bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taurine depletion impairs cardiac function and affects tolerance to hypoxia and high temperatures in brook char (Salvelinus fontinalis)
Authors: Dixon Toni-Anne M. , Rhyno Emma-Lee M. , El Nir , McGaw Samuel P. , Otley Nathan A. , Parker Katya S. , Buldo Elena C. , Pabody Claire M. , Savoie Mireille , Cockshutt Amanda , Morash Andrea J. , Lamarre Simon G. , MacCormack Tyson J.
Published: February 2023

Physiological and environmental stressors can cause osmotic stress in fish hearts, leading to a reduction in intracellular taurine concentration. Taurine is a β-amino acid known to regulate cardiac function in other animal models but its role in fish has not been well characterized. We generated a model of cardiac taurine deficiency (TD) by feeding brook char (Salvelinus fontinalis) a diet enriched in β-alanine, which inhibits cardiomyocyte taurine uptake. Cardiac taurine levels were reduced by 21% and stress-induced changes in normal taurine handling were observed in TD brook char. Responses to exhaustive exercise and acute thermal and hypoxia tolerance were then assessed using a combination of in vivo, in vitro and biochemical approaches. Critical thermal maximum was higher in TD brook char despite significant reductions in maximum heart rate. In vivo, TD brook char exhibited a lower resting heart rate, blunted hypoxic bradycardia and a severe reduction in time to loss of equilibrium under hypoxia. In vitro function was similar between control and TD hearts under oxygenated conditions, but stroke volume and cardiac output were severely compromised in TD hearts under severe hypoxia. Aspects of mitochondrial structure and function were also impacted in TD permeabilized cardiomyocytes, but overall effects were modest. High levels of intracellular taurine are required to achieve maximum cardiac function in brook char and cardiac taurine efflux may be necessary to support heart function under stress. Taurine appears to play a vital, previously unrecognized role in supporting cardiovascular function and stress tolerance in fish.
Myofibrillar Protein Synthesis and Acute Intracellular Signaling with Elastic Band Resistance Exercise in Young and Older Men
Authors: MARSHALL RYAN N. , MORGAN PAUL T. , SMEUNINX BENOIT , QUINLAN JONATHAN I. , BROOK MATTHEW S. , ATHERTON PHILIP J. , SMITH KENNETH , WILKINSON DANIEL J. , BREEN LEIGH
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Resistance exercise training (RET) attenuates age-related muscle and strength loss (“sarcopenia”). However, compared with machine-based RET, the efficacy of cost-effective, accessible elastic band RET (EB-RET) for muscle adaptive remodeling lacks supporting mechanistic evidence.

Methods

Eight young (YM; 24 ± 4 yr) and eight older (OM; 68 ± 6 yr) untrained males consumed an oral stable isotope tracer (D2O) combined with serial vastus lateralis muscle biopsies to measure integrated myofibrillar protein synthesis (iMyoPS) and regulatory signaling over ~48 h before (habitual) and after an acute bout of EB-RET (6 × 12 repetitions at ~70% of one-repetition maximum). iMyoPS was determined via gas chromatography–pyrolysis–isotope ratio mass spectroscopy and regulatory signaling expression by immunoblot.

Results

Habitual iMyoPS did not differ between YM and OM (1.62% ± 0.21% vs 1.43% ± 0.47%·d−1, respectively, P = 0.128). There was a significant increase in iMyoPS after EB-RET in YM (2.23% ± 0.69%·d−1, P = 0.02), but not OM (1.75% ± 0.54%·d−1, P = 0.30). EB-RET increased the phosphorylation of key anabolic signaling proteins similarly in YM and OM at 1 h postexercise, including p-IRS-1Ser636/639, p-AktSer473, p-4EBP-1Thr37/46, p-P70S6KThr389, and p-RPS6Ser240/244, whereas p-TSC2Thr1462 and p-mTORSer2448 increased only in YM (all P < 0.05). There were no differences in the expression of amino acid transporters/sensors or proteolytic markers after EB-RET.

Conclusions

iMyoPS was elevated after EB-RET in YM but not OM. However, the increase in acute anabolic signaling with EB-RET was largely similar between groups. In conclusion, the capacity for EB-RET to stimulate iMyoPS may be impaired in older age. Further work may be necessary to optimize prescriptive programming in YM and OM.
Immunomodulatory Function of Interleukin-15 and Its Role in Exercise, Immunotherapy, and Cancer Outcomes
Authors: FARLEY MORGAN J. , BARTLETT DAVID B. , SKINNER TINA L. , SCHAUMBERG MIA A. , JENKINS DAVID G.
Published: February 2023

Exercise has been shown to improve physical and psychosocial outcomes for people across the cancer care continuum. A proposed mechanism underpinning the relationship between exercise and cancer outcomes is exercise-induced immunomodulation via secretion of anti-inflammatory myokines from skeletal muscle tissue. Myokines have the potential to impair cancer growth through modulation of natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ T cells while improving the effectiveness of cancer therapies. Interleukin-15 (IL-15), one of the most abundant myokines found in skeletal muscle, has a key immunoregulatory role in supporting the proliferation and maturation of T cells and NK cells, which have a key role in the host’s immune response to cancer. Furthermore, IL-15 is being explored clinically as an immunotherapy agent with doses similar to the IL-15 concentrations released by skeletal muscle during exercise. Here we review the role of IL-15 within the immune system, examine how IL-15 is produced as a myokine during exercise, and how it may improve outcomes for people with cancer, specifically as an adjuvant or neoadjuvant to immunotherapy. We summarize the available evidence showing changes in IL-15 in response to both acute exercise and training, and the results are inconsistent; higher quality research is needed to advance the understanding of how exercise-mediated increases in IL-15 potentially benefit those who are being treated for, or who have had, cancer.
Kinesiophobia Is Associated with Peak Knee Abduction Angle during Jump Landing after ACL Reconstruction
Authors: BAEZ SHELBY , COLLINS KATHERINE , HARKEY MATTHEW , BIRCHMEIER THOMAS , TRIPLETT ASHLEY , PIETROSIMONE BRIAN , KUENZE CHRISTOPHER
Published: February 2023

