bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Squamous cell carcinoma of the paranasal sinuses in two horses
Authors: Kowalczyk L. , Boehler A. , Brunthaler R. , Rathmanner M. , Rijkenhuizen A. B. M.
Published: January 2011

This case report describes the history, clinical findings, diagnostic imaging (including computed tomography), gross pathology and histopathology of 2 cases of squamous cell carcinoma in the paranasal sinuses. Radiography of the skull is a useful tool to detect a mass in the paranasal sinuses, but the position, extent and character of the lesion can be better visualised with computed tomography.
Material Selection Methodology Used in Czech NPP
Authors: Matocha Karel
Published: January 2011

This paper describes the structure of the Standard Technical Documentation of the Association of Mechanical Engineers of Czech Republic, Sec. II, “Material Properties for Equipments and Pipings of Water moderated, Water Cooled Energy Reactor (WWER) Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs).” It provides instructions for selection and qualification of parent materials used for manufacture, repair, reconstruction, or replacement of selected equipments of WWER NPP, and specifies requirements for mechanical characteristics and physical properties.
Experimental Study of Three-Dimensional Identification of Semi-Elliptical Crack on the Back Surface by Means of Direct-Current Electrical Potential Difference Method of Multiple-Point Measurement Type
Authors: Tada Naoya , Uchida Makoto , Funakoshi Akira , Ishikawa Hiroki
Published: January 2011

A method for identification of a semi-elliptical crack on the back surface of metal plate by means of direct-current electrical potential difference method (DC-PDM) of multiple-point measurement type was proposed by the authors previously. Geometry of the crack was given by the two-dimensional location of the crack center, the surface and inward angles of the crack, and the length and depth of the crack. In this paper, experiments on the crack identification were carried out using six metal plates with different geometries of semi-elliptical cracks made on the back surface by electric discharge machining. Geometrical parameters of the crack were evaluated by the proposed method. The result of identification was successful and it was clarified that the semi-elliptical crack on the back surface can be identified nondestructively by dc-PDM of multiple-point measurement type.
Fracture of Wrinkled Pipes Subjected to Monotonic Deformation: An Experimental Investigation
Authors: Ahmed Arman U. , Aydin Mehmet , Cheng J. J. Roger , Zhou Joe
Published: January 2011

Buried pipelines, used by petrochemical industries in North America for transporting oil and derivatives, are often subjected to large deformations resulting from geo-environmental factors and operating conditions, such as geotechnical movements, thermal strains, and internal fluid pressure. Exceeding the critical deformation limit of these pipes initiates wrinkles, and further increase may result in fracture, thus jeopardizing the safe operation of a field pipeline. A recent field fracture and failed laboratory specimens under monotonic load history address the necessity of conducting a full-scale test program to better understand the complete post-wrinkling behavior and failure modes of wrinkled pipes under similar loading conditions. Six tests with two sizes of pipe (NPS16 and NPS20), which are typical of those used in the field for transmission of hydrocarbons, were tested under monotonic axial and bending deformation. Test results in general had shown that both NPS16 (pipe material grade X60) and NPS20 (pipe material grade X65) steel pipelines generally exhibited a ductile behavior after wrinkling. Eventually, these pipe specimens failed due to excessive cross-sectional deformation. Several incidents of rupture or fracture in the pipe wall were observed at the sharp fold of the wrinkle on the compression side of the deformed pipe.
Local Buckling of Tight Fit Liner Pipe
Authors: Focke Eelke S. , Gresnigt Arnold M. , Hilberink Annemiek
Published: January 2011

A promising possibility to reduce costs in pipelines that require corrosion resistant alloys (CRAs) is the use of lined pipe, consisting of a carbon steel outer pipe and a CRA liner pipe. Research has been carried out into the local buckling behavior of the thin walled liner pipe. Important parameters are the wall thickness and material properties of the liner pipe, the contact force between the liner pipe and the outer wall, the coefficient of friction between the two walls, and the imperfections. Local buckling of the liner pipe due to combinations of bending and normal force is one of the failure modes to be considered in offshore installation of line pipe. The results of axial compression tests are presented: on liner pipe only (I), on liner pipe while positioned in the outer pipe (II), and on the joined liner and outer pipe (III). Thanks to the support of the outer pipe, local buckling of the liner pipe occurs at much higher stresses and strains than without that support. The measured buckling strains of the tests on liner pipe only (I) are in reasonable agreement with local buckling equations. Finite element calculation results are presented and compared with test results. The influence of the determining parameters for the different load cases is discussed.
Animal Migration and Infectious Disease Risk
Authors: Altizer Sonia , Bartel Rebecca , Han Barbara A.
Published: January 2011

Animal migrations are often spectacular, and migratory species harbor zoonotic pathogens of importance to humans. Animal migrations are expected to enhance the global spread of pathogens and facilitate cross-species transmission. This does happen, but new research has also shown that migration allows hosts to escape from infected habitats, reduces disease levels when infected animals do not migrate successfully, and may lead to the evolution of less-virulent pathogens. Migratory demands can also reduce immune function, with consequences for host susceptibility and mortality. Studies of pathogen dynamics in migratory species and how these will respond to global change are urgently needed to predict future disease risks for wildlife and humans alike.
The Neural Basis of Intuitive Best Next-Move Generation in Board Game Experts
Authors: Wan Xiaohong , Nakatani Hironori , Ueno Kenichi , Asamizuya Takeshi , Cheng Kang , Tanaka Keiji
Published: January 2011

