bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Species Composition of the Family Arrhopalitidae (Collembola, Symphypleona)
Authors: Vargovitsh R. 
Published: August 2009

Species Composition of the Family Arrhopalitidae (Collembola, Symphypleona)
Species composition of a recently revised family Arrhopalitidae is provided. 31 species are listed within the genus Arrhopalites Börner, 1906 and 83 species and subspecies within the genus Pygmarrhopalites Vargovitsh, 2009. 79 species are transferred from the genus Arrhopalites to Pygmarrhopalites; now combinations are listed.
Evolution of Motor Control: From Reflexes and Motor Programs to the Equilibrium-Point Hypothesis
Authors: Latash Mark 
Published: August 2009

Evolution of Motor Control: From Reflexes and Motor Programs to the Equilibrium-Point Hypothesis
This brief review analyzes the evolution of motor control theories along two lines that emphasize active (motor programs) and reactive (reflexes) features of voluntary movements. It suggests that the only contemporary hypothesis that integrates both approaches in a fruitful way is the equilibrium-point hypothesis. Physical, physiological, and behavioral foundations of the EP-hypothesis are considered as well as relations between the EP-hypothesis and the recent developments of the notion of motor synergies. The paper ends with a brief review of the criticisms of the EP-hypothesis and challenges that the hypothesis faces at this time.
Differences in Peripheral Perception between Athletes and Nonathletes
Authors: Zwierko Teresa 
Published: August 2009

Differences in Peripheral Perception between Athletes and Nonathletes
In team games, due to the great number of stimuli, perceptive skills have a cardinal significance, especially in players' anticipation and decisionmaking processes. The aim of this study was to compare peripheral perception of handball players (n=16) and nonathletes (n=16) of the same age. A comparative analysis involves abilities connected with general visual functions - such as the field of vision (hardware system) and reaction time to visual stimuli (software system). Peripheral perception was examined using the peripheral perception test included in the Vienna Test System (Schuhfried, Austria). The results show that the examined groups did not differ in regards to visual functions connected with the peripheral field of vision and the correctness of stimuli recognition. Handball players had a significantly shorter response time to stimuli appearing in the peripheral field of vision compared to nonathletes.
Information Processes, Stimulation and Perceptual Training in Fencing
Authors: Borysiuk Zbigniew , Waskiewicz Zbigniew 
Published: August 2009

Information Processes, Stimulation and Perceptual Training in Fencing
Learning and development of motor skills and techniques in fencing and other sports with open motor habits are based on perceptual processes involving the senses of vision, touch, and hearing. In fencing, the same stimuli can yield defensive or offensive actions, which are strictly related to the tactics and strategy. Different types of stimulation determine reaction time, movement time, and muscle bioelectric tension (EMG) in fencing. From the training process, controlling the significance of dominant stimuli should be taken into account. The results of presented studies of advanced and novice fencers show that the time of reaction to tactile stimulation is similar or slightly shorter than to acoustic stimuli followed by visual stimuli. The advanced fencers were faster than the novice fencers in all the studied parameters. The EMG signal was significantly lower in case of advanced fencers in all three types of stimulation. It can be a proof that the psycho-motor superiority of elite fencers results in a reduction of the bioelectrical tension of muscles involved in performing the motor tasks. Perceptual skills enable athletes to respond to important signals in sport competition and ignore disrupting ones which lower the effectiveness of sports combat. Time pressure during sports competition makes it necessary to reduce as much as possible the decision-making time and the time of sensorimotor responses in the motor phase. The study results show that experienced athletes make decisions much faster than their novice colleagues. It conforms to the main strategy of perceptual training, (i.e., gaining maximum benefits at the lowest expense). Speed of decision-making is strictly associated with the stimuli detection effectiveness and re-creation of acquired motor patterns.
Blood-Brain Barrier and Exercise – a Short Review
Authors: Nierwińska Katarzyna , Malecka Elżbieta , Chalimoniuk Małgorzata , Żebrowska Aleksandra , Langfort Józef 
Published: August 2009

