bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of prior exercise on the performance of intense isometric exercise.
Authors: Maughan R J
Published: December 2008

The influence of a regimen designed to lower the muscle glycogen content on the capacity to perform a single brief isometric contraction has been studied. Eight male subjects performed a single exhausting isometric contraction of the knee extensor muscles at a tension corresponding to 60% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). This was followed by prolonged cycling exercise at a work rate equivalent to approximately 75% of maximum oxygen uptake in order to reduce the muscle glycogen content. A diet low in carbohydrate was consumed for the remainder of this day in order to retard the resynthesis of muscle glycogen. The isometric contraction at 60% of MVC was repeated on the following day. Endurance time on the first day was 53.8 +/- 8.4 s (mean +/- SD); this was reduced (45.8 +/- 12.1 s; p less than 0.02) on the second day. From previously published data on rates of muscle glycogen utilisation during isometric exercise, it seems probable that insufficient glycogen is available in the muscle under the low carbohydrate condition to enable maximum performance to be achieved.
Irish rugby injury survey: Dungannon Football Club (1986-87).
Authors: Addley K , Farren J
Published: December 2008

The injuries sustained during one season by players at an Ulster Senior Rugby Club were documented with reference to time of injury, phase of play, team position, and nature of injury. The overall injury pattern in Irish rugby as found in this study is broadly comparable with that in similar studies in England and Scotland. Eighty-four players were injured in total. Three of these had fractures of which one required hospital admission for open reduction of a fractured wrist. The remaining eighty-one players had various types and grades of soft-tissue damage. The tackle accounted for approximately one-third of all injuries. There were few serious injuries and none involving the spine. Injuries to forwards made up almost sixty per cent of the total.
Lactate and gas exchange responses to incremental and steady state running.
Authors: Haverty M , Kenney W L , Hodgson J L
Published: December 2008

This study compared the oxygen uptake (VO2) and running velocity at which the lactate threshold (LT), the ventilatory threshold (VT), and the maximal lactate steady state (MSSLA), and the maximal VO2 steady state (MSSVO2) occurred in 11 trained male runners (mean age = 22.4 years, range 18-28 years). Each underwent an incremental treadmill test to exhaustion. The LT was defined by a systematic, continuous increase in arterialised venous blood lactate; the VT was determined by an abrupt rise in VE.VO2(-1) without an increase in VE.VCO2(-1). Each subject also completed a series of steady state treadmill runs of 20 minutes duration. The MSSLA was determined as the highest velocity and VO2 at which lactate concentration increased by less than 0.2 mmol.l-1 from minute 10 to minute 20. The MSSVO2 was determined as the highest velocity or VO2 at which a steady state in VO2 was not delayed for more than 3 minutes (with a steady state defined as VO2 within 0.2 l.min-1 of the average VO2 over the last 10 minutes of each test). Each subject also completed a 5 km time trial run to assess performance. No significant differences were found among the four variables expressed either as VO2 or velocity. Significant correlations were found between MSSLA and MSSVO2 (r = 0.74) expressed as VO2, and between MSSLA and MSSVO2 (r = 0.90), MSSVO2 and VT (r = 0.70) and MSSLA and VT (r = 0.67) expressed as velocity. A stepwise regression analysis found MSSLA (expressed as velocity) to be the best predictor of 5 km performance (r = 0.87). It was concluded that (a) MSSLA and MSSVO2 are closely related, and (b) MSSLA is a good predictor of performance and may be an important, objective measure of cardiorespiratory endurance capacity.
Lipids and platelet function in runners.
Authors: Haigh J R , Fruin C A , Pinn R , Lea E J
Published: December 2008

The effect of distance running on the fatty acid composition of platelet and erythrocyte membranes has been investigated, together with platelet aggregation and levels of high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDLc), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc), total cholesterol and triglycerides in runners (n = 11) and healthy age-matched non-running controls (n = 12). Platelet aggregation and fatty acid composition of membrane lipids in both platelets and erythrocytes are similar in both groups with the following exceptions: in platelets docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6 omega 3) is significantly higher in runners; in erythrocytes the fatty acids C20:3 omega 6/C22:1 omega 9 and C22:5 omega 3 are significantly higher in runners. There were no significant differences between the levels of HDLc, LDLc and total cholesterol in runners and controls although triglycerides were significantly lower in runners. Possible beneficial effects of running are probably mediated through effects on serum lipid and lipoprotein concentrations, and probably not due to any antithrombotic effect of platelets.
Virus infections and sports performance--a prospective study.
Authors: Roberts J A , Wilson J A , Clements G B
Published: December 2008

There are numerous anecdotal reports relating infection to deterioration in sporting performance. Unexplained failures by top sportsmen are often attributed to recent or current infections. We have carried out a prospective investigation to determine the effect of viral infections on the performance of a group of 68 elite track and field athletes. Athletes were monitored for evidence of viral infection during winter training and their form was assessed subjectively and also semi-objectively by analogue scale questionnaires. Static elevated titres of neutralising antibody to Coxsackie B 1-5 were present in 54% of the athletes and 79% had serological evidence of past viral infection. The raised titres did not relate to poor performance. There was no evidence that loss of form was related to subclinical infection. Elevated antibody levels to Coxsackie B and other common viruses should be interpreted with great caution when assessing athletes complaining of poor performance.
Effect of sodium bicarbonate ingestion upon repeated sprints.
Authors: Lavender G , Bird S R
Published: December 2008

