bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of carbohydrate and caffeine co-ingestion on a reliable simulated soccer-specific protocol
Authors: Ranchordas M K , Pattison P
Published: November 2011

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of co-ingesting carbohydrate and caffeine (CHO+CAF) in comparison to carbohydrate (CHO) and placebo (PLA), during a reliable soccer-specific test (Currellet al, 2009). 8 university-standard soccer players ingested a PLA, a 6.4% CHO or 6.4% CHO and 160 mg CAF (CHO+CAF) solution on three occasions, in a double-blind randomised cross-over design, with each trial separated by 7 days. The protocol was 90 min in duration, made up of ten 6 min exercise blocks, each followed by soccer-specific skills tests (agility, dribbling, heading and kicking accuracy). Dependant variables (Agility, dribbling, heading, kicking accuracy, glucose, lactate, HR and RPE) were analysed using one-way repeated measures ANOVA. Significant difference (p< 0.05) was found between CHO+CAF, CHO and PLA for each of the soccer-specific skill tests. Significant improvement (p= 0.02) was observed in agility time in CHO versus PLA trials, although no significant difference (p> 0.05) was reported for dribbling, heading and kicking accuracy. Blood glucose and lactate were elevated (p< 0.05) with CHO+CAF supplementation over PLA, but there was no difference (p> 0.05) compared to CHO. Blood glucose increased (p= 0.01) in the CHO trial compared to PLA, with no difference (p> 0.05) between CHO+CAF and CHO. No significant difference (p> 0.05) was reported for HR and RPE values across all trial conditions. Skill performance during simulated soccer activity improved with CHO+CAF supplementation in comparison to both CHO and PLA. CHO+CAF co-ingestion had no ergogenic benefit over CHO in the maintenance and availability of blood glucose however, CHO+CAF co-ingestion did allow players to sustain a higher work intensity as opposed to CHO and PLA beverages as shown by elevated blood lactate levels.
Salivary steroid hormone response in trained men to running and circuit training sessions
Authors: Tanner A , Nielsen B , Tetteh J , Allgrove J
Published: November 2011

Cortisol (C) and testosterone (T) are important biomarkers of acute and chronic stress (Urhausenet al.Sports Med1995;20:251–76). However, it is unclear how different forms of training affect the response of these hormones. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of various training sessions on salivary C and T in competitive male runners. Four trials were completed: (a) 30 min tempo run at lactate threshold (TEMP); (b) 30 min running alternating 3.5 min at 90% and 2 min at 30% VO2max (INT); (c) 30 min circuit training with 3×10 exercises of 30 s with 30 s recovery between exercises (CIR) and d) 30 min rest (REST). Saliva samples were collected pre exercise and at 0, 15, 30 and 60 min post exercise and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and heart rate (HR) were recorded. All samples were analysed with ELISA and salivary C was also measured with mass spectrometry. Preliminary data shows mean HR was: 161 ± 7, 159 ± 14, 130 ± 12 and 63 ± 1 beats per min for TEMP, INT, CIR and REST respectively with INT and TEMP higher than REST. RPE was: 15 ± 1, 16 ±2 and 13 ±1 for TEMP, INT and CIR respectively, INT was higher than CIR and TEMP. There was a difference in salivary C between the trials (p=0.038) and between time points (p=0.019). Area under curve (AUC) analysis indicated salivary C was higher than REST in INT (P=0.043) and TEMP (0.043) with INT showing the highest response (p=0.046). Salivary T showed an overall effect of time (p=0.024) with post exercise T higher than pre exercise (p=0.020). INT also showed a higher T response than REST (p=0.003) and TEMP tended to be higher (p=0.054). Salivary Peak HR correlated with peak salivary T for INT (r=0.961). This study implies an INT session increased salivary C and T more than TEMP and CIR despite no differences in mean HR, also peak HR may be linked to salivary T production which could be a useful to assess training stress.
Analysing sport organisations with youth soccer teams
Authors: Santos A J , Gonçalves C E
Published: November 2011

The aim of this study was to identify the soccer clubs model of organisation, their culture, goals and answers to the demands of the surrounding environment. Three Portuguese soccer clubs were analysed, in different contexts, one professional club (PC) – from the soccer national league – and two amateurs (AC) of regional level (one of rural area RAC, other of urban area UAC). The criteria to select the clubs were: a) belong to the same district, b) experience in collaboration with research studies. A documental analysis of the clubs was performed. Semi-structured interviews, with presidents in AC and with the manager of youth specialisation department in PC were made with audio record. The interviews were transcribed to text and then a content analysis was used. The PC is more formalised, specialised, complex and orientated to performance operating concepts. It has more specialised personal, with specific formation in the area of sport or education, and promotes coaches continuity in the club. The volunteers in PC that work with young athletes receive some compensation (eg, monetary, merchandising, tickets). The RAC and UAC have simple organisational structures, with a more familiar environment, informal relations and direct and lateral communication inside the organisation. The UAC have more sports services and protocols with the city council than RAC. The findings about organisational structure, human resources and goals agree with previous studies. Sport managers need to consider that organisational structure influences team performance and athletic achievement. Since the AC show less complexity and higher volunteer involvement in all hierarchy chains, it is expected they have an important role to provide informal education, promote active citizenship, and sense of community and confidence, as well as a greater pleasure. Both the PC and AC have volunteer involvement of the athletes' parents, which can create and influence the culture and policies of the organisation.
Relationship between physical fitness, physical activity and body mass index of adolescents
Authors: Cruz C , Sequeira S , Gomes H , Pinto D , Marques A
Published: November 2011