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the associations between kinesiophobia, knee abduction angle (KAA) during the first 100 ms of landing, and knee flexion excursion (KFE) in individuals 5–12 months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). We hypothesized that greater kinesiophobia would be associated with greater peak KAA and lesser KFE during landing on the ACLR limb, but not on the contralateral limb.

Methods

Thirty-six participants between 14 and 35 yr old (females = 19, age = 19.9 ± 5.1 yr, height = 172.5 ± 9.4 cm, weight = 76.7 ± 20.0 kg, time since surgery =7.2 ± 1.7 months) were recruited from a sports medicine clinic at 5–12 months after primary unilateral ACLR. Participants completed the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia-11 (TSK-11) to measure kinesiophobia and three successful trials of a standard drop vertical jump task. A 10-camera three-dimensional motion capture system synchronized with two embedded force plate platforms was used to capture jump-landing kinematics. Separate stepwise linear regression models were used to examine the associations between kinesiophobia, peak KAA, and KFE on the ACLR and contralateral limbs after accounting for time since surgery and biological sex.

Results

When accounting for time since surgery and biological sex, every 1-point increase on the TSK-11 (i.e., increase in kinesiophobia) associated with a 0.37° increase (i.e., a 7.1% increase) in ACLR limb KAA (P = 0.02). Kinesiophobia was not associated with contralateral limb KAA, ACLR limb KFE, or contralateral limb KFE.

Conclusions

Higher kinesiophobia was related to greater amounts of peak KAA during landing in individuals 5–12 months post-ACLR. Modifying kinesiophobia may help to decrease KAA and lead to reduced secondary ACL injury risk. Future research should investigate feasible psychological interventions to reduce kinesiophobia and improve KAA in patients post-ACLR.
Effects of Eccentric Resistance Training on Lower-Limb Passive Joint Range of Motion: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: KAY ANTHONY D. , BAXTER BRETT A. , HILL MATHEW W. , BLAZEVICH ANTHONY J.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Substantial increases in joint range of motion (ROM) have been reported after eccentric resistance training; however, between-study variability and sample size issues complicate the interpretation of the magnitude of effect.

Methods

PubMed, Medline, and SPORTDiscus databases were searched for studies examining the effects of eccentric training on lower-limb passive joint ROM in healthy human participants. Meta-analysis used an inverse-variance random-effects model to calculate the pooled standardized difference (Hedge’s g) with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Meta-analysis of 22 ROM outcomes (17 studies, 376 participants) revealed a large increase in lower-limb passive joint ROM (g = 0.86 (95% confidence intervals, 0.65–1.08)). Subgroup analyses revealed a moderate increase after 4–5 wk (g = 0.63 (0.27–0.98)), large increase after 6–8 wk (g = 0.98 (0.73–1.24)), and moderate increase after 9–14 wk (g = 0.75 (0.03, 1.46)) of training. Large increases were found in dorsiflexion (g = 1.12 (0.78–1.47)) and knee extension (g = 0.82 (0.48–1.17)), but a small increase in knee flexion was observed (g = 0.41 (0.05–0.77)). A large increase was found after isokinetic (g = 1.07 (0.59–1.54)) and moderate increase after isotonic (g = 0.77 (0.56–0.99)) training.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate the potential of eccentric training as an effective flexibility training intervention and provide evidence for “best practice” guidelines. The larger effect after isokinetic training despite <50% training sessions being performed is suggestive of a more effective exercise mode, although further research is needed to determine the influence of contraction intensity and to confirm the efficacy of eccentric training in clinical populations.
Prospective Validation of 2B-Cool: Integrating Wearables and Individualized Predictive Analytics to Reduce Heat Injuries
Authors: LAXMINARAYAN SRINIVAS , HORNBY SAMANTHA , BELVAL LUKE N. , GIERSCH GABRIELLE E. W. , MORRISSEY MARGARET C. , CASA DOUGLAS J. , REIFMAN JAQUES
Published: February 2023

Introduction

An uncontrollably rising core body temperature (TC) is an indicator of an impending exertional heat illness. However, measuring TC invasively in field settings is challenging. By contrast, wearable sensors combined with machine-learning algorithms can continuously monitor TC nonintrusively. Here, we prospectively validated 2B-Cool, a hardware/software system that automatically learns how individuals respond to heat stress and provides individualized estimates of TC, 20-min ahead predictions, and early warning of a rising TC.

Methods

We performed a crossover heat stress study in an environmental chamber, involving 11 men and 11 women (mean ± SD age = 20 ± 2 yr) who performed three bouts of varying physical activities on a treadmill over a 7.5-h trial, each under four different clothing and environmental conditions. Subjects wore the 2B-Cool system, consisting of a smartwatch, which collected vital signs, and a paired smartphone, which housed machine-learning algorithms and used the vital sign data to make individualized real-time forecasts. Subjects also wore a chest strap heart rate sensor and a rectal probe for comparison purposes.

