A comparison between the force–velocity relationships of unloaded and sled-resisted sprinting: single vs. multiple trial methods

Abstract

Purpose

We sought to compare force–velocity relationships developed from unloaded sprinting acceleration to that compiled from multiple sled-resisted sprints.

Methods

Twenty-seven mixed-code athletes performed six to seven maximal sprints, unloaded and towing a sled (20–120% of body-mass), while measured using a sports radar. Two methods were used to draw force–velocity relationships for each athlete: A multiple trial method compiling kinetic data using pre-determined friction coefficients and aerodynamic drag at maximum velocity from each sprint; and a validated single trial method plotting external force due to acceleration and aerodynamic drag and velocity throughout an acceleration phase of an unloaded sprint (only). Maximal theoretical force, velocity and power were determined from each force–velocity relationship and compared using regression analysis and absolute bias (± 90% confidence intervals), Pearson correlations and typical error of the estimate (TEE).

Results

The average bias between the methods was between − 6.4 and − 0.4%. Power and maximal force showed strong correlations (r = 0.71 to 0.86), but large error (TEE = 0.53 to 0.71). Theoretical maximal velocity was nearly identical between the methods (r = 0.99), with little bias (− 0.04 to 0.00 m s⁻¹) and error (TEE = 0.12).

Conclusions

When horizontal force or power output is considered for a given speed, resisted sprinting is similar to its associated phase during an unloaded sprint acceleration [e.g. first steps (~ 3 m s⁻¹) = heavy resistance]. Error associated with increasing loading could be resultant of error, fatigue, or technique, and more research is needed. This research provides a basis for simplified assessment of optimal loading from a single unloaded sprint.

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What does the dot-probe task measure? A reverse correlation analysis of electrocortical activity

Abstract

The dot-probe task is considered a gold standard for assessing the intrinsic attentive selection of one of two lateralized visual cues, measured by the response time to a subsequent, lateralized response probe. However, this task has recently been associated with poor reliability and conflicting results. To resolve these discrepancies, we tested the underlying assumption of the dot-probe task—that fast probe responses index heightened cue selection—using an electrophysiological measure of selective attention. Specifically, we used a reverse correlation approach in combination with frequency-tagged steady-state visual potentials (ssVEPs). Twenty-one participants completed a modified dot-probe task in which each member of a pair of lateralized face cues, varying in emotional expression (angry-angry, neutral-angry, neutral-neutral), flickered at one of two frequencies (15 or 20 Hz), to evoke ssVEPs. One cue was then replaced by a response probe, and participants indicated the probe orientation (0° or 90°). We analyzed the ssVEP evoked by the cues as a function of response speed to the subsequent probe (i.e., a reverse correlation analysis). Electrophysiological measures of cue processing varied with probe hemifield location: Faster responses to left probes were associated with weak amplification of the preceding left cue, apparent only in a median split analysis. By contrast, faster responses to right probes were systematically and parametrically predicted by diminished visuocortical selection of the preceding right cue. Together, these findings highlight the poor validity of the dot-probe task, in terms of quantifying intrinsic, nondirected attentive selection irrespective of probe/cue location.

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High Prevalence of CTX-M-1-Like Enzymes in Urinary Isolates of Escherichia coli in Guayaquil, Ecuador

Microbial Drug Resistance , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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A Risk-Scoring System for Predicting Methicillin Resistance in Community-Onset Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia in Korea

Microbial Drug Resistance , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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Longitudinal Case Series of Staphylococcus aureus Colonization and Infection in Two Cohorts of Rural Iowans

Microbial Drug Resistance , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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Molecular Characterization of Pseudomonas putida Group Isolates Carrying blaVIM-2 Disseminated in a University Hospital in Korea

Microbial Drug Resistance , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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On the gamma spectrometry efficiency of reference materials and soil samples

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 183
Author(s): S. Mohammad Modarresi, S. Farhad Masoudi
The relative discrepancies between the gamma spectrometry efficiency of RGU, RGTh, RGK reference materials and some soil samples have been studied using a MCNP model of a real HPGe detector. It has been shown that, in a specified geometry, efficiencies differences depend on the sample elemental composition. The elemental compositions of RGU-1, RGTh-1 reference materials and a soil sample have been evaluated using X-Ray fluorescence (XRF) method and used in the MCNP simulation along with RGK-1 and six other soil samples with different elemental compositions to calculate their efficiencies in different gamma ray energies. To estimate the maximum relative efficiencies differences between soil samples and reference materials, five soil samples with higher attenuation properties were selected from a large data set of soils elemental compositions. The results show that the efficiency differences between soil samples and reference materials are almost ignorable for more than 100 KeV gamma energies. It strongly depends on the sample attenuation factor in the lower energies, so use of a self-attenuation correction is essential for radionuclide counting in low energies gamma rays. Results show about 8 percent discrepancy between RGU and two soil samples efficiencies in 63.2 KeV energy.



