achilles tendon rupture with an intratendinous lesion
Authors: Nicolaisen T. , Skovgaard D. , Kjær M.
Published: July 2010

The Achilles tendon is a common site of acute and oversuse injuries in runners. A case is described here in which the diagnosis of a post‐traumatic intratendinous lesion was based on clinical examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and where conservative treatment was given. After a 6 months follow‐up, symptoms as well as the MRI verified that intra‐tendinous structural abnormalities had disappeared. This case report demonstrates that conservative treatment may be sufficient to cure Achilles injury with severe structural changes inside the tendon.
The effects of cryotherapy on muscle damage in rats subjected to endurance training
Authors: Fu F. H. , Cen H. ‐W. , Eston R. G.
Published: July 2010

Sixty 60‐day‐old Sprague‐Dawley male rats were subjected to exhaustive and non‐exhaustive exercise treatment over a period of 3, 5 and 7 weeks. Moderate exercise consisted of running on the treadmill at 10% grade at 10 m/min for 20 min for 5 days per week, while exhaustive running consisted of running at 10% grade at 15 m/min with an increase of 5 m/min every 5 min for 5 days per week. Half of the exercised rats were subjected to immersion in 4°C water for 5 min after each exercise bout. Histological analyses of the gastrocnemius showed that ultrastructural damage of myofibrils occurred after 5 weeks of exhaustive running and 7 weeks of moderate running. With post‐exercise immersion in 4°C water for 5 min, the occurrence of ultrastructural damage advanced by 2 weeks in both treatments. It was concluded that the application of cryotherapy to the exercise groups was deleterious. Muscle damage occurred earlier in the treatment group and the degree of damage was also more serious over the same time period. This study supports the recommendation that the use of cryotherapy to reduce pain and haematoma formation should be coupled with rest for at least 48 hours.
Hyperextension trauma to the elbow joint induced through the distal ulna or the distal radius: Pathoanatomy and kinematics: An experimental study of the ligament injuries
Authors: Tyrdal S. , Olsen B. S.
Published: July 2010

Loads applied to the forearm result in hyperextension of the elbow. The pathomechanics of hyperextension trauma with load applied to the distal radius and ulna were studied in 10 macoscopically normal cadaver elbow joint specimens to reveal patterns of injury with radial traction (n=5) compared to ulnar traction (n=5). The mean age of the donors was 60.8 years (range 33–74). Kinematic testing was performed in an experimental 3D‐kinematic loading apparatus. The extension range of motion increased by 20.9°± 2.9° after joint loading. Hyperextension loads induced joint laxity during flexion of less than 60°. In both groups, the changes were significant in joint flexion during forced valgue and external rotation, but were not significant in flexion during forced varus and internal rotation. In both groups, the same four lesions were produced: 1) Anterior capsule rupture, 2) L‐formed rupture of the origin of the pronator muscle with elongation of the anterior bundle of the medical collateral ligament, 3) partial rupture of the lateral collateral ligament and 4) small cartilage damage to the posterior or anteromedial edge of the ulna. In conclusion, hyperextension trauma to the elbow joint induced through the distal ulna or the distal radius produced the same pattern of injury as reported in hyperextension of the elbow with traction to the forearm when free rotation of the radius relative to the ulna was allowed.
The effect of strength training on ‘handball goalie's elbow’‐ a prospective uncontrolled clinical trial
Authors: Tyrdal S. , Pettersen O. J.
Published: July 2010

‘Handball goalie's elbow’ is defined as pain due to repetitive forced hyperextension of the elbow. Strength training has been suggested for prevention and rehabilitation of this injury. The present study examines the effect of a strength‐training programme after 24 months in a prospective uncontrolled clinical trial in goalkeepers with ‘handball goalie's elbow’. Concentric and eccentric elbow exercise loads at approximately 80% of one repetition maximum (1‐RM) were carried out 8 to 10 times 3 times a day, 3 days a week. Muscle strength was measured for flexion and extension of the elbow and wrist, and pro‐and supination of the forearm. Sixteen amateur goalkeepers (10 men and 6 women) with 25 (12 right and 13 left) injured elbows (16 male and 9 female) were evaluated. Their mean age was 21.0 (range 16–35) years and their elbow pain had at the time of iclusion lasted for 28.9 (range 3–54) months. The players were tested at inclusion and after 24 months. The strength tests showed improvement in all the tested motions. The subjective status of the goalkeepers was excellent in 9, good in 9, and fair in 7. The study indicates that specific strength training may be effective in rehabilitation of ‘handball goalie's elbow’.
Osseous manifestations of ‘handball goalie's elbow”
Authors: Tyrdal S. , Finnanger A.‐M. S.
Published: July 2010

