bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Membrane Association Properties and Regulation of Class I and Class II Arfs
Authors: Duijsings Daniël , Lanke Kjerstin H. W. , Van Dooren Sander H. J. , Van Dommelen Michiel M. T. , Wetzels Roy , De Mattia Fabrizio , Wessels Els , Van Kuppeveld Frank J. M.
Published: December 2008

ADP‐ribosylation factor (Arf) proteins are small guanosine triphosphatases (GTPases) that act as major regulators of intracellular vesicular trafficking and secretory organelle pathway integrity. Like all small monomeric GTPases, Arf proteins cycle between a GDP‐bound and a GTP‐bound state, and this cycling is catalysed by guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) and GTPase‐activating proteins. While the class I Arfs, especially Arf1, have been studied extensively, little is known as yet about the function and regulation of class II Arfs, Arf4 and Arf5. In this study, we show that Arf proteins show class‐specific dynamic behaviour. Moreover, unlike class I Arfs, membrane association of class II Arfs is resistant to inhibition of large Arf GEFs by Brefeldin A. Through the construction of Arf chimeric proteins, evidence is provided that the N‐terminal amphipathic helix and a class‐specific residue in the conserved interswitch domain determine the membrane‐binding properties of class I and class II Arf proteins. Our results show that fundamental differences exist in behaviour and regulation of these small GTPases.
Erectile Dysfunction Might Be Associated with Chronic Periodontal Disease: Two Ends of the Cardiovascular Spectrum
Authors: Zadik Yehuda , Bechor Ron , Galor Shay , Justo Dan , Heruti Rafi J.
Published: December 2008

Introduction

Both chronic periodontal disease (CPD) and erectile dysfunction (ED) are associated with cardiovascular disease and its risk factors, including smoking and diabetes mellitus. However, the association between ED and CPD has never been studied.

Aim

To study the association between ED and CPD.

Main Outcome Measures

Prevalence of ED, prevalence of CPD, ED severity.

Methods:

The study population consisted of 305 men who filled the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) questionnaire in order to detect ED and assess its severity, and underwent a pair of standardized posterior dental bitewing radiographs in order to detect CPD. SHIM questionnaire scores 21 or less represented ED. Alveolar bone loss of ≥6 mm represented CPD.

Results

The mean age of included men was 39.5 ± 6.7 years. Overall, 70 (22.9%) men had ED and 13 (4.3%) had CPD. CPD was significantly more prevalent among men with mild ED (P = 0.004) and moderate to severe ED (P = 0.007) in comparison to men without ED.

Conclusions

ED might be associated with CPD. These preliminary findings are consistent with theories that associate these conditions with systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and atherosclerosis.
Taurine uptake across the human intestinal brush‐border membrane is via two transporters: H+‐coupled PAT1 (SLC36A1) and Na+‐ and Cl−‐dependent TauT (SLC6A6)
Authors: Anderson Catriona M. H. , Howard Alison , Walters Julian R. F. , Ganapathy Vadivel , Thwaites David T.
Published: December 2008

Taurine is an essential amino acid in some mammals and is conditionally essential in humans. Taurine is an abundant component of meat and fish‐based foods and has been used as an oral supplement in the treatment of disorders such as cystic fibrosis and hypertension. The purpose of this investigation was to identity the relative contributions of the solute transporters involved in taurine uptake across the luminal membrane of human enterocytes. Distinct transport characteristics were revealed following expression of the candidate solute transporters inXenopus laevisoocytes: PAT1 (SLC36A1) is a H+‐coupled, pH‐dependent, Na+‐ and Cl−‐independent, low‐affinity, high‐capacity transporter for taurine and β‐alanine; TauT (SLC6A6) is a Na+‐ and Cl−‐dependent, high‐affinity, low‐capacity transporter of taurine and β‐alanine; ATB0,+(SLC6A14) is a Na+‐ and Cl−‐dependent, high‐affinity, low‐capacity transporter which accepts β‐alanine but not taurine. Taurine uptake across the brush‐border membrane of human intestinal Caco‐2 cell monolayers showed characteristics of both PAT1‐ and TauT‐mediated transport. Under physiological conditions, Cl−‐dependent TauT‐mediated uptake predominates at low taurine concentrations, whereas at higher concentrations typical of diet, Cl−‐independent PAT1‐mediated uptake is the major absorptive mechanism. Real‐time PCR analysis of human duodenal and ileal biopsy samples demonstrates that PAT1, TauT and ATB0,+mRNA are expressed in each tissue but to varying degrees. In conclusion, this study is the first to demonstrate both taurine uptake via PAT1 and functional coexpression of PAT1 and TauT at the apical membrane of the human intestinal epithelium. PAT1 may be responsible for bulk taurine uptake during a meal whereas TauT may be important for taurine supply to the intestinal epithelium and for taurine capture between meals.
Inclusion of Transverse Shear Deformation in a Beam Element Based on the Absolute Nodal Coordinate Formulation
Authors: Mikkola Aki , Dmitrochenko Oleg , Matikainen Marko
Published: December 2008