The purpose of the study was to assess the effect of sodium bicarbonate ingestion upon repeated bouts of intensive short duration exercise. Twenty-three subjects participated in the investigation (8 females and 15 males, age 21.4 +/- 2.3, mean +/- sd). Subjects completed six trials; three following the ingestion of sodium bicarbonate (300 mg/kg body weight) and three following the ingestion of a placebo (8 g sodium chloride). Each trial consisted of ten ten-second sprints on a cycle ergometer with 50 seconds recovery between each sprint. 'Peak power' and 'average power output' during each ten second sprint was measured from the flywheel of the ergometer using a light-sensitive monitor (Cranlea) linked to a BBC microcomputer. The power outputs recorded during each ten-second sprint of the bicarbonate trials were then compared with those recorded during the corresponding sprint of the placebo trials. The bicarbonate trials produced higher mean 'average power' outputs in all ten of the ten-second sprints, with the difference in 'average power' output being statistically significant in eight of these (p less than 0.05). The results also revealed that the difference in the 'average power' outputs attained during the bicarbonate and placebo trials increased as the number of sprint repetitions increased (p less than 0.01). 'Peak power' output was also greater in the bicarbonate trials with it being significantly higher (p less than 0.001) during the final ten-second sprint. It was concluded that during exercise consisting of repeated, short-duration sprints, power output was enhanced following the ingestion of sodium bicarbonate, (300 mg/kg body weight).
The effect of endurance running training on asthmatic adults.
Authors: Freeman W , Nute M G , Williams C
Published: December 2008

Nine mild to moderate asthmatic adults (three males, six females) and six non-asthmatics (one male, five females) underwent endurance running training three times per week for five weeks, at self selected running speeds on a motorized treadmill. After training, the asthmatic group had a significantly higher maximum oxygen uptake, significantly lower blood lactate and heart rate in submaximal running, and significantly reduced time to complete a two mile treadmill run, partly attributable to the ability to exercise at a higher % VO2 max after training. These training induced changes of the asthmatic group were generally of a greater magnitude than those shown by the non-asthmatic group. Although seven of the nine asthmatics did show a reduction in the post-exercise fall in FEV1 after the five week training period, this was not statistically significant for the asthmatic group as a whole. The results of this study therefore suggest that endurance running training can improve the aerobic fitness of asthmatic adults, and may reduce the severity of exercise-induced asthma.
High-carbohydrate diet for long distance runners--a practical view-point.
Authors: Fogelholm M , Tikkanen H , Näveri H , Härkönen M
Published: December 2008

The nutritional value of a high-carbohydrate diet was evaluated. Seven male marathon runners kept a food record diary for the three days preceeding two endurance races. They were instructed in how to compose a diet which contained about 9 g carbohydrate day-1 kg body weight-1. Sixty three per cent of the subjects' total energy intake was derived from carbohydrates. The dietary intake of vitamin C was six times the Recommended Daily Dietary Allowances (RDA). Intakes of thiamin, riboflavin, calcium, magnesium and iron were more than twofold, and niacin intake 1,4-fold compared to the allowances. The diet contained sufficient amounts of carbohydrate to refill and enlarge muscle glycogen stores. Moreover the nutritional value was high, and therefore this kind of a diet can be recommended to endurance athletes even on a daily basis.
Injury rates during the 1988 US Olympic Team Trials for taekwondo.
Authors: Zemper E D , Pieter W
Published: December 2008

Injury rates were recorded during the 1988 US Olympic Team Trials for taekwondo involving 48 men and 48 women. The injury rate for men (12.74/100 athlete-exposures) was about 40 per cent higher than the rate for women (9.01/100 athlete-exposures). The foot and the head were the most frequently injured body parts. Contusions were the predominant type of injury, and concussions were recorded for both men and women. A large proportion (41 per cent) of the men's injuries were the result of receiving a blow from an unblocked attack. For the women the most common injury situation (40 per cent) was while attacking with a kick. For both men and women, 15 per cent of the reported injuries were time-loss injuries. The head injuries found in this study are discussed with reference to the high impact velocities and momentum levels generated during taekwondo kicking. Recommendations are made with regard to protective equipment testing and rule changes to reduce the possibility of cerebral injury.
Incidence of tibial fracture in child skiers.
Authors: Hill S A
Published: December 2008

Skiing is an increasingly popular sport amongst both adults and children. Opportunities for skiing within the United Kingdom are limited, but the introduction of increasing numbers of dry ski slopes has made the sport more available. The nature of injuries sustained by adults on snow and dry slopes is well documented, but this is less true of childhood injury, especially on dry slopes. A consecutive series of 92 patients with skiing injuries is presented. Both dry slope and snow slope injuries are included. The incidence of tibial fracture in children was ten times that of adults. The nature of all injuries sustained during the study period is documented, the childhood tibial fractures are described in detail, and possible aetiological factors are discussed.
Postero-lateral subluxation of the superior tibio-fibular joint.
Authors: Gillham N R , Villar R N
Published: December 2008