The radiographic manifestations of musculoskeletal stress at the elbow associated with European team handball are reported in 46 amateur handball players with 74 elbows injured by blocking shots. All the 92 elbows were evaluated by clinical and radiological examinations using the 18 asymptotic elbows as a control. Lateral and anterioposterior radiographs were obtained of both elbows in addition to stress radiographs with manual valgus force. The mean age of the athletes was 23.0 (range 16–44) years. The players had an athletic experience of 11.6 years (range 3.5–34). Their elbow pain had at inclusion lasted for 43±42 (range 2–252) months. Their symptoms were located in all four parts of the elbow and in different combinations: anterior (6), posterior (23), medial (38), lateral (17), and in the whole elbow (3). No major bony lesions were found. Minor abnormalities were observed (21%), including loose bodies (7), traction spur formation (1), and minor arthritic changes (7) in addition to medial instability (12). Manual instability stress test was not useful and should be performed with a stress device.‘Handball goalie's elbow’does not lead to major osseous manifestations.
Long‐term functional outcome after surgery of chronic ankle instability A 5‐year follow‐up study of the modified Evans procedure
Authors: Kaikkonen A. , Lehtonen H. , Kannus P. , Järvinen M.
Published: July 2010

Chronic ankle instability is a rather common consequence of poorly healed rupture of the lateral ligaments of the ankle. In some rare cases, instability symptoms can be caused by general laxity of the joints, but since these cases are normally bilateral, they can easily be distinguished from posttraumatic instability. This report presents the long‐term (average follow‐up 4.6 years) functional outcome after a modified Evans tenodesis of 48 patients. The follow‐up examination consisted of a questionnaire evaluating the subjective assessment of the ankle, and clinical examination measuring ankle stability, range of motion and swelling, and atrophy of the calf muscles. Additionally, the functional recovery of the ankle was assessed by a standardized performance test protocol. According to the subjective assessment, 25 subjects (52%) considered the ankle fully recovered, or at least much better than before surgery. In the performance test, however, only 17 subjects (35%) achieved an excellent or good score. In the performance test protocol, two functional tests, walking down a staircase and balancing on a square beam, best demonstrated the impaired function of the injured ankle. The modified Evans procedure could restore the stability of the ankle to the preinjury level, although the ankle range of motion was significantly impaired, and swelling of the ankle and atrophy of the calf muscles were frequent findings at the follow‐up. In conclusion, surgical treatment of chronic ankle instability by the Evans procedure restores the mechanical stability of the joint, but too frequently the function of the ankle does not return to the pre‐injury level.
Affect and achievement goals in physical activity: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Ntoumanis N. , Biddle S. J. H.
Published: July 2010

Achievement goal orientation theory has been the subject of extensive research in recent years. In view of the importance of identifying the motivational antecedents of affect in physical activity, this study examined through meta‐analysis the conflicting evidence regarding the links between different achievement goals and emotions. Using the formulas of Hunter and Schmidt (1), correlations were gathered from 41 independent samples and were corrected for both sampling and measurement errors. The results showed that task orientation and positive affect were moderately‐to‐highly correlated and in a positive fashion, whereas the relationship between task orientation and negative affect was negative and moderate to small. Both correlations were found to be heterogeneous, and so moderators were sought. The relationships between ego orientation and positive and negative affect were positive but very small, with the former being heterogeneous. Moderators coded were the time frame of affect (independent of context vs. after an athletic event), the physical activity setting (school physical education vs. recreation vs. competitive sport), age (university vs. school students), nationality (British vs. American), nature of negative affect (high vs. low arousal), and the publication status of the studies (published vs. unpublished). Lastly, a subset of the corrected correlations were inserted into a structural equation modelling analysis in order to look concurrently at the relationships among all the variables.
Biomechanical analysis of anterior cruciate ligament injury mechanisms: three‐dimensional motion reconstruction from video sequences
Authors: Krosshaug T. , Slauterbeck J. R. , Engebretsen L. , Bahr R.
Published: July 2010

Background: Methods for analyzing the mechanisms of injuries in sports from video sequences of injury situations are so far limited to a simple visual inspection, which has shown poor accuracy.