In this study, a procedure to account for transverse shear deformation in the absolute nodal coordinate formulation is presented. In the absolute nodal coordinate formulation, shear deformation is usually defined by employing the slope vectors in the element transverse direction. This leads to the description of deformation modes that are, in practical problems, associated with high frequencies. These high frequencies, in turn, complicate the time integration procedure burdening numerical performance. In this study, the description of transverse shear deformation is accounted for in a two-dimensional beam element based on the absolute nodal coordinate formulation without the use of transverse slope vectors. In the introduced shear deformable beam element, slope vectors are replaced by vectors that describe the orientation of the beam cross-section. This procedure represents a simple enhancement that does not decrease the accuracy or numerical performance of elements based on the absolute nodal coordinate formulation. Numerical results are presented in order to demonstrate the accuracy of the introduced element in static and dynamic cases. The numerical results obtained using the introduced element agree with the results obtained using previously proposed shear deformable beam elements.
Plasmids Imparting Sulfonamide Resistance in
Escherichia coli
: Implications for Persistence
Authors: Bean David C. , Livermore David M. , Hall Lucinda M. C.
Published: December 2008

Sulfonamide resistance remains prevalent among clinical isolates of
Escherichia coli
in the United Kingdom, despite a dramatic (>97%) national decline in the rate of prescription of sulfonamides in the 1990s. To investigate potential mechanisms accounting for this persistence, we characterized plasmids carrying
sul2
, the most prevalent determinant of sulfonamide resistance. Among 33 conjugative and 5 nonconjugative plasmids carrying
sul2
, resistance to other antimicrobial agents was common, but the spectrum of resistance profiles was diverse: 82%, 74%, and 45% carried resistance to ampicillin, streptomycin, and trimethoprim, respectively. Resistance to mercury was carried by 33% of the plasmids, but none conferred significant resistance to silver or to any of three disinfectants tested. The potential virulence genes
iutA
(aerobactin system) and
traT
(serum survival) were carried by 21% and 36% of the plasmids, respectively. The 33 conjugative plasmids belonged to five different incompatibility groups, FIB, B/O, I1, K/B, and P (42%, 33%, 9%, 3% and 3%, respectively), with 3 plasmids being unassigned, and to 19 similarity groups on the basis of their restriction profiles. The sequences flanking
sul2
were diverse and suggested more than one mechanism of genetic mobility. The five nonconjugative plasmids were all related to p9123 (pBP1), which was previously found to confer a fitness advantage on its host. We propose that the persistence of
sul2
, despite the reduced rate of prescription of sulfonamides, is due to a combination of coselection by antibiotics still in common use, a lack of a selective disadvantage in
sul2
carriage, and the genetic mobility of
sul2
.
Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Caspofungin in Neonates and Infants Less than 3 Months of Age
Authors: Sáez-Llorens Xavier , Macias Mercedes , Maiya Padmanabha , Pineros Juan , Jafri Hasan S. , Chatterjee Archana , Ruiz Gloria , Raghavan Janaki , Bradshaw Susan K. , Kartsonis Nicholas A. , Sun Peng , Strohmaier Kim M. , Fallon Marissa , Bi Sheng , Stone Julie A. , Chow Joseph W.
Published: December 2008

Candidainfections represent a major threat in neonatal intensive care units. This is the first prospective study to obtain caspofungin plasma levels and safety data for neonates and very young infants. Patients of <3 months of age receiving intravenous amphotericin B for documented or highly suspected candidiasis were enrolled in a single-dose (n= 6) or subsequent multiple-dose (n= 12) panel; all received caspofungin at 25 mg/m2once daily as a 1-hour infusion. Caspofungin plasma levels were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography and compared to historical data from adults. Patient chronological ages ranged from 1 to 11 weeks, and weights ranged from 0.68 to 3.8 kg. Gestational ages ranged from 24 to 41 weeks. Geometric mean (GM) peak (C1 h) and trough (C24 h) caspofungin levels were 8.2 and 1.8 μg/ml, respectively, on day 1, and 11.1 and 2.4 μg/ml, respectively, on day 4. GM ratios forC1 handC24 hfor neonates/infants relative to adults receiving caspofungin at 50 mg/day were 1.07 and 1.36, respectively, on day 1, and 1.18 and 1.21, respectively, on day 4. Clinical and laboratory adverse events occurred in 17 (94%) and 8 (44%) patients, respectively. Five patients (28%) had serious adverse events, none of which were considered drug related. Caspofungin at 25 mg/m2once daily was well tolerated in this group of neonates/infants of <3 months of age and appears to provide relatively similar plasma exposure to that obtained in adults receiving 50 mg/day. However, the small number of patients studied precludes any definitive recommendations about caspofungin dosing for this group comprising a broad range of ages and weights.
Selection of
Plasmodium falciparum
Multidrug Resistance Gene 1 Alleles in Asexual Stages and Gametocytes by Artemether-Lumefantrine in Nigerian Children with Uncomplicated Falciparum Malaria
Authors: Happi C. T. , Gbotosho G. O. , Folarin O. A. , Sowunmi A. , Hudson T. , O'Neil M. , Milhous W. , Wirth D. F. , Oduola A. M. J.
Published: December 2008