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Indoor radon regulation using tabulated values of temporal radon variation

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 183
Author(s): Andrey Tsapalov, Konstantin Kovler
Mass measurements of indoor radon concentrations have been conducted for about 30 years. In most of the countries, a national reference/action/limit level is adopted, limiting the annual average indoor radon (AAIR) concentration. However, until now, there is no single and generally accepted international protocol for determining the AAIR with a known confidence interval, based on measurements of different durations. Obviously, as the duration of measurements increases, the uncertainty of the AAIR estimation decreases. The lack of the information about the confidence interval of the determined AAIR level does not allow correct comparison with the radon reference level. This greatly complicates development of an effective indoor radon measurement protocol and strategy.The paper proposes a general principle of indoor radon regulation, based on the simple criteria widely used in metrology, and introduces a new parameter – coefficient of temporal radon variation KV(t) that depends on the measurement duration and determines the uncertainty of the AAIR. An algorithm for determining KV(t) based on the results of annual continuous radon monitoring in experimental rooms is proposed. Included are indoor radon activity concentrations and equilibrium equivalent concentration (EEC) of radon progeny. The monitoring was conducted in 10 selected experimental rooms located in 7 buildings, mainly in the Moscow region (Russia), from 2006 to 2013. The experimental and tabulated values of KV(t) and also the values of the coefficient of temporal EEC variation depending on the mode and duration of the measurements were obtained. The recommendations to improve the efficiency and reliability of indoor radon regulation are given. The importance of taking into account the geological factors is discussed. The representativity of the results of the study is estimated and the approach for their verification is proposed.



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Low Level Radiation and Health Conference 1985–2016

Publication date: Available online 3 January 2018
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity
Author(s): Jill Sutcliffe




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Genome-Wide Characterisation of DNA Methylation in an Invasive Lepidopteran Pest, the Cotton Bollworm Helicoverpa armigera

The genes and genomes of insect pests are shaped by the wide array of selective forces encountered in their environments. While the molecular adaptations that evolve are beginning to be understood at the genomic and transcriptomic level they have been less well characterised at an epigenetic level. Here, we present a genome-wide map of DNA methylation, at single-nucleotide resolution for the cotton bollworm moth, Helicoverpa armigera; a globally invasive pest of agriculture. We show that methylation is almost identical in the larvae and adults of H. armigera and that, through whole genome bisulfite sequencing, at the most ~0.9% of CpG sites in this species are methylated. We find that DNA methylation occurs primarily in exons, is positively correlated with gene expression and methylated genes are enriched for cellular housekeeping roles. H. armigera has an exceptional capacity for long-range migration. To explore the role of methylation in influencing the migratory phenotype of H. armigera we performed targeted bisulfite sequencing on selected loci from sixteen genes that were differentially expressed between adult moths exhibiting distinct flight performance in behavioural assays. While most CpG sites in these genes were not methylated between flight phenotypes we identified hyper-methylation in a demethylase (KDM4) that targets lysine-specific histone modifications which are strongly associated with transcription and methylation. The H. armigera methylome provides new insights into the role of DNA methylation in a noctuid moth and is a valuable resource for further research into the epigenetic control of adaptive traits in this important pest.

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Mixing audio and video in dendrites

Abstract

Ever since Wilfrid Rall established once and for all the importance of dendritic structure for neuronal computation, a multitude of experiments and models have studied synaptic integration in dendrites at increasing levels of details.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved

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Bite or Brain: Implication of sensorimotor regulation and neuroplasticity in oral rehabilitation procedures

Abstract

Tooth loss, decreased mass and strength of the masticatory muscles leading to difficulty in chewing have been suggested as important determinants of eating and nutrition in the elderly. To compensate for the loss of teeth, in particular, a majority of the elderly rely on dental prosthesis for chewing. Chewing function is indeed an important aspect of oral health and therefore, oral rehabilitation procedures should aim to restore or maintain adequate function. However, even if the possibilities to anatomically restore lost teeth and occlusion have never been better; conventional rehabilitation procedures may still fail to optimally restore oral functions. Perhaps this is due to the lack of focus on the importance of the brain in the rehabilitation procedures. Therefore, the aim of this narrative review is to discuss the importance of maintaining or restoring optimum chewing function in the super-aging population and to summarize the emerging studies on oral motor task performance and measures of cortical neuroplasticity induced by systematic training paradigms in healthy participants. Further, brain imaging studies in patients undergoing or undergone oral rehabilitation procedures will be discussed. Overall, this information is believed to enhance the understanding and develop better rehabilitative strategies to exploit training-induced cortical neuroplasticity in individuals affected by impaired oral motor coordination and function. Training or relearning of oral motor tasks could be important to optimize masticatory performance in dental prosthesis users and may represent a much-needed paradigm shift in the approach to oral rehabilitation procedures.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Depression and anxiety in caregivers of patients with celiac disease. Author's Reply

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Phosphorylation of P27 by AKT is required for inhibition of cell cycle progression in cholangiocarcinoma

P27 is a putative tumor suppressor when located in the nucleus and AKT is an inhibitor of P27 which promotes growth of cholangiocarcinoma. We hypothesized that AKT-dependent phosphorylation at the P27 nuclear localization sequence T157 leads to nuclear export of P27, and thus loss of its tumor suppressive function. This study investigated whether loss of cell cycle regulation in cholangiocarcinoma due to subcellular localization of P27.

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Colon cancer with rapid growth in 16 months confirmed by computed tomographic colonography

Publication date: Available online 3 January 2018
Source:Arab Journal of Gastroenterology
Author(s): Masaki Matsuoka, Norihito Shimizu, Koichi Nagata, Hiroshi Saito
This report describes a case of rapidly growing colon cancer confirmed by computed tomographic colonography (CTC). A 75-year-old woman presented at our clinic with complaints of abdominal discomfort and melena. Colorectal examination was performed via CTC. The findings were normal. Sixteen months later, she was referred to our clinic again for positive findings on a faecal immunochemical screening test. A repeat CTC was performed, which revealed a 3 cm ulcerated tumour at the ascending colon. Colonoscopy with biopsy revealed tubular adenocarcinoma.Laparoscopic right hemicolectomy was performed and the TNM classification was found to be T3N1M0. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the cancer has not recurred for 2.5 years.



