bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Low-density, high surface area electromyography of the hamstring muscles during running and kicking
Authors: Sakthibalan S , Twycross-Lewis R , Woledge R , Hao Y , Morrissey D 
Published: January 2011

BackgroundSurface electromyography (sEMG) is used extensively in the assessment of hamstring muscle activity. Conventional sEMG techniques may not fully represent overall muscle activity, despite clinically standardised placement of electrodes. High density EMG provides more information about biopotential activity but it is limited to signal collection over a small surface area. Our work proposes a low density high surface area EMG method to analyse muscle biopotentials over an entire muscle belly.ObjectivesTo assess whether there is a pattern of EMG output over an entire muscle during running and repeated kicking.Method16 channel EMG and motion analysis data were collected for 10 healthy volunteers during treadmill running at 10 km/h, and kicking a football. Active infra-red motion analysis instrumentation was used to register limb segment movement with the raw time series EMG signals. Each EMG channel was subjected to Windowed Fourier Transform for construction of a false colour map for the hamstring. Each EMG and motion analysis channel were analysed by ANCOVA.ResultsVisual analysis showed that different areas of the hamstring muscles are active at different points in the running cycle independently of each other. Quantitative analysis within a single subject showed main effects for electrode position and stride point (p<0.001) during running. A significant interaction between stride point and electrode position was noted.ConclusionResults suggest the presence of an EMG activity pattern showing consistent variation within stride-point and channel location during running. A larger subject group is needed to further investigate EMG patterns in kicking. The scope for further research using the results of this paper as a foundation is vast, with the future inclusion of wireless EMG, electrode arrays and custom garments. The findings may lead to an application in a screening, rehabilitation and diagnosis setting.
Changes in the symptoms and ultrasound signs of achilles tendinopathy during a twelve week course of loaded eccentric training: a pilot study
Authors: Jangra A , Perry M , Maffulli N , Malliaras P , Morrissey D 
Published: January 2011

Background12 weeks of eccentric exercise has been shown to be a useful therapy for Achilles tendinopathy, but little is known of the time-course of recovery, or the nature of any structural changes during therapy.ObjectivesTo assess the time-course and pattern of Achilles tendon symptoms, thickness, stiffness, and ultrasound (US) signs during 12 weeks of eccentric exercise (EE).MethodsFive subjects of age range (mean) 38–52 (46) years with main-body AT were included. For each subject, serial measurements of VISA-A score, the presence of neovascularisation and grey-scale US signs within the tendon, and the thickness of the Achilles tendon at 3 points were recorded for the first three weeks of a twelve week EE programme.ResultsMedian VISA-A score increased from 48.5 to 54.5 (p=0.116). Median mid-tendon thickness decreased from 0.834 cm to 0.790 cm (p=0.107). A trend towards a decrease in tendon thickness was noted directly superior to the retrocalcaneal bursa and at the soleus myotendinous junction. Neovascularisation, paratenon blurring and hypoechoic areas improved in 1/3, 1/3 and 2/5 tendons respectively. No significant change occurred in median tendon stiffness.Conclusion3 weeks of EE do not produce significant changes in AT symptoms and tendon thickness or stiffness, but improve US signs and neovascularisation in some subjects. The non-significance of findings may be a type II error and further work with larger sample sizes is planned.
Platelet-rich plasma for chronic achilles tendinopathy: a double-blind randomised controlled trial with one year follow-up
Authors: de Jonge S , de Vos R J , Weir A , van Schie H T M , Bierma-Zeinstra S M A , Verhaar J A N , Weinans H , Tol J L 
Published: January 2011

IntroductionChronic Achilles tendinopathy occurs frequently and is very hard to treat. The disease involves local degeneration of tendon tissue, of which regeneration may be improved by injecting platelet-rich plasma (PRP), an increasingly used therapy for releasing growth factors into degenerative tendon. However, high-quality randomised clinical trials on this topic are lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a PRP injection in patients with chronic Achilles tendinopathy.MethodsIn this stratified, block randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial at single center 54 patients aged 18–70 years were randomised in two treatment groups. Next to an eccentric training program the patients received a blinded injection containing either PRP group or saline (placebo group). Primary outcome, the objective and validated Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) score, was assessed and ultrasound examination was performed at baseline and all follow-up appointments.ResultsAfter randomisation into the PRP group (n=27) and the placebo group (n=27) there was a complete follow-up. After one year, the mean VISA-A score improved in both the PRP-group and the placebo group. There was no significant difference in increase between both groups (adjusted between-group difference, 5.5; 95% CI, −4.9 to 15.8, p=0.292). Ultrasonographic tendon structure improved significantly in both groups, but not significant different between both groups (adjusted between-group difference, 1.2 %, 95% CI, −4.1 to 6.6, p=0.647)ConclusionOne-year follow-up analysis of the world’s first randomised controlled trial showed no evidence for the use of platelet-rich plasma injection in chronic Achilles tendinopathy. These findings are in line with our 6 months results (De Voset alJAMA 2010).
Nutrition intakes and practices of marathon swimmers
Authors: Papadopoulou S K , Xyla E , Grammatikopoulou M , Hassapidou M 
Published: January 2011

IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to assess nutritional status of swimmers, during the marathon swimming event of crossing Toroneos (26 km). The participants were 24 athletes mean aged 36.08±12.52 years. The sample was divided into two groups, according to their age: (1) 18–34 years (12 athletes) and (2) 35–68 years (12 athletes).MethodsThe athletes recorded their food intake for 3 training days and during the race. Food intake was analysed in nutrients using the Food Processor nutrition program (version 7.4, 1997, ESHA Research Salem, Oregon). For the statistical analysis, SPSS (v.15) was used.ResultsThe athletes had inadequate intake of energy during the training period. There were no differences in energy intake, according to age (2144±190 kcal for the athletes aged 18–24 years and 2181±198 kcal for the athletes aged 35–68 years). Both groups had inadequate intake of carbohydrates (4.6±0.96 g/kg body weight or 67.55±10.74% of energy intake, for the younger athletes and 4.0±1.21 g/kg BW or 68.44±9.16% of EI for the older athletes). Protein intake was 0.95±0.20 g/kg BW or 14.30±4.46% of EI, and 0.93±0.31 g/kg BW or 15.71±3.81% of EI for the younger and the older athletes, respectively. Fat intake was above the recommended values for both age groups (18–34 years: 32.70±2.60% of EI, 35–68 years: 35.13±3.10% of EI). Both groups met the recommended daily allowances (RDA) for all micronutrients, with the exception of B3, Zn and Mn.During the race, the athletes consumed 12 types of solid food and 7 types of fluids. The preferred foods were: bananas, energy gel and honey. From liquid beverages the preferred ones were: isotonic drinks, water and soft type cola. Energy intake during the race was 1048±447 kcal for the younger group and 948±504 kcal for the older group. There was no difference between the two groups in energy intake. Younger athletes maintain a stable body weight, while older ones lost 1.62±1.89 kg, during the race.ConclusionThe athletes had insufficient energy and carbohydrate intake, factors that can influence their athletic performance. There was no significant difference between the two groups in energy and macronutrient intake. However, the older athletes had higher demands during the race in energy and nutrients, due to their higher energy expenditure, as the duration of the race was longer for them and lead to a loss of body weight.
Validation of a non-radiographic ankle arthrometer
Authors: Nauck Tanja , Lohrer Heinz 
Published: January 2011

IntroductionCommonly used stress tests require radiography. The respective reliability and sensitivity is still under debate. We developed a non-radiographic ankle arthrometer to objectively assess mechanical ankle stability. The aim of the present study was to validate the ankle arthrometer in a cadaver and in vivo set up.MethodsCadaver studyNine cadaver specimens were tested under different anterior drawer load and ankle angle positions against standardised radiography. Lateral ankle ligaments were sequentially cut during testing procedure. Stiffness was calculated and the diagnostic validity of the ankle arthrometer was analysed.In vivo study23 subjects participated in the study. An orthopaedic surgeon first performed a manual anterior talar drawer test to classify the subjects’ ankles as stable or unstable. Subjects then underwent ankle arthrometer testing up to 200 N anterior drawer load twice and the stiffness were calculated.ResultsCadaver studyStable and unstable ankles were significantly differentiated by stiffness analyses (p=0.01) with the ankle arthrometer adjusted to 0 degrees of plantarflexion and 50 N anterior drawer load application.Results from the ankle arthrometer radiographs and the standardised stress testing device correlated significantly (r=0.73–0.94; p=0.00–0.03). Stiffness analyses discriminate stable and unstable ankles with a sensitivity of 91.7% and specificity of 62.5%.In vivo studyUsing the manual anterior drawer test, 16 ankles were classified as stable and 7 as unstable. Stiffness group analysis differentiated stable from unstable ankles significantly (p=0.00 and p=0.01). Test-retest demonstrated an accurate reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.80).ConclusionsValidation and reliability of the non-radiographic ankle arthrometer was demonstrated in a cadaver and in vivo set up. The ankle arthrometer stiffness analyses may be relevant to screen athletes at risk for lateral ankle instability, for follow-up studies, and to implement preventive strategies.
Clinical practice guide for muscular injuries: epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment and prevention
Authors: Valle X 
Published: January 2011