We assessed
Plasmodium falciparum mdr1
(Pf
mdr1
) gene polymorphisms and copy numbers as well as
P. falciparum
Ca
2+
ATPase (Pf
ATPase6
) gene polymorphisms in 90 Nigerian children presenting with uncomplicated falciparum malaria and enrolled in a study of the efficacy of artemether-lumefantrine (AL). The nested PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism and the quantitative real-time PCR methodologies were used to determine the alleles of the Pf
mdr1
and Pf
ATPase6
genes and the Pf
mdr1
copy number variation, respectively, in patients samples collected prior to treatment and at the reoccurrence of parasites during a 42-day follow-up. The Pf
mdr1
haplotype
86N-184F-1246D
was significantly associated (
P
< 0.00001) with treatment failures and was selected for among posttreatment samples obtained from patients with newly acquired or recrudescing infections (
P
< 0.00001; χ
2
= 36.5) and in gametocytes (log rank statistic = 5;
P
= 0.0253) after treatment with AL. All pre- and posttreatment samples as well as gametocytes harbored a single copy of the Pf
mdr1
gene and the wild-type allele (L89) at codon 89 of the Pf
ATPase6
gene. These findings suggest that polymorphisms in the Pf
mdr1
gene are under AL selection pressure. Pf
mdr1
polymorphisms may result in reduction in the therapeutic efficacy of this newly adopted combination treatment for uncomplicated falciparum malaria in Saharan countries of Africa.
Mobilization of
qnrB2
and IS
CR1
in Plasmids
Authors: Chen Ying-Tsong , Liao Tsai-Lien , Liu Yen-Ming , Lauderdale Tsai-Ling , Yan Jing-Jou , Tsai Shih-Feng
Published: December 2008

The DNA sequences of two IncHI2 plasmids, pEC-IMP and pEC-IMPQ, from metallo-β-lactamase-producing
Enterobacter cloacae
clinical isolates were determined. The two conjugative plasmids are almost identical, but pEC-IMPQ carries an additional segment containing an
orf513
(IS
CR1
), a truncated 3′ conserved sequence, and a
qnrB2
. Comparative analyses provide support for the proposed IS
CR1
-mediated gene mobilization.
Virologic Failure in First-Line Human Immunodeficiency Virus Therapy with a CCR5 Entry Inhibitor, Aplaviroc, plus a Fixed-Dose Combination of Lamivudine-Zidovudine: Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor Resistance Regardless of Envelope Tropism
Authors: Demarest James F. , Amrine-Madsen Heather , Irlbeck David M. , Kitrinos Kathryn M.
Published: December 2008

The CCR102881 (ASCENT) study evaluated the antiviral activity of the novel CCR5 entry inhibitor aplaviroc plus a fixed-dose combination of lamivudine-zidovudine (Combivir) in drug-naïve human immunodeficiency virus type 1-infected subjects with only CCR5-tropic virus detected in plasma. Although the trial was stopped prematurely due to idiosyncratic hepatotoxicity, eight subjects met protocol-defined virologic failure criteria. Clonal analyses of the viral envelope tropism, aplaviroc susceptibility, andenvsequencing were performed on plasma at baseline and at the time of virologic failure. Molecular evolutionary analyses were also performed. The majority of the subjects with virologic failure (six of eight) acquired the lamivudine resistance-associated mutation M184V, and none had evidence of reduced susceptibility to aplaviroc at the time of virologic failure, even at the clonal level. Six subjects with virologic failure maintained CCR5 tropism, while two exhibited a change in population tropism readout to dual/mixed-tropic with R5X4-tropic clones detected prior to therapy. Two evolutionary patterns were observed: five subjects had no evidence of population turnover, while three subjects had multiple lines of evidence forenvpopulation turnover. The acquisition of the M184V mutation is the primary characteristic of virologic failure in first-line therapy with aplaviroc plus lamivudine-zidovudine, regardless of the envelope tropism.
The Host Defense Peptide LL-37 Selectively Permeabilizes Apoptotic Leukocytes
Authors: Björstad Åse , Askarieh Galia , Brown Kelly L. , Christenson Karin , Forsman Huamei , Önnheim Karin , Li Hsin-Ni , Teneberg Susann , Maier Olaf , Hoekstra Dick , Dahlgren Claes , Davidson Donald J. , Bylund Johan
Published: December 2008

LL-37 is a cationic host defense peptide that is highly expressed during acute inflammation and that kills bacteria by poorly defined mechanisms, resulting in permeabilization of microbial membranes. High concentrations of LL-37 have also been reported to have cytotoxic effects against eukaryotic cells, but the peptide is clearly capable of differentiating between membranes with different compositions (eukaryotic versus bacterial membranes). Eukaryotic cells such as leukocytes change their membrane composition during apoptotic cell death, when they are turned into nonfunctional but structurally intact entities. We tested whether LL-37 exerted specific activity on apoptotic cells and found that the peptide selectively permeabilized the membranes of apoptotic human leukocytes, leaving viable cells unaffected. This activity was seemingly analogous to the direct microbicidal effect of LL-37, in that it was rapid, independent of known surface receptors and/or active cell signaling, and inhibitable by serum components such as high-density lipoprotein. A similar selective permeabilization of apoptotic cells was recorded for both NK cells and neutrophils. In the latter cell type, LL-37 permeabilized both the plasma and granule membranes, resulting in the release of both lactate dehydrogenase and myeloperoxidase. Apoptosis is a way for inflammatory cells to die silently and minimize collateral tissue damage by retaining tissue-damaging and proinflammatory substances within intact membranes. Permeabilization of apoptotic leukocytes by LL-37, accompanied by the leakage of cytoplasmic as well as intragranular molecules, may thus shift the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory signals and in this way be of importance for the termination of acute inflammation.
Maximal exercise studies in Scottish athletes.
Authors: Leitch A. G. , Clancy L.
Published: December 2008