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Depression and anxiety in caregivers of patients with celiac disease. Author's Reply

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Phosphorylation of P27 by AKT is required for inhibition of cell cycle progression in cholangiocarcinoma

P27 is a putative tumor suppressor when located in the nucleus and AKT is an inhibitor of P27 which promotes growth of cholangiocarcinoma. We hypothesized that AKT-dependent phosphorylation at the P27 nuclear localization sequence T157 leads to nuclear export of P27, and thus loss of its tumor suppressive function. This study investigated whether loss of cell cycle regulation in cholangiocarcinoma due to subcellular localization of P27.

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Medical Operations Specialist - Global Rescue

COMPANY DESCRIPTION Global Rescue provides best-in-class medical, security, advisory, crisis response, and evacuation services to individuals, corporations, government agencies, travelers and expeditions worldwide. Specialist, Medical Operations Office based role with the opportunity to deploy both domestically and internationally. Duties include; performing a combination of logistics and research work ...

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Motor modules during adaptation to walking in a powered ankle exoskeleton

Modules of muscle recruitment can be extracted from electromyography (EMG) during motions, such as walking, running, and swimming, to identify key features of muscle coordination. These features may provide in...

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VUB-CYBERLEGs CYBATHLON 2016 Beta-Prosthesis: case study in control of an active two degree of freedom transfemoral prosthesis

Here we present how the CYBERLEGs Beta-Prosthesis was modified with a new control system to participate in the Powered Leg Prosthesis event, and to report on our experience at the CYBATHLON 2016 which was held...

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Case-study of a user-driven prosthetic arm design: bionic hand versus customized body-powered technology in a highly demanding work environment

Prosthetic arm research predominantly focuses on "bionic" but not body-powered arms. However, any research orientation along user needs requires sufficiently precise workplace specifications and sufficiently h...

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Volition-adaptive control for gait training using wearable exoskeleton: preliminary tests with incomplete spinal cord injury individuals

Gait training for individuals with neurological disorders is challenging in providing the suitable assistance and more adaptive behaviour towards user needs. The user specific adaptation can be defined based o...

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Lahar inundated, modified, and preserved 1.88 Ma early hominin (OH24 and OH56) Olduvai DK site

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of Human Evolution, Volume 116
Author(s): I.G. Stanistreet, H. Stollhofen, J.K. Njau, P. Farrugia, M.C. Pante, F.T. Masao, R.M. Albert, M.K. Bamford
Archaeological excavations at the DK site in the eastern Olduvai Basin, Tanzania, age-bracketed between ∼1.88 Ma (Bed I Basalt) and ∼1.85 Ma (Tuff IB), record the oldest lahar inundation, modification, and preservation of a hominin "occupation" site yet identified. Our landscape approach reconstructs environments and processes at high resolution to explain the distribution and final preservation of archaeological materials at the DK site, where an early hominin (likely Homo habilis) assemblage of stone tools and bones, found close to hominin specimens OH24 and OH56, developed on an uneven heterogeneous surface that was rapidly inundated by a lahar and buried to a depth of 0.4–1.2 m (originally ∼1.0–2.4 m pre-compaction). The incoming intermediate to high viscosity mudflow selectively modified the original accumulation of "occupation debris," so that it is no longer confined to the original surface. A dispersive debris "halo" was identified within the lahar deposit: debris is densest immediately above the site, but tails off until not present >150 m laterally. Voorhies indices and metrics derived from limb bones are used to define this dispersive halo spatially and might indicate a possible second assemblage to the east that is now eroded away. Based upon our new data and prior descriptions, two possibilities for the OH24 skull are suggested: it was either entrained by the mudflow from the DK surface and floated due to lower density toward its top, or it was deposited upon the solid top surface after its consolidation. Matrix adhering to material found in association with the parietals indicates that OH56 at least was relocated by the mudflow.



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Community-Level Sports Group Participation and Older Individuals’ Depressive Symptoms