Results

We observed very good agreement between the 2B-Cool forecasts and the measured TC, with a mean bias of 0.16°C for TC estimates and nearly 75% of measurements falling within the 95% prediction intervals of ±0.62°C for the 20-min predictions. The early-warning system results for a 38.50°C threshold yielded a 98% sensitivity, an 81% specificity, a prediction horizon of 35 min, and a false alarm rate of 0.12 events per hour. We observed no sex differences in the measured or predicted peak TC.

Conclusion

2B-Cool provides early warning of a rising TC with a sufficient lead time to enable clinical interventions and to help reduce the risk of exertional heat illness.
Effect of Acute Walking on Endothelial Function and Postprandial Lipemia in South Asians and White Europeans
Authors: ROBERTS MATTHEW J. , THACKRAY ALICE E. , WADLEY ALEX J. , ALOTAIBI TAREQ F. , HUNTER DAVID J. , THOMPSON JULIE , FUJIHIRA KYOKO , MIYASHITA MASASHI , MASTANA SARABJIT , BISHOP NICOLETTE C. , O’DONNELL EMMA , DAVIES MELANIE J. , KING JAMES A. , YATES THOMAS , WEBB DAVID , STENSEL DAVID J.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

South Asians (SAs) have an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared with White Europeans (WEs). Postprandial endothelial function (flow-mediated dilatation (FMD%)) in SA women and SA men with central obesity has not been investigated. Research in other populations has highlighted that a 1% higher FMD% is associated with a ~13% lower risk of future CVD events. We investigated whether FMD% and lipemia, two markers for CVD risk, were higher in SAs versus WEs, whether walking improved FMD% and lipemia, and if there were ethnic differences in the response.

Methods

Lean premenopausal women (study 1; 12 SA, 12 WE) and men with central obesity (study 2; 15 SA, 15 WE) completed two 2-d trials. On day 1, participants walked for 60 min at 60% of their peak oxygen uptake or rested. On day 2, participants rested and consumed two high-fat meals over 8 h. Repeated ultrasound assessments of endothelial function and venous blood samples for CVD risk markers were taken.

Results

Compared with WEs, SAs had lower postprandial FMD% (study 1, −1.32%; study 2, −0.54%) and higher postprandial triacylglycerol concentrations (study 1, 0.31 mmol·L−1·h−1; study 2, 0.55 mmol·L−1·h−1). Walking improved postprandial FMD% (study 1, 1.12%; study 2, 0.94%) and resulted in no significant change or small reductions in postprandial triacylglycerol concentrations (study 1, −0.01 mmol·L−1·h−1; study 2, −0.25 mmol·L−1·h−1). Exercise-induced changes in FMD% and triacylglycerol were consistent between ethnic groups.

Conclusions

Walking mitigated the adverse postprandial effect of a high-fat diet on FMD% to a similar extent in SA and WE women and men, even with no/small improvements in triacylglycerol. This study highlights the importance of exercise to clinically improve FMD% in SAs and WEs.
Physical Activity Levels (PAL) in US Adults—2019
Authors: MATTHEWS CHARLES E. , PATEL SHREYA , SAINT-MAURICE PEDRO F. , LOFTFIELD ERIKKA , KEADLE SARAH K. , CHEN KONG Y. , BRYCHTA ROBERT , LAMUNION SAMUEL , BERRIGAN DAVID
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Physical activity levels (PAL) are associated with mortality risk and were instrumental in estimating national energy requirements, but we are unaware of population-based estimates of PAL in US adults. Thus, we conducted a nationwide survey using a validated previous-day recall method to estimate PAL and the behavioral determinants of low and higher PAL.

Methods

Participants from the AmeriSpeak panel 20–75 yr of age (N = 2640) completed Activities Completed over Time in 24-hours previous-day recalls. PAL values were estimated as the average metabolic equivalent value over 24 h. Recalls were conducted on randomly selected days in October and November 2019. Survey sample design weights were applied to reflect the US population.

Results

Mean age was 45.3 yr, 51% were female, 67% were non-Hispanic White, and 37% had a body mass index of ≥30 kg·m−2. US adults reported a mean PAL of 1.63 (95% confidence interval, 1.60–1.65), and 39% (37%–42%) of adults reported PAL ≥1.6 on a given day. Men reported higher PAL than women (1.67 vs 1.59), and older adults reported lower PAL. Adults with PAL <1.4 spent 81% (12.1 h·d−1) of their waking day sedentary and 19% (2.7 h·d−1) in total physical activity. Adults with PAL considered to be “active”(1.6–1.89) spent only 49% (8.0 h·d−1) of their waking day sedentary, and 51% (8.3 h·d−1) physically active.

Conclusions

Our study provides novel estimates of PAL in a nationwide sample of US adults and a description of the type and intensity of sedentary and physically active behaviors contributing to low and higher PAL. These findings may inform public health messages aimed at increasing physical activity in adults and potentially contribute to obesity prevention efforts.
Effects of Sex and Cuff Pressure on Physiological Responses during Blood Flow Restriction Resistance Exercise in Young Adults
Authors: GRAY SYLVIE M. , CUOMO AMANDA M. , PROPPE CHRISTOPHER E. , TRAYLOR MIRANDA K. , HILL ETHAN C. , KELLER JOSHUA L.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the physiological responses resulting from an acute blood flow restriction resistance exercise bout with two different cuff pressures in young, healthy men and women.