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between physical fitness (PF), physical activity (PA), and body mass index (BMI) among adolescents who attended secondary school. A total of 131 healthy students (49 boys, 82 girls) age 14 to 18 years (M=16±1) participated in the study. PA was assessed by a questionnaire based on the practice of organised and non-organised PA on a regular basis. PF level was determined by the Pacer test and allowed to label the individuals as ‘not fit' or ‘fit' according to the Fitnessgram. The individuals were also profiled according to their fat levels as ‘not fat' or ‘fat' also based on the Fitnessgram. Qui-square and t-test were performed to analyse the relationship between PF, PA, and BMI. Boys and girls were analysed separately. 66% of the boys and 38% of the girls were considered fit based on PF test. Still the majority of students did not meet the recommended 1 h/day of MVPA. The average time spent doing PA was 2.9±2.2 h/day for the boys and 1.8±1.5 h/day for the girls. The difference in PA participation levels was significant between boys and girls (p=0.005). Almost all students were considered fit based on BMI (84% boys, 79% girls) and no differences were found between genders (p=0.531). Although the most active boys and girls performed better on PF test, a relationship between PF and PA was not found (boysp=0.069, girlsp=0.079). For both genders, students with lower BMI had better results on the PF test, however only for the boys the results were significant (p=0.009). Additionally, there was no relationship between the practice of PA and BMI for boys (p=0.883) and girls (p=149). There are no relationships between PF, PA and BMI. The only exception was observed for the boys; those with lower BMI had better results on the PF test.
Temporal interaction patterns in the offensive process in the Spanish League 2010/2011 season
Authors: Barbosa A , Martins N , Leitão J , Sarmento H , Campaniço J
Published: November 2011

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the existence of behaviour patterns that repeat seven times Offensive Process in Spanish league 2010/2011 Season. To collect data, we used the instrument validated by Sarmentoet al(2010). This instrument consists of a specific notational system to study the offensive process and its variables, based on previous procedures and an exploratory phase of the study, in which we observed video images of several offensive sequences in nine games of Spanish league. To verify the occurrence of patterns, we used THEME 5.0 software, a professional system for detecting and analysing hidden patterns in behaviour by performing intensive structural analysis of behavioural data. It detects complex repeated patterns that otherwise remain hidden. For the detection of the patterns, we only considered the ones repeating seven times. We detected six t-patterns, referring to the whole process from recovering possession of the ball until completing the offensive process (OP) successfully. When analysing the patterns, we found that the area of recovery of possession is the defensive midfield. In all detected patterns the second action happens in another zone of field always in a lateral corridor. After the ball gets to the offensive midfield, there is a rapid and long change of the playing area and then the team tries to quickly end the O.P. This type of studies that focus in quality perspective allows us recognise sequences of game play resulting from the actions that occur during the different phases of the match, and understand them and verify as patterns. The results suggest that collecting a larger volume of data allowed us to detect more temporal patterns and more frequently repeated. The analyses in natural context, the game, allows us to obtain information how to organise the training process so that the team understand ways to enhance the team potential and oppose adversary actions of success.
Health-related fitness in physical education – 45 versus 90 minutes classes
Authors: Marques Adilson , Ferro Nuno , Diniz José , Carreiro da Costa Francisco
Published: November 2011

The aim of the study was to quantify and assess the quality of the Physical Education (PE) lesson time spent by students in MVPA during 45 and 90 min classes. Data were collected through heart rate (HR) monitoring and SOFIT. The HR of 4 students from 6 teachers was assessed during 6 lessons (3 of 45 min and 3 of 90 min). PA levels of those students, as well as the lesson contexts in which they occurred, and teacher behaviours, were also observed and coded throughout each lesson, using SOFIT. A cluster analysis was made in reference to the students, establishing an individual comparison of different classes. Afterwards, an analysis was made in relation to the teachers. The average HR was 134±19 bpm for 45 and 131±9 bpm for 90 min classes. Teachers dedicated 60% and 57% of class time in MVPA, respectively to 45 and to 90 min lessons. In 45 min class lessons, 17% of the time was dedicated to promoting fitness and 32% to games. These percentages are superior to those of the 90 min class – 15% and 28%, respectively. As for PA intensity, despite the fact that there were no significant differences between the 45 and 90 min class, during 45 min there is a tendency for student HR to exceed 140 bpm for a longer time period. The results of the cluster analysis showed that games are the activities that characterise classes with moderate to vigorous intensity. A HR between 140 and 60 bpm is correlated with the time dedicated to fitness (r=0.64). No differences were found between the 45 and 90 min class periods, suggesting that from a pedagogical viewpoint, both options are adequate. Through SOFIT it was possible to verify that the activities with vigorous intensity happen in the periods in which the teacher had that intention, namely in the periods of fitness exercises and games. Thus, as for all teaching activities, the intensity of classes requires planning by PE teachers.
Emotional intelligence: associations with emotions, emotion regulation and rowing performance
Authors: Uphill M A , Mills H
Published: November 2011

Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to monitor one's own and others' emotions, to discriminate among them and to use this information to guide thinking and action. Research suggests that EI can influence emotions and sport performance (Laneet al, 2010). This study extended research by examining the influence of EI on emotions, emotion regulation strategies, and performance. After competing in the British Indoor Rowing Championship, rowers (n = 104: male = 67, female n = 33, 4 undisclosed), aged between 16 and 77 (M = 39 years; SD = 15) were asked to complete a measure of EI (Laneet al, 2009), the intensity and time at which a range of emotions occurred and whether they wanted to increase, maintain, or decrease experienced emotions. Results suggested that there was no association between EI and rowing performance. EI was associated with greater excitement (r =0.22, p =0.04), happiness (r =0.26, p =0.01) and pride (r =0.24, p =0.02). Although there was no association between EI and emotionspostrace, there was an association between EI and positive emotionspriorto racing (r =0.20, p =0.05). To examine whether those high in EI (top 25% of scores) regulated (ie, increased, maintained, or decreased) positive and negative emotions differently from those low in EI (bottom 25% of scores) a 3-way loglinear analysis was conducted. This produced a final model that retained an emotion type by regulation interaction. The likelihood ratio of this model was (χ2(6) = 10.90, p =0.09. The emotion type x regulation interaction was significant, χ2(2) = 22.95, p =0.001. Rowers were 17% more likely to increase positively, compared to negatively toned emotions; 20% more likely to maintain positively compared to negatively toned emotions; and 48% more likely to decrease negatively compared to positively toned emotions. EI may be associated with positively toned emotions precompetition, but this may not necessarily translate to enhanced performance in discrete events.
Student perceptions of the effectiveness of triads to learning in undergraduate sports therapy curriculum: an exploratory study
Authors: Mooney A , Breeze N
Published: November 2011

Triads, a type of Peer Assisted Learning used in clinical education settings are documented in medical and health professions research, (Burkeet al.MT2007;29:577–82, Henninget al.JAT2006,41:102–8). Considering the rise in sports medicine curricula in the UK this pedagogical strategy is largely uninvestigated. This exploratory study aims firstly to implement a new pedagogy and secondly to evaluate student learning potential using triads within an undergraduate curriculum from a UK perspective. 21 Year 2 BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy students at University of Worcester, England completed a questionnaire survey answered in retrospect of classes in Sports Massage and Exercise Therapy in academic year 09–10. A mixed-methods research design employed a survey which focused on understanding the dynamics present within this single setting (Eisenhardt, 2002, 5–35). A Cronbach coefficient of reliability score of 0.93 demonstrated consistency of student responses. Highest mode values of 5 reveal that triad members learned effectively in the student-therapist role by working in a more focused environment and anticipating feedback; in the student-client role, by experiencing techniques and sample viva voce questions asked; in the student-examiner role by using the mark-sheet and gaining understanding of skills assessed and marks awarded in final exams. These findings are akin to positive qualitative comments towards group work and transparency of assessment procedures. Lowest mode values of 3 highlight how students did not learn effectively by answering questions on the spot and delivering a program without rehearsal. These results are reminiscent of comments on feeling nervous, unprepared and under peer pressure. Student responses suggest merits in the implementation of triads. Continuing research engaging more institutions in UK and global contexts could facilitate questionnaire validation, comparative studies and potential internationalisation of curricula.
The effect of a series of strength training sessions on 2000 m rowing ergometer performance and muscle function
Authors: Gee T I , French D N , Howatson G , Gibbon KC , Caplan N , Moloney S B , Corkery A , Toms C J , Thompson K G
Published: November 2011

Research has previously shown that rowers commonly perform strength training three times per week. However, no research has assessed the impact that this weekly frequency of strength training may have on muscle function. Twenty-two highly trained male rowers were evenly assigned to two groups; intervention and control. All rowers performed baseline measures of a maximal isometric contraction of the leg extensors (MVC), five separate, static squat jumps (SSJ), counter-movement jumps (CMJ), and maximal rowing ergometer power strokes (PS) and a single 2000 m rowing ergometer test (2000 m). Intervention participants subsequently performed a protocol of three identical strength training (ST) sessions, in the space of 5 days with a day's break in-between the first to second and second to third sessions. The intervention group repeated the 2000 m test at 24 h following the final ST, in addition MVC, SSJ, CMJ and PS tests were performed. Muscle soreness (MS) and serum creatine kinase (CK) were assessed during both testing sessions for each group. Following the ST protocol, the intervention group experienced significant elevations in MS and CK (P < 0.001) coupled with decrements in MVC, SSJ, CMJ and PS, which ranged between 6-8% (P < 0.001). Values for these parameters were unchanged between both trials for the control group. Performance of the 2000 m test was not significantly affected by ST. No changes in 2000 m performance occurred from test to re-test in the control group. In summary, a series of strength training sessions resulted in symptoms of muscle damage and decrements in maximal power, but 2000 m ergometer performance was unaffected following strength training.
EMG mapping of the quadriceps in patellofemoral pain syndrome during functional activities: a pilot study
Authors: Balachandar V , Twycross-Lewis R , Morrissey D , Barton C J , Woledge R C
Published: November 2011