We have studied maximal oxygen uptake, maximal heart rate, maximal exercise ventilation and the ventilatory response to exercise in 24 male and 14 female Scottish athletes. The values for maximal oxygen uptake are similar to those reported in other international studies. In eight athletes repeat measurements of maximal oxygen uptake 7-11 months after the initial study showed no change from the initial values. The values for the ventilatory response to exercise in our athletes were normal. The relationship is discussed between maximal oxygen uptake and ventilatory responses to exercise, hypoxia and hypercapnia and it is suggested that these may be related to athletic event.
A review of the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and behavioral effects of procaine in thoroughbred horses.
Authors: Tobin T. , Blake J. W.
Published: December 2008

Since procaine has both local anaesthetic and central stimulant actions its presence in the blood or urine of racing horses is forbidden. After rapid intravenous injection of procaine HC1 (2.5 mg/Kg) in thoroughbred mares plasma levels of this drug fell rapidly (t 1/2 alpha = 5 min) and then more slowly (t 1/2 beta = 50.2 min). These kinetics were well fitted by a two compartment open model (Model I). This model gave an apparent Vdbeta for procaine in the horse of about 3,500 litres. Since procaine was about 45% bound to equine plasma protein this gives a true Vdbeta for procaine of about 6,500 litres. After subcutaneous injection of procaine HC1 (3.3 mg/Kg) plasma levels peaked at about 400 ng/ml and then declined with a half-life of about 75 minutes. These data were well fitted by Model I when this was modified to include simple first order absorption (K = 0.048 min-1) from the subcutaneous injection site (Model II). After intramuscular injection of procaine penicillin (33,000 I.U./Kg) plasma levels reached a peak at about 270 ng/ml and then declined with a half-life of about 9 hours. These data were approximately fitted by Model II assuming a first order rate constant for absorption of procaine of 0.0024 min-1. After intramuscular injection of procaine HC1 (10 mg/Kg) plasma levels of procaine peaked rapidly at about 600 ng/ml but thereafter declined slowly (+ 1/2 = 2 hours). A satisfactory pharmaco-kinetic model for this intramuscular data could not be developed. An approximation of these data was obtained by assuming the existence of two intramuscular drug compartments, one containing readily absorbable drug and the other poorly absorbable drug (Model III). After intra-articular administration of procaine (0.33 mg/Kg) plasma levels of this drug reached a peak at about 17 ng/ml and then declined with a half-life of about 2 hours. These data were not modelled.
Doping control in Japan. An automated extraction procedure for the doping test.
Authors: Nakajima T. , Matsumoto T.
Published: December 2008

Horse racing in Japan consists of two systems, the National (10 racecourses) and the Regional public racing (32 racecourses) having about 2,500 racing meetings in total per year. Urine or saliva samples for dope testing are collected by the officials from thw winner, second and third, and transported to the laboratory in a frozen state. In 1975, 76, 117 samples were analyzed by this laboratory. The laboratory provides the following four methods of analysis, which are variously combined by request. (1) Method for detection of drugs extracted by chloroform from alkalinized sample. (2) Methods for detection of camphor and its derivatives. (3) Method for detection of barbiturates. (4) Method for detection of ethanol. These methods consist of screening, mainly by thin layer chromatography and confirmatory tests using ultra violet spectrophotometry, gas chromatography and mass spectrometry combined with gas chromatography. In the screening test of doping drugs, alkalinized samples are extracted with chloroform. In order to automate the extraction procedure, the authors contrived a new automatic extractor. They also devised a means of pH adjustment of horse urine by using buffer solution and an efficient mechanism of evaporation of organic solvent. Analytical data obtained by the automatic extractor are presented in this paper. In 1972, we started research work to automate the extraction procedure in method (1) above, and the Automatic Extractor has been in use in routine work since last July. One hundred and twnety samples per hour are extracted automatically by three automatic extractors. The analytical data using this apparatus is presented below.
Will the olympics survive?.
Authors: Khosla T.
Published: December 2008

The United States of America dominated 58 events in athletics, field and swimming, which between them accounted for 35 per cent of all events in the Munich Olympiad. 1972; these events favour taller individuals. But, in 25 per cent of other events (1) cycling, (2) fencing, (3) gymnastics, (4) judo, (5) weightlifting and (6) Graeco Roman wrestling the U.S.A. did not win a single medal. The failure of the U.S.A. to maintain her lead in Munich was largely due to weaknesses in these other events in many of which the potential medallists can be derived from the lower half of the height distribution (events 3 to 6). These weaknesses are Russia's strength and they continued to remain unstrengthened at Montreal. Also, the domination held by the U.S.A. in swimming was seriously challenged by East Germany. The present trends indicate that the U.S.A.'s ranking is likely to slip further to the third position in Moscow 1980. Factors inhibiting the survival of the Olympics are pointed.
Effects of exercise on free serum cholesterol.
Authors: Montgomery D. L. , Ismail A. H.
Published: December 2008