Compared with amateurs, expert shogi players show specific brain activation patterns.
Research Practice and Participant Preferences: The Growing Gulf
Authors: Trinidad S. B. , Fullerton S. M. , Ludman E. J. , Jarvik G. P. , Larson E. B. , Burke W.
Published: January 2011

Reframing research practice to align with participant interests is important for ensuring long-term success of genomic investigation.
Changes in Climatic Water Balance Drive Downhill Shifts in Plant Species’ Optimum Elevations
Authors: Crimmins Shawn M. , Dobrowski Solomon Z. , Greenberg Jonathan A. , Abatzoglou John T. , Mynsberge Alison R.
Published: January 2011

Many mountain plant species in California shifted downhill, tracking regional changes in water balance.
Raptor Nest Decorations Are a Reliable Threat Against Conspecifics
Authors: Sergio F. , Blas J. , Blanco G. , Tanferna A. , López L. , Lemus J. A. , Hiraldo F.
Published: January 2011

Black kite nest decorations are honest signals of individual and territory quality.
A Means for Ought from Is?
The Moral Landscape
How Science Can Determine Human Values

by Sam Harris

Free Press (Simon and Schuster), New York, 2010. 303 pp. $26.99, C$29.99. ISBN 9781439171219.
Authors: Goldman Michael A.
Published: January 2011

Rejecting claims that science and religion are nonoverlapping magisteria, Harris argues for values based on reason rather than faith.
Tuberculosis in North Korea
Authors: Perry Sharon , Linton Heidi , Schoolnik Gary
Published: January 2011

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are high. How South Korea, the United States, and other countries, including China, engage North Korea remains a sensitive issue, as policies tying aid to denuclearization are debated. This month, the United States, South Korea, Japan, and China have been discussing the situation, including a meeting between Chinese President Hu Jintao and U.S. President Obama in Washington. These conversations, focused on conventional security concerns, would benefit from the articulation of mutual humanitarian goals.
Food Safety Law Will Likely Strain FDA Science
Authors: Stokstad Erik
Published: January 2011

A major food safety bill signed into law this month gives the U.S. Food and Drug Administration new powers and aims to shift the focus from response to prevention of food-borne illness.
Killer Whales Earn Their Name
Authors: Morell Virginia
Published: January 2011

Biologists are recognizing the dramatic impact that some killer whales have on everything from endangered whales to penguins.
Getting to the Guts of Tadpole Carnivory
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: January 2011

A developmental biologist reported at the meeting that inhibiting a single developmental signal—retinoic acid—can yield a carnivorelike gut morphology in a tadpole species that's normally mostly vegetarian.
Human Papillomavirus 16 (HPV 16) and HPV 18 Antibody Responses Measured by Pseudovirus Neutralization and Competitive Luminex Assays in a Two- versus Three-Dose HPV Vaccine Trial
Authors: Krajden Mel , Cook Darrel , Yu Amanda , Chow Ron , Mei Wendy , McNeil Shelly , Money Deborah , Dionne Marc , Karunakaran Karuna P. , Palefsky Joel M. , Dobson Simon , Ogilvie Gina , Petric Martin
Published: January 2011

Human papillomavirus 16 (HPV 16) and HPV 18 antibody responses in a 2- versus 3-dose HPV vaccine (Gardasil) trial were measured by a pseudovirus neutralizing antibody (PsV NAb) assay and by the Merck competitive Luminex immunoassay (cLIA). Eight hundred twenty-four female subjects assigned to three dosing regimens (group 1, 9 to 13 years old; 2 doses, months 0 and 6 [
n
= 259]; group 2, 9 to 13 years old; 3 doses, months 0, 2, and 6 [
n
= 260]; group 3, 16 to 26 years old; 3 doses, months 0, 2, and 6 [
n
= 305]) had postvaccine responses assessed 1 month after the last dose. Of 791 subjects with baseline and 7-month sera, 15 (1.9%) and 9 (1.1%) were baseline seropositive for HPV 16 and HPV 18, respectively. All baseline-seronegative vaccinees seroconverted to both HPV 16 and HPV 18. Mean anti-HPV 16 levels were similar for groups 1 and 2 (for PsV NAb,
P
= 0.675; for cLIA,
P
= 0.874), and levels for both groups 1 and 2 were approximately 2-fold higher than that for group 3 (for PsV NAb and cLIA,
P
< 0.001). Mean anti-HPV 18 levels were approximately 1.4-fold lower in group 1 than in group 2 (for PsV, NAb
P
= 0.013; for cLIA,
P
= 0.001), and levels for both groups 1 and 2 were approximately 2.0- to 2.5-fold higher than that for group 3 (for PsV NAb and cLIA,
P
< 0.001). Pearson correlation coefficients for the assays were 0.672 for HPV 16 and 0.905 for HPV 18. Most of the discordant results were observed at lower cLIA signals. These results suggest that the PsV NAb assay could be a suitable alternative to cLIA for the measurement of postvaccine antibody responses.
Serum Antibody Kinetics following Nasal or Parenteral Challenge with Meningococcal Polysaccharide in Healthy Adults
Authors: Findlow H. , Borrow R. , Hardelid P. , Newton E. , Frankland S. , Naylor S. , Miller E. , Kaczmarski E. , Read R. C.
Published: January 2011