Foot drop resulting from subluxation of the superior tibio-fibular joint is described in a female dancer. Spontaneous resolution of the nerve injury occurred over two months with no residual joint instability. Expectant management is recommended for this injury. The potential for this unusual injury, in a wide variety of sports, is pointed out.
Physiological determinants of race walking performance in female race walkers.
Authors: Yoshida T , Udo M , Iwai K , Muraoka I , Tamaki K , Yamaguchi T , Chida M
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between race pace on a 5 km walking performance and velocity at the lactate threshold (V-LT), VO2 at the lactate threshold (VO2-LT), velocity at which blood lactate corresponded to 4 mM level (V-OBLA), VO2 at which blood lactate corresponded to 4 mM level (VO2-OBLA), walking economy (steady state VO2 at a standard velocity) and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) in eight female race walkers. A multiple stepwise linear regression analysis was employed to predict the race pace on a 5 km walking performance as dependent variable. Since V-OBLA was highly correlated to 5 km race walking performance (r = 0.94, P less than 0.001), it was selected as the first predictor. When VO2max was added to V-OBLA as the second predictor the predictive accuracy increased significantly, but multiple R did not increase significantly by adding variables of walking economy or other parameters as independent variance. As a result, the combination of V-OBLA and VO2max as independent variables accounted for the greatest amount of total variance (97 per cent). It is suggested that blood lactate variable such as V-OBLA can account for a large portion of the variance in race pace on a 5 km walking performance.
Hand injuries in competition climbers.
Authors: Bollen S R , Gunson C K
Published: December 2008

All 67 of the competitors at the first British Open climbing competition were examined for signs of previous or present hand injury. The most important clinical findings were that 26 per cent of the climbers had signs of previous injury to the A2 pulley of the ring finger, and that fixed flexion deformity of the proximal interphalangeal joints of the fingers was present in 24 per cent.
Sport accidents in childhood.
Authors: Sahlin Y
Published: December 2008

Injuries among children during sporting activities are common. This study is a one year study including children between five and fourteen years of age who sustained their injuries during sporting activities and were treated at Trondheim Regional and University Hospital. Sport accidents account for 27 per cent of all childhood accidents in this age group. Fifty-three per cent of the injured were boys, and 47 per cent were girls. The boys sustained more severe injuries than the girls. Soccer caused the greatest number of injuries. Horse riding and alpine skiing were the cause of the most severe injuries. A more widespread use of protective guards, better technique and body control, better coaching and not allowing the younger children to take part in technically advanced sporting activities might reduce the number and the severity of the sport injuries in children.
Effect of a herbal yeast food supplement and long-distance running on immunological parameters.
Authors: Gmünder F K , Joller P W , Joller-Jemelka H I , Bechler B , Cogoli M , Ziegler W H , Müller J , Aeppli R E , Cogoli A
Published: December 2008

The effect of a food supplement on immunological parameters of 16 long-distance runners was tested in a randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled trial. The supplement comprised plasmolysed herbal yeast, malt, honey, and orange juice. No statistically significant differences between the two groups regarding the following variables were detected at three sessions at rest and immediately after a 21 km run: total and differential white blood cell counts, numbers of B- and T-cells and T-subpopulations, concanavalin-A-induced lymphocyte proliferation, serum levels of immunoglobulins, neopterin, IL-2 receptors, beta 2-microglobulin, complement factor b, c4 and c3c, and c1-inactivator. These findings suggest that the effects of the tested food supplement on these parameters are negligible with respect to improvements in the immunological status of long-distance runners. The changes observed immediately after the run had a transient character. In both groups, however, low lymphocyte counts, IgG subclass 2 levels and c1-inactivator levels were noted at rest, which indicate that the immune status of endurance athletes may be affected by training.
Morphological study of myocardial capillaries in endurance trained rats.
Authors: Qu X
Published: December 2008

In this morphological study of the effects of training on myocardial capillaries, four week old Wistar rats were selected to accept four months of treadmill training. The rats were then sacrificed for morphological study of myocardial capillaries by means of perfused Chinese ink, AKP stain and ultrathin section methods. The results showed that the number of capillaries in trained rats was increased markedly by 14.8 per cent (P less than 0.05) in the outer layer and 13.7 per cent (P less than 0.05) in the inner layer. The ratio of capillaries to myocardial fibres was increased by 17.6 per cent and 13.7 per cent (P less than 0.05) respectively. The area and girth of capillaries in the trained rats were increased by 25 per cent and 26 per cent (P less than 0.01) respectively. Collateral branches in the trained rats were also increased and were more irregular in shape or appeared locally expanding and tortuous. Unopened capillaries were often observed in the control rats, while in the trained rats, no unopened capillaries were observed. In addition, the small vacuoles in the cytoplasm of endothelial cells were also increased.
Normal course of events amongst Swedish soccer players: an 8-year follow-up study.
Authors: Ekstrand J , Roos H , Tropp H
Published: December 2008

In this study 180 male soccer players entered into a prospective study of injuries in 1980. They were examined again in 1988. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the course of events during their active period. The study was carried out using a questionnaire. The importance of major injuries was evaluated. Hospital records were scrutinized and 179 of 180 (99 per cent) were included in the evaluation.
Skiing injuries: a study from a Danish community.
Authors: Møller-Madsen B , Jakobsen B W , Villadsen I
Published: December 2008