ABSTRACTPurposeCommunity-level group participation is a structural aspect of social capital that may have a contextual influence on an individual's health. Herein, we sought to investigate a contextual relationship between community-level prevalence of sports group participation and depressive symptoms in older individuals.MethodsWe used data from the 2010 Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study (JAGES), a population-based, cross-sectional study of individuals aged ≥65 years without long-term care needs in Japan. Overall, 74,681 participants in 516 communities were analyzed. Depressive symptoms were diagnosed as the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale score ≥5. Participation in a sports group 1 day/month or more often was defined as "participation." For this study, we applied two-level multilevel Poisson regression analysis stratified by sex, calculated prevalence ratios (PRs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).ResultsOverall, 17,420 individuals (23.3%) had depressive symptoms, and 16,915 (22.6%) participated in a sports group. Higher prevalence of community-level sports group participation had a statistically significant relationship with a lower likelihood of depressive symptoms (male, PR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.85–0.92; female, PR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.92–0.99, estimated by 10% of participation proportion) after adjusting for individual-level sports group participation, age, diseases, family form, alcohol, smoking, education, equivalent income, and population density. We found statistically significant cross-level interaction terms in males only (PR: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.77–0.95).ConclusionWe found a contextual preventive relationship between community-level sports group participation and depressive symptoms in older individuals. Therefore, promoting sports groups in a community may be effective as a population-based strategy for the prevention of depression in older individuals. Furthermore, the benefit may favor male sports group participants.This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives License 4.0 (CCBY-NC-ND), where it is permissible to download and share the work provided it is properly cited. The work cannot be changed in any way or used commercially without permission from the journal. Purpose Community-level group participation is a structural aspect of social capital that may have a contextual influence on an individual's health. Herein, we sought to investigate a contextual relationship between community-level prevalence of sports group participation and depressive symptoms in older individuals. Methods We used data from the 2010 Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study (JAGES), a population-based, cross-sectional study of individuals aged ≥65 years without long-term care needs in Japan. Overall, 74,681 participants in 516 communities were analyzed. Depressive symptoms were diagnosed as the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale score ≥5. Participation in a sports group 1 day/month or more often was defined as "participation." For this study, we applied two-level multilevel Poisson regression analysis stratified by sex, calculated prevalence ratios (PRs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results Overall, 17,420 individuals (23.3%) had depressive symptoms, and 16,915 (22.6%) participated in a sports group. Higher prevalence of community-level sports group participation had a statistically significant relationship with a lower likelihood of depressive symptoms (male, PR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.85–0.92; female, PR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.92–0.99, estimated by 10% of participation proportion) after adjusting for individual-level sports group participation, age, diseases, family form, alcohol, smoking, education, equivalent income, and population density. We found statistically significant cross-level interaction terms in males only (PR: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.77–0.95). Conclusion We found a contextual preventive relationship between community-level sports group participation and depressive symptoms in older individuals. Therefore, promoting sports groups in a community may be effective as a population-based strategy for the prevention of depression in older individuals. Furthermore, the benefit may favor male sports group participants. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives License 4.0 (CCBY-NC-ND), where it is permissible to download and share the work provided it is properly cited. The work cannot be changed in any way or used commercially without permission from the journal. Corresponding author: Taishi Tsuji, Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo Ward, Chiba City, Chiba 260-8670 Japan, E-mail: tsuji.t@chiba-u.jp, Tel. +81.43.226.2803, Fax +81.43.226.2018 This study was supported by a grant of the Strategic Research Foundation Grant-aided Project for Private Universities from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sport, Science, and Technology, Japan (MEXT), 2009–2013, for the Center for Well-being and Society, Nihon Fukushi University; a Health Labour Sciences Research Grant, Comprehensive Research on Aging and Health (H22-Choju-Shitei-008, H24-Junkankitou-Ippan-007, H24-Chikyukibo-Ippan-009, H24-Choju-Wakate-009, H25-Kenki-Wakate-015, H25-Irryo-Shitei-003 (Fukkou), H26-Choju-Ippan-006, H28-Chouju-Ippan-02) from the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare; JSPS KAKENHI (22330172, 22390400, 23243070, 23590786, 23790710, 24390469, 24530698, 24653150, 24683018, 25253052, 25870573, 25870881, 22390400, 15K18174, 15KT0007, 15H01972, 16K16595, 17K15822) from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science; a grant from the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology (24-17, 24-23); the Research and Development Grants for Longevity Science from AMED; a grant from the Japan Foundation for Aging and Health; and also World Health Organization Centre for Health Development (WHO Kobe Centre) (WHO APW 2017/713981). The funding sources had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript. We declare that the results of the present study are presented clearly, honestly, and without fabrication, falsification, or inappropriate data manipulation, and do not constitute endorsement by ACSM. None of the authors have a conflict of interest in relation to this manuscript. Accepted for Publication: 22 December 2017 © 2018 American College of Sports Medicine

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Declining Physical Activity and Motivation from Middle School to High School

AbstractPurposeTo determine whether naturally-occurring changes in intrinsic motivation, behavioral regulation, and goals mitigate declining physical activity among adolescents.MethodsLatent growth modeling was applied in tests of change in intrinsic motivation, facets of behavioral regulation, and their interactions with goals on change in physical activity measured by accelerometer in a cohort of 260 boys and girls evaluated longitudinally from 6th through 9th grades.ResultsPhysical activity declined less in youths who maintained higher intrinsic motivation or integrated regulation, but only when they maintained higher enjoyment goal compared to other students. Physical activity also declined less in students who maintained higher intrinsic motivation or integrated motivation and had bigger declines in appearance goal (or social and competence goals with intrinsic motivation) compared to students who maintained higher levels of those goals. The interactions correspond to 1 to 2 min per hour less decrease in physical activity.ConclusionConsistent with Self-determination Theory, the findings encourage interventions that target autonomous motivation among youths. The results extend prior evidence in three ways. First, the cohort was tracked for three years using an objective measure of physical activity. Second, influences of intrinsic motivation and integrated regulation on changing physical activity were not direct. They interacted with changing goals, indicating that interventions should also focus on specific goals for physical activity as effect modifiers. Third, interventions focused on autonomous motivation should consider that controlled, introjected motivation may also interact with goals to influence on physical activity during the transition between middle school and high school. Purpose To determine whether naturally-occurring changes in intrinsic motivation, behavioral regulation, and goals mitigate declining physical activity among adolescents. Methods Latent growth modeling was applied in tests of change in intrinsic motivation, facets of behavioral regulation, and their interactions with goals on change in physical activity measured by accelerometer in a cohort of 260 boys and girls evaluated longitudinally from 6th through 9th grades. Results Physical activity declined less in youths who maintained higher intrinsic motivation or integrated regulation, but only when they maintained higher enjoyment goal compared to other students. Physical activity also declined less in students who maintained higher intrinsic motivation or integrated motivation and had bigger declines in appearance goal (or social and competence goals with intrinsic motivation) compared to students who maintained higher levels of those goals. The interactions correspond to 1 to 2 min per hour less decrease in physical activity. Conclusion Consistent with Self-determination Theory, the findings encourage interventions that target autonomous motivation among youths. The results extend prior evidence in three ways. First, the cohort was tracked for three years using an objective measure of physical activity. Second, influences of intrinsic motivation and integrated regulation on changing physical activity were not direct. They interacted with changing goals, indicating that interventions should also focus on specific goals for physical activity as effect modifiers. Third, interventions focused on autonomous motivation should consider that controlled, introjected motivation may also interact with goals to influence on physical activity during the transition between middle school and high school. Author correspondence: Rod K. Dishman, Department of Kinesiology, The University of Georgia, Ramsey Student Center, 330 River Road, Athens, Georgia 30602-6554. rdishman@uga.edu, (706) 542-9840, Facsimile (706) 542-3148 This study was funded by grant number R01HL091002 from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. The authors have no professional relationships with companies who will benefit from the results of the study. The results are presented clearly, honestly and without fabrication, falsification or inappropriate data manipulation. The results of the study do not constitute endorsement by ACSM. Accepted for Publication: 27 December 2017 © 2018 American College of Sports Medicine