Methods

Thirty adults (18–30 yr) completed a bilateral leg extension blood flow restriction bout consisting of four sets (30–15–15–15 repetitions), with cuffs applied at pressures corresponding to 40% and 60% of the minimum arterial occlusion pressure (AOP) needed to completely collapse the femoral arteries. During each of these conditions (40% and 60% AOP), physiological measures of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and EMG amplitude (EMG AMP) were collected from the dominant or nondominant vastus lateralis. After each set, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were collected, whereas only at baseline and at the end of the bout, mean arterial pressure (MAP) was assessed. Separate mixed-factorial ANOVA models were used to examine mean differences in the change in EMG AMP and NIRS parameters during each set. The absolute RPE and MAP values were also examined with separate ANOVAs. A P value ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Regardless of sex or cuff pressure, the change in EMG AMP was lower in set 1 (14.8%) compared with the remaining sets (22.6%–27.0%). The 40% AOP condition elicited the greatest changes in oxy[heme] and deoxy[heme], while also providing lower RPEs. For MAP, there was an effect for time such that MAP increased from preexercise (87.5 ± 4.3 mm Hg) to postexercise (104.5 ± 4.1 mm Hg).

Conclusions

The major findings suggested that the 40% AOP condition permitted the greatest amount of recovery during the interset rest. In addition, there did not seem to be any meaningful sex-related difference in this sample of young healthy adults.
Plasma Acidosis and Peak Power after a Supramaximal Trial in Elite Sprint and Endurance Cyclists: Effect of Bicarbonate
Authors: MILDENHALL MATHEW J. , MAUNDER ED , PLEWS DANIEL J. , LINDINGER MICHAEL I. , CAIRNS SIMEON P.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to determine whether (i) a plasma acidosis contributes to a reduction of mechanical performance and (ii) bicarbonate supplementation blunts plasma acidosis and arterial oxygen desaturation to resist fatigue during the end spurt of a supramaximal trial in elite sprint and endurance cyclists.

Methods

Elite/world-class cyclists (n = 6 sprint, n = 6 endurance) completed two randomized, double-blind, crossover trials at 105%V̇O2peak simulating 3 min of a 4-km individual pursuit, 90 min after ingestion of 0.3 g·kg−1 BM sodium bicarbonate (BIC) or placebo (PLA). Peak power output (PPO), optimal cadence and optimal peak torque, and fatigue were assessed using a 6-s “all-out sprint” before (PPO1) and after (PPO2) each trial. Plasma pH, bicarbonate, lactate−, K+, Na+, Ca2+, and arterial hemoglobin saturation (SpO2(%)), were measured.

Results

Sprint cyclists exhibited a higher PPO, optimal pedal torque, and anaerobic power reserve (APR) than endurance cyclists. The trial reduced PPO (PLA) more for sprint (to 47% initial) than endurance cyclists (to 61% initial). Optimal cadence fell from ~151 to 92 rpm and cyclists with higher APR exhibited a reduced optimal peak torque. Plasma pH fell from 7.35 to 7.13 and plasma [lactate−] increased from 1.2 to 19.6 mM (PLA), yet neither correlated with PPO loss. Sprint cyclists displayed a lesser plasma acidosis but greater fatigue than endurance cyclists. BIC increased plasma [HCO3
−] (+6.8 mM) and plasma pH after PPO1 (+0.09) and PPO2 (+0.07) yet failed to influence mechanical performance. SpO2 fell from 99% to 96% but was unrelated to the plasma acidosis and unaltered with BIC.

Conclusions

Plasma acidosis was not associated with the decline of PPO in a supramaximal trial with elite cyclists. BIC attenuated acid–base disturbances yet did not improve arterial oxygen desaturation or mechanical performance at the end-spurt stage.
Vascular Responses to Passive and Active Movement in Premenopausal Females: Comparisons across Sex and Menstrual Cycle Phase
Authors: WEGGEN JENNIFER B. , HOGWOOD AUSTIN C. , DECKER KEVIN P. , DARLING ASHLEY M. , CHIU ALEX , RICHARDSON JACOB , GARTEN RYAN S.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Adequate, robust vascular responses to passive and active movement represent two distinct components linked to normal, healthy cardiovascular function. Currently, limited research exists determining if these vascular responses are altered in premenopausal females (PMF) when compared across sex or menstrual cycle phase.

Methods

Vascular responses to passive leg movement (PLM) and handgrip (HG) exercise were assessed in PMF (n = 21) and age-matched men (n = 21). A subset of PMF subjects (n = 11) completed both assessments during the early and late follicular phase of their menstrual cycle. Microvascular function was assessed during PLM via changes in leg blood flow, and during HG exercise, via steady-state arm vascular conductance. Macrovascular (brachial artery [BA]) function was assessed during HG exercise via BA dilation responses as well as BA shear rate-dilation slopes.

Results

Leg microvascular function, determined by PLM, was not different between sexes or across menstrual cycle phase. However, arm microvascular function, demonstrated by arm vascular conductance, was lower in PMF compared with men at rest and during HG exercise. Macrovascular function was not different between sexes or across menstrual cycle phase.