A Danish investigation of skiing injuries is presented from the casualty wards of two hospitals. The material consisted of 119 skiing injuries. Fifty-three per cent of the patients were women. Eighty-three injuries occurred abroad, mainly in Austria and Norway. Injury rate was not related to sex. The highest injury rate was found in the age group 20 to 29 years old. The most frequent injuries were sprains (knee 43, finger 14), fractures (39) and contusions (19). Injuries requiring hospitalization were common. None of these resulted in permanent major disability.
Intermittent axillary vein obstruction in a competitive canoeist.
Authors: Livesey J R
Published: December 2008

The case is reported of a competitive canoeist with intermittent axillary vein obstruction secondary to shoulder girdle muscle hypertrophy. The anatomy of the axilla, pathology of the axillary vein, and reported cases of sports injuries involving the axillary vein are discussed. This would appear to be the first report of such an occurrence in a canoeist.
Effect of a high carbohydrate diet on core temperature during prolonged exercise.
Authors: Schwellnus M P , Gordon N F , van Zyl G G , Cilliers J F , Grobler H C , Kuyl J , Kohl H W
Published: December 2008

This study compared the effects of a high-carbohydrate and a mixed diet on core temperature responses to prolonged exercise in six male competitive cyclists (age = 22.2 +/- 1.9 years). This study, the first to investigate the effect of a high-carbohydrate diet on exercise core temperature in humans, therefore suggests that three days of increased dietary carbohydrate intakes do not evoke any deleterious thermoregulatory responses during prolonged submaximal exercise.
Epidemiology of shoulder impingement in upper arm sports events.
Authors: Lo Y P , Hsu Y C , Chan K M
Published: December 2008

An epidemiological survey was conducted to collect data relating to the prevalence and frequency of shoulder pain and other related problems among different athletic groups that demanded vigorous upper arm activities. A questionnaire was administered on site thus ensuring that the response rate was 100 percent. Analysis of results revealed that of the 372 respondents there were 242 male (65.1 percent) and 130 female subjects (34.9 percent), with seven (1.9 percent) above the age of 40, 119 (32 percent) between the ages of 25 and 40, and 246 (66.1 percent) below 25 years of age. A total of 163 athletes (43.8 percent) indicated that they had shoulder problems, 109 (29 percent) suffering pain. Diffuse pain was indicated by 20 respondents (5.4 percent), while localized pain during movement was reported in 89 (23.9 percent). The prevalence of shoulder pain ranked highest among volley ball players (N = 28) followed by swimmers (N = 22), while badminton, basketball and tennis participants were equally affected (N = 10).
Comparison of hamstring/quadriceps isokinetic strength ratios and power in tennis, squash and track athletes.
Authors: Read M T , Bellamy M J
Published: December 2008

Isokinetic assessment of elite squash, tennis and track athletes confirms the accepted ratio of 60 to 80 per cent hamstring to quadriceps when testing at 90 deg-sec-1 for peak strength (torque). However, significant variations occur at higher test speeds up to 300 deg.sec-1 with the hamstrings becoming more prominent especially (p less than 0.001) in the nonpreferred (NP) leg. There was no significant difference between sports, and wide individual differences occurred. Analysis of (work.sec-1.kg-1 body weight) power showed a significantly higher work output (p less than 0.01) by track athletes than squash and tennis players, but, unlike hamstring/quadriceps ratio, no significant difference between preferred (P) and nonpreferred leg. The maximum power output was achieved around 220 to 250 deg.sec-1. Power between preferred and nonpreferred legs was the same but the torque ratio differed indicating that the hamstrings provided proportionately more work in the NP leg at higher speeds.
Intensive training in young athletes.
Authors: Maffulli N , Pintore E
Published: December 2008

An increasing number of children take part in organized sporting activities, undergoing intensive training and high level competition from an early age. Although intensive training in children may foster health benefits, many are injured as a result of training, often quite seriously. This paper reviews some of the areas of research dealing with intensively trained young athletes, and focuses on physical, cardiovascular and muscular effects, sports injuries and psychological effects of intensive training. It is concluded that measures should be taken to modify present training and competition schemes to avoid the deleterious effects of intensive physical activity on these children.
Cost of a roller skating rink to the local accident and emergency department.
Authors: Nayeem N , Shires S E , Porter J E
Published: December 2008

A 14 month retrospective study was undertaken to determine the cost implications of the opening of a roller skating rink to the local hospital accident and emergency department (A and E). A total of 398 patients attended following injury at the roller skating rink, of whom 384 were included in the study. The estimated cost of their injuries was determined by the hospital accounts department. The average cost per patient attending the A and E department following roller skating injury was about 100 pounds. The total cost to the A and E department of all injuries sustained at the rink over this period was 38,412 pounds. The cost implications of opening a roller skating rink for the A and E department are considerable. If proposals for self-budgeting are applied, A and E departments will have to seek additional funding if such leisure facilities are opened in their vicinity.
Gastrointestinal disturbances in marathon runners.
Authors: Halvorsen F A , Lyng J , Glomsaker T , Ritland S
Published: December 2008