Two age groups (young and old, n = 12) matched for physical fitness and two physical fitness groups (high and old, n = 12) matched for age participated in a four month physical fitness programme. Blood samples were drawn at four stages of metabolic stress at the pre-test and five stages at the post-test. The blood samples were analyzed by colorimetric methods for total cholesterol and free cholesterol. Statistical analysis revealed that: (1) Short-term exercise increased total cholesterol, free cholesterol, and the percent free cholesterol from the resting state to the submaximal and maximal exercise states. (2) There was no change in free serum cholesterol from the pre- to post-tests. (3) The high-fit group, compared with the low-fit group, had a lower free cholesterol level but had similar percent free cholesterol values. (4) There was no significant difference between age groups for either total serum cholesterol, free cholesterol, or the percent free cholesterol levels.
A study of potential Olympic swimmers. Part 2. Changes due to three months intensive training.
Authors: Kellett D. W. , Willan P. L. , Bagnall K. M.
Published: December 2008

Anthropometric and physiological measurements were recorded for a group of exceptional young swimmers undergoing an intensive training programme over 3 months. The observed changes are presented and are discussed in relation to the training undertaken, and are compared with expected changes due to normal growth. Some of the physiological parameters measured showed marked changes: average physical work capacity decreased significantly, while the physical fitness index improved. Many of the anthropometric changes were small, but a significant increase in lean body mass occurred in both boys and girls, and in both groups the average weight gain was greater than that expected. In individuals subjected to rigorous training significant changes in anthropometric and physiological parameters over and above the expected changes due to normal growth and development occur relatively quickly within a period of 3 months.
Serum insulin and glucose response to graded exercise in adults. Part II. The effect of exercise conditioning.
Authors: White J. A. , Ismail A. H. , Bradley C. A.
Published: December 2008

The effect of conditioning to severe exercise upon serum immunoreactive insulin levels (IRI) and serum glucose concentrations (GC) was studied in active and sedentary groups of middle-aged men. The responses of serum IRI and serum GC were determined during graded cycle ergometer exercise which required similar low and high relative work intensities, before (pre) and after (post) a four month physical fitness programme. Both groups demonstrated a marked decline in serum IRI during high intensity exercise from pre to post tests, and a tendency to maintain serum, GC (sedentary group) or elevate serum GC (active group) during exercise, following the conditioning programme. The data provides evidence of a bi-directional response of serum IRI and serum GC to graded exercise, with only minor modifications in the response patterns resulting from exercise conditioning.
Chronic respiratory failure and physical reconditioning: case study of an elderly obese woman.
Authors: Marley W. P. , Barry A. J. , Posner J. D.
Published: December 2008

A case is described of a 67 year old obese white woman who had a history of multiple medical problems and who was in chronic respiratory failure but responded poorly to intermittent positive pressure breathing, chest physiotherapy, and supplementary oxygen. She was treated successfully with a 600 k.cal diet and a 26-day physical reconditioning programme. Reconditioning techniques included free and treadmill walking, stair climbing, bench stepping, light calisthenics, and breathing retraining. Improvements were noticed in blood gases, spirometry, electrocardiogram, motor coordination, and physical working capacity.
Determinations of performance and mechanical efficiency in nordic skiing.
Authors: Niinimaa V. , Shephard R. J. , Dyon M.
Published: December 2008

Determinants of performance and mechanical efficiency of effort have been made on a group of ten male nordic skiers, all participants in the University of Toronto ski-team. The oxygen intake at the maximum attainable speed of skiing on a level course averaged 89.6 percent of the maximum oxygen intake observed during uphill treadmill running; the latter (average 63.9 ml.kg-1 min-1) may be compared with values greater than 80 ml.kg1 min-1 for international competitors. Maximum heart rates and respiratory gas exchange ratios were generally lower during skiing than running, and it is suggested that the maximum oxygen intake attained during skiing is limited by the individual's skill. In support of this the more experienced skiers were able to reach close to 100 percent of the treadmill maximum oxygen intake during level skiing. A multiple regression analysis indicated that the skiing speed sustained over a one-hour period was related to experience of skiing, maximum oxygen intake, and the percentage of body fat. Assuming a dynamic friction coefficient of 0.075, a drag area of 0.7 m2 and a drag coefficient of 1.0, the gross mechanical efficiency of the university-class skier averaged a little under 20 percent, with a net efficiency of 21.3 percent.
Fitness test profiles and trainng intensities in skilled race-walkers.
Authors: Reilly T. , Hopkins J. , Howlett N.
Published: December 2008

A broad profile of national standard race-walkers was obtained. Subjects were taller and had more body fat than competitive runners of comparable distance as found in the literature. Pulmonary function, blood pressure and maximal heart rates were similar to normal sedentary values. The group's somatotype was 2.5 : 3 : 4, low mesomorphy being reflected in inferior strength measures. Haematological status corresponded to the runners of Brotherhood et al (1975). Predicted VO2 max (x = 70 ml kg min-1) was not related to performance. Time to exhaustion on a treadmill test correlated with 20 km race time (R = -.94; p less than .001). Multiple regression equations derived to predict race performance from combinations of 4 to 6 personality traits were non-significant. Mean heart rate in typical training regimes was 167 beats min-1 for interval training at 13 kmh-1 on the track and 134 beats min-1 over a 2.1 h road walk at 10.3 kmh-1. Physiological strain was greater in uphill than in level or downhill walking (P less than .001).
Respiratory performance and grip strength tests in Indian school bodys of different socio-economic status.
Authors: De A. K. , Debnath P. K. , Dey N. K. , Nagchaudhuri J.
Published: December 2008