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) arises from patellofemoral articulation, caused in part by inefficient quadriceps muscle activity. Many studies have used surface electromyography (sEMG) to investigate quadriceps activity, with conflicting results. This study is novel in the use of 64-channel surface EMG combined with motion capture. The aim was to create three-dimensional (3-D) EMG maps based on quadriceps muscle amplitude, muscle onset, and lower-limb kinematics in participants with and without patellofemoral pain (PFP) during functional activity using a 2×2 factorial design. Two participants with PFP and three asymptomatic controls were recruited. 64-channel EMG onset and amplitude from the vastus lateralis (VL), rectus femoris (RF), and vastus medialis oblique (VMO) muscles, and motion-analysis data were collected simultaneously during functional activity. Correlation coefficients (CCs) were calculated for within subject and between subject groups. CCs identified significant patterns of activity within subject groups (P<0.01), and more varied patterns in the PFP group. Visual analysis identified that vastii muscle activity was higher in PFP participants than controls for a given movement. Evidence suggests that patterns of activity are more variable in PFP participants. Variability in quadriceps muscle activity may result in erratic patella-kinematics, lateral directed tension, and an increased load on the lateral patella facet resulting in PFP. There is currently a paucity of research investigating patterns of quadriceps muscle activity in PFPS, which needs to be addressed considering its role in the theoretic rational for PFPS. There is substantial scope for further research, and findings may lead to an application towards screening, rehabilitation, and diagnosis. EMG patterns of activity within subject groups are consistent during functional movement. Patterns of activity are more variable, and VMO contraction appears less efficient in PFP participants than in asymptomatic controls
Incidence and management of shoulder injuries in premier league professional football players
Authors: Pritchard C , Mills S , Funk L , Batty P
Published: November 2011

Shoulder injuries in football are less common than lower limb injuries, but are often more serious than many other injuries and result in a longer time off play. No study has looked at the types of injuries and their interventions in professional footballers thus far. The aim was to review the serious shoulder injuries sustained in professional football over a period of four competitive seasons. Anonymous data was collected on all shoulder injuries claimed for from all English Premiership Football teams over four seasons. This data only applied to injuries that were claimed on health insurance from professional football clubs in the United Kingdom. It excluded minor injuries that did not require investigations or interventional treatment. There were 40 466 injury claims of which 3.3% were shoulder injuries (1335). This was equivalent to an average of 445 serious shoulder injuries per year. The percentage of shoulder injuries (injuries per year / total shoulder injuries) increased from 35% in the 2006–2007 season to 89% in the 2009–2010 season. There was also a steady increase in the number of MRI scans and injections, but not with MR arthrograms. There was an increase in the number of surgical interventions during the same time period. The vast majority of surgical procedures were arthroscopic stabilisations (26%) and labral repairs (23%). Stabilisations increased from 15% in 07–08 to 39% in 09–10 whereas the percentage of labral repairs has remained unchanged throughout. The incidences of significant shoulder injuries and surgery have increased in professional football. The majority of the surgery has been labral and stabilisation surgery. Further investigation is required to examine the causes for these trends and possible injury reduction.
Severe back pain – risk factors
Authors: Akhtar M A , Clark A , Atiya S , Chirputkar K , Ayana G , Smith S
Published: November 2011

Back pain is a common problem in all age groups. Different risk factors have been identified including high BMI, Smoking, alcohol, and psychological history. The aim of our study was to identify if there was a difference in the incidence of these risk factors in different age groups. We collected data prospectively for 26 consecutive patients admitted between January and March 2011 with severe back pain who needed an MRI scan to rule out Cauda equina syndrome or nerve root compression in a district general hospital. Demographic details were recorded along with their occupation, BMI, Smoking status, alcohol intake and psychological history. Group A (Younger Group) had 13 patients with a mean age of 38 y (range 29–44). 7 (54%) were female and 6 (46%) male. 6 (46%) were employed, 4 (30%) unemployed and 2 (15%) housewives. The mean BMI was 29 (range 24–40). 7 patients (54%) were smokers and alcohol users and 6 (46%) were non-smoker and non-alcohol users. 5 patients (38%) had associated psychological history. Group B (Older group) had 13 patients with a mean age of 59 years (range 45–79). 11 (85%) were female and 2 (15%) male. 5 (38%) were employed, 2 (15%) retired and 3 (23%) house-wives. The mean BMI was 21 (range-14–32). 6 patients (46%) were smoker and 7 (54%) enjoyed alcohol. Only 2 patients (15%) had associated psychological history. Younger patients with severe back pain were overweight (mean BMI-29) and had higher incidence of psychological history (38%) as compared to older patients (15%). There was no difference in the occupation status, smoking and alcohol consumption in both groups. Younger patients with severe back pain should be routinely assessed for associated psychological history and appropriate advice on weight management should be given.
Military sports medicine clinics should continue to organise MRI prior to listing for “fast track” meniscectomy
Authors: Howes J , Wood A M , Bell D J , Wrigley S , Angus C
Published: November 2011