Purpose: To investigate whether a new model‐based image‐matching technique could successfully be applied to estimate kinematic characteristics of three typical anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury situations.

Methods: A four‐camera basketballvideo, a three‐camera European team handball video and a single‐camera downhill skiing video were imported into the program Poser® 4, where a skeleton model and a model of the surroundings were matched to the background image frame by frame. When the match was considered satisfactory, joint angles as well as velocity and acceleration of the center of mass were calculated using Matlab®.

Results: In the basketball and handball matchings, the skeleton and surrounding models were successfully matched to the background through all frames in all camera angles. Detailed time courses for joint kinematics and ground reaction force were obtained, while less information could be acquired from the single‐view skiing accident.

Conclusion: The model‐based image matching technique can be used to extract kinematic characteristics from videotapes of actual ACL injuries, and may provide valuable information on the mechanisms for ACL injuries in sports.
Exhaustive stretch‐shortening cycle exercise: no contralateral effects on muscle activity in maximal motor performances
Authors: Regueme S. C. , Barthèlemy J. , Nicol C.
Published: July 2010

Minor cross‐over effects of unilateral muscle fatigue have been reported after isometric exercises. The present study re‐examined this possibility after an exhaustive stretch‐shortening cycle (SSC)‐type exercise. Twenty‐five subjects performed on a sledge apparatus a unilateral exhaustive rebound exercise involving mostly the triceps surae muscle group. Ipsilateral vs contralateral fatigue effects were compared in uni‐ and bilateral tests that included a maximal isometric voluntary contraction (MVC) and a series of 10 maximal drop jumps (DJ). These tests were carried out just before and after (POST) the exhaustive SSC exercise, and were repeated 2 days later (D2), at the expected time of major inflammation and pain. The exercised (fatigued) leg analysis revealed significant declines in MVC and DJ performances at POST and D2, the latter ones being associated with significant decreases in voluntary muscle activity. In contrast, no significant change was found for the non‐fatigued leg. These results do not support the existence of cross‐over effects after exhaustive SSC exercise, at least when tested in maximal static and dynamic unilateral motor tasks.
Cross‐cultural validity and measurement invariance of the social physique anxiety scale in five European nations
Authors: Hagger M. S. , Aşçι F. H. , Lindwall M. , Hein V. , Mülazιmoğlu‐Ballι Ö. , Tarrant M. , Ruiz Y. Pastor , Sell V.
Published: July 2010

The cross‐cultural generalizability of the social physique anxiety scale (SPAS) was evaluated using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) in five European nations: Britain, Estonia, Spain, Sweden, and Turkey. Motl and Conroy's (2000) methods were used to develop modified versions of the scale within each sample based on the original 12‐item version. Pending the satisfactory fit of the CFAs of the modified models within each sample, it was expected that the measurement parameters and mean values of these models would be equivalent across samples in multisample CFAs. An eight‐item version of the SPAS exhibited a good fit with data from the British, Estonian, and Swedish samples, and a seven‐item version fitted the data well in the Spanish and Turkish samples. The eliminated items were also influenced by a method effect associated with the item wording. Multisample analyses revealed that factor loadings were equivalent across samples. Tests of latent means revealed that British and Spanish participants reported the highest levels of SPA, with Estonian participants reporting the lowest. Results indicate that the SPAS is generalizable across these cultures, although subtle variations existed in the Spanish and Turkish samples. Researchers are advised to follow these procedures to develop a valid version of the SPAS appropriate for their sample.
Achievement involvement and stress coping in elite wrestling
Authors: Kristiansen E. , Roberts G. C. , Abrahamsen F. E.
Published: July 2010