Conclusions

This study identified similar vascular function across sex and menstrual cycle phase seen in microvasculature of the leg and macrovascular (BA) of the arm. Although arm microvascular function was unaltered by menstrual cycle phase in PMF, it was revealed to be significantly lower when compared with age-matched men highlighting a sex difference in vascular/blood flow regulation during small muscle mass exercise.
Daily Physical Activity Patterns and Their Associations with Cardiometabolic Biomarkers: The Maastricht Study
Authors: LESKINEN TUIJA , LIMA PASSOS VALÉRIA , DAGNELIE PIETER C. , SAVELBERG HANS H. C. M. , DE GALAN BASTIAAN E. , EUSSEN SIMONE J. P. M. , STEHOUWER COEN D. A. , STENHOLM SARI , KOSTER ANNEMARIE
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to identify physical activity patterns and examine their association with cardiometabolic biomarkers in a cross-sectional design.

Methods

Overall 6072 participants (mean age, 60.2 yr; SD 8.6 yr, 50% women) from The Maastricht Study provided daily physical activity data collected with thigh-worn activPAL3 accelerometers. The patterns of daily physical activity over weekdays and weekend days were identified by using Group Based Trajectory Modeling. Cardiometabolic biomarkers included body mass index, waist circumference, office blood pressure, glucose, HbA1c, and cholesterol levels. Associations between the physical activity patterns and cardiometabolic outcomes were examined using the analyses of covariance adjusted for sex, age, education, smoking, and diet. Because of statistically significant interaction, the analyses were stratified by type 2 diabetes status.

Results

Overall, seven physical activity patterns were identified: consistently inactive (21% of participants), consistently low active (41%), active on weekdays (15%), early birds (2%), consistently moderately active (7%), weekend warriors (8%), and consistently highly active (6%). The consistently inactive and low active patterns had higher body mass index, waist, and glucose levels compared with the consistently moderately and highly active patterns, and these associations were more pronounced for participants with type 2 diabetes. The more irregular patterns accumulated moderate daily total activity levels but had rather similar cardiometabolic profiles compared with the consistently active groups.

Conclusions

The cardiometabolic profile was most favorable in the consistently highly active group. All patterns accumulating moderate to high levels of daily total physical activity had similar health profile suggesting that the amount of daily physical activity rather than the pattern is more important for cardiometabolic health.
Breaking Up Prolonged Sitting to Improve Cardiometabolic Risk: Dose–Response Analysis of a Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: DURAN ANDREA T. , FRIEL CIARAN P. , SERAFINI MARIA A. , ENSARI IPEK , CHEUNG YING KUEN , DIAZ KEITH M.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Sedentary time is ubiquitous in developed nations and is associated with deleterious health outcomes. Physical activity guidelines recommend reductions in sedentary time; however, quantitative guidelines that inform how often and how long sedentary time should be interrupted have not been provided. The purpose of this study was to examine the acute effects of multiple doses of a sedentary break intervention on cardiometabolic risk factors, concurrently evaluating efficacy of varying frequencies and durations of sedentary breaks.

Methods

In a randomized crossover study, middle- and older-age adults (n = 11) completed the following 8-h conditions on five separate days: 1 uninterrupted sedentary (control) condition and four acute (experimental) trials that entailed different sedentary break frequency/duration combinations: every 30 min for 1 min, every 30 min for 5 min, every 60 min for 1 min, and every 60 min for 5 min. Sedentary breaks entailed light-intensity walking. Glucose and blood pressure (BP) were measured every 15 and 60 min, respectively.

Results

Compared with control, glucose incremental area under the curve was significantly attenuated only for the every 30 min for 5-min dose (−11.8[4.7]; P = 0.017). All sedentary break doses yielded significant net decreases in systolic BP from baseline compared with control (P < 0.05). The largest reductions in systolic BP were observed for the every 60 min for 1 min (−5.2 [1.4] mm Hg) and every 30 min for 5 min (−4.3[1.4] mm Hg) doses.

Conclusions

The present study provides important information concerning efficacious sedentary break doses. Higher-frequency and longer-duration breaks (every 30 min for 5 min) should be considered when targeting glycemic responses, whereas lower doses may be sufficient for BP lowering.
Martial Arts and Cognitive Control in Children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Children Born Very Preterm: A Combined Analysis of Two Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: LUDYGA SEBASTIAN , HANKE MANUEL , LEUENBERGER RAHEL , BRUGGISSER FABIENNE , PÜHSE UWE , GERBER MARKUS , LEMOLA SAKARI , CAPONE-MORI ANDREA , KEUTLER CLEMENS , BROTZMANN MARK , WEBER PETER
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Very preterm birth and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are associated with impairments in response inhibition that often persist beyond childhood. Athletes skilled in martial arts show a neurocognitive profile that is associated with an improved inhibition processing stream, suggesting that engagement in this kind of sport has the potential to reduce impairments in this cognitive function. We investigated the behavioral and neurocognitive effects of judo training on response inhibition in children born very preterm and children with ADHD by a combined analysis of two randomized controlled trials.

Methods

In both the CHIPMANC (n = 65) and JETPAC (n = 63) studies, participants were randomly allocated to a waitlist or a 12-wk judo training program in a 1:1 ratio. At pretest and posttest, participants completed a Go/NoGo task, the Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2 and a physical work capacity test on a bicycle ergometer. During the cognitive task, event-related potentials (N2, P3a, P3b) were recorded via electroencephalography.

Results

The effects of the judo training were moderated by the study group. In contrast to children with ADHD (JETPAC), judo training reduced the commission error rate on the Go/NoGo task and increased the P3a amplitude in children born very preterm (CHIPMANC). No treatment effects were found for N2, P3b and physical fitness outcomes.