Lecture 20Muscular injuries are very frequent in sport. The epidemiological studies show that muscular injuries represent more than 30% of all injuries (1.8–2.2/1000 h of exposure), which means that a professional football team suffers an average of 12 muscular injuries per season, equivalent to more than 300 lost sporting days.Despite their high frequency and the interest in finding solutions, there is little scientific evidence on aspects as important as prevention and treatment, we will outline some weak points. Diagnosis of muscular injuries is based on clinical medicine, fundamentally on symptomatology and especially on the anamnesis of the injury mechanism and physical examination. Imaging studies through the musculoskeletal echography and magnetic resonance are complementary studies, despite the fact that they could be increasingly more useful when confirming a diagnosis or especially when giving a prognosis. There is no sufficiently specific biochemical marker available that could help with the diagnosis of the seriousness and the definitive prognosis of each of the different muscular injuries.Treatment guidelines for muscular injuries do not follow a unique model, despite the fact that the different alternatives have been modified very little. Finally, new expectations have been raised thanks to research within the field of biological repair and regeneration.Prevention programmes can reduce the incidence of suffering muscular injuries, but scientific evidence is still limited and it has only been possible to verify them in certain groups of sportsmen.The objective of this talk is to show the diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive approaches that should be taken when faced with the various muscular injuries suffered by the football players of Barcelona football club. The protocols are based on current knowledge from recent years in the daily work of dealing with these types of injuries.
Platelet-rich plasma usage in orthopaedics and sports medicine
Authors: Eglinton Daniel Thomas 
Published: January 2011

Lecture 22It's been almost 50 years since the discovery of BMPs in the 1960s. Despite the advances in technology we still remain in the infancy period concerning the development of the vast potential available from growth factors. A plethora of articles on platelet-derived growth factors have recently begun appearing in all areas of medicine. The results, techniques and experiences of the examiners have been varied. There have been very few physicians that have believed and used this technology since its inception 17 years ago, and still remain committed to its uses today.This lecture will provide a review of the biology of BMPs and a literature review, 17 years of experience with its use in orthopaedics disorders, as well as a treatment protocol. Details on injection technique utilising C-arm and ultrasound guidance will also be discussed.Current treatment regimens are costly, and variable in their results. It is the hope of many that these technologies will allow us to be proactive instead of reactive, therefore, taking the costly care out of the healthcare industry. For those of us that have tried this primordial soup, we feel its time to lead, follow, or get out of the way, as this technology is here to stay.
University of Craiova, Faculty of Physical education, Sports & Kinesiology
Authors: Ligia Rusu 
Published: January 2011

Lecture 26University of Craiova is one of the most important universities in Romania. It includes also Faculty of Physical Education, Sport and Kinesiology that prepare the future specialists in sport performance, trainers and sport rehabilitation. Most of the teachers of this faculty are sports medicine physicians and they have also medical activity in the Sport Medicine Department of Emergency Hospital Craiova.In our university we coordinate the programmes that included important aspects of sports medicine like: anatomy and biomechanic, physiology and sport physiology, rehabilitation and recovery in sport, sports medicine in chronic diseases. Practical activity included working with sports centres from south region of Romania, by specific assistance to athletes in Sports Medicine Department of our hospital. The sports medicine physicians in accordance with European Standards of Sports Medicine speciality give specific assistance by: clinical examination, cardiology exam, orthopaedic and rehabilitation exams, assessment of effort capacity and functional assessment, biometric assessment. The final diagnosis helps the athletes to have the best recommendations regards effort, nutrition, recovery and rehabilitation.In side of our university we have a research centre named ‘Research centre for study human body motricity’. This research centre has an activity in according with European ethics recommendations. It has departments for research in field of sports medicine and sport performance, sport rehabilitation using results of fundamental research regards how the sport activity induce functional and structural changes of human body. The centre has the following departments: motric anthropology, structural anthropology, kinesiology, physical therapy, sport medicine, statistic analyse of research. Focus group of our research are physicians from sports medicine, orthopaedics, rehabilitation and also athletes and trainers.Research activity in field of sports medicine is developed in relation with practical activity in field of sports by cooperation with sports centres like: athletic team, football teams, volleyball, handball and basket teams.In Romania sports medicine is a medical speciality and the future specialist have to prepare in this field for 4 years and they obtain the title of sports medicine physician specialist. During 4 years they obtain knowledge regards traumatology, physical therapy, cardiologic assessment of heart athletes, sport specific adaptations and specific rehabilitation and training.
Gene, injury and performance
Authors: Maffulli Nicola 
Published: January 2011