To determine the prevalence of various gastrointestinal disturbances related to long-distance running and its effect on weight, diet and everyday digestive problems, we gave a questionnaire to 279 leisure-time marathon runners, comprising 10% of the participants in a local marathon race. Their answers disclosed a prevalence of dietary changes, weight reduction and altered bowel habits (mainly looser stools and/or more frequent defaecation) of 37, 38 and 48% respectively. A quarter reported earlier long lasting gastrointestinal problems, which improved in 41% of the runners after they started regular training. Thirty-four percent experienced gastrointestinal disturbances during or after running, 20% to such an extent that it seriously affected their performance.
Echocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy in Chinese endurance athletes.
Authors: Lo Y S , Chin M K
Published: December 2008

Most echocardiographic data on the athletic heart syndrome originate from the United States and Western Europe. There are no published data on echocardiographically documented left ventricular hypertrophy in Asian athletes. We investigated the echocardiographic changes which take place with endurance training by studying eight Hong Kong national cyclists. This study confirms that left ventricular hypertrophy and increased left ventricular end-diastolic dimensions are common findings in Chinese endurance athletes as in their Caucasian counterparts. Calculated left ventricular muscle mass exceeded the 95th percentile in seven of eight subjects.
Biomechanical implications of mild leg length inequality.
Authors: McCaw S T , Bates B T
Published: December 2008

The effect of mild leg length inequality (lower extremity length difference less than 3 cm) on posture and gait has been the source of much controversy. Many opinions have been expressed both for and against the need for intervention to reduce the magnitude of the discrepancy. This paper emphasizes the need for accurate and reliable assessment of leg length differences using a clinically functional radiographic technique, and reviews the biomechanical implications of leg length inequality as related to the development of stress fractures, low back pain and osteoarthritis.
Effect of pre-exercise protein ingestion upon VO2, R and perceived exertion during treadmill running.
Authors: Wiles J , Woodward R , Bird S R
Published: December 2008

The study investigated the effect of pre-exercise protein ingestion upon the oxygen consumption (VO2), respiratory exchange ratio (R) and perceived exertion (PE) of athletes during treadmill running at intensities of approximately 60, 80, 90 and 100% of their VO2max. Seventeen female athletes aged between 17 and 22 years participated in the study. Subjects completed six assessment sessions, each being preceded by one of the following dietary regimens: a protein solution ingested 3h before assessment (P3), a protein solution ingested 1 h before assessment (P1) and the ingestion of water 1-3 h before assessment (B). The subjects' VO2, R and PE were measured at all exercise intensities using standardized procedures. The results showed that P1 produced significantly higher values for VO2 (P less than 0.05) at all exercise intensities and was associated with an increased PE (P less than 0.01). The findings could have implications for athletes when considering the composition of their pre-exercise meal, especially if performing in activities which require the participants to exercise close to or at their VO2max.
A comparative study of left ventricular structure and function in elite athletes.
Authors: MacFarlane N , Northridge D B , Wright A R , Grant S , Dargie H J
Published: December 2008

Adaptations to left ventricular (LV) structure and function appear to be dependent on the type, intensity and duration of exercise training. We therefore studied two clearly defined groups of elite athletes, by M-mode and Doppler echocardiography, with a group of inactive individuals as controls. All groups were age matched. Group 1 comprised ten elite endurance athletes with maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) of 74.7 +/- 1.43 (mean +/- SEM). Group 2 consisted of ten elite weightlifters with VO2 max 45.3 +/- 2.00. Group 3 comprised of ten inactive individuals with VO2 max 44.5 +/- 2.13. Left ventricular end diastolic dimension was significantly higher in group 1 (5.72 +/- 0.07) than in groups 2 or 3 (5.29 +/- 0.09 and 5.19 +/- 0.09 respectively, p less than 0.001). Left ventricular mass index was significantly higher in groups 1 and 2 (156.4 +/- 5.97 and 138.6 +/- 7.27 respectively) than in group 3 (104.1 +/- 3.16 p less than 0.001). Percentage fractional shortening was used as an index of systolic function and no significant difference was found between groups. Doppler E:A ratio was taken as an index of diastolic function and was found to be significantly elevated in group 1 at rest (3.37 +/- 0.24) compared with 2.38 +/- 0.16 and 1.99 +/- 0.10 in groups 2 and 3 respectively (p less than 0.003). On exercise, the E:A ratio in group 1 was significantly higher than in group 3 (1.95 +/- 0.14 and 1.23 +/- 0.05 respectively p less than 0.001), and tended to be higher than group 2 (1.68 +/- 0.15 p = ns). These data show that both modes of intense training produce left ventricular hypertrophy. Diastolic function is not impaired in the athletes and may be augmented in the endurance athletes.
Avulsion fractures of the proximal tibial epiphysis.
Authors: Inoue G , Kuboyama K , Shido T
Published: December 2008