Patients referred from military sports injury clinics for “Fast Track” meniscectomy are not necessarily seen prior to the day of surgery by an orthopaedic surgeon. To prevent unnecessary surgery an MRI confirms meniscal tear. We investigated whether suspected meniscal pathology requires MRI scan prior to referral, for meniscectomy or if history and examination can diagnose meniscal pathology. 47 patients attending the regional sports injury clinic with knee pain requiring an MRI scan were prospectively recorded with original diagnosis, signs, history and MRI results. Of the 47 patients 21 (45%) had meniscal tears detected on MRI. Of the 26 without a meniscal injury 8 (30%) had degenerative knees, 6 (23%) had no abnormality detected. Of the 21 patients with meniscal tears, clinical diagnosis had a specificity of 1 and sensitivity of 54% with a significant p-value of 6×10−5. Trauma was 90% sensitive and 64% specific with a significant p-value of 3×10−4. McMurray's sign was 90% sensitive and 31% specific, with a clinically insignificant p-value of 0.08. Joint line tenderness was 85% sensitive and 31% specific with an insignificant p-value of 0.92. Reduced squat was 86% sensitive and 27% specific. Using a combination of all four tests increases specificity to 85% but decreases the sensitivity to 67%, with a 3×10−4significant p-value. Only 2/12 patients whose overall clinical diagnosis was wrong for meniscal tears had an MRI diagnosis which would require arthroscopy. Our results demonstrate that patients referred from a military sports injury clinic still require MRI prior to surgery. While we accurately diagnosed all the meniscal tears in clinic, our specificity of 54% would have resulted in 10 (21%) patients undergoing needless arthroscopy.
The practice of physical activity of the Portuguese adults and fulfilment of physical activity recommendations
Authors: Carvalho João Pedro , André Joana , Raia Luís , Martins João , Marques Adilson , Carreiro da Costa Francisco
Published: November 2011

The aim of the study was to analyse (by sex and age) the practice of physical activity (PA) in Portuguese adults according to the recommendation for PA. The sample consisted of 2657 adults (1130 male, 1527 female) age 20 to 60 y (43±7 y). PA was assessed by a questionnaire about leisure time activities and PA participation. The number of PA sessions per week and their intensity were taken into account to determine the meeting of the recommendations (moderate-intensity aerobic PA for a minimum of 30 min. 5 days/week, or vigorous PA for a minimum of 20 min 3 days/week). The data were analysed separating age, by brackets of 10 years, and sex. Statistical analyses were performed using qui-square and t-test. For the entire sample, only 32% (men 32%, women 31%) met the guidelines of PA. While the percentage of male that met the recommendation was higher among youngsters (43%), among women the oldest were the most active (33%). In general, there was no significant differences between sexes and the meeting of the recommendations (p=0.636). Within adults, both male and female, age-groups were not different (p=0.860,p=0.932). Analysing each age-group, the percentage of males that meet the recommendation was higher than female at age of 20–30 (43% vs 30%) and 41–50 (33 vs 315). On the other hand, the opposite was observed at age of 31–40 (30% vs 32%) and 51–60 (32% vs 33%). Although the percentage of men and women that meet the recommendation were different in all age-groups, it was observed that the meeting of the PA guidelines were independent of the sex – 20–30 (p=0.181), 31–40 (p=0.513), 41–50 (p=0.398) and 51–60 (p=0.912). Most of the participants did not practise enough PA to meet the recommendations. Both sexes have similar results in each age-group, demonstrating that both sex and age have no relationship with the meeting of PA guidelines.
Prevalence of barriers for physical activity in adults according to gender and socioeconomic status
Authors: Sequeira Sebastião , Cruz Cristina , Pinto Diogo , Santos Luís , Marques Adilson
Published: November 2011

The aim of this study was to analyse the prevalence of barriers to physical activity (PA) among adults according to the gender and socioeconomic status (SES). A total of 2236 subjects (927 men, 1309 women) aged between 30 and 50 y (M = 42±5 y) participated in the study. The data was collected through a questionnaire. Qui-square tests were performed to analyse the differences between genders and SES on perceived barriers. Significance level was p <0.05. Only 31% (32% male, 31% female) achieved the current PA recommendation. The most cited barriers were lack of time (55%), costs (20%), the desire to do other things (15%), the failure to consider themselves as athletes (15%) and lack of infrastructures near where they live. All other reasons were mentioned by less than 10% of the individuals tested. Among the most cited barriers, women reported costs more than men (12% male vs 25% female, p<0.001). On the other hand, men reported more often the lack of infrastructures in the neighbourhood (14% male, 9% female, p<0.001). In all of the most cited barriers there were significant differences between subjects with low and high SES. The barriers most associated with prevalence of inactivity among those with low SES were the failure to consider themselves as athletes (p<0.001), the costs (p<0.001), no time to practise (p=0.002) and the lack of infrastructures (p=0.002). The subjects with higher SES cited more often the desire to do other things. Women reported more often the barriers for PA in general, with big prevalence in the costs. Man, who practices informal PA more easily, reported more often the lack of infrastructures in the neighbourhood. Perceived barrier for PA were more prevalent in subjects with low SES. However, lack of time was a barrier most cited by men and women with high or low SES.
An investigation of the support required for development of high performance swimmers
Authors: Algar L A , MacNamara A
Published: November 2011