Limited data are available on the kinetics of meningococcal serogroup C (MenC)-specific antibody responses following parenteral or nasal challenge in those who have received prior MenC vaccination (polysaccharide or conjugate). Young adults who had previously received either meningococcal A/C polysaccharide (MACP) or MenC conjugate (MCC) vaccine or naïve subjects were challenged with MACP via one of two routes, nasal or parenteral. Blood samples were taken prevaccination and on days 1 to 4 and day 10 postvaccination. MenC serum bactericidal antibody (SBA) and MenC-specific IgG were measured. Following parenteral challenge, MenC SBA and IgG responses were seen to occur between 4 and 7 days postchallenge. A lower proportion of subjects responded following nasal challenge, with naïve subjects showing little change in SBA geometric mean titer (GMT) and IgG geometric mean concentration (GMC) over the 10 days following challenge. Increases in SBA GMTs were seen between 4 and 7 days after nasal challenge in those who had received prior MCC and between 7 and 10 days in those who had received prior MACP, and the responses in the prior-MACP group were of lower magnitude than the responses of the prior-MCC group. The data presented here indicate that, following MCC vaccination, memory has been induced at the mucosal level, and these subjects were able to respond with increases in SBA levels. These results demonstrate that the speed of response (primary or secondary) to challenge with MenC polysaccharide via the nasal or parenteral route does not differ and support concerns that immunological memory alone is too slow to provide protection.
Nucleic Acid Amplification of the
opa
Gene for Detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae: Experience from a Diagnostic Laboratory
Authors: Maze M. J. , Young Sheryl , Creighton Julie , Anderson Trevor , Werno Anja
Published: January 2011

We report results of
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) with the Abbott
m
2000 PCR at a tertiary laboratory 6 months after its introduction. Of 5,475 specimens tested, 45 samples (0.82%) tested positive for
N. gonorrhoeae
. Eight were not cultured, but seven tested positive with a
porA
pseudogene NAAT.
Molecular Phylogenetic Analysis of Enterobius vermicularis and Development of an 18S Ribosomal DNA-Targeted Diagnostic PCR
Authors: Zelck Ulrike E. , Bialek Ralf , Weiß Michael
Published: January 2011

We genetically characterized pinworms obtained from 37 children from different regions of Germany and established new species-specific molecular diagnostic tools. No ribosomal DNA diversity was found; the phylogenetic position of
Enterobius vermicularis
within the Oxyurida order and its close relationship to the Ascaridida and Spirurida orders was confirmed.
Human Cytomegalovirus UL97 Kinase and Nonkinase Functions Mediate Viral Cytoplasmic Secondary Envelopment
Authors: Goldberg Miri D. , Honigman Alik , Weinstein Jacob , Chou Sunwen , Taraboulos Albert , Rouvinski Alexander , Shinder Vera , Wolf Dana G.
Published: January 2011

Previous studies have revealed critical roles for the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) UL97 kinase in viral nuclear maturation events. We have shown recently that UL97 affects the morphology of the viral cytoplasmic assembly compartment (AC) (M. Azzeh, A. Honigman, A. Taraboulos, A. Rouvinski, and D. G. Wolf, Virology
354:
69-79, 2006). Here, we employed a comprehensive ultrastructural analysis to dissect the impact of UL97 on cytoplasmic steps of HCMV assembly. Using UL97 deletion (ΔUL97) and kinase-null (K355M) mutants, as well as the UL97 kinase inhibitor NGIC-I, we demonstrated that the loss of UL97 kinase activity resulted in a unique combination of cytoplasmic features: (i) the formation of pp65-rich aberrant cytoplasmic tegument aggregates, (ii) distorted intracytoplasmic membranes, which replaced the normal architecture of the AC, and (iv) a paucity of cytoplasmic tegumented capsids and dense bodies (DBs). We further showed that these abnormal assembly intermediates did not result from impaired nuclear capsid maturation and egress
per se
by using 2-bromo-5,6-dichloro-1-(β-
d
-ribofuranosyl) benzimidizole (BDCRB) to induce the artificial inhibition of nuclear maturation and the nucleocytoplasmic translocation of capsids. The specific abrogation of UL97 kinase activity under low-multiplicity-of-infection conditions resulted in the improved release of extracellular virus compared to that of ΔUL97, despite similar rates of viral DNA accumulation and similar effects on nuclear capsid maturation and egress. The only ultrastructural correlate of the growth difference was a higher number of cytoplasmic DBs, tegumented capsids, and clustered viral particles observed upon the specific abrogation of UL97 kinase activity compared to that of ΔUL97. These combined findings reveal a novel role for UL97 in HCMV cytoplasmic secondary envelopment steps, with a further distinction of kinase-mediated function in the formation of the virus-induced AC and a nonkinase function enhancing the efficacy of viral tegumentation and release.
ALIX/AIP1 Is Required for NP Incorporation into Mopeia Virus Z-Induced Virus-Like Particles
Authors: Shtanko Olena , Watanabe Shinji , Jasenosky Luke D. , Watanabe Tokiko , Kawaoka Yoshihiro
Published: January 2011