Fractures of the tibia through the proximal epiphysis are rare. This injury usually results from severe direct or indirect force about the knee, and has not been described as resulting from a patellar tendon avulsion injury. Four patients presented with five avulsion fractures of the proximal tibial epiphysis. All were older adolescent males who had been engaged in jumping sports when the injury occurred; one had bilateral injury. All the patients were treated by closed reduction and plaster cast immobilization for 4-8 weeks, with satisfactory results. On the basis of our cases and five cases previously reported, the authors would agree with Ryu and Debenham's suggestion that the Watson-Jones classification, which divides avulsion fractures of the tibial tubercle into three types, should be expanded to include this fourth type - avulsion fracture of the proximal tibial epiphysis.
Meniscotibial ligament strains: a prospective survey.
Authors: Millar A P
Published: December 2008

Medial knee pain is an increasingly common presentation in sports medicine practice. A prospective review was undertaken of 72 patients, mean age 48 years, seen in 1986-1987. The physical findings which were most diagnostic were a loss of some degrees of flexion which was painful medially when forced, and tenderness over the posteromedial joint line. Treatment was either injection of local steroid, or physiotherapy, together with emphasis on quadriceps exercise. Five patients failed to respond and were referred for arthroscopy. Nine patients relapsed once but no subsequent episode has occurred. Meniscotibial ligament strain is a common cause of knee pain in middle-aged sports people.
Tarzan swings: a dangerous new epidemic.
Authors: Edwards D J
Published: December 2008

Accidental injury in school children was thought to be unpreventable. This series presents the results of 24 consecutive patients with 29 fractures as a result of a fall from a 'Tarzan' rope swing. Twenty-six of the fractures involved the upper limb, 11 patients required hospitalization with operative intervention and 13 required outpatient care only. These types of injury are preventable. The morbidity and pain that these young patients suffer can be avoided.
Brief exercise induces an immediate and a delayed leucocytosis.
Authors: McCarthy D A , Grant M , Marbut M , Watling M , Wade A J , Macdonald I , Nicholson S , Melsom R D , Perry J D
Published: December 2008

Haematological profiles were measured: (1) before and for 5 h 30 min after 30 min sports (squash, swimming, jogging); and (2) before, during and for 2 h 30 min after 30 min cycle ergometry at workloads which required rates of oxygen consumption that were between 48% and 84% of maximal. In both instances exercise induced an immediate leucocytosis (owing to rises in both neutrophils and lymphocytes) which subsided rapidly at the finish of exercise and was followed by a delayed neutrophilia of greater magnitude which peaked at approximately 3 h after the start of exercise. Changes in plasma catecholamines and cortisol recorded during and after exercise (cycle ergometry only) support the hypothesis that the immediate leucocytosis during brief exercise is attributable to elevated catecholamine levels, whereas the delayed neutrophilia is due to raised cortisol levels.
Contribution of energy systems during a Wingate power test.
Authors: Smith J C , Hill D W
Published: December 2008

Six men performed a total of 23 modified Wingate power tests against 5.5 kp (53.9 N) resistance on a Monark 864 ergometer. Breath-by-breath VO2 was measured using a SensorMedics 4400 metabolic cart. Peak anaerobic power (highest 5 s; mean(s.e.m.)) was 819(16) W (11.1(0.6) W kg-1) and anaerobic capacity (work in 30 s; mean(s.e.m.)) was 18.2(0.2) kJ (248(11) J kg-1). Contributions of ATP-PC, glycolytic and aerobic systems each 5 s were estimated. ATP-PC power (mean(s.e.m.)) peaked at 750(14) W (10.2(0.6) W kg-1) in the first 5 s; glycolytic power (mean(s.e.m.] peaked at 497(11) W (6.8(0.7) W kg-1) between 10 and 15 s into the test; aerobic power (mean(s.e.m.)) peaked at 157(5) W (2.1(0.3) W kg-1) during the last 5 s of the test, and VO2 exceeded 90% VO2peak Over the entire 30 s, aerobic contribution was 16%, glycolytic contribution was 56%, and ATP-PC contribution was 28%. It is concluded that glycolytic power peaks within the first 15 s of high power exercise; also, aerobic metabolism responds quickly during 'anaerobic' exercise and makes a significant contribution to the work performed.
Handgrip dynamometry, Cybex measurements and lean mass as markers of the ageing of muscle function.
Authors: Shephard R J , Montelpare W , Plyley M , McCracken D , Goode R C
Published: December 2008

Isometric handgrip force, isokinetic knee flexion and extension torque, and anthropometric data were obtained on 67 older men and women (ranging in age from 45 to 75 years, mean 59.7 years). Hydrostatic and skinfold estimates of lean body mass were quite closely correlated with each other in this sample (r = 0.93). Handgrip force, isokinetic knee flexion and extension torque, and lean mass all decreased by 6-8% per decade over the age span examined, although in the men the loss was most marked in terms of handgrip and lean mass, whereas in the women the loss of torque in the knee muscles was dominant. Because of these differences, the handgrip data were only weakly correlated with the isokinetic strength measurements (r = 0.22), and the isokinetic data were more strongly related to lean body mass and body mass. The optimum equation for a field prediction of isokinetic strength in this age group (a combination of age, sex, age-sex interaction and lean body mass) has an error approaching 25%, with a multiple r2 of 0.37, and a standard error of the estimate (s.e.e.) of 24.5%. It is concluded that handgrip data and slow isokinetic torque measurements evaluate relatively independent aspects of the ageing of muscular function.
Physiological effects of wearing mouthguards.
Authors: Francis K T , Brasher J
Published: December 2008