Physical efficiency tests were performed on urban school boys drawn from high socio-economic status in comparison to rural school boys. The height and weight records of the subjects indicating growing process showed that the rural boys attained less physical growth than their urban counterparts. The Vital Capacity and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate data expressed either per unit of height or body surface area were significantly lower in rual boys. these findings indicated a poor development of the thorax in the rural group. However, the determined grip strengths for both the group were similar. The grip test might reflect improvement of muscle mass in case of rural boys as a result of regular physical activity employing the arm muscles.
Joint laxity and osteoarthrosis: a radiological survey of female physical education specialists.
Authors: Bird H. A. , Hudson A. , Eastmond C. J. , Wright V.
Published: December 2008

Three hundred and sixty-four female specialist teachers of physical education who qualified between 1935 and 1950 agreed to have x-rays of the lumbar spine, hips and knees. Fifty-two has osteoarthrosis of the hip, 65 osteoarthrosis of the knee and 221 degenerative change in the spine. Overall osteoarthrosis of the knee was significantly less common than in a comparable sample from the general population (p < 0.001), severe or moderate osteoarthrosis being equally common in both groups but minor in minimal osteoarthrosis being much less common in the teachers. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of osteoarthrosis of the hip between the two populations though severe osteoarthrosis of the hip was slightly more common in the teachers.
The relationship of physique and body composition to strength in a group of physical education students.
Authors: Bale P.
Published: December 2008

Fifty-three specialist women physical education students were measured anthropometrically and from these measurements somatotype and body composition were estimated. Leg, back and grip strength dynamometers were used to measure strength indices. Arm strength was calculated from each subject's pull-ups and push-ups and lung capacity was measured using a spirometer. The somatotype ratings and percent fat measurements indicate that the P.E. students are generally more muscular and less fat for their age than non-P.E. students. There was a strong relationship between percent fat and the endomorphy rating and a moderate relationship between lean body weight and mesomorphy. The moderate relationship of the strength variables with the muscular rating, whether expressed as mesomorphy or lean body weight, suggests that the higher a subject's muscular component the greater their dynamic strength.
A comparison of the efficacy of naproxen sodium and a paracetamol/dextropropoxyphene combination in the treatment of soft-tissue disorders.
Authors: Abbott C. J. , Bouchier-Hayes T. A. , Hunt H. A.
Published: December 2008

Ninety-eight patients were admitted to a single-blind parallel study comparing the efficacy of naproxen sodium with a paracetamol/dextropropoxyphene combination in the treatment of soft-tissue disorders. The two study groups were well matched in all respects. After seven days of treatment patients in the naproxen sodium group had less residual symptoms and more of them were considered cured. These patients also had a significantly lower mean-pain-score, tended to have less daily symptoms and recorded a significantly greater initial improvement in their condition. Fewer side-effects were recorded by the naproxen sodium-treated patients. One patient from each group withdrew from the study because of side-effects. It was concluded that in the treatment of non-articular soft-tissue disorders the use of a rapidly-acting withdrew anti-inflammatory drug, naproxen sodium, gave a better clinical response than did treatment with a simple analgesic combination.
An inexpensive method of determining body composition by underwater weighing.
Authors: Clark B. A. , Mayhew J. L.
Published: December 2008

A simple inexpensive densiometric method of determining body composition was compared to a more sophisticated one. Body density (Db), lean body mass (LBM), and relative fat content (%fat) were determined for 16 volunteers, 9 men and 7 women using a simple T-bar apparatus suspended in a swimming pool, and an electronic apparatus in conjunction with a metal tank. Residual volumes (RV) used in the determinations were estimated from age and height (RV-1), held constant at 1,300 ml for men and 1.000 ml for women (RV-2), and measured by the nitrogen washout method (RV-3). No significant difference was observed between the two methods of weighing, although significant differences did exist among the RV techniques. It was concluded that a simplified method of determining body composition is acceptable for screening purposes, but long term studies might require more sophisticated techniques with RV measured at the time of weighing.
Prognosis in myocardial infarction--the benefits of exercise as seen in non-randomised trials.
Authors: Shephard R. J. , Kavanagh T. , Kennedy J. , Qureshi S.
Published: December 2008

Previous uncontrolled studies suggest that exercise rehabilitation reduces recurrence rates in post-myocardial infarction patients. Six hundred and ten consecutive post-coronary patients referred to an exercise rehabilitation programme have been followed for an average of 36.5 months (1-8 years). Total deaths amounted to 36 (1.89% p.a.) of which 23 were cardiac deaths, with an annual death rate averaging only 0.85% after the first year of conditioning had been completed. There were also a total of 21 non-fatal recurrences of infarction. comparison has been made with 700 patients enrolled in the Health Insurance Plan of New York. On the basis of smoothed probabilities for the risk factors reported in the New York series, we should have seen 89 deaths (P less than 0.001). Correcting for differences between the two groups (age and number of diabetics) gives a predicted mortality for the Toronto series of 63.5 deaths (3.42% p.a.). This discrepancy in favour of the exercised group is significant in terms of an infinitely large control population (P less than 0.001) and also sample sizes of 610 exercised and 700 control patients (0.01 greater than P greater than 0.001). Unfortunately, formally to prove such a 45% reduction in mortality by way of a randomised control trial would be extremely costly, possibly prohibitively so.
Association football injuries to the brain. A preliminary report.
Authors: Tysvaer A. , Storli O.
Published: December 2008