During virus particle assembly, the arenavirus nucleoprotein (NP) associates with the viral genome to form nucleocapsids, which ultimately become incorporated into new virions at the cell membrane. Virion release is facilitated by the viral matrix Z protein through its interaction with the cellular endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) machinery. However, the mechanism of nucleocapsid incorporation into virions is not well understood. Here, we demonstrate that ALIX/AIP1, an ESCRT-associated host protein, is required for the incorporation of the NP of Mopeia virus, a close relative of Lassa virus, into Z-induced virus-like particles (VLPs). Furthermore, we show that the Bro1 domain of ALIX/AIP1 interacts with the NP and Z proteins simultaneously, facilitating their interaction, and we identify residues 342 to 399 of NP as being necessary for its interaction with ALIX/AIP1. Our observations suggest a potential role for ALIX/AIP1 in linking Mopeia virus NP to Z and the budding apparatus, thereby promoting NP incorporation into virions.
Processing and Localization of the African Swine Fever Virus CD2v Transmembrane Protein
Authors: Goatley Lynnette C. , Dixon Linda K.
Published: January 2011

The African swine fever virus (ASFV)-encoded CD2v transmembrane protein is required for the hemadsorption of red blood cells around infected cells and is also required for the inhibition of bystander lymphocyte proliferation in response to mitogens. We studied the expression of CD2v by expressing the gene with a V5 tag downstream from the signal peptide near the N terminus and a hemagglutinin (HA) tag at the C terminus. In ASFV-infected cells, a full-length glycosylated form of the CD2v protein, which migrated mainly as a 89-kDa product, was detected, as well as an N-terminal glycosylated fragment of 63 kDa and a C-terminal nonglycosylated fragment of 26 kDa. All of these forms of the protein were localized in the membrane fraction of cells. The 26-kDa C-terminal fragment was also produced in infected cells treated with brefeldin A. These data indicate that the CD2v protein is cleaved within the luminal domain and that this occurs in the endoplasmic reticulum or Golgi compartments. Confocal microscopy showed that most of the expressed CD2v protein was localized within cells rather than at the cell surface. Comparison of the localization of full-length CD2v with that of a deletion mutant lacking all of the cytoplasmic tail apart from the 12 membrane-proximal amino acids indicated that signals within the cytoplasmic tail are responsible for the predominant localization of the full-length and C-terminal 26-kDa fragment within membranes around the virus factories, which contain markers for the Golgi compartment. Processing of the CD2v protein was not observed in uninfected cells, indicating that it is induced by ASFV infection.
Antigen-Specific T-Cell Responses to a Recombinant Fowlpox Virus Are Dependent on MyD88 and Interleukin-18 and Independent of Toll-Like Receptor 7 (TLR7)- and TLR9-Mediated Innate Immune Recognition
Authors: Lousberg Erin L. , Diener Kerrilyn R. , Fraser Cara K. , Phipps Simon , Foster Paul S. , Chen Weisan , Uematsu Satoshi , Akira Shizuo , Robertson Sarah A. , Brown Michael P. , Hayball John D.
Published: January 2011

Fowlpox virus (FWPV) is a double-stranded DNA virus long used as a live-attenuated vaccine against poultry diseases, but more recent interest has focused on its use as a mammalian vaccine vector. Here, in a mouse model system using FWPV encoding the nominal target antigen chicken ovalbumin (OVA) (FWPVOVA), we describe for the first time some of the fundamental processes by which FWPV engages both the innate and adaptive immune systems. We show that Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) and TLR9 are important for type I interferon secretion by dendritic cells, while TLR9 is solely required for proinflammatory cytokine secretion. Despite this functional role for TLR7 and TLR9in vitro, only the adapter protein myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88) was shown to be essential for the formation of adaptive immunity to FWPVOVAin vivo. The dependence on MyD88 was confined only to the T-cell compartment and was not related to its contribution to TLR signaling, dendritic cell maturation, or the capture and presentation of FWPV-derived OVA antigen. We demonstrate that this is not by means of mediating T-cell-dependent interleukin-1 (IL-1) signaling, but rather, we suggest that MyD88 functions to support T-cell-specific IL-18 receptor signaling, which in turn is essential for the formation of adaptive immunity to FWPV-encoded OVA.
Src Kinase Mediates Productive Endocytic Sorting of Reovirus during Cell Entry
Authors: Mainou Bernardo A. , Dermody Terence S.
Published: January 2011

Reovirus cell entry is initiated by viral attachment to cell surface glycans and junctional adhesion molecule A. Following receptor engagement, reovirus is internalized into cells by receptor-mediated endocytosis using a process dependent on β1 integrin. Endocytosed virions undergo stepwise disassembly catalyzed by cathepsin proteases, followed by endosomal membrane penetration and delivery of transcriptionally active core particles into the cytoplasm. Cellular factors that mediate reovirus endocytosis are poorly defined. We found that both genistein, a broad-spectrum tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and PP2, a specific Src-family kinase inhibitor, diminish reovirus infectivity by blocking a cell entry step. Although neither inhibitor impedes internalization of reovirus virions, both inhibitors target virions to lysosomes. Reovirus colocalizes with Src during cell entry, and reovirus infection induces phosphorylation of Src at the activation residue, tyrosine 416. Diminished Src expression by RNA interference reduces reovirus infectivity, suggesting that Src is required for efficient reovirus entry. Collectively, these data provide evidence that Src kinase is an important mediator of signaling events that regulate the appropriate sorting of reovirus particles in the endocytic pathway for disassembly and cell entry.
Cellular Gene Expression That Correlates with EBER Expression in Epstein-Barr Virus-Infected Lymphoblastoid Cell Lines
Authors: Gregorovic Goran , Bosshard Rachel , Karstegl Claudio Elgueta , White Robert E. , Pattle Samuel , Chiang Alan K. S. , Dittrich-Breiholz Oliver , Kracht Michael , Russ Rainer , Farrell Paul J.
Published: January 2011