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Sex Differences in Mechanisms of Recovery after Isometric and Dynamic Fatiguing Tasks

AbstractPurposeDetermine whether supraspinal mechanisms contribute to the sex difference in fatigability during and recovery from a dynamic and isometric fatiguing task with the knee extensors.MethodsTranscranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and electrical stimulation were used to determine voluntary activation and contractile properties of the knee extensors in 14 men and 17 women (20.8±1.9 years) after a: 1) 60-s sustained, maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), and 2) dynamic fatiguing task involving 120 maximal voluntary concentric contractions with a 20% MVIC load.ResultsThere were no differences between men and women in the reduction of maximal torque during the sustained MVIC (54.4±18.9% vs 55.9±11.2%, P=0.49), nor in the decrease in power during the dynamic fatiguing task (14.7±20.1% vs. 14.2±18.5%, P=0.92). However, MVIC torque recovered more quickly for women than men after the sustained MVIC and the dynamic task (P

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The Effects of Hyperoxia on Sea-Level Exercise Performance, Training, and Recovery: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background

Acute exercise performance can be limited by arterial hypoxemia, such that hyperoxia may be an ergogenic aid by increasing tissue oxygen availability. Hyperoxia during a single bout of exercise performance has been examined using many test modalities, including time trials (TTs), time to exhaustion (TTE), graded exercise tests (GXTs), and dynamic muscle function tests. Hyperoxia has also been used as a long-term training stimulus or a recovery intervention between bouts of exercise. However, due to the methodological differences in fraction of inspired oxygen (F_iO₂), exercise type, training regime, or recovery protocols, a firm consensus on the effectiveness of hyperoxia as an ergogenic aid for exercise training or recovery remains unclear.

Objectives

The aims of this study were to (1) determine the efficacy of hyperoxia as an ergogenic aid for exercise performance, training stimulus, and recovery before subsequent exercise; and (2) determine if a dose–response exists between F_iO₂ and exercise performance improvements.

Data Source

The PubMed, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus databases were searched for original published articles up to and including 8 September 2017, using appropriate first- and second-order search terms.

Study Selection

English-language, peer-reviewed, full-text manuscripts using human participants were reviewed using the process identified in the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement.

Data Extraction

Data for the following variables were obtained by at least two of the authors: F_iO₂, wash-in time for gas, exercise performance modality, heart rate, cardiac output, stroke volume, oxygen saturation, arterial and/or capillary lactate, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, arterial pH, arterial oxygen content, arterial partial pressure of oxygen and carbon dioxide, consumption of oxygen and carbon dioxide, minute ventilation, tidal volume, respiratory frequency, ratings of perceived exertion of breathing and exercise, and end-tidal oxygen and carbon dioxide partial pressures.

Data Grouping

Data were grouped into type of intervention (acute exercise, recovery, and training), and performance data were grouped into type of exercise (TTs, TTE, GXTs, dynamic muscle function), recovery, and training in hyperoxia.

Data Analysis

Hedges' g effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Separate Pearson's correlations were performed comparing the effect size of performance versus F_iO₂, along with the effect size of arterial content of oxygen, arterial partial pressure of oxygen, and oxygen saturation.

Results

Fifty-one manuscripts were reviewed. The most common F_iO₂ for acute exercise was 1.00, with GXTs the most investigated exercise modality. Hyperoxia had a large effect improving TTE (g = 0.89), and small-to-moderate effects increasing TTs (g = 0.56), GXTs (g = 0.40), and dynamic muscle function performance (g = 0.28). An F_iO₂ ≥ 0.30 was sufficient to increase general exercise performance to a small effect or higher; a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.47–0.63) existed between performance improvement of TTs, TTE, and dynamic muscle function tests and F_iO₂, but not GXTs (r = 0.06). Exercise training and recovery supplemented with hyperoxia trended towards a large and small ergogenic effect, respectively, but the large variability and limited amount of research on these topics prevented a definitive conclusion.