Lecture 28The limit of each individual to perform a given type of exercise depends on the nature of the task, and is influenced by a variety of factors, including psychology, environment and genetic make up. Genetics provide useful insights, as sport performances can be ultimately defined as a polygenic trait. The physical performance phenotypes for which a genetic basis can be suspected include endurance capacity, muscle performance, physiological attitude to train and ability of tendons and ligaments to withstand injury. The translation of an advantageous genotype into a champion's phenotype is still influenced by environmental, psychological and sociological factors. Since exercise training regulates the expression of genes encoding various enzymes in muscle and other tissues, genetic research in sports will help clarify several aspects of human biology and physiology, such as RNA and protein level regulation under specific circumstances. Genetic testing in sport would permit to identify individuals with optimal physiology and morphology, and also those with a greater capacity to respond/adapt to training and a lesser chance of suffering from injuries. Ethical and practical caveats should be clearly emphasised. The current scientific evidence on the relationship between genetics and sports look promising. There is a need for additional studies to determine whether genomewide genotyping arrays would be really useful and cost-effective.
Sudden cardiac death in the young
Authors: Sharma Sanjay 
Published: January 2011

Lecture 30The sudden death of a young (<35 years old) is a particularly tragic event given the potential number of life years lost. There are between 10 and 12 sudden cardiac deaths in young individuals per week in the UK. Most deaths are secondary to inherited or congenital abnormalities of the heart, the commonest being the hereditary cardiomyopathies. The phenotypic manifestation of some of the disorders implicated is heterogeneous and therefore expert input is essential. Most disorders can be diagnosed using non-invasive investigations and treatments range from life style modifications to cardiac surgery.ObjectivesTo define:magnitude of the problemdemographics of the victimscauses of sudden cardiac deathclinical manifestations of disordersinvestigation and management of conditions causing sudden cardiac death.
Posterior cruciate ligament injuries in sports: treatment options
Authors: Tsikouris George 
Published: January 2011

Lecture 4Diagnosis and management of posterior and cruciate ligament tears has advanced over the past two decades due to important understanding of the natural history of injury and basic science principles. Despite the current advances, our understanding of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury and treatment continues to lag behind that of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). In addition, there is still controversy regarding indications for surgical intervention, use of one versus two reconstructive graft bundles, location of the femoral tunnels and the ideal degree of graft tensioning.The classic mechanism of injury to the PCL in sports due to a fall on a flexed knee with the foot in plantar flexion. A PCL injury can be partial or complete and it can be isolated or involve multiple ligaments.The grading system is normal: A, B and C. Grade A is defined as partial tear and grade B as a complete PCL tear. Grade C PCL injuries are frequently associated with additional injury to the posterolateral corner or the medial aspect of the knee.In general, acute isolated grade A and B PCL injuries can be treated non-operatively. In grade C injuries with associated ligament pathology, we recommend repairing or reconstructing all ligaments.
Overview of exercise induced lower leg pain
Authors: Allen Mike 
Published: January 2011

Lecture 8This paper discusses the common causes of exercise induced lower leg pain, including chronic compartment syndrome (CCS), medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) and chronic calf tears (CCT).The pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment of the more popular conditions are discussed.CCSs are due to an increased pressure in one or more of the four compartments of the lower leg, brought on by exercise and relieved by rest. Clinical examination of the limb is normal. Diagnosis is made by measuring the compartment pressures during exercise. Treatment is by a subcutaneous fasciotomy of the affected compartments.MTSS is thought to be due to abnormal biomechanics leading to a periostalgia of the inner tibial border both during and after exercise, with symptoms lasting up to 24–48 h postexercise. Patients always locate their pain to the inner tibial border. Examination of the limb shows the lower and often the middle inner tibial border to be tender. Diagnosis is largely clinical but may be helped by MRI scans. Treatment is initially by physiotherapy in the form of flexibility and strengthening exercises and the fitting of orthotics. If this fails then major surgery is the only other alternative.CCT occur as a result of scar tissue in the muscle or adhesions developing between the fascia and the muscle causing pain in the posterior aspect of the calf. Often there is a past history of an acute calf tear. The pain presents during a run and often the athlete will describe pain in the posterior aspect of the calf which will increase with the intensity of exercise and if they try to run through the pain they experience a tearing sensation in the calf muscle sufficient to stop them exercising and cause them to limp up to a period of 3 days. Clinical examination often reveals tenderness over the medial head of gastrocnemius. An MRI scan may or may not aide in the diagnosis. Treatment initially is in the form of physiotherapy and if this fails then operative surgery which carries an 80% success rate.Finally other rarer causes of exercise induced leg pain are discussed, namely muscle hernia, popliteal artery entrapment syndrome, nerve entrapments and metabolic disorders.