Blood-Brain Barrier and Exercise – a Short Review
Blood-brain barier (BBB) segregates central nervous system (CNS) from the circulating blood. BBB is formed by the brain capillary endothelial cells with complex tight junctions between them as well as by astrocytes and pericytes. BBB is responsible for transport of selected chemicals into and out of the CNS as well as for its protection from fluctuations in plasma composition following meals, during exercise and from circulating agents such as neurotransmitters, xenobiotics and other potentially harmful substances capable to disturb neural function. BBB may be compromised during CNS injury, infection, fever and in some nerodegenerative diseases. The increase of BBB permeability was observed also during exercise as documented by changes of plasma S-100 protein levels, used as a peripheral marker of BBB integrity. Marked change in BBB integrity during exercise may disturb normal brain function and contribute to the development of central fatigue. Moreover, serum S-100β may indicate level of injury in individuals suffering brain injuries during sports. There are also data suggesting that acute effect of physical exercise on serum S100β levels may not be related with CNS injury. Further studies to establish whether training and which type of it may modulate BBB permeability are needed.
Evaluation of the Blood Antioxidant Capacity in Two Selected Phases of the Training Cycle in Professional Soccer Players
Authors: Michalczyk Małgorzata , Kłapcińska Barbara , Sadowska-Krępa Ewa , Jagsz Sławomir , Pilis Wiesław , Szołtysek-Bołdys Izabela , Chmura Jan , Kimsa Elżbieta , Kempa Katarzyna 
Published: August 2009

Evaluation of the Blood Antioxidant Capacity in Two Selected Phases of the Training Cycle in Professional Soccer Players
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a regular pre-season training on the aerobic performance and the blood antioxidant defense capacity in soccer players from the Polish Premier League club (n=19) and IVth League team (n=15). The players participated in an incremental treadmill running exercise to volitional fatigue twice (i.e., at the beginning (Trial A) and the end (Trial B) of the pre-season spring training). In venous blood samples, taken at rest and 3 min post-test, the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GSH-Px, CAT, GR) and concentrations of non-enzymatic antioxidants (GSH, tocopherols, retinol, uric acid) and malondialdehyde as a lipid peroxidation biomarker were measured. With the aim of between-group comparisons and possible conclusions on training-induced changes in the capacity of the blood antioxidant defense, the POTAX index was calculated as a sum of standardized activities of antioxidant enzymes and concentrations of non-enzymatic antioxidants.
The results of the present study indicate that the players from the Premier League club were characterized by only slightly higher maximal oxygen uptake rates, the differences compared to IVth League team, as assessed in both trials, were statistically insignificant. Participation in the pre-season training resulted in a moderate improvement of aerobic performance, although only a few players were characterized by VO2max comparable to the international-class elite performers. No distinct differences were observed in the level of aerobic performance between higher- and lower-classified players.
Pre-season training led to an improvement in the global blood antioxidant capacity expressed in terms of POTAOX indices, although the changes in the activities and concentrations of individual components of the antioxidant system were less pronounced. Training-induced level of antioxidant conditioning was higher among the Premier League players, which may be related to differences in the training schedule and nutritional preparation of the athletes.
Determination and Prediction of One Repetition Maximum (1RM): Safety Considerations
Authors: Niewiadomski Wiktor , Laskowska Dorota , Gąsiorowska Anna , Cybulski Gerard , Strasz Anna , Langfort Józef 
Published: August 2009