Conclusion

Acute exercise performance is increased with hyperoxia. An F_iO₂ ≥ 0.30 appears to be beneficial for performance, with a higher F_iO₂ being correlated to greater performance improvement in TTs, TTE, and dynamic muscle function tests. Exercise training and recovery supplemented with hyperoxic gas appears to have a beneficial effect on subsequent exercise performance, but small sample size and wide disparity in experimental protocols preclude definitive conclusions.

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Assessing Doping Prevalence is Possible. So What Are We Waiting For?

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Physical Activity in Preventing Alzheimer’s Disease and Cognitive Decline: A Narrative Review

Abstract

A large body of epidemiological and experimental data exploring the relationship between physical activity (PA) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are now available. Despite observational evidence supporting a role for PA in delaying the onset of AD, randomised controlled trials have reported mixed findings, likely due to the heterogeneity in study cohorts, outcome measures, and the adopted PA intervention. The primary objective of this narrative review is to evaluate the extant evidence on the relationship between PA, cognitive decline and AD in older populations. The interaction between PA and the putative mechanisms underlying AD progression, including genetic factors and amyloid-β levels will be explored. In this context, particular attention will be given to studies assessing PA in the early clinical and preclinical, asymptomatic stages of AD. Based on current evidence, clinical considerations for implementation of exercise-based interventions are discussed, along with limitations of previous research and directions for future studies.

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Correlations Do Not Show Cause and Effect: Not Even for Changes in Muscle Size and Strength

Abstract

It is well known that resistance exercise results in increased muscle strength, but the cause of the improvement is not well understood. It is generally thought that initial increases in strength are caused by neurological factors, before being predominantly driven by increases in muscle size. Despite this hypothesis, there is currently no direct evidence that training-induced increases in muscle size contribute to training-induced increases in muscle strength. The evidence used to support this hypothesis is exclusively correlational analyses and these are often an afterthought using data collected to answer a different question of interest. Not only do these studies not infer causality, but they have inherent limitations associated with measurement error and limited inter-individual variability. To answer the question as to whether training-induced increases in muscle size lead to training-induced increases in strength requires a study designed to produce differential effects on muscle size based on group membership (i.e., one group increases muscle size and one does not) and observe how this impacts muscle strength. We have performed studies in our laboratory in which muscle strength increases similarly independent of whether muscle growth is or is not present, illustrating that the increases in muscle strength are not likely driven by increases in muscle size. The hypothesis that training-induced increases in muscle size contribute to training-induced increases in muscle strength requires more appropriately designed studies, and until such studies are completed, this statement should not be made as there are no data to support this hypothesis.

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A Narrative Review of the Physical Demands and Injury Incidence in American Football: Application of Current Knowledge and Practices in Workload Management

Abstract

The sport of American football (AmF) exposes athletes to high-velocity movements and frequent collisions during competition and training, placing them at risk of contact and non-contact injury. Due to the combative nature of the game, the majority of injuries are caused by player contact; however, a significant number are also non-contact soft-tissue injuries. The literature suggests that this mechanism of injury can be prevented through workload monitoring and management. The recent introduction of microtechnology into AmF allows practitioners and coaches to quantify the external workload of training and competition to further understand the demands of the sport. Significant workload differences exist between positions during training and competition; coupling this with large differences in anthropometric and physical characteristics between and within positions suggests that the training response and physiological adaptations will be highly individual. Effective athlete monitoring and management allows practitioners and coaches to identify how athletes are coping with the prescribed training load and, subsequently, if they are prepared for competition. Several evidence-based principles exist that can be adapted and applied to AmF and could decrease the risk of injury and optimise athletic performance.

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New guidelines for use of endoscopic ultrasound for evaluation and risk stratification of pancreatic cystic lesions may be too conservative

Abstract

Background

The role of EUS in managing asymptomatic pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) remains unresolved. We retrospectively evaluated EUS in risk stratification of PCLs when adhering to the most recent AGA guidelines.

Methods

Asymptomatic PCLs that were evaluated by EUS from January 2014 to December 2014 were retrospectively reviewed including associated cytology, fluid analysis, and relevant surgical pathology. Cross-sectional imaging reports were reviewed blindly by an expert radiologist using AGA risk stratification terminology. Accepted imaging high-risk features (HRF) included cyst diameter > 3 cm, dilated upstream pancreatic ducts, and a solid component in the cyst.

Results

We reviewed 125 patients who underwent EUS. Expert review of cross-sectional imaging resulted in a different interpretation 25% of the time including 1 malignant cyst. Ninety-three patients (75%) had no HRFs on cross-sectional imaging; 28 patients (22%) were diagnosed with 1 HRF and 4 patients (3%) had 2 HRFs. Adhering to AGA guidelines using 2 HRF as threshold for use of EUS, the diagnosis of malignant and high-risk premalignant lesions (including pancreatic adenocarcinoma, mucinous cystadenoma, neuroendocrine tumors, and IPMN with dysplasia) had a 40% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Had EUS been utilized based on a threshold of 1 HRF on imaging, malignant and high-risk premalignant lesions would have been identified with 80% sensitivity and 95% specificity. By adding EUS to radiographic imaging, the specificity for detecting carcinomas (p = 0.0009) and detection of all premalignant lesions (p = 0.003) statistically improved. Furthermore, EUS allowed 14 patients (11%) to avoid further surveillance by lowering their risk stratification.

Conclusion

EUS remains an essential risk stratification modality for incidental PCLs. Current guideline suggestions of its utility may be too stringent. Our study justifies expert radiology review when managing PCLs. Further studies are required to identify the optimal approach to PCL management.