Mouthguards are considered by most authorities to be an essential part of equipment for players participating in body-contact sports. Mouthguards provide excellent dental protection but not all players use them, complaining of breathing difficulties and problems with speaking. Although information exists concerning dental trauma and mouth protector use, there are no reported data that quantify the physiological effects of wearing mouthguards. The purpose of this study was to measure the ventilatory and gas exchange effects of wearing a mouthguard. Ten healthy men and seven women aged 20-36 years (mean(s.d.) 27.2(5.2) years) were used as subjects. Forced expiratory air volume at 1 s (FEV1) and peak expiratory flow rates (PEF) were measured on each subject while wearing either no mouthguard or one of three different over-the-counter mouthguards including one maxillary (mouthguard 1) and two different bimaxillary guards (mouthguards 2 and 3). To determine the effects of wearing each of the mouthguards during exercise, oxygen consumption (VO2) was measured while exercising on a cycle ergometer for 5 min at a light and heavy workload. An ANOVA of repeated measures was used to determine statistical differences. In each case, the wearing of a mouthguard significantly (P less than 0.05) reduced FEV1 and PEF in comparison with no mouthguard. FEV1 was reduced 8% with mouthguard 1, and 12% and 14% with mouthguards 2 and 3 respectively. PEF was reduced by 7, 15 and 15.8% with mouthguards 1, 2 and 3 respectively. The wearing of the different mouthguards did not significantly change VO2 while exercising at the lower work level whereas VO2 was significantly ( P < 0.05) reduced at the heavier workload. This surprising reduction in VO2 during heavy exercise may be due to a 'pursed-lip' type of breathing which has been shown to decrease CO2 tension, increase oxygenation and exercise tolerance. It can be concluded that although mouthguards may be perceptably uncomfortable and restrict forced expiratory air flow, they appear to be beneficial in prolonging exercise by improving ventilation and economy.
Waterbike injuries.
Authors: Jeffery R S , Caiach S
Published: December 2008

Jet skiing is a rapidly growing sport. The craft incorporate safety features and the manufacturers issue detailed safety instructions. Racing is conducted with adequate attention to clothing, safety and insurance. However, casual use is widespread and is sometimes irresponsible. Serious injuries to riders are uncommon: dental and knee injuries are described. A case of renal contusion and a head injury were caused by other riders and two potentially fatal injuries illustrate the risk for other water users. The number of injuries associated with the use of personal watercraft is likely to increase and may be influenced by appropriate organization or regulation.
The effects of a university fitness programme on health-related variables in previously sedentary males.
Authors: Grant S , Aitchison T , Pettigrew A R , Orrell J M
Published: December 2008

This study reports on the effects of a 10-week university fitness programme on health-related fitness variables. Twenty-one male exercisers, aged 37.0(10.3) years (mean(s.d.); range 21-58), and 22 male controls, aged 38.6(7.9) years (mean(s.d.); range 17-54), volunteered to take part. Two sample t-tests and 95% confidence intervals were used to determine if the exercise group demonstrated a greater average improvement than the control group and the average improvement in both groups separately. The exercise group showed a greater average improvement over the controls from Test 1 (before fitness programme) to Test 2 (after) in the following: steady-state heart rate (beats min-1) 95% confidence intervals (-7.8, -16.2); predicted VO2max (ml kg-1 min-1): 95% confidence intervals (3.2, 6.6); sit-ups (repetitions): 95% confidence intervals (3.1, 7.0); flexibility (cm): 95% confidence intervals (3.3, 6.9). There was no significant difference between the exercise group and control group in body weight, percentage body fat, blood pressure, total plasma cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein and triglycerides. The exercise programme improved aerobic fitness, local muscular endurance and flexibility. However, the increase in aerobic fitness did not coincide with beneficial changes in the coronary risk profile.
Opiate receptor blockade by naltrexone and mood state after acute physical activity.
Authors: Daniel M , Martin A D , Carter J
Published: December 2008

Acute mood changes occur with various forms of physical activity. Increased levels of endogenous opioids (endorphins) in response to exercise may mediate activity-induced shifts in mood state. Thirteen female and six male aerobics class participants aged 20-46 years received the opiate receptor antagonist naltrexone and a placebo in randomized, double-blind crossover fashion on two separate occasions at the same 75-min high-intensity aerobics class. Mood states were assessed before and after each class, which were spaced 5 days apart, using the Profile of Mood States questionnaire (POMS), a mood adjective checklist, and a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) which measured mood in relation to several emotional extremes. Mood changes over the course of each aerobics class were compared in the naltrexone and placebo groups. For men and women, significant differences between conditions were observed in overall mood by both the POMS (P less than 0.005) and VAS (P less than 0.02). There were significant differences between conditions for most subscales of each mood instrument (P less than 0.05); with the placebo, mood states became calmer, more relaxed and pleasant, tending away from depression, anger and confusion. Positive mood shifts did not occur when subjects were preloaded with naltrexone, suggesting that activity-generated mood changes are mediated through endorphinergic mechanisms.
Effect of caffeinated coffee on running speed, respiratory factors, blood lactate and perceived exertion during 1500-m treadmill running.
Authors: Wiles J D , Bird S R , Hopkins J , Riley M
Published: December 2008