In 1975 the authors sent a questionnaire to all players in the Norwegian First Division League Clubs to record the incidence of head injuries due to heading. The conclusion of the questionnaire is that there seems to be a low percentage of serious head injuries. None of the players had been operated on for epi- or subdural hematoma or other brain damage and only a few have had concussion due to heading. In sixty per cent of the players a full neurological examination and EEG recording was undertaken. The result of these studies will be published in a subsequent article.
Validity of the Astrand-Ryhming nomogram for predicting maximal oxygen intake.
Authors: Cink R. E. , Thomas T. R.
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the validity of the predicted VO2 max from the Astrand-Ryhming nomogram, using the cycle ergometer as the sole exercise mode and following the recommended submaximal test protocol. In addition, two sets of age correction factors were compared for accuracy. Using the Astrand age correction factors, the SEE of the predicted VO2 max for the 40 male subjects was .42 L.min-1 or 5.7 ml.kg-1.min-1, (r = .76 and .83, respectively); there was no significant difference between the measured and the predicted means. Although virtually identical SEE and r were found when applying the von Dobeln age correction factors, a significantly lower predicted mean was found (p less than .05), which indicated a consistent tendency to underestimate the actual VO2 max. These results suggest that the Astrand age correction factors should be used in conjunction with the Astrand-Ryhming nomogram, especially when classifying subjects into various fitness classifications.
Post-competition blood lactate concentrations in competitive track cyclists
Authors: Burke E. R. , Fleck S. , Dickson T.
Published: December 2008

Blood lactate (BL) concentrations were measured in 19 competitive cyclists after 4 competitive track events (kilometre, individual and team pursuit, and match sprints) during the US National Championships. A total of 34 samples were drawn. Our purpose was to investigate the share of anaerobic metabolism in the various events. The greatest mean BL concentration (16.94 mM/l) was found after the kilometre, with one individual recording a value of 18.22 mM/l. A low correlation coefficient for BL versus total riding time was found in the 6 samples drawn during the kilometre (r=0.51) and the 12 samples drawn during the individual pursuit (r=0.44). BL concentrations in all four events were not significantly different (p<0.05) from each other. High values for BL were found in the match sprints (7 samples, mean 13.65 mM/l) an event lasting approximately 11 seconds. The mean BL in the kilometre (6 samples, 16.94 mM/l), individual pursuit (12 samples, 15.18 mM/l), and team pursuit (5 samples, 12.08 mM/l) compare favourably to the values reported for a variety of exercise modes of similar time, except running. While there is increased muscle mass in running, this fact alone may not explain the lower BL values in cycling. It is suggested that lower BL levels may be attributed to prolonged contraction-relaxation phase during cycling causing decreased blood flow to the leg.
Maximal anaerobic power in national level Indian players.
Authors: Bhanot J. L. , Sidhu L. S.
Published: December 2008

The comparative study of aerobic power in different sports was conducted on 99 National Senior as well as National Junior players specialised in hockey and football, field games; volleyball and basketball, court games. The National Seniors were 27 hockey and 16 volleyball players, whereas, 32 football and 24 basketball players were the National Juniors. The maximal anaerobic power of the players was determined from maximal vertical velocity and body weight by the methods of margaria. The football players have been found to be highest followed by hockey, volleyball and basketball players in vertical velocity. It is observed that field game players are higher than the court game players in vertical velocity and that volleyball players possess higher maximum anaerobic power than football, hockey and basketball players.
Physical work capacity and lung function in competitive swimmers.
Authors: McKay E. E. , Braund R. W. , Chalmers R. J. , Williams C. S.
Published: December 2008

Competitive swimmers require a high aerobic capacity to support the sustained performance of severe exercise. Maximal oxygen uptake values and blood lactate concentrations were measured in ten male and fifteen female swimmers from the Scottish National and Youth Squads 1981-82. Lung function tests were also performed to determine pulmonary efficiency. The results of these studies were compared with other investigations of international competitive swimmers and indicate a high level of fitness among Scottish national swimmers.
Effect of physical conditioning on blood lactate disappearance after supramaximal exercise.
Authors: Evans B. W. , Cureton K. J.
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of physical conditioning on the rate of blood lactate disappearance during recovery from supramaximal exercise. The rate of blood lactate disappearance was determined in 11 female and 4 male subjects before and after a 6-week conditioning programme. Blood samples were taken during the 30 minutes following supramaximal exercise during both passive (resting) and active recoveries. Pre-test active recovery was performed at 25% VO2 max; post-test active recovery was performed at both the same absolute and relative intensities (% VO2 max) as during the pre-test. Eight of the subjects trained 4 days/week for 6 weeks with high-intensity interval bicycle ergometer exercise, and 7 subjects served as controls. The conditioning programme significantly (p less than .05) increased VO2 max by 6.7 ml/kg.min (15%) and work capacity on the cycle ergometer by 2.8 minutes (27%). Physical conditioning did not affect significantly (p less than .05) the rate of blood lactate disappearance measured during passive recovery or during active recovery at the same absolute intensity, but increased significantly (p less than .05) the rate of blood lactate disappearance during active recovery performed at the same relative exercise intensity. The increased disappearance rate following conditioning was attributed to the higher absolute intensity of recovery work performed.
Immediate effects of heavy exercise on the circulating thyroid hormones.
Authors: Siddiqui A. R. , Hinnefeld R. B. , Dillon T. , Judson W. E.
Published: December 2008