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HIFU, a noninvasive and effective treatment for chyluria: 15 years of experience

Abstract

Background

The current treatment therapies for chyluria are often invasive and recurrent. Here, we investigated a novel noninvasive treatment of chyluria with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and evaluated its clinical efficacy.

Methods

155 patients with chyluria were treated with HIFU ablation and followed up over a period of 15 years from May 2000 to December 2015. Routine examinations including urine color observation, color Doppler ultrasound examination, blood serum test of Cr, BUN, and albumin, and detection of urinary chyle were performed before and after the treatment, 1 week, 1 and 6 months post-treatment, and followed up via telephone and other forms. We lost contact with 54 patients during the course of the study.

Results

In the 101 complete cases, the serum levels of Cr and BUN and the color Doppler ultrasound examination did not reveal significant differences before and after the treatment. However, there was a significant increase in the hemoglobin and albumin levels, as well as the body weight after the HIFU treatment. The other 54 patients also showed an improvement of the symptoms after the HIFU treatment before losing contact.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the HIFU ablation therapy is a feasible, effective, and noninvasive method for the treatment of chyluria.

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Research analysis: Stroke identification in 911 calls

Researchers in Chicago have published the study, "Identifying Key Words in 9-1-1 Calls for Stroke: A Mixed Methods Approach" in "Prehospital Emergency Care." This study analyzed dispatch recordings of confirmed acute ischemic strokes to determine the words and phrases most commonly used by both the caller and the emergency medical dispatcher (EMD). A total of 110 calls were listened ...

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Life starts at home: bathing, exertion and participation for people with mobility impairment

Publication date: Available online 3 January 2018
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Lillie Greiman, S. Parker Fleming, Bryce Ward, Andrew Myers, Craig Ravesloot
ObjectiveInvestigate the relationship between perceived exertion while bathing/dressing/grooming and associations with social -recreational activities outside the home for individuals with mobility impairment (MI).DesignWe use a two-study approach examining data from the American Time Use Survey (ATUS) and primary data from the Health and Home Survey (HHS). We explore the relationship between bathing/dressing/grooming and engagement in social-recreational activities and the role that exertion in the bathroom may play in participation in these activities.SettingGeneral community setting.ParticipantsFor the ATUS survey, participants include 6,002 individuals who report a MI. For the HHS we used two mail based recruitment methods to recruit a sample of 170 individuals with MI across three geographically diverse U.S. communities.Main Outcome MeasureParticipation in social and recreational activities.ResultsWe show that people with MI (relative to those without MI) are less likely to report spending any time bathing/dressing/grooming on a given day, but spend more time when they do. People with MI report higher exertion while bathing/dressing/grooming than people without. People with MI are less likely to leave the house or engage in social-recreational activities on days where they do not engage in bathing activities. People who report greater exertion in the bathroom engage in fewer social- recreational activities.ConclusionsExertion in the bathroom may present a barrier to participation indicating a relationship between exertion in the bathroom and social-recreational participation. Research that examines the impact of home modifications on exertion and participation is needed.



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The extent to which caregivers enhance the wheelchair skills capacity and confidence of power wheelchair users: a cross-sectional study

Publication date: Available online 3 January 2018
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): R. Lee Kirby, Paula W. Rushton, Francois Routhier, Louise Demers, Laura Titus, Jan Miller-Polgar, Cher Smith, Mike McAllister, Chris Theriault, Kara Matheson, Kim Parker, Bonita Sawatzky, Delphine Labbé, William C. Miller
ObjectiveThe objectives of this study were to test the hypothesis that caregivers enhance the wheelchair skills capacity and confidence of the power wheelchair users to whom they provide assistance and to describe the nature of that assistance.DesignMulti-center cross-sectional study.SettingRehabilitation centers and communities.ParticipantsWe studied 152 participants – 76 caregivers and 76 wheelchair users.InterventionNone.Main Outcome MeasuresVersion 4.3 of the Wheelchair Skills Test (WST) and WST Questionnaire (WST-Q). For each of the 30 individual skills, we recorded data about the wheelchair user alone and in combination ("blended") with the caregiver.ResultsThe mean (SD) total WST capacity scores for the wheelchair users alone and blended were 78.1 (9.3)% and 92.4 (6.1)%, with a mean difference of 14.3 (8.7)% (p < 0.0001). The mean (SD) WST-Q capacity scores were 77.0 (10.6)% and 93.2 (6.4)%, with a mean difference of 16.3 (9.8)% (p < 0.0001). The mean (SD) WST confidence scores were 75.5 (12.7)% and 92.8 (6.8)%, with a mean difference of 17.5 (11.7)% (p < 0.0001). The mean differences corresponded to relative improvements of 18.3%, 21.0% and 22.9%. The nature and benefits of the caregivers' assistance could be summarized in 7 themes (e.g. "caregiver provides verbal support [cueing, coaching, reporting about the environment]").ConclusionsCaregivers significantly enhance the wheelchair skills capacity and confidence of the power wheelchair users to whom they provide assistance and they do so in a variety of ways. These findings have significance for wheelchair skills assessment and training.



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Prominence of scientific publications toward peri-implant complications in implantology: A bibliometric analysis using the H-classics method

Abstract

Background

Current bibliometric analyses of the evolving trends in research scope category across different time periods using the H-classics method in implantology are considerably limited.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to identify the classic articles in implantology to analyze bibliometric characteristics and associated factors in implantology for the past four decades.