Novel Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) strains with deletion of either EBER1 or EBER2 and corresponding revertant viruses were constructed and used to infect B lymphocytes to make lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs). The LCLs were used in microarray expression profiling to identify genes whose expression correlates with the presence of EBER1 or EBER2. Functions of regulated genes identified in the microarray analysis include membrane signaling, regulation of apoptosis, and the interferon/antiviral response. Although most emphasis has previously been given to EBER1 because it is more abundant than EBER2, the differences in cell gene expression were greater with EBER2 deletion. In this system, deletion of EBER1 or EBER2 had little effect on the EBV transformation frequency of primary B cells or the growth of the resulting LCLs. Using the recombinant viruses and novel EBER expression vectors, the nuclear redistribution of rpL22 protein by EBER1 in 293 cells was confirmed, but in LCLs almost all of the cells had a predominantly cytoplasmic expression of this ribosomal protein, which was not detectably changed by EBER1. The changes in LCL gene expression identified here will provide a basis for identifying the mechanisms of action of EBER RNAs.
M062 Is a Host Range Factor Essential for Myxoma Virus Pathogenesis and Functions as an Antagonist of Host SAMD9 in Human Cells
Authors: Liu Jia , Wennier Sonia , Zhang Leiliang , McFadden Grant
Published: January 2011

Myxoma virus (MYXV) M062R is a functional homolog of the C7L family of host range genes from orthopoxviruses. We constructed a targeted M062R-knockout-MYXV (vMyxM062-KO) and characterized its properties
in vitro
and
in vivo
. In European rabbits, infection by vMyxM062-KO was completely asymptomatic. The surviving rabbits did not gain full protection against the subsequent lethal-dose challenge with wild-type MYXV. We also looked for cellular tropism defects in a variety of cultured cells. In all of the rabbit cells tested, vMyxM062-KO conducts an abortive infection, although it initiates viral DNA replication. In many, but not all, human cancer cells that are permissive for wild-type MYXV, vMyxM062-KO exhibited a profound replication defect. We categorized human cells tested into two groups: (i) type A, which support productive replication for wild-type MYXV but are unable to produce significant levels of progeny virus by vMyxM062-KO, and (ii) type B, which are permissive to infections by both wild-type MYXV and vMyxM062-KO. Furthermore, using proteomic strategies, we identified sterile α motif domain containing 9 (SAMD9), an interferon-regulated cellular protein implicated in human inflammatory disorders, as a unique host binding partner of M062 in human cells. Significantly, knocking down SAMD9 in type A human cancer cells led to a substantial rescue of vMyxM062-KO infection. In summary, M062 is a novel host range factor that controls productive MYXV replication in rabbit cells and in a wide variety of human cells. M062 also binds and antagonizes cellular SAMD9 in human cells, suggesting that SAMD9 is a novel innate antiviral factor against poxviruses.
Why be active?: a qualitative study on the attitudes and beliefs concerning exercise of 11–14 year old school children in slough
Authors: Dosanjh A , Hemmings S , Morrissey D
Published: January 2011

Rationale

Obesity is a growing problem in the UK. The problem of obesity is also affecting children and with that come significant health, social and economic concerns. Lack of physical activity in children is evident. Physical activity is also beneficial for tackling obesity as well as other positive health and lifestyle outcomes.

Aims

We aim to investigate what children understand by the term exercise and what facilitates and prevents them from being active or taking part in sport and exercise.

Subjects and methodology

Qualitiative study using focus groups in 11–14 year old school children in Slough to identify their attitudes and beliefs towards exercise. Children were selected from a local slough grammar school.

Results

Several themes were identified which were facilatitive or perceived as barriers towards exercise. It was interesting to further discover differences in the barriers between the female and male groups and participants from ethnic minorities.

Conclusion

By understanding the beliefs and attitudes towards exercise of 11–14 year old children in Slough we may be able to develop and improve behavioural interventions to encourage exercise in this group. Further study into the barriers and facilitators of adolescent girls and ethnic minority children may be important to develop participation of the groups in physical activity.
Structural changes in the achilles tendon in response to a marathon: ultrasonographically detectable changes immediately and at 2 weeks postmarathon
Authors: Tardioli A
Published: January 2011

Background

The Achilles tendon undergoes prolonged, repetitive, submaximal loading during endurance running. The acute effects of endurance running on the Achilles tendon are unclear.

Hypothesis

Structural abnormalities and Doppler flow are common in highly trained endurance runners. A marathon may lead to acute structural changes in the Achilles, including change in diameter and increased Doppler flow.

Study design

Prospective cohort study

Methods

41 Achilles tendons in 21 marathon runners were examined with grey-scale and colour Doppler ultrasound (US) before and immediately after the London Marathon, 2010. Six females and 15 males, mean age 40 years (±13) were included. 17 tendons were re-examined at 16 days (±1.6) postmarathon. Anteroposterior (AP) diameter (mm), grey-scale pathology (present, absent) and Doppler flow (present, absent) were measured.

Results

Mean race time was 03:45 h (±33 min). US examination revealed 14 of 41 tendons (34%) had abnormalities before the marathon.