The present study explored the relationship between task involvement and coping with stress in elite competition. Participants were 82 elite wrestlers, both male (n=60) and female (n=22), from four different European countries, age 16–37. The data for the study were gathered over an 18‐month period, and both qualitative in‐depth interviews (n=6) and quantitative approaches were used. The quantitative study measured motivation from an achievement goal theory perspective: achievement goal orientation [Perception of Success Questionnaire], perceptions of the motivational climate [Perceived Motivational Climate in Sport Questionnaire] and coping strategies (Brief COPE). The qualitative part explored motivation and coping in depth. As expected, task involved wrestlers coped better in competitive situations due to their use of more adaptive coping strategies. The wrestlers' experiences seemingly make them prefer to stay task involved and use adaptive coping strategies (both problem‐focused and emotion‐focused strategies) in competition.
Effects of 6 months of walking training on lower limb muscle and tendon in elderly
Authors: Kubo K. , Ishida Y. , Suzuki S. , Komuro T. , Shirasawa H. , Ishiguro N. , Shukutani Y. , Tsunoda N. , Kanehisa H. , Fukunaga T.
Published: July 2010

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of 6 months of walking training on muscle strength, muscle thickness and tendon stiffness on various parts of the lower limbs in the elderly. Subjects were assigned to training (n=35) and control (n=10) groups. Maximal isometric torque (MVC) and muscle thickness for knee extensors (KE), knee flexors (KF), dorsi flexors (DF) and plantar flexors (PF) were measured. Tendon stiffness for KE and PF was measured using ultrasonography while subjects performed isometric contraction. No significant changes occurred in any measured variables in the control group. In the training group, muscle thickness increased significantly for KF and DF, but not for PF. For KE, significant increases of muscle thickness at the proximal and medial sides were observed, although mean relative increase of the eight measured sites for KE was not significant. MVC increased significantly for KF, DF, and PF, but not for KE. In addition, tendon stiffness for KE and PF did not change after training. These results indicated that walking training brought about increments of muscle thickness and strength in most of the lower limbs in the elderly, but it did not result in any changes in tendon stiffness.
Gender in ice hockey: women in a male territory
Authors: Gilenstam K. , Karp S. , Henriksson‐Larsén K.
Published: July 2010

This study investigates how female ice hockey players describe and explain their situation within as well as outside their sport. Information was obtained by semi‐structured interviews with female ice hockey players. The results were analyzed in a gender perspective where the main starting point was the concepts of different levels of power relations in society developed by Harding and applied to sports by Kolnes (the symbolic, structural, and individual level). The study shows that the players appeared to share the traditional views of men and women. They also described gender differences in terms of financial and structural conditions as well as differences in ice hockey history. Even though the players described structural inequalities, they were quite content with their situation and the differences in conditions were not considered when they explained the gender differences in ice hockey performance. At the individual level, the players considered themselves different from other women and appeared to share the traditional views of femininity and masculinity. It has been suggested that performance of a sport traditionally associated with the other sex might alter the traditional view of men and women; however, our results lend little support to this suggestion.
Physical fitness in adolescents with normal weight and overweight
Authors: Fogelholm M. , Stigman S. , Huisman T. , Metsämuuronen J.
Published: July 2010

We studied the associations of overweight (OW, BMI ≥85th percentile) and physical activity (PA) with physical fitness in adolescents. The nationally representative sample was 1120 boys and 1146 girls, aged 15–16 years. Height and weight were self‐reported. The level of PA was based on self‐reported frequency and duration of sweating during organized and non‐organized activity. Fitness was measured by sit‐ups, sit‐and‐reach, five‐jump, back‐and‐forth jumping, ball skills, coordination and endurance shuttle run tests. The fitness index was calculated as the mean of z‐scores for individual tests. The prevalence of OW was 17.3% in boys and 11.8% in girls. The main effect of PA (in analysis of variance) on all fitness tests was significant (P≤0.005). The main effect of OW was significant (P<0.002) for all tests, except for sit‐and‐reach. According to linear regression models, the association between PA and fitness was stronger than that between OW and fitness. Sit‐ups, endurance shuttle‐run and fitness index showed the strongest association with PA (standardized β coefficients 0.31–0.49). OW was not associated with sit‐and‐reach test (coefficient 0.04) and only weakly with the ball skills test (coefficients −0.10 to −0.12). In conclusion, OW had the most negative association with cardiorespiratory and muscle endurance, and explosive power tests.
Effects of eccentric cycling exercise on IGF‐I splice variant expression in the muscles of young and elderly people
Authors: Hameed M. , Toft A. D. , Pedersen B. K. , Harridge S. D. R. , Goldspink G.
Published: July 2010