Determination and Prediction of One Repetition Maximum (1RM): Safety Considerations
Strength training is recommended for slowing age-dependent deterioration of muscular strength and for rehabilitating patients with muscle weakening illnesses. Reliable assessment of muscle strength is important for proper design of strength training regimes for prevention, rehabilitation, and sport. One repetition maximum (1RM) is an established measure of muscular strength and is defined as the value of resistance against which a given movement can be performed only once. Proper assessment of 1RM is time consuming, and may lead to muscle soreness as well as temporary deterioration of the function of the tested muscles. Attempts at indirect 1RM determination based on the maximum number of repetitions performed have predicted 1RM with a variable degree of accuracy. Cardiovascular safety has been neglected in 1RM determination, although arterial blood pressure increases considerably when exercising against maximal or near maximal resistance. From the perspective of cardiovascular safety, favorable 1RM measurement methods should avoid performance of repetitions until failure; movement against high resistance and muscle fatigue both increase blood pressure. Although such techniques are likely less accurate than the current methods, their prediction accuracy be sufficient for therapeutic strength training.
Serum Osteocalcin Concentration in Treadmill-Trained Adult Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Nowak Alicja , Pogrzebna Maria , Celichowski Jan , Pilaczyńska-Szcześniak Łucja 
Published: August 2009

Serum Osteocalcin Concentration in Treadmill-Trained Adult Male Wistar Rats
Mechanical stress is considered to be essential for the regulation of bone mass. The purpose of this study was to determine whether treadmill exercise at moderate intensity induces alterations in blood osteocalcin concentration in rats. Male Wistar rats, aged 5 months, were divided randomly into two groups: trained animals (n = 6) and controls (n = 7). Trained rats were exercised 5 days/week for 4 weeks on a motor-driven treadmill. Each exercise session lasted 60 minutes and the average locomotion speed was 16.2 m/min. After completion of the training period, a blood sample was taken for osteocalcin measurement and the hindlimbs medial gastrocnemius muscles were excised and weighed. Comparative analysis showed significantly lower circulating osteocalcin levels in the exercised rats in comparison to control animals. It is possible that the observed decreased blood osteocalcin concentration is transient in nature. Factors including stress may also influenced the results.
Serum osteocalcin concentration in treadmill-trained rats
Changes in Aerobic and Anaerobic Power Indices in Elite Handball Players Following a 4-Week General Fitness Mesocycle
Authors: Boraczyński Tomasz , Urniaż Jerzy 
Published: August 2009

Changes in Aerobic and Anaerobic Power Indices in Elite Handball Players Following a 4-Week General Fitness Mesocycle
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a 4-week training programme during the first phase of the preparation period on selected indices of somatic structure as well as aerobic and anaerobic power in elite handball players. Nine handball players from a first league team took part in the study; their average age was 25.5±3.7 years, body mass 86.5±7.6 kg (I session) and 87.9±7.3 kg (II session) (p<0.01), lean body mass - 74.4±6.6 kg (I) and 76.2± 6.2 kg (II) (p<0.01), body fat mass 12.1±3.1 kg (I) and 11.7±3.1 kg (II) respectively. Two evaluations were conducted - the first at the end of the season, the second at the initial phase of the preparation period. The second phase was preceded by a 4- week period of general endurance and strength training. Aerobic fitness was assessed indirectly, taking into account the results of the PWC170 test. The absolute and relative values of the PWC170 index increased significantly from 236.6 W to 269 W (p<0.01) and from 2.73 W/kg to 3.06 W/kg (p<0.01). The values of maximum oxygen uptake - VO2max were significantly improved from 3.65 l/min to 3.98 l/min (p<0.01) and from 42.3 ml/kg/min to 45.4 ml/kg/min (p<0.05). Anaerobic fitness was assessed using the 30-second Wingate test. A statistically significant improvement of the basic indices of aerobic fitness following the 4-week training programme proved its high effectiveness. Maintaining the level of the basic indices of anaerobic power despite the absence of specific training loads, seems to corroborate the strong effect of genetic factors on the level of anaerobic fitness and the effectiveness of strength training programs.
Groin Pain in Athletes – Clinical Experience
Authors: Ficek Krzysztof , Rzepka Remigiusz , Orawczyk Tomasz , Żołnierczyk Zbigniew 
Published: August 2009