It is important that the support structures offered to young athletes provide the skills, structures and environmental factors that act as key determinants and mechanisms of development. Baker and Horton (2004) suggest that there are both primary (ie, genetics, training, and psychological factors) and secondary (ie, socio-cultural factors and contextual factors) influences on talent development. Reflecting the latter, this study examined the effect of social, physical and life-skill factors within a high performance (HP) environment. Semi-structured, qualitative interviews were held with a group of swimmers (n = 7), purposefully sampled on the basis of their established potential for elite performance. To triangulate the data, and guard against bias, a sample of coaches (n=7) and support staff (n = 2) were also recruited. An inductive content analysis was conducted following the recommendations of Cotéet al(1993). Results suggest that a range of factors (eg, parental support, medical services, and time-management skills) impact on an athlete's ability to progress through a development programme and succeed as an elite athlete. Coach communication and the development of performance coaches were both identified as areas of weakness in the current support system. The coaches felt inadequately equipped with the skills and knowledge to develop HP athletes, and recommended a more ‘open door' policy between clubs and in turn between club and the HP Centre. This policy could rectify another key deficient issue identified by coaches and athletes by ‘bridging the gap' from club to HP Centre where talented athletes are not equipped, either physically or mentally, to deal with the increased demand and change in environment. Further research is currently taking place to track the needs analysis of HP athletes over the course of a year in the lead up to World Championship qualification.
Effect of maximal sprints performed with ball on anaerobic power and performance of footballers
Authors: Kamar A
Published: November 2011

The effect of sprints performed with a ball on the anaerobic power and performance was examined after RAST (Running-Based Anaerobic Sprint Test) that measures the anaerobic power was applied to 19 male footballers whose Mean age was 18± 1 y, height 74±6 cm, body mass 65.7±5.6 kg and maxVO253±5 ml/kg/min firstly in the normal procedure and then in the form of sprint with ball. Sprinting with the ball caused the anaerobic power average of the experiment group to decline by 23 % (P<0.001). While the average value was 5.5±0.4 s (501±97 W) in the normal procedure, this value was 6.0± 0.4 s (388±83 W) in the one performed with the ball. When 6 sprints of subjects performed with ball and without ball were examined, the least loss of average power was observed in the 3rd runs (−20%). As for the maximum power loss, it was detected in the average of 5th runs (−28%), (P<0.001). When the fatigue index of the subjects was analysed, value obtained in the normal procedure without a ball was 7.5±2.4 W/s and the average value of the practice with ball was 5.8±2.0 W/s (P<0.001). In the study, sprint distance was analysed in divisions of 5 m each and acceleration change of running within this distance was examined. While average acceleration naturally varied in the five meter parts of the sprint run of a total 35 m, the highest acceleration of both the normal procedure and the practice with ball was detected between 20th and 25thm (P<0.001). RAST (P<0.01) and with ball RAST (P<0.05) are correlated Vertical Jump and Standing Long Jump.
Water immersion attenuates short-latency somatosensory evoked potentials in a human EEG study
Authors: Sato D , Yamashiro K , Onishi H , Shimoyama Y , Yoshida T , Maruyama A
Published: November 2011

During water immersion, we receive several somatosensory input from water, including tactile, pressure and thermal stimuli. In a clinical study involving water immersion, balance ability improved in subjects who rested in a sitting position in water twice a week for five successive weeks. This result suggests that somatosensory input from water may affect the central nervous system, specifically the cerebral cortex. In the present study, we examined the effect of water immersion on short-latency somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) to median nerve stimuli. SSEP recordings were obtained for eight healthy male volunteers. SSEPs were measured at rest under the two environmental conditions: on land and in water. Ambient and water temperatures were set at 30°C under both the conditions. Water was poured up to the axilla level of each subject. A SynAmp amplifier system and the Scan 4.3 software (Neuroscan, El Paso, Texas, USA) were used to record electroencephalographic data. Recordings were obtained from nine scalp electrodes placed at F3/F4, C3/C4, P3/P4, Fz, Cz and Pz according to the 10–20 system. The right median nerve at the wrist was electrically stimulated with the stimulus duration of 0.2 ms at a frequency of 3 Hz. The intensity of the stimulus was fixed at approximately three times the sensory threshold. The following components were consistently recorded in all subjects: P20, N30 and P45 at F3 and Fz, N18, P22, N30 and P45 at C3 and Cz, and N20, P27, N33 and P45 at P3 and Pz. Significant difference between the conditions were found for P45 at C3 and Cz as well as for P27 and P45 at P3 and Pz. We confirmed that water immersion induces significant attenuation (gating) of SSEPs to the median nerve and that it modulates SSEPs known to originate in areas 3b and 1 of SI. We considered SSEP attenuation to be caused by centripetal gating, which suggested that water immersion influences the cortical processing of the somatosensory input.
Dung longevity influences the fate of endozoochorically dispersed seeds in forest ecosystems
Authors: Jaroszewicz Bogdan , Pirożnikow Ewa
Published: November 2011