After the marathon, mean tendon diameter decreased significantly in both normal and abnormal tendons (53 mm–47 mm, p=0.005). Tendon diameter returned to premarathon thickness after 16 days (±1.6 days). Doppler flow was present in seven of 41 tendons (17%) before the race. This did not significantly increase in direct response to the marathon (p=0.41). There was an association between abnormal tendons and faster marathon times (p=0.005).

Conclusions

About 1/3 of the runners had structural abnormalities at baseline which did not increase immediately after the marathon. AP tendon diameter significantly decreased in normal and abnormal tendons immediately after the race. Tendon thickness appears to return to baseline at 2 weeks postmarathon.
Evaluation of an interprofessional multimedia musculoskeletal examination teaching resource: a qualitative study
Authors: Griffin C , Chung C , Tzortziou-Brown V , Morrissey D
Published: January 2011

Background

Interprofessional education (IPE) has been used more frequently in the last thirty years to encourage collaborative teamwork within healthcare.

Objectives

The aims of this study were primarily to assess the impact of multimedia instruction on musculoskeletal clinical examination (MCE) skill acquisition. Secondly, to evaluate students' perceptions of the value of IPE and multi disciplinary team (MDT) work.

Method

A survey was administered to a purposively sampled group of postgraduate students, comprising medical practitioners and physiotherapists (n=26). The sample was diverse in age, speciality, and MDT and IPE experience. The intervention was four sports injury assessment DVDs made by expert clinicians modelling high level interprofessional team working, made specifically for use in the study. Postintervention semi-structured interviews, conducted with a sample from the survey group (n=10) until data saturation occurred, were audio-recorded and analysed by thematic content analysis.

Results

An 85% survey response rate was obtained. 46% of the group described their competence in MCE as ‘developing skills’ and 50% described having ‘some experience’. Attitudes towards IPE and MDT work were highly positive; overriding beliefs were that they benefited practice by affording a range of learning opportunities. Interview analysis revealed five main themes: a real time approach with expert instruction; multiple perspectives; and diversity within the cohort; changing behaviour by improving MCE technique and enhancing interactive skills. Overriding beliefs were that observing and learning from different experts' skilful examination under real time conditions was perceived as largely beneficial across the whole group.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence that interprofessional learning among postgraduate students can result in skill development – such as advanced assessments skills. Furthermore, the DVDs improved students' appreciation of IPE, healthcare teamwork, and awareness of other disciplines. The use of DVD learning tools to teach and assist with the delivery of MCE and IPE warrants further investigation.
Arterial stiffness before and after moderate intensity exercise in athletes and controls: a cross-sectional observational study
Authors: Dulai R , Ahmed M , Morrissey D , Twycross-Lewis R , Greenwald S
Published: January 2011

Background

Arterial stiffness is an independent predictor for cardiovascular disease and mortality. There has been no previous research comparing the acute effects of exercise on arterial stiffness in resistance and endurance athletes. This information would help to reveal how arterial function responds to exercise training.

Objectives

To measure and compare arterial stiffness and hemodynamic variables in resistance athletes, endurance athletes and controls, before and after moderate intensity exercise.

Methods

Central and peripheral pulse wave velocity (PWV) was measured using Doppler ultrasound and calculated by the ‘foot to foot’ method before and after exercise. PWV was initially measured at rest for a 1 min period. Thereafter subjects cycled for 30 min at moderate intensity (60% of maximum heart rate, based on age). PWV was measured at postexercise intervals of 3, 15 and 30 min. Blood pressure and heart rate measurement preceded all PWV measurements.

Results

Controls were significantly younger than both athletic groups (p<0.05). Groups did not significantly differ in resting PWV. There was no change in central/peripheral PWV after exercise in the resistance and control groups. Central PWV significantly increased post exercise in endurance athletes (mean (sd) resting PWV: 8.0 (2.0) m/s; 3 min postexercise: 10.5 (4.0) m/s; p=0.027, 95% CIs: 0.30 to 4.42) and recovered to resting values by 15 min. Systolic blood pressure increased significantly (p<0.05) in the endurance group from 136 (16) g at rest to 151 (13) 3 min after exercise.

Conclusions

PWV in the endurance group significantly increased after exercise, possibly due to the concomitant rise in blood pressure. However, PWV did not change in response to exercise in the resistance or control groups. Lack of significant differences between the groups may be explained by problems with ultrasound measurement and a small sample size in the resistance group.
The effect of eccentric and concentric loading speed on the normal achilles tendon: an in vivo biomechanical study
Authors: Sweeney E , Chaudhury S , Screen H , Woledge R , Bader D , Maffulli N , Morrissey D
Published: January 2011

Background

Tendinopathy is a common and disabling condition that can end an athlete's career. Eccentric loading has proven to be an effective treatment measure for tendinopathy. However, current evidence is unclear regarding the optimum speed for eccentric loading.

Objectives

To compare the effects of two different speeds of eccentric and concentric loading on Achilles tendon force and muscle activation in healthy volunteers.

Methods

Nine healthy volunteers (4 male, 5 female, age range 19–24) performed eccentric and concentric heel raises/drops at two speeds, in a random order. Motion analysis, force plate and electromyography (EMG) data were collected in order to measure Achilles tendon force and muscle activation.