Sera from 20 patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease were measured for thyroxine (T4), tri-iodothyronine (T3), tri-iodothyronine uptake ratio (T3UR), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and reverse tri-iodothyronine (rT3), before and after maximal or near-maximal exercise. On the average the patients achieved 92% (rang 68-108) of the predicted maximum heart rate. There were no statistically significant differences between the pre- and the post-exercise serum levels of thyroid hormones. When five patients who achieved less than 90% of the predicted maximum heart rate were excluded, the results remained unchanged. It appears that the circulating thyroid hormones are not acutely affected after maximal or near-maximal exercise; however, the patient population was highly select.
Estimation of swimmers' physical condition by a swimming recovery test.
Authors: Pilardeau P. , Vaysse J. , Engel J. C. , Jones A. , Garnier M.
Published: December 2008

In this article, the authors propose an original analysis of the cardiac frequency after training. The study of rapid diminution (alactic oxygen debt) and of plateau (lactic debt in oxygen) make possible adjustment of the training. The variations observed in young swimmers during their sporting season and note a tangible improvement of the two components for recovery.
Cinematographical analysis of javelin throwing techniques of decathletes.
Authors: Kunz H. , Kaufmann D. A.
Published: December 2008

Th purpose of this study was to analyse by correlational methods the biomechanical factors involved in achieving the maximal distance thrown in the javelin event. Twelve Swiss decathletes and two world class javelin specialists were filmed by a high speed (102 fps) 16 mm camera throwing a total of 20 trials. The co-ordinates of the resulting cyclograms were processed by a computer programme and the results submitted to correlational analysis. The highest correlation was 0.76 between velocity at release and distance thrown. Other negative correlations were found between distance thrown and angle of the javelin with the horizontal (0.52) and distance thrown and throwing hand to contralateral foot distance during the last strides (0.67). Javelin specialists, who had longer throws than decathletes (mean = 79.03 m versus 54.29 m), had a smaller difference between the angle of attack and angle of release. The results suggest that in order to attain maximal distance thrown the javelin thrower should achieve positive acceleration during the running approach, effective thrusting with th right leg on the penultimate stride and carry the javelin during the last strides at the optimal angle of release (32 to 36 degrees).
A simplistic approach to structural dysplasia assessment: description and validation.
Authors: Battinelli T.
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to formulate a simplistic method of assessing human structural dysplasia and to validate a classification system that would objectively categorize the type and extent of such dysplasia through the use of indices. Anthropometric measurements were taken from a sample of 222 male college students, length/breadth ratios were formulated, and upper/lower body classifications were made in terms of type and subtype dysplasia. Correlation validation results were highly significant. Body composition data information was also provided for descriptive purposes.
Epidemiology of injuries in typical Scandinavian team sports.
Authors: Jørgensen U.
Published: December 2008

An investigation by questionnaire was undertaken in a group of 480 football players and 288 handball players (768 players). Of these 803 were injured, giving a player incidence of 4.1 injury/1000 football hours and 8.3 injury/1000 handball hours. The lower extremities were involved in 82% of the football injuries, whereas handball injuries were evenly distributed on both upper and lower extremities. The football injury prevalence was 0.36 per player, the handball injury prevalence 0.71 per player. Medical attention was given to 62% of the injured footballers and 47% of the injured handballers. Based on the injury pattern, some modifications to the rules and equipment in the two sports is suggested: The "boot-type" footwear should be tried out, and the soles in both games should correspond to the different playing surfaces that may be encountered. Stricter enforcement of the rules, and the use of a maximum size playing ground in both sports. Last, but not least a modification of the football rules concerning substitution is a must.
Maximum oxygen consumption rate and dihydrogenated ergot alkaloids in humans.
Authors: Ingemann-Hansen T. , Halkjaer-Kristensen J.
Published: December 2008

The relationship of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) with dihydrogenated ergot alkaloids was investigated in twelve young men. They were subjected to graded bicycle exercise with work loads corresponding to 75% and 120% of the load necessary to elicit VO2 max. The exercise tests were performed after intravenous administration of 2 mg dihydroergostin (DE-145) as well as after saline as control, both preparations were given double-blind. VO2 max averaged (SD) 3.36 (0.41) 1/min and no significant difference was disclosed between the DE-145 and the control situation. Normal relationships were observed between VO2 and work load, ventilation, heart rate, cardiac output, central venous pressure and acid-base data, and these relations were unaffected by DE-145 administration. Nausea was constantly seen in all subjects tested with DE-145. It is concluded, that the present dose of DE-145 has no influence on the functional capacity of the oxygen transporting system in sedentary young men.