Many studies show large discrepancies between the potential (studied in the greenhouse) and realized (studied in the field) effects of endozoochory. The influence of environmental conditions on the fate of endozoochorically dispersed seeds and subsequent plant establishment is still not well understood. We addressed this issue by studying the viable seed content of the dung of European bison ( Bison bonasus L.) by means of seedling germination in the greenhouse and in two forest habitats in Białowieża Primeval Forest. The number of seedlings and the number of plant species that emerged from 1 L of feces were positively correlated with dung longevity. Generative shoots were produced by plants only in coniferous forest. Their number was positively correlated with dung longevity and with light availability. Germination of seeds from bison feces was higher in coniferous forest than in deciduous forest but did not differ between open- and closed-canopy plots within the same habitat. We conclude that (i) seed germination and plant establishment after endozoochorous dispersal is influenced by dung longevity; (ii) the number of generative shoots produced by endozoochorously dispersed plants is influenced by dung longevity and light availability; (iii) seeds of some plant species, present in dung, stay viable for at least 3 years.
DISPERSION INTERACTION OF ATOMS WITH SINGLE-WALLED CARBON NANOTUBES DESCRIBED BY THE DIRAC MODEL
Authors: CHURKIN YU. V. , FEDORTSOV A. B. , KLIMCHITSKAYA G. L. , YUROVA V. A.
Published: November 2011

We calculate the interaction energy and force between atoms and molecules and single-walled carbon nanotubes described by the Dirac model of graphene. For this purpose the Lifshitz-type formulas adapted for the case of cylindrical geometry with the help of the proximity force approximation are used. The results obtained are compared with those derived from the hydrodymanic model of graphene. Numerical computations are performed for hydrogen atoms and molecules. It is shown that the Dirac model leads to larger values of the van der Waals force than the hydrodynamic model. For a hydrogen molecule the interaction energy and force computed using both models are larger than for a hydrogen atom.
THE CASIMIR-POLDER INTERACTION OF AN ATOM WITH SPHERICAL SHELL
Authors: KHUSNUTDINOV NAIL
Published: November 2011

The Casimir-Polder and van der Waals interaction energy of an atom with infinitely thin sphere with finite conductivity is investigated in the framework of the hydrodynamic approach. We put the sphere into spherical cavity inside the infinite dielectric media, then calculate the energy of vacuum fluctuations in the context of the zeta-function approach. The energy for a single atom is obtained by rarefying media. The Casimir-Polder expression for an atom and plate is recovered in the limit of the infinite radius of the sphere. Assuming a finite radius of the sphere, the interaction energy of an atom falls down monotonic as third power of distance between atom and sphere for short distance and as seventh power for large distance from the sphere.
TORSION CORRECTIONS IN BRANE WORLD GRAVITY
Authors: MAIER R.
Published: November 2011

In the frame of brane world theory the effects of torsion fields are examined. Considering a five dimensional Non-Riemannian bulk with a noncompact extra dimension, we derive the modified Einstein field equations in a four dimensional (3-brane) arbitrary manifold embedded in this bulk. The necessary matching conditions are investigated assuming that the torsion in the bulk is continuous. In this context the extrinsic curvature is connected to the matter content restricted to the brane and the torsion components of the bulk. As a final result we observe that the corrections – due to torsion fields – in the modified field equations depend crucially on the embedding that is taken. Therefore, by considering a simple embedding, we develop a cosmological model that describes a flat FLRW embedded in a 5-dimensional de Sitter (or Anti de Sitter) spacetime, where a 5-dimensional cosmological constant emerges from the torsion components of the bulk.
THE COSMOLOGICAL ORIGIN OF THE NAMBU-JONA-LASINIO MODEL
Authors: NOVELLO M.
Published: November 2011

Recently a mechanism to generate mass from gravitational interaction, based on Mach principle, according to which the inertia of a body is a property of matter as well as of the background provided by the rest-of-the-universe was presented in Refs. 1, 2. In these papers such an idea was realized for scalar and spinor fields treating the rest-of-the-universe in its vacuum state. In the present paper, using an extended version of Mach principle, the same strategy will be applied to show how the Heisenberg-Nambu-Jona-Lasinio non-linear equation for fermions Ψ arises as a consequence of the gravitational interaction of Ψ with the rest-of-the-universe.
CONFIRMATION OF COSMOLOGICAL BOUNCES PREDICTED BY ALEXANDER FRIEDMANN
Authors: NURGALIEV ILDUS
Published: November 2011

It is shown that taking into consideration vorticity-related component of cosmological motion averts singularity and explains acceleration of the expansion. No mystic matter with dark energy is needed. That energy belongs to the local rotational motion (vorticity). Einstein's idea on static universe occurs to be encompassing conception for the standard cosmology, as well as for the emerging new (oscillating) one. Alexander Friedman gave to us its verbal model and was the most well prepared to give mathematical one.
LARGE-ANGLE NON-GAUSSIANITY IN SIMULATED HIGH-RESOLUTION CMB MAPS
Authors: BERNUI ARMANDO , REBOUÇAS MARCELO J. , TEIXEIRA ANTONIO F. F.
Published: November 2011