Conclusions

The neurodevelopmental condition influences the cognitive benefits of judo training. Whereas judo may be ineffective in children with ADHD, children born very preterm can expect improved response inhibition due to a more effective engagement of focal attention to resolve the task-related response conflict.
Sex Differences in the Speed–Duration Relationship of Elite Runners across the Lifespan
Authors: FULTON TIMOTHY J. , SUNDBERG CHRISTOPHER W. , ARNEY BLAINE E. , HUNTER SANDRA K.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

To determine if the speed–duration relationship is altered with age and sex of elite Master’s runners.

Methods

The world’s top 10 performances for men and women in three events (800, 1500, and 5000 m) across six age groups (18–34 yr, 40–49 yr, 50–59 yr, 60–69 yr, 70–79 yr, and 80–89 yr) were analyzed from public data to establish theoretical models of the speed–duration relationship. Critical speed (CS) and the curvature constant (D′) were estimated by fitting the average speeds and performance times with a two-parameter hyperbolic model.

Results

Critical speed expressed relative to the 18- to 34-yr-olds, declined with age (92.2% [40–49] to 55.2% [80–89]; P < 0.001), and absolute CS was higher in men than women within each age group (P < 0.001). The percent difference in CS between the men and women progressively increased across age groups (10.8% [18–34] to 15.5% [80–89]). D′ was lower in women than men in the 60–69 yr, 70–79 yr, and 80–89 yr age groups (P < 0.001), but did not differ in the 18–34 yr, 40–49 yr, or 50–59 yr age groups.

Conclusions

Critical speed progressively decreased with age, likely due to age-related decrements in several physiological systems that cause reduced aerobic capacity. The mechanism for the larger sex difference in CS in the older age groups is unknown but may indicate physiological differences that occur with aging and/or historical sociological factors that have reduced participation opportunities of older female runners resulting in a more limited talent pool.
Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews on Bodyweight Management Strategies for Children and Adolescents
Authors: HO ROBIN SZE-TAK , CHUI KING YIN , HUANG WENDY YAJUN , WONG STEPHEN HEUNG-SANG
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Systematic reviews (SRs) synthesize empirical evidence from randomized controlled trials, to answer a research question. Methodological flaws in SRs can, however, reduce the trustworthiness of conclusions, subsequently hindering decision making. We aimed to appraise the methodological quality of existing SRs on bodyweight management strategies for children and adolescents.

Methods

We searched Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and SPORTDiscus. A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR 2) was used to evaluate the methodological quality of SRs including 16 individual AMSTAR 2 domains and the total AMSTAR score. Association between bibliographical characteristics and total AMSTAR score of SRs was explored using multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

Three critical domain-specific items of AMSTAR 2 among the included SRs showed unsatisfactory results including (i) justifying deviation from their SR protocols, (ii) using comprehensive literature search strategies, and (iii) giving details of both included and excluded studies. “More recent publication year journal,” “higher impact factor of the journal,” and “greater number of review authors” were associated with better methodological quality of the included SRs.

Conclusions

Future SRs’ authors in the field of bodyweight management strategies for children and adolescents should improve the following criteria: (i) justify deviations from SR protocol, (ii) explain selection of the included study designs, (iii) use comprehensive literature search strategy, (iv) give details for both included and excluded studies, (v) report funding sources among included studies, and (vi) assess the potential impact of risk of bias among the included studies on meta-analysis results.
The Dose–Response Effect of Docosahexaenoic Acid on the Omega-3 Index in American Football Athletes
Authors: LUST CODY A. C. , BURNS JESSIE L. , JONES MARGARET T. , SMITH STEPHEN B. , CHOI SEONG HO , KRK MICHELE , GABLE DAVID A. , OLIVER JONATHAN M. , MA DAVID W. L.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

American-style football (ASF) players are at increased risk for head injuries and cardiovascular disease. n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are cardioprotective, and emerging evidence suggests benefits for protection against head injuries. However, fundamental knowledge of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid dosing in athletes such as ASF players remains poorly understood. Therefore, this study investigated the dose–response effect of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation in red blood cells (RBC) and as the Omega-3 Index (O3I), in collegiate ASF players throughout a competitive season.

Methods

Sixty-nine ASF players were randomly assigned placebo (corn oil), or 2, 4, or 6 g·d−1 of DHA supplement. Blood samples were collected at eight time points (T1–T8) over 27 wk. RBC were extracted and analyzed by gas–liquid chromatography. Compliant players who had samples collected at all time points were analyzed. A repeated-measures ANOVA was conducted to assess the dose–response effect of DHA over time, and between-group differences at individual time points were assessed by one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey post hoc test.

Results

A significant dose and time interaction was found, and all supplement groups had significantly greater DHA in RBC compared with placebo from T2–T8 (P < 0.05). Athletes receiving 6 g·d−1 of DHA had the greatest O3I, relative to other groups, and the O3I reached steady state by 15 wk. The 6 g·d−1 group surpassed >8% on the O3I at approximately twice the rate of the 4 g·d−1 group (8 vs 15 wk).

Conclusions

Our findings provide important fundamental knowledge demonstrating a dose–response incorporation of DHA into RBC membranes up to 6 g·d−1. Furthermore, 6 g·d−1 of DHA can be used to rapidly achieve a desired O3I (>8%) in athletes in only 8 wk.
Detection and size quantification of pulmonary nodules in ultralow-dose versus regular-dose CT: a comparative study in COPD patients
Authors: Han Daiwei , Cai Jiali , Heus Anne , Heuvelmans Marjolein , Imkamp Kai , Dorrius Monique , Pelgrim Gert-Jan , de Jonge Gonda , Oudkerk Matthijs , van den Berge Maarten , Vliegenthart Rozemarijn
Published: February 2023

Objective:

To evaluate detectability and semi-automatic diameter and volume measurements of pulmonary nodules in ultralow-dose CT (ULDCT) vs regular-dose CT (RDCT).