Groin Pain in Athletes – Clinical Experience
Dysfunction of lumbo-pelvic area is a common problem in many sports. Due to insufficient data supporting variables predisposing to lumbo-pelvic dysfunction, and a lack of standards in thorough assessment, understanding the overall problem continues to provide clinical complications; and unfortunately, the prognosis is less than promising. Most often this type of non-contact injury in the groin area is seen in dynamic sports involving running, sprinting, and sports performed over longer time periods, where fatigue plays an important role (soccer, rugby, hockey). There have been proposals in identifying most probable factors influencing the occurrence of pelvic overload injury. Among those we can list: muscle strength and balance, training regimen (including warm-up), fatigue, flexibility, body mechanics, sports specific activities, movement technique, previous injury, and psychological state. During clinical assessment by the physician and physiotherapist, many of these risks of injury factors are found. Currently more attention is given to neuromuscular factors that can affect risk of this pathology.
Our clinical experience suggests that poor neuromuscular control and lack of strength may significantly contribute to injury in the lumbo-pelvic and groin area. Certain objective indexes (e.g., hamstrings to quadriceps strength H/Q, stability deficits) can be important indicators of injury risk, as well as guidelines for motor dysfunction recovery.
The Influence of Sodium Phosphate Supplementation on VO2max, Serum 2,3-diphosphoglycerate Level and Heart Rate in Off-road Cyclists
Authors: Czuba Miłosz , Zając Adam , Poprzecki Stanisław , Cholewa Jarosław 
Published: August 2009

The Influence of Sodium Phosphate Supplementation on VO2max, Serum 2,3-diphosphoglycerate Level and Heart Rate in Off-road Cyclists
The main objective of the work was to evaluate the influence of a six day supplementation with sodium phosphate on circulatory and pulmonary variables, the level of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG) and the concentration of inorganic phosphates in blood serum of elite off-road cyclists. The research material included 19 cyclists which were randomly divided into a experimental group, supplemented with sodium phosphate and a control group receiving a placebo The subjects in the experimental group ingested sodium diphosphate in a dose of 50mg/kg of fat free mass per day. The supplement was ingested in even doses, four times per day. The control group received 4g of glucose in gelatin capsules (500mg), which were also divided into 4 even portions. During the experiment a significant (p<0.05) increase in maximal oxygen uptake was observed (VO2max), maximal minute ventilation (VEmax), as well as oxygen pulse (O2/HR). Also a significant decrease in resting and maximal exercise heart rate occurred. This was also true for each exercise load. A significant (p<0.05) increase in the serum concentration of non-organic phosphates (P) was observed which was accompanied by a decrease in serum calcium (Ca) concentration. The changes in the resting and post exercise concentration of 2,3-DPG were non significant, yet the supplementation procedure showed a tendency for increased level of this variable.
Benefits of Sleep in Motor Learning – Prospects and Limitations
Authors: Blischke Klaus , Erlacher Daniel , Kresin Heiko , Brueckner Sebastian , Malangré Andreas 
Published: August 2009

Benefits of Sleep in Motor Learning – Prospects and Limitations
During the recent years it has been shown repeatedly that, after initial learning, elapse of time preserves, but sleep enhances performance in procedural motor skills. To date, however, the majority of experimental studies in this area employed some sort of a sequential finger tapping skill as a criterion task. Thus it is unclear yet, if any (and which) other types of motor skills do indeed benefit from sleep. In order to answer this question, and to provide theoretical statements about the memory system regarding benefits of sleep in motor learning, we carried out a series of studies following a "multi-task research strategy". Although we successfully replicated sleep-related improvements in the production of newly acquired sequential finger skills (FT-Task) under different learning conditions (i.e., guided or unguided), we did not find any such effect of sleep in discrete motor tasks requiring precise production of (a) a specific relative timing pattern (Diamond Tapping-Task), or (b) a sub-maximal force impulse (vertical Counter Movement Jump), and we also failed to find any specifically sleep-related effects on subsequent performance in (c) a continuous visuo-motor pursuit-tracking task. These results are considered in relation to other work, and the respective theoretical implications are discussed.
Force Coordination in Object Manipulation
Authors: de Freitas Paulo , Krishnan Vennila , Jaric Slobodan 
Published: August 2009