Results

The effect of speed on Achilles tendon force was not significant (p=0.74) but the effect of contraction type was significant (p<0.05). There was a significant difference between eccentric and concentric loading on EMG output for gastrocnemius medialis, lateralis and soleus (p<0.001 for all) but there was no significant effect of speed (p=0.05, 0.32, 0.06 respectively). For tibialis anterior and fibularis longus there was a significant effect of speed on EMG (p<0.001 for both) but not of contraction type (p=0.10, 0.30 respectively).

Conclusion

There is no effect of speed on Achilles tendon force and the effect of speed on EMG activity is only significant for tibialis anterior and fibularis longus, therefore mechanical challenges to the tendon that are speed dependent are not likely to be due to force magnitude. The differential effects on muscle training may be significant. Further studies in patients are warranted.
A prospective cohort study of vertical pressure on hands of sitting volleyball players using tekscan pressure mat
Authors: Zhang JM , Bader D , Twycross-Lewis R , Padhiar N
Published: January 2011

Introduction

Current sports medicine knowledge of sitting volleyball injuries in the UK is poor. This prospective pilot study looks at vertical pressures exerted on the hands of sitting volleyball players in controlled movements and compares them to a prospective survey of blister incidences.

Method

The pilot study was conducted in Mile End Hospital, London. Using Tekscan F-mat 3150, the researcher recorded peak vertical pressure on volunteer sitting volleyball players. 12 months prospective survey collected demographic data and blister incidences on player volunteers.

Results

Data from pressure readings generated a geographical model of typical peak pressures on the hand. The data from the prospective survey generated a geographical map of blister hotspots. The locations of peak vertical pressure correlated with blister hotspots on the hands. Pressure readings from the small volunteer group showed highest peak pressure reading over the proximal aspect of the palm-hypothenar eminence. Real time trajectory of the centre of force was between pisiform and scaphoid of the thenar hypothenar eminences in large portion of the real time trajectory path before transferring to the 2nd and 3rd fingers via the metacarpalphalangeal joints. The lack of recruitment numbers for the pressure readings reduced the accuracy of the data such that the results were more descriptive in nature.

Conclusion

Indication from this pilot study suggests that sitting volleyball hand movements can be assessed using gait analysis techniques with a pressure sensitive mat. Further research is recommended.
The effect of loading speed on the force frequency spectrum during eccentric & concentric calf exercise
Authors: Chaudhry S , Screen H R C , Woledge R C , Bader D , Morrissey D
Published: January 2011

Introduction

Heavy load eccentric training (ET) has been shown to be more effective than concentric training (CT) in treating Achilles tendinopathy.1 2 It is unclear at what speed ET should be performed to treat the condition with greatest efficacy. Recent studies have indicated that high frequency tendon force fluctuations may underpin therapeutic mechanotransduction, but the effect of training speed on resulting tendon vibration remains unexplored. The aim of this study was to compare tendon vibration during ET and CT at three speeds commonly employed during conservative treatment.

Methods

24 healthy volunteers (12 male and 12 female, age=27.8±1.9 years) performed ET and CT exercises for the Achilles tendon either at a fast (loading phase=1.5 s), medium (loading phase=3 s) or slow pace (loading phase=6 s). Tendon vibration was measured by analysing the power spectra of the ground reaction force vector using a fast Fourier transform with 1Hz windows, and compared using ANOVA.

Results

High frequency vibrations (8–13 Hz range) were greatest during fast and medium speed ET, with a mean of 15.8 N2/Hz (sd=8.8). This was significantly greater than all other combinations of conditions and speeds (p value range across these frequencies=0.03–0.001). No significant differences between any combinations of speed and loading condition were found in the 1–7 Hz low frequency range (p value range=0.11–0.98).

Conclusion

The observed high frequency Achilles tendon force fluctuations during fast and medium speed ET were mostly in the higher frequency range, reflecting where physiological tremor particularly occurs. This may reflect inefficient recruitment of large motor units at high speeds, creating oscillation frequencies that are known to stimulate mechanotransduction in tenocytes. These findings were made in normal subjects and pave the way for exploration in patients with tendinopathic disease.
A modelling approach to aid the understanding of high volume image guided injection in recalcitrant achilles tendinopathy
Authors: Twycross-Lewis Richard , Lu Yiling , Malliaras Peter , Mueller Jens-Dominik , Maffulli Nicola
Published: January 2011

Background

High volume image guided injections (HVIGI) have recently been shown to significantly reduce pain and improve function in patients with resistant Achilles tendinopathy. However, the mechanism by which HVIGI treatment works has yet to be identified.

Methods

Subjects will be recruited from the London Independent Hospital for either open surgery for Achilles tendinopathy or for intervention by HVIGI. Tissue from the Kager's fad pad will be removed during open surgery for Achilles tendinopathy and paratendinopathy. Mechanical loading of the Kager's sample will be performed using an MTS Biomex 100 at varying applied loads in order to plot the Young's Modulus. Concurrent to this, patients undergoing HVIGI treatment will be recruited to undergo imaging by MRI scan during high volume injection to measure fluid distribution during and immediately after injection. Geometries of the tendon and Kager's fat pad will be reconstructed from images using Mimics software, which constitutes the computational domain of numerical modelling. Poroelastic theory will be adopted to model both Achilles tendon and Kager's fat pad with their distinctive parameters. Mechanical responses of the whole system will be compared before and after the injection. The fluid pressurisation and resultant stress/strain distribution are crucial to understanding the working mechanisms for HVIGI.