Recovery from micro damage resulting from intensive exercise has been shown to take longer in older muscles. To investigate the factors that may contribute to muscle repair, we have studied the expression of two splice variants of the insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) gene. IGF‐IEa and mechano growth factor (MGF) were studied in response to 1 h of eccentric cycling exercise in young and old individuals. Subjects (nine young, aged 20–27 years and eight elderly, aged 67–75 years) completed an eccentric exercise protocol that consisted of 60 min of reverse pedal cycling. Workloads were chosen to give the same relative increases in oxygen uptake (VO2max) and heart rate in young and old subjects. Muscle biopsy samples were obtained from the quadriceps muscle before and 2¼ h after completion of the exercise bout and were analyzed for IGF‐IEa and MGF mRNA levels using real‐time quantitative PCR. No difference was observed between the baseline levels of the two splice variants between the two subject groups. Eccentric cycling exercise resulted in a significant increase in the mean MGF mRNA in both young and old subjects but did not alter IGF‐IEa mRNA levels in either age group. As reported previously (Toft et al., 2002), the levels of serum creatine kinase and myoglobin, markers of muscle damage, were increased significantly from baseline and to 5 days after exercise in both young and old subjects. This supports previous research in suggesting that the MGF splice variant is sensitive to muscle damage‐inducing exercise and is differentially regulated compared with IGF‐IEa.
Molecular adaptations of voltage‐gated sodium ion channel related proteins after fatiguing stretch‐shortening cycle exercise
Authors: Piitulainen H. , Kivelä R. , Komi P. , Kainulainen H. , Kyröläinen H.
Published: July 2010

Dystrophin associated protein α‐syntrophin is known to interact with voltage‐gated sodium ion channel (NaCh). Dystrophin is known to be sensitive to eccentric muscle actions. For this reason, the function of the NaChs might also be affected. Molecular adaptations of dystrophin, α‐syntrophin and NaChs were investigated after fatiguing stretch‐shortening cycle (SSC) exercise, which consisted of unilateral jumps on a sledge apparatus. Muscle biopsies were taken from the vastus lateralis muscle of eight healthy subjects immediately after (IA) and 2 days after (2D) the exercise to analyze mRNA levels and immunohistochemical staining patterns. SSC exercise resulted in decreased isometric maximal voluntary contraction (IA: −31±9%, 2D: −14±16%) and a delayed increase of plasma creatine kinase activity (2D: +178±211%). Despite muscle soreness (P<0.001), no morphological damage was observed and no changes were found in the mRNA concentrations. However, the relative changes of the mRNA concentrations of α‐syntrophin and NaChs were highly correlated (r=0.93, P<0.001) 2D after SSC exercise. This consistent pattern of mRNA regulation may imply a functional relationship between these two proteins. In addition, the current experiment emphasises high inter‐individual variation in molecular responses to heavy exercise.
Explosive heavy‐resistance training in old and very old adults: changes in rapid muscle force, strength and power
Authors: Caserotti P. , Aagaard P. , Buttrup Larsen J. , Puggaard L.
Published: July 2010

Age‐related decline in muscle power predicts falls, motor impairments and disability. Recent guidelines suggested that training programs should be tailored to maximize muscle power. This study investigated the effects of 12 weeks of explosive‐type heavy‐resistance training (75–80% of 1 repetition maximum) in old (60–65 years, TG60) and very old (80–89 years, TG80) community‐dwelling women. Training was performed with maximal intentional acceleration of the training load during the concentric movement phase. Maximal isometric voluntary muscle strength (MVC), rapid force capacity, assessed as rate of force development (RFD), and impulse, maximal muscle power during a countermovement jump (CMJ) and during unilateral leg extension task (LEP) were evaluated. RFD, impulse and MVC increased by 51%, 42% and 28% in TG80, and by 21%, 18% and 18% in TG60, respectively. CMJ jump height increased by 18% and 10% in TG80 and TG60, respectively, while jump peak power increased in TG60 (5%). Finally, LEP increased 28% in TG80 and 12% in TG60. These findings demonstrate that explosive‐type heavy‐resistance training seems to be safe and well tolerated in healthy women even in the eighth decade of life and elicits adaptive neuromuscular changes in selected physiological variables that are commonly associated with the risk of falls and disability in aged individuals.
Twenty‐five year socioeconomic trends in leisure‐time and commuting physical activity among employed Finns
Authors: Mäkinen T. , Borodulin K. , Laatikainen T. , Fogelholm M. , Prättälä R.
Published: July 2010