Methods:

Fifty patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) underwent RDCT on 64-multidetector CT (120 kV, filtered back projection), and ULDCT on third-generation dual source CT (100 kV with tin filter, advanced modeled iterative reconstruction). One radiologist evaluated the presence of nodules on both scans in random order, with discrepancies judged by two independent radiologists and consensus reading. Sensitivity of nodule detection on RDCT and ULDCT was compared to reader consensus. Systematic error in semi-automatically derived diameter and volume, and 95% limits of agreement (LoA) were evaluated. Nodule classification was compared by κ statistics.

Results:

ULDCT resulted in 83.1% (95% CI: 81.0–85.2) dose reduction compared to RDCT (p < 0.001). 45 nodules were present, with diameter range 4.0–25.3 mm and volume range 16.0–4483.0 mm3. Detection sensitivity was non-significant (p = 0.503) between RDCT 88.8% (95% CI: 76.0–96.3) and ULDCT 95.5% (95% CI: 84.9–99.5). No systematic bias in diameter measurements (median difference: −0.2 mm) or volumetry (median difference: −6 mm3) was found for ULDCT compared to RDCT. The 95% LoA for diameter and volume measurements were ±3.0 mm and ±33.5%, respectively. κ value for nodule classification was 0.852 for diameter measurements and 0.930 for volumetry.

Conclusion:

ULDCT based on Sn100 kV enables comparable detectability of solid pulmonary nodules in COPD patients, at 83% reduced radiation dose compared to RDCT, without relevant difference in nodule measurement and size classification.

Advances in knowledge:

Pulmonary nodule detectability and measurements in ULDCT are comparable to RDCT.
Performance of home-based self-tonometry (iCare HOME (TA022)) for measuring intraocular pressure among healthy and glaucoma patients
Authors: Nayak Anush , Ramesh S Ve , Kuzhuppilly Neetha I R , Pai Vijaya H , Chaitanya Aditya
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to compare iCare HOME (TA022) with

Goldmann applanation tonometer and to evaluate the self-tonometry measurements among

the Indian population.

Methods: Eligible patients underwent iCare HOME training through guided demonstration

(verbal, pictorial, video) and practised self-tonometry measures using iCare HOME. Certification

for independent iCare HOME measure was provided if first iCare HOME intraocular

pressure (IOP) measurement fell within ± 5 mmHg of Goldmann applanation tonometer (GAT) 

measurement which was measured by the trained clinician (principal investigator). Certified

participants underwent simulated home self-tonometry measurements using iCare HOME, and

agreement with GAT IOP measurements was assessed.

Results: Seven of 83 participants (8.43%) failed to complete the study due to difficulty in

performing the task, leading to non-certification. Patients who could use the iCare HOME had a

 mean age of 53 ± 15.55years (53% males; 46% females). Only one in 12 subjects did not qualify

 to use iCare HOME. The overall mean difference between iCare HOME and GAT was 0.83

mmHg (95%, 3.92 and -2.25). At various pressure ranges, 7-16 mmHg, 17-23 mmHg and >23

 mmHg, the mean difference between iCare HOME and GAT was 1.22 mmHg (95%, 4.32 and

 -1.86), 0.77 mmHg (95%,3.69 and -2.19), -0.11 mmHg (95%, 2.52 and -2.74) respectively. The

intra-class correlation coefficient of the iCare HOME device was 0.997(95% CI,0.995-0.998).

Conclusions: Patients were able to perform self- tonometry using iCare HOME with good

 reliability and safety. iCare HOME can be used to address the issue of difficulty in acquiring

frequent and diurnal IOP measurements by patients doing self-tonometry from home.
Predicting infection with COVID-19 disease using logistic regression model in Karak City, Jordan
Authors: Khaleel Anas , Abu Dayyih Wael , AlTamimi Lina , Dalaeen Liana , Zakaraya Zainab , Ahmad Alhareth , Albadareen Baker , Elbakoush Abdalla
Published: February 2023

Background: On March 2020, World Health Organization (WHO) labeled coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a pandemic. COVID-19 has rapidly increased in Jordan which resulted in the announcement of the emergency state on March 19th, 2020. Despite the variety of research being reported, there is no agreement on the variables that predict COVID-19 infection. We have analyzed the data collected from Karak city citizens to predict the probability of infection with COVID-19 using binary logistic regression model.

Methods: Based on data collected by Google sheet of COVID-19 infected and non-infected persons in Karak city, analysis was applied to predict COVID-19 infection probability using a binary logistic regression model.

Results: The ultimate logistic regression model provides the formula of COVID-19 infection probability based on sex and age variables.