Results

Parametric studies of the injection treatment will be conducted numerically by adjusting different loading speeds and loading time intervals between injections and volumes. This is for the first time Kager's fat tissue has been mechanically characterised. In combination with poroelastic modeling, we will be able to obtain the detailed strain and stress information and injected fluid movement, which are important to understand the mechanism underlying the high volume image guided injection.

Discussion

It is expected that results from this study will elucidate the unknown mechanism by which HVIGI works, particularly the effect on neovasculature associated with Achilles tendinopathy
Collagen v expression in skin, tendons and capsules of athletic population after shoulder dislocation and acl injuries
Authors: Akhtar M A , Ingman T G , Robinson C M , Keating J F , Muir A Y , Simpson H , Salter D
Published: January 2011

Introduction

Cruciate ligament ruptures and shoulder dislocations are often caused by trauma, but predisposing intrinsic factors might also influence the risk. Collagen type V is widely distributed in tissues and helps regulate the diameters of fibrils of the abundant collagen type I. Mutations in its genes have been identified which can result in connective tissue fragility, particularly in skin and joints.

The aim of this study was to localise collagen V in skin, hamstring tendons and shoulder capsules of patients following sports injuries.

Patients and methods

Localisation of collagen V was studied by immunohistochemical staining of paraffin embedded sections of skin, tendons and capsules of patients attending for shoulder stabilisation for recurrent instability or primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction between November 2008 and July 2009.

Results

40 patients were studied, 25 undergoing primary ACL reconstruction and 15 undergoing shoulder stabilisation. The mean age of patients was 26 years. 34 patients (85%) were male and 6 female (15%). Most common sport played was football in 13 patients (32%) followed by rugby in 10 (25%) and skiing in 5 (12%).

Skin epidermis stained negative but dermal papilla, papillary and reticular dermis, blood vessels, sweat glands, sebaceous glands and arrector pilli stained positive to varying degrees for collagen V. Synovial surface of the capsule, blood vessels and extracellular matrix stained positive to varying degrees. Tendon sheath, collagen fibres, blood vessels and interfascicular connective tissue stained positive to varying degrees, but skeletal muscle was negative for collagen V.

Discussion

We looked at the expression and distribution of collagen V in skin, tendons and capsules of patients undergoing shoulder stabilisation or ACL reconstruction following sports injuries. There may be a link in the distribution of collagen V and strength of tissues, which can predispose individuals to injuries while playing sports and can also affect healing process. Further studies are needed to study this link.
Profound diathermy uhf in sport traumatological pathology
Authors: Jordi Suros Romagos , Joaquim Suros Frigola , Iris Parrilla Forcada
Published: January 2011

Introduction

Profound diathermy ultra high frequency (UHF), are electromagnetically waves which create a profound therapeutic thermal increase, at a muscle, tendon, or intra joint level depending pathology or therapeutically demand.

Those are non-ion sated waves that through the therapeutic profoundness achieve to enter till 8–10 cm acting on the focal point of the lesion/injury. The deepness and these results can not be reached with any microwave or short wave.The working of the therapeutically frequency is 433.9 mHz with the potential of 150 w. Applicable in every acute inflammatory joint and chronicle dystrophy, fibrosis post surgical, tendinosis, condropathy, bursitis, hematomas, joint dislocation. With very high results from the first application through the profound thermal vasodilatation application in the tissue, creating a wide tissue oxygenation and stimulation of the segregation of collagen.

This type of technology al by herself is very resolute and doesn’t have any side effects.

You can take the benefit of the application of other therapies to potency the therapeutically effect.

The application of the profound diathermy UHF, accelerates the recovery process, reduces the time of pain and reduces the rest time (of not paying sport), accelerating the reincorporation of the sport activity. Decrease the risk of consequences.

The application of the therapy is 10 min it is possible to do it twice a day to accelerate the efficiency therapeutically, but then it would be enough to do it twice a week.

The healing of the pathological described above last between 10 and 20 sessions.
The role of active knee rom for posterior thigh muscle injuries prevention
Authors: Siozos A , Malliaropoulos N , Tsiftsogloy D , Xristodoulou D
Published: January 2011

Athletes' physiological characteristics are fundamental both in terms of performance and injuries prevention. One of those is flexibility. Using an easy and cheap method, goniometry, estimating active knee range of motion (ROM) through the whole training and competing season, we can possibly lower the incidence of posterior thigh muscle injuries.

Purpose

The aim of our study was to assess the effects of repeated, on a regular basis, active knee ROM measurements in order to prevent posterior thigh muscles injuries (POTMI).

Methods

During 2006–2008 we followed up 100 Greek athletes (elite and non-elite) whose active knee ROM was measured in both sides. We estimated the active knee ROM related to their sport (runners-jumpers/sprinters-throwers), their performance (elite and non-elite ones) and their posterior thigh muscle injury rate.

Results

Jumpers/sprinters were found to have a statistically significant higher active knee ROM (>71°) in comparison with the runners (69.3°) and throwers (69.4°) group.

Elite athletes' active knee ROM was higher than non-elite ones' and the difference reached statistical difference. Finally elite athletes were found to have fewer and less severe injuries than the non-elite ones.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that

Jumpers/sprinters have generally higher active knee ROM than other track and field athletes.

Elite athletes were found to have higher active knee ROM than non-elite ones. That seems to protect them from injuries of the hamstring muscles.

Active knee ROM measurement can be an easy and practical method of follow-up and a useful tool for injury prevention.