The trend of socioeconomic differences in physical activity is largely unknown in Finland. In this study, we examined socioeconomic trends in leisure‐time and commuting physical activity among Finns in 1978–2002. Nationwide data were derived from an annually repeated cross‐sectional Finnish Adult Health Behavior Survey. People under the age of 25, students, the unemployed, and retirees were excluded from the analysis. The final data set included 25 513 women and 25 302 men. Socioeconomic variables included education, occupation, and household income. Odds ratios for being physically active and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. People with the lowest income were less leisure‐time and commuting physically active. Among women, low occupational status was associated with high commuting physical activity whereas among men such an association was not found. No educational differences among men in leisure‐time and commuting physical activity over time were found. Some indications were found that educational differences in leisure‐time physical activity among women might have been reversed. Our data suggest that socioeconomic differences in leisure‐time and commuting physical activity are quite small and have remained similar between 1978 and 2002.
Impact of skier actions on the gliding times in alpine skiing
Authors: Federolf P. , Scheiber P. , Rauscher E. , Schwameder H. , Lüthi A. , Rhyner H.‐U. , Müller E.
Published: July 2010

Alpine ski races are typically won by fractions of a second. It is therefore essential for ski racers to minimize air drag as well as ski–snow friction. In contrast to air drag, ski–snow friction during actual skiing has rarely been investigated so far. Two tasks, forward/backward leaning and edging of the skis, were selected, which (a) were expected to have an impact on ski–snow friction, and (b) could be executed while gliding in tucked position. Two hypotheses were tested: (H1) Run times are affected by forward or backward leaning. (H2) Run times are affected by edging of the skis. Four professional ski testers were recruited, who conducted a total of 68 runs of straight gliding. Execution of the tasks was documented by video recordings and by measuring the force application point on the skis of one tester. The findings of this study support (H2) but not (H1). There are indications that the increased run times for edging are caused by increased ski–snow friction. From a performance point of view, it seems beneficial for ski racers to minimize edging in the gliding sections of a race.
Sudden cardiac death in young athletes: time for a Nordic approach in screening?
Authors: Hernelahti M. , Heinonen O. J. , Karjalainen J. , Nylander E. , Börjesson M.
Published: July 2010

In 2005, the European Society of Cardiology published recommendations for cardiovascular screening in athletes. Discussion on whether screening is beneficial is ongoing. Recently, the first prospective results on effectiveness of screening in preventing sudden deaths were published from Italy. The results were supportive of screening, but did not provide conclusive evidence. Our suggestion for a Nordic approach on this issue is a directed cardiovascular examination initially involving elite athletes, because this is feasible with respect to the Nordic health care systems and the organization and logistics of elite competitive sports, but also because of the negative aspects of screening large populations. This directed cardiovascular examination would include personal and family history, clinical examination, and electrocardiography (ECG). Further examinations should thereafter be carried out in athletes with suggestive findings in the initial evaluation. The directed cardiovascular examination should be voluntary. It should be conducted at least once, with information on alarming symptoms (syncope, chest pain or dizziness during exercise) and heredity (sudden cardiac death or hereditary heart disease in near relatives) stressed to the athlete as indications for necessary check‐ups in the future. The examination would also provide the athlete with an ECG recording, which is valuable as a reference at a later time.
Between‐ and within‐day variability in physical activity and inactivity in 9‐ and 15‐year‐old European children
Authors: Nilsson A. , Anderssen S. A. , Andersen L. B. , Froberg K. , Riddoch C. , Sardinha L. B. , Ekelund U.
Published: July 2010