A detection or nondetection of primordial non-Gaussianity by using the cosmic microwave background radiation (CMB) offers a way of discriminating inflationary scenarios and testing alternative models of the early universe. This has motivated the considerable effort that has recently gone into the study of theoretical features of primordial non-Gaussianity and its detection in CMB data. Among such attempts to detect non-Gaussianity, there is a procedure that is based upon two indicators constructed from the skewness and kurtosis of large-angle patches of CMB maps, which have been proposed and used to study deviation from Gaussianity in the WMAP data (see Refs. 1 and 2). Simulated CMB maps equipped with realistic primordial non-Gaussianity are essential tools to test the viability of non-Gaussian indicators in practice, and also to understand the effect of systematics, foregrounds and other contaminants. In this work we extend and complement the results Refs. 1 and 2 by performing an analysis of non-Gaussianity of the high-angular resolution simulated CMB temperature maps endowed with non-Gaussianity of the local type, for which the level of non-Gaussianity is characterized by the dimensionless parameter [Formula: see text].
Triiodothyronine induces UCP-1 expression and mitochondrial biogenesis in human adipocytes
Authors: Lee Joo-Young , Takahashi Nobuyuki , Yasubuchi Midori , Kim Young-Il , Hashizaki Hikari , Kim Min-Ji , Sakamoto Tomoya , Goto Tsuyoshi , Kawada Teruo
Published: November 2011

Uncoupling protein (UCP)-1 expressed in brown adipose tissue plays an important role in thermogenesis. Recent data suggest that brown-like adipocytes in white adipose tissue (WAT) and skeletal muscle play a crucial role in the regulation of body weight. Understanding of the mechanism underlying the increase in UCP-1 expression level in these organs should, therefore, provide an approach to managing obesity. The thyroid hormone (TH) has profound effects on mitochondrial biogenesis and promotes the mRNA expression of UCP in skeletal muscle and brown adipose tissue. However, the action of TH on the induction of brown-like adipocytes in WAT has not been elucidated. Thus we investigate whether TH could regulate UCP-1 expression in WAT using multipotent cells isolated from human adipose tissue. In this study, triiodothyronine (T3) treatment induced UCP-1 expression and mitochondrial biogenesis, accompanied by the induction of the CCAAT/enhancer binding protein, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α, and nuclear respiratory factor-1 in differentiated human multipotent adipose-derived stem cells. The effects of T3 on UCP-1 induction were dependent on TH receptor-β. Moreover, T3 treatment increased oxygen consumption rate. These findings indicate that T3 is an active modulator, which induces energy utilization in white adipocytes through the regulation of UCP-1 expression and mitochondrial biogenesis. Our findings provide evidence that T3 serves as a bipotential mediator of mitochondrial biogenesis.
l-Arginine supplementation abolishes the blood pressure and endothelin response to chronic increases in plasma sFlt-1 in pregnant rats
Authors: Murphy Sydney R. , LaMarca Babbette , Cockrell Kathy , Arany Marietta , Granger Joey P.
Published: November 2011

While soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE), the mechanisms whereby increased sFlt-1 leads to enhanced ET-1 production and hypertension remain unclear. It is well documented that nitric oxide (NO) production is reduced in PE; however, whether a reduction in NO synthesis plays a role in increasing ET-1 and blood pressure in response to chronic increases in plasma sFlt-1 remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of reduced NO synthesis in the increase in blood pressure and ET-1 in response to sFlt-1 in pregnant rats. sFlt-1 was infused into normal pregnant (NP) Sprague-Dawley rats (3.7 μg·kg−1·day−1 for 6 days beginning on day 13 of gestation) treated with the NO synthase inhibitor NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (100 mg/l for 4 days) or supplemented with 2% l-Arg (in drinking water for 6 days beginning on day 15 of gestation). Infusion of sFlt-1 into NP rats significantly elevated mean arterial pressure compared with control NP rats: 116 ± 2 vs. 103 ± 1 mmHg ( P < 0.05). NO synthase inhibition had no effect on the blood pressure response in sFlt-1 hypertensive pregnant rats (121 ± 3 vs. 116 ± 2 mmHg), while it significantly increased mean arterial pressure in NP rats (128 ± 4 mmHg, P < 0.05). In addition, NO production was reduced ∼70% in isolated glomeruli from sFlt-1 hypertensive pregnant rats compared with NP rats ( P < 0.05). Furthermore, prepro-ET-1 in the renal cortex was increased ∼3.5-fold in sFlt-1 hypertensive pregnant rats compared with NP rats. Supplementation with l-Arg decreased the sFlt-1 hypertension (109 ± 3 mmHg, P < 0.05) but had no effect on the blood pressure response in NP rats (109 ± 3 mmHg) and abolished the enhanced sFlt-1-induced renal cortical prepro-ET expression. In conclusion, a reduction in NO synthesis may play an important role in the enhanced ET-1 production in response to sFlt-1 hypertension in pregnant rats.