Using a motorized treadmill the study investigated the effects of the ingestion of 3 g of caffeinated coffee on: the time taken to run 1500 m; the selected speed with which athletes completed a 1-min 'finishing burst' at the end of a high-intensity run; and respiratory factors, perceived exertion and blood lactate levels during a high intensity 1500-m run. In all testing protocols decaffeinated coffee (3 g) was used as a placebo and a double-blind experimental design was used throughout. The participants in the study were middle distance athletes of club, county and national standard. The results showed that ingestion of caffeinated coffee: decreases the time taken to run 1500 m (P less than 0.005); increases the speed of the 'finishing burst' (P less than 0.005); and increases VO2 during the high-intensity 1500-m run (P less than 0.025). The study concluded that under these laboratory conditions, the ingestion of caffeinated coffee could enhance the performance of sustained high-intensity exercise.
Accuracy of Borg's ratings of perceived exertion in the prediction of heart rates during pregnancy.
Authors: O'Neill M E , Cooper K A , Mills C M , Boyce E S , Hunyor S N
Published: December 2008

When using Borg's 6-20 scale during pregnancy, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) did not significantly correlate with exercise heart rates (HR) (P greater than 0.05). The HR predicted from RPE significantly (P less than 0.05) underestimated the exercise HR in the second trimester during walking (Group 1: mean difference 16 beats min-1, n = 11), aerobics classes (Group 4: mean 15 beats min-1, n = 48) and circuit training (Group 3: mean 18 beats min-1, n = 24); and in the third trimester during cycling (Group 2: mean 16 beats min-1, n = 12) and aerobics classes (Group 5: mean 11 beats min-1, n = 29). Maximal individual HR under-estimations were large for each physical activity during pregnancy, with values up to 54 beats min-1. Consequently, exercise intensity should not be monitored solely with RPE during pregnancy.
Does exercise reduce all-cancer death rates?
Authors: Shephard R J
Published: December 2008

A reanalysis is made of earlier data relating to initial physical fitness and the likelihood of death from all forms of cancer. It is argued that the original analysis may have been biased by an association between initial fitness and other health habits, particularly cigarette smoking. The association with fitness status remains after reanalysis of the data on the assumption that current smoking leads to a uniform doubling of the risk of cancer death, but the effect is weaker than previously reported. There remains some potential bias, in that the quantity of current smoking may have been linked to fitness status. Some 55% of deaths were untraced, but it is argued that any socioeconomic or other bias from this cause is likely to account for the association between cancer risk and low fitness status. Any reduction of cancer risk is associated with the change from an extremely sedentary to a moderately sedentary lifestyle. It thus cannot be explained in terms of the mechanisms previously invoked to explain low risks of colonic and reproductive cancers in endurance athletes.
Ultrasonographic scan in knee pain in athletes.
Authors: Maffulli N , Regine R , Carrillo F , Minelli S , Beaconsfield T
Published: December 2008

Fifty-two knees were examined using real-time high-definition ultrasonography with a 7.5 MHz probe. The extra-articular structures were easily visualized and diagnosis of patellar tendon lesions and Baker's cysts formulated. While the meniscal cartilages were shown as a homogeneous triangular structure between the femoral condyle and the tibial plateau, no lesions were detected. Deeper intra-articular structures, such as the cruciate ligaments, were not shown by the scan, thus their evaluation was not possible. Given its low cost, wide availability, non-invasiveness and patients' acceptability of the technique, ultrasonography may play an important role in the diagnosis of soft tissue lesions in and around the knee joint.
Controlled trial of an ankle support (Malleotrain) in acute ankle injuries.
Authors: O'Hara J , Valle-Jones J C , Walsh H , O'Hara H , Davey N B , Hopkin-Richards H , Butcher R M
Published: December 2008

A randomized, controlled parallel-group trial has assessed 14 days' use of a new ankle support (Malleotrain, Bauerfeind, Aldershot, UK) in 220 patients (118 Malleotrain, 102 control group) with acute ankle injuries. Self-assessed pain levels were significantly lower in the group using Malleotrain at the end of the trial (P less than 0.05), as were median times taken for reduction of symptom scores to 10% (P less than 0.05) and total analgesic consumption during the trial (P less than 0.05). Overall clinical assessment scores were significantly superior in the Malleotrain group (P less than 0.02). Of those patients who received Malleotrain, 112 of 116 patients who commented (95% of all Malleotrain-treated patients) did so positively and only one patient stopped wearing the support during the trial. Malleotrain is acceptable to patients with acute ankle injuries and its use increases the rate of alleviation of symptoms. Its use should therefore be considered in the management of all such patients.
Fell walking injuries in Cumbria: a review.
Authors: Goel A , Addison A K
Published: December 2008

An analysis of injuries sustained during fell walking in Cumbria and seen at the West Cumberland Hospital over a 3-year period is presented. There were 90 patients, including 19 multiple injuries and four deaths. This report focuses attention on the seriousness and magnitude of injuries associated with a pastime often thought to be harmless and risk-free.