To examine differences in levels of physical activity (PA), time spent at moderate‐to‐vigorous intensity PA (MVPA) and time spent sedentary between and within days in children from four European countries, 1954 9 – and 15‐year‐olds were included. PA was measured during 2 weekdays and 2 weekend days using the manufacturing technology‐incorporated (MTI) accelerometer. Average count per minute, time spent sedentary, time spent at MVPA and the proportion of children accumulating ≥60 min of MVPA were calculated. Data were compared between weekdays and weekend days and between school time and leisure‐time. Although not entirely consistent across countries, overall PA, time spent sedentary and the proportion of children accumulating ≥60 min of MVPA were higher during weekdays compared with weekend days. Differences in overall PA between school time and leisure‐time were highly inconsistent between countries. Few children (4–31%) accumulated ≥60 min of MVPA either during school time or during leisure‐time. Differences in activity patterns between weekdays and weekend days are explained by less accumulated time in MVPA during weekend days. Weekend days and leisure‐time during weekdays seem appropriate targets when promoting PA in order to increase the proportion of children achieving current recommendations on health‐enhancing PA.
Risk factors for lower extremity injuries among male marathon runners
Authors: Van Middelkoop M. , Kolkman J. , Van Ochten J. , Bierma‐Zeinstra S. M. A. , Koes B. W.
Published: July 2010

The aim of this study is to identify risk factors for lower extremity injuries in male marathon runners. A random sample of 1500 recreational male marathon runners was drawn. Possible risk factors were obtained from a baseline questionnaire 1 month before the start of the marathon. Information on injuries sustained shortly before or during the marathon was obtained using a post‐race questionnaire. Of the 694 male runners who responded to the baseline and post‐race questionnaire, 28% suffered a self‐reported running injury on the lower extremities in the month before or during the marathon run. More than six times race participation in the previous 12 months [odds ratio (OR) 1.66; confidence interval (CI) 1.08–2.56], a history of running injuries (OR 2.62; CI 1.82–3.78), high education level (OR 0.73; CI 0.51–1.04) and daily smoking (OR 0.23; CI 0.05–1.01) were associated with the occurrence of lower extremity injuries. Among the modifiable risk factor studies, a training distance <40 km a week is a strong protective factor of future calf injuries, and regular interval training is a strong protective factor for knee injuries. Other training characteristics appear to have little or no effect on future injuries.
Purity and Prejudice: Deluding Ourselves About Biodiversity Conservation
Authors: Sheil Douglas , Meijaard Erik
Published: July 2010

Tropical conservationists can benefit from understanding human thought processes. We are often less rational than we might believe. Our judgmental biases may sometimes encourage us to overlook or act against major conservation opportunities. Better appreciation of the tricks of the human mind might make us more open‐minded, humble, and ready to appreciate different viewpoints. We propose one inherent bias that we believe predisposes conservationists to neglect the value of modified habitats for biodiversity conservation. We call it the ‘tainted‐nature delusion’. Recognizing such biases can increase our effectiveness in recognizing and achieving viable conservation outcomes.
WHITHER GOEST U.S. AGRICULTURAL POLICY: AN EXERCISE IN NAIVE PROPHESY1
Authors: McCalla Alex F.
Published: July 2010

The forces leading to change in U.S. agricultural policy are discussed in this paper, and the likely outcome of the debate on U.S. farm policy is documented. New programs are a strong possibility for a variety of commodities including wheat, feed grains, and soybeans. These programs will likely lead to lower prices, increased production and more aggressive competition in international markets. The forces in the evolution of U.S. farm policy are also drawn out, allowing readers a view of the process of policy‐making, and providing background and documentation for readers to develop independent and perhaps alternative views of the future direction of U.S. farm policy.

ON EN VA LA POLITIQUE AGRICOLE AMERICAINE: UN EXERCISE DE CLAIR VOYANCE ‐ Les forces conduisant au changement de la politique agricole des Etats‐Unis sont discutées dans la présente étude, et les résultats probables des débats sur la politique agricole américaine sont documentés. II est fort possible que de nouveaux programmes soient elaborés àľégard ďune variété de denrée, y. compris le blé, les grains de provende et le soya. Ces programmes amèneront vraisemblablement desprix moins élevés, une production accrue et une concurrence plus agressive sur les marchés internationaux. Les forces dans ľévolution de la politique agricole américaine sont aussi illustrées, cequi permet aux lecteurs de voir comment on établit les programmes, et foumit aux lecteurs une base et une documentation qui lew permettront de développer des opinions indépendantes et peut‐être alternatives sur la direction future de la politique agricultural américaine.
A CROSS‐SECTION ANALYSIS OF FARM HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURES*
Authors: MacMillan James A. , Loyns R.M.A.
Published: July 2010

Many policy problems urgently require research on rural household consumption patterns. Research implications of consumption function theory are outlined and results of a cross‐section analysis of eleven expenditure categories are reported.