Force Coordination in Object Manipulation
Purpose: The purpose of this review is to present our recent findings related to the studies of hand function based on the coordination of forces exerted against hand-held objects.
Basic procedures: A novel device has been developed for recording grip (GF; acting perpendicularly at the hand-object contact) and load force (LF; acting tangentially) during uni- and bimanual manipulation tasks performed under either static or dynamic conditions. Both healthy participants and neurological patients were tested. The outcome measures were obtained from the task performance (i.e., the ability to exert accurate LF profiles), GF-LF coordination and GF modulation.
Main findings: The method applied proved to not only to be both reliable and valid, but also sufficient to detect differences between the dominant and non-dominant hand, as well as between healthy participants and mildly involved neurological patients. Marked differences in most of the depended variables were also detected between unidirectional and bi-direction tasks (i.e., in the tasks where LF acts in one and in two alternating directions). The later finding could not be based neural mechanisms known for their role in manipulative actions, such as on employing ad hoc muscle synergies or on the afferent activity of skin mechanoreceptors.
Conclusions: The employed methodological approach can be applied not only to explore various manipulation activities, but also to serve as a basis for future development of specific clinical tests for populations that demonstrate impaired hand function.
Evaluation of Consecutive Maximum Contractions as a Test of Neuromuscular Function
Authors: Suzovic Dejan , Nedeljkovic Aleksandar , Pazin Nemanja , Planic Nenad , Jaric Slobodan 
Published: August 2009

Evaluation of Consecutive Maximum Contractions as a Test of Neuromuscular Function
The aim of the study was to conduct a preliminary evaluation of consecutive maximum contractions (CMC) as a test of neuromuscular function. Eleven participants performed externally paced isometric CMC (i.e., a series of consecutive maximum force exertions and relaxations) of the quadriceps muscle. The derived variables included the peak forces, and the maximum rates of force development and relaxation. The results revealed high within-day reliability of CMC variables, while their correlations with the jumping performance were consistently higher than those of the variables of the standard strength test (SST). CMC variables also showed fairly stable values across a wide range of frequencies, while their peak force revealed a strong relationship with maximum force of SST despite being about considerably lower. Therefore, we conclude that CMC could be developed into a standard test of neuromuscular function. In addition to capturing the muscle actions based on different neural activation pattern than SST, CMC could also be based on simpler testing procedure, lower force exertion, and self-selected frequencies.
Pro-Oxidative Processes and Cytokine Response to Training in Professional Basketball Players
Authors: Zembroń-Łacny Agnieszka , Slowińska-Lisowska Małgorzata , Superlak Edward 
Published: August 2009

Pro-Oxidative Processes and Cytokine Response to Training in Professional Basketball Players
In the present study, we evaluated the plasma concentration of inflammatory mediators including cytokines and their relation with oxidative damage markers in training cycles of basketball players.
Sixteen professional players of the Polish Basketball Extraleague participated in the study. The basketball players were observed during the preparatory period and the play-off round. Twenty healthy and untrained males composed of the reference group.
The comparative study has shown significantly higher levels of lipid peroxidation (TBARS) and protein carbonylation (PC) in nonathletes than in basketball players during the observed training periods. Tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα), similarly to TBARS and PC, was significantly higher in nonathletes than athletes, except at the end of the play-off round. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) was lower in nonathletes than athletes in the preparatory period but it was higher in athletes in play-off round. In basketball players, the high level of IL-6 directly correlated with TBARS (r = 0.763, p<0.001) and PC (r = 0.636, p<0.001) during the preparatory period, whereas the high level of TNF α inversely correlated with TBARS (r = −0.601, p<0.001) and PC (r = −0.650, p<0.001) in the play-off round. The activity of creatine kinase (CK) was significantly increased during the training mezocycles in basketball players compared with nonathletes, and reached the highest activity at the end of the play-off round. CK activity did not correlate with oxidative damage markers and cytokines in both untrained and trained subjects.
Our results have shown the reduction in oxidative damage and improvement in cytokine response following professional training, as well as the relationship between inflammatory and pro-oxidative processes in basketball players.