Conclusions: Given a person's age and sex, the final model presented in this study can be used to calculate the probability of infection with COVID-19 in Karak city. This could help aid health-care management and policymakers in properly planning and allocating health-care resources.
Monkeypox (mpox) in immunosuppressed patients
Authors: Ahmed Sirwan Khalid , Mohamed Mona Gamal , Dabou Eman Abdelaziz , Abuijlan Israa , Chandran Deepak , El-Shall Nahed A. , Chopra Hitesh , Dhama Kuldeep
Published: February 2023

The World Health Assembly declared that smallpox had been completely eradicated from the human population in 1980. Monkeypox, a zoonosis native to damp forested regions in West and Central Africa, is the illness that is most comparable to smallpox clinically and immunologically. Both illnesses could be prevented by the smallpox vaccine. Although the monkeypox virus is a less effective human disease than the smallpox virus, it could now spread among human populations if smallpox had not been eradicated and population-wide immunity had not been developed. A health warning on severe monkeypox in people who are immunocompromised due to Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other illnesses was released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on September 29, 2022. The advise does not specifically include primary immunodeficiency, but it does define other immunocompromising disorders as “having autoimmune disease with immunodeficiency as a clinical component”. The documented severe signs of monkeypox include widespread rashes with secondary fungal or bacterial skin infections or tissue death (necrosis), intestine obstruction, and difficulties with the heart, lungs, urinary system, and nervous system. Both those with healthy immune systems and those with weakened immune systems, such as those who are immunosuppressed, older people, children, etc., have encountered serious health issues, but the latter group is more likely to do so. According to the advisory, “of the people with severe monkeypox manifestations for whom CDC has been consulted, the majority have had HIV with CD4 counts 200 cells/ml, indicating substantial immunosuppression”. The current article goes into great detail about monkeypox disease occurring in immunocompromised patients and preventive guidelines.
The rise of gemination in Celtic
Authors: Stifter David
Published: February 2023

This study investigates systematically the emergence and establishment of geminate conson­ants as a phono­logical class in the Celtic branch of Indo-European. The approach of this study is comparative historical linguistics, drawing on diachronic structuralism combined with aspects of language contact studies and functional approaches to language usage. This study traces the development of geminates from Proto-Indo-European (fourth millennium b.c.), which did not allow geminate consonants, to the Common Celtic period (first millennium b.c.), when almost every consonant could occur as a singleton or as a geminate, and on to the earliest attested stages of the Insular Celtic languages (1stmillennium a.d.). Although they were prominent in the phonology of Proto- and Ancient Celtic (Gaulish, Celtiberian), ultimately geminates were gotten rid of as a phonological class in the individual Insular Celtic languages. This is probably due to the fact that the contrast between lenited and unlenited sounds took on a central role in Insular Celtic phonology, making gemination a redundant category.

Most instances of geminate consonants in Celtic can be explained by regular sound change operating on inherited clusters of consonants. Each sound change will be discussed in a separate section in a rough chronological order. Effectively, gemination is largely a strategy to reduce the number of allowed consonant combinations. To a limited degree, gemination also had a morphological function, especially in the formation of personal names and in the creation of adjectival neologisms. However, there is a residue of words, especially nouns, in the Insular Celtic languages that defy any attempt at etymologising. They are prime suspects of having been borrowed from prehistoric, substratal languages.
Development of agroecology in Austria and Germany
Authors: Brumer Anna , Wezel Alexander , Dauber Jens , Breland Tor Arvid , Grard Baptiste
Published: February 2023

Background: Transforming food systems is necessary to address the global issues of severe biodiversity loss, hunger, and malnutrition as well as the consequences of the rapidly advancing climate change. Agroecology as a systemic approach has been recognised as a promising path of change exemplified in various case studies strengthening this transformation. The aim of this study is to get insight specifically for Austria and Germany in providing an overview of the advancement in agroecology in both countries and identify agroecology-related initiatives.

Methods: 21 interviews with experts were conducted to determine the recognition, understanding, and development of agroecology in Austria and Germany in terms of movement, practice, policies, education, and research. In addition, information about agroecology-related initiatives was collected from interviews with 24 representatives of initiatives and literature analysis. Data was analysed according to five activity categories under which agroecology manifest: movement, practice, living lab, science and research infrastructure, and training and education.

Results: Results show that the term agroecology is not commonly used in Austria and Germany, where the concept is mainly associated to a scientific discipline. Practices considered agroecological are implemented primarily through organic agriculture, which is very developed in Austria and to a lesser extent in Germany. Many networks, food policy councils, associations, and scientific projects related to agroecology exist, each with specific purposes and ambitions to change farming and food systems. While most selected initiatives do not explicitly refer to agroecology, all follow certain agroecological principles and aim at contributing to accelerate the agroecological transition.

Conclusions: Clarifying the concept of agroecology, overcoming economic and political barriers as well as fostering participation of a multitude of stakeholders in the transition is essential for the future development of agroecology in Austria and Germany.
Deterrence, resilience, and engagement: Tokyo’s response to the Ukraine war and Russia-China alignment
Authors: Nagy Stephen R. , Nguyen Hanh
Published: February 2023

Russia’s unprovoked attack against Ukraine entails significant implications to Japan’s security and its surrounding environment. How is Japan responding to Russia’s use of force? What are the drivers of its responses? This case study examines official speeches by Japanese leaders and government senior officials, government announcements, opinion polls, and analyses by Japan experts to understand Tokyo’s perceptions and responses to Moscow’s military attack against Kiev.

Seen from Tokyo, the invasion of Ukraine is not only an attack against the rules-based international order but also a manifestation of Japan’s security concerns regarding China’s growing military capabilities and closer Russia-China alignment, especially the potential use of military force to change the Indo-Pacific region’s power balance. This article also finds that Tokyo’s response to Russia-China alignment and the Ukraine invasion continues to be wedded to an approach is characterized by a mixture of engagement, resilience, and deterrence, aiming at both Russia and the growing Russia-China alignment.