Consumption function parameters are estimated by least squares of multiple regression of farm account data. The analysis illustrates that changes in annuitized value of assets are associated with changes in budget allocations supporting the concept of a “lifetime” income effect on consumer behaviour. Second, the farm households sampled have a low marginal as well as average propensity to consume. Third, structure explanatory variables such as age distribution and size vary in their ability to explain expenditure patterns depending upon types of commodity. Further work will help to assess the impact of additional forces upon the standard of living of farm people.

UNEANAL YSE RECOUPEE DE LA CONSOMMATION DOMESTIQUE R URALE Plusieurs problèmes de politique demandent des recherches urgentes sur les tendances de la consommation domestique rurale. Les implications de la recherche sur la théorie de la fonction de la consommation sont exposées et les résultats ďune analyse recoupee des onze catégories de dépenses sont présentés.

Les paramétres de la fonction de la consommation sont évalués par les moindres carrés de la régression multiple des données du compte agricole. ľanalyse démontre que les changements dans la valeur viagère des biens sont associés aux change‐ments dans les allocations budgétaires àľappui du concept de ľeffet ďun revenu “à vie” sur la façon ďagir du consommateur. Deuxièmement, les foyers agricoles échantillonnés ont une tendance à la consommation très marginale aussi bien que moyenne. Troisièmement, les variables explicatifs de la structure, tels que la répartition par âge et la taille, valient dans leur abilitéďexpliquer les tendances des dépenses selon le genre de denrées. Des travaux additionnels aideront àévahier ľeffet de forces supplémentaires sur le niveau de vie des agriculteurs.
Obstacles Expected and Steps Required in Implementation of a Sound Policy for Canadian Agriculture1
Authors: Dawson John A.
Published: July 2010

This paper discusses the requirements for developing improved policies for agriculture. Focussing primarily on public policy, the informational needs of policy‐makers and researchers are outlined. The conclusions are that more attention must be directed to goals, to policy as a process, and to communications within the overall agricultural industry. The problems of agricultural policy development are in turn shown to be related to fundamental characteristics of the society in which we live.

OBSTACLES PRÉVUS ET ÉTAPES À SUIVRE DANS LA MISE EN OEUVRE D'UNE SAINE POLITIQUE POUR VAGR1CULTURE CANA‐DIENNE–Le present mémoire traite des besoins délaboration de politiques améliorées pour l'agriculture. Visant surtout l'ordre public, il souligne les besoins de renseignements des createurs de programmes et des chércheurs. Les conclusions en sont que plus d'attention doit être portée awe objectifs, à la politique comme un processus, et aux communications au sein de l'ensem‐ble de l'industrie agricole. II démontre aussi que les problèmes délaboration d'une politique agricole sont connexes aux caractéristiques fondamentales de lensemble de la société où nous vivons.
The Size and Structure of the Livestock Industry in Canada, 1980
Authors: Marshall R. G.
Published: July 2010

Major changes are occurring in the Canadian livestock industry. These changes will lead to increasing emphasis on development of the Canadian feeder cattle industry, but with less rapid growth of the fed cattle sector. Continued access to low‐cost cereals would benefit the cattle feeding industry, but continued grain marketing problems are seen as leading to shifts from grain to forage production.

Domestic pork consumption prospects are seen as being more attractive than those indicated by recent studies. Nevertheless, major changes seem required in order to make Canadian pork products vigorously competitive on U.S. markets.

DIMENSION ET STRUCTURE DE L'INDUSTRIE DU BÉTAIL AU CANADA, 1980–L'Industrie canadienne du bétail est à l'heure actuelle le théâtre d'importants changements. On y observe d'abord un développement rapide de lélevage destinéà l'embouche du bétail et dans une moindre mesure de l'élevage industriel. Le fait de pouvoir disposer de céréales à bas prix pourrait avantager l'Industrie de l'alimentation animale mais les problèmes continuels de commercialisation conduisant les producteurs à préférer la culture du four rage à celle des céréales.

Les perspectives de consommation domestique de pore s'avèrent plus intéressantes que celles indiquées par de récentes études. Néanmoins, de plus grands changements semblent nécessaires pour rendre les produits du pore canadien plus compétitifs sur les marchés américains.