Method

H-Classics in implantology were identified within four time periods between 1977 and 2016, based on the h-index from the Scopus^® database. For each article, the principal bibliometric parameters of authorship, geographic origin, country origin, and institute origin, collaboration, centralization, article type, scope of study, and other associated factors were analyzed in four time periods.

Results

A significant increase in mean numbers of authors per H-Classics was found across time. Both Europe and North America were the most productive region/country, and steadily dominated this field in each time period. Collaborations of author, internationally and inter-institutionally had significantly increased across time. A significant de-centralization in authorships, institutes, and journals were noted in past four decades. The journal of Clinical Oral Implant Researches has raised its importance for almost 30 years (1987-2016). Research on Complications, peri-implant infection/pathology/therapy had been increasing in production throughout each period.

Conclusion

This is the first study to evaluate research trends in implantology in the past 40 years by using the H-classics method, which through analyzing via principle bibliometric characteristics reflected a historical perspective on evolutionary mainstream in the field. Prominence of research regarding complications may forecast innovative advancements in the future.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Pursuing a Medical Career Outside of the USA

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Causes of Infrequent Prevalence of Eosinophilic Esophagitis in Hispanics May Involve Social and Cultural Factors: Probable Role of Digestive Microbiota

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Prevalence of tinnitus according to temporomanibular joint disorders and dental pain: the Korean National Population-based Study

Summary

Some studies have reported that temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is related to tinnitus. However, there is no study of the relationship and prevalence of dental pain and tinnitus. We evaluated the associations between the prevalence of tinnitus and TMD and dental pain by analyzing the Korean national health survey. We analyzed total 11,745 participants. Presence of tinnitus, TMD symptoms, and dental pain were surveyed by self-assessment questionnaires from the all participants. Multivariable regression analysis was applied to acquire odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The prevalence of tinnitus was higher in the subjects with dental pain (21.1%), TMD (22.5%), and both symptoms (31.2%) than subjects without those symptoms (19.6%). After adjusting for all covariates, subjects with TMD had tinnitus 1.6 times more than subjects without TMD. In the sub-analysis, Age group more than 65 years, women, and obese subjects had more tinnitus more than men, age group <65, and non-obese subjects, respectively. TMD alone and both dental pain and TMD were associated with tinnitus (OR=1.389 and 95% CI 1.054-1.832 and 2.206 and 1.637-2.974, respectively). Subjects with TMD had more tinnitus than subjects without TMD. Moreover, subjects with dental pain in addition to TMD had increased prevalence of tinnitus than TMD alone.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Injuries in Field Hockey Players: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background

To commence injury prevention efforts, it is necessary to understand the magnitude of the injury problem. No systematic reviews have yet investigated the extent of injuries in field hockey, despite the popularity of the sport worldwide.

Objective

Our objective was to describe the rate and severity of injuries in field hockey and investigate their characteristics.

Methods

We conducted electronic searches in PubMed, Embase, SPORTDiscus, and CINAHL. Prospective cohort studies were included if they were published in English in a peer-reviewed journal and observed all possible injuries sustained by field hockey players during the period of the study.

Results

The risk of bias score of the 22 studies included ranged from three to nine of a possible ten. In total, 12 studies (55%) reported injuries normalized by field hockey exposure. Injury rates ranged from 0.1 injuries (in school-aged players) to 90.9 injuries (in Africa Cup of Nations) per 1000 player-hours and from one injury (in high-school women) to 70 injuries (in under-21 age women) per 1000 player-sessions. Studies used different classifications for injury severity, but—within studies—injuries were included mostly in the less severe category. The lower limbs were most affected, and contusions/hematomas and abrasions were common types of injury. Contact injuries are common, but non-contact injuries are also a cause for concern.

Conclusions

Considerable heterogeneity meant it was not possible to draw conclusive findings on the extent of the rate and severity of injuries. Establishing the extent of sports injury is considered the first step towards prevention, so there is a need for a consensus on injury surveillance in field hockey.

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Treatment of hepatitis C in special populations

Abstract

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is one of the primary causes of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. In hemodialysis patients, the rate of HCV infection is high and is moreover associated with a poor prognosis. In liver transplantation patients with HCV infection, recurrent HCV infection is universal, and re-infected HCV causes rapid progression of liver fibrosis and graft loss. Additionally, in patients with HCV and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-infection, liver fibrosis progresses rapidly. Thus, there is an acute need for prompt treatment of HCV infection in these special populations (i.e., hemodialysis, liver transplantation, HIV co-infection). However, until recently, the standard anti-HCV treatment involved the use of interferon-based therapy. In these special populations, interferon-based therapies could not achieve a high rate of sustained viral response and moreover were associated with a higher rate of adverse events. With the development of novel direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), the landscape of anti-HCV therapy for special populations has changed dramatically. Indeed, in special populations treated with interferon-free DAAs, the sustained viral response rate was above 90%, with a lower incidence and severity of adverse events.

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Cocoa Flavanol Supplementation and Exercise: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background

Cocoa flavanols (CFs) have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities and can improve vascular function. It has recently been suggested that CF intake may improve exercise performance and recovery. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the literature on the effects of CF intake on exercise performance and recovery and exercise-induced changes in vascular function, cognitive function, oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic parameters.

Methods

Two electronic databases (Pubmed and Web of Science) were searched for studies examining the combination of CF intake and exercise in humans (up to 28 March 2017). Articles were included if the exact amount of CFs was mentioned. The methodological quality and level of bias of the 13 included studies was assessed according to the checklist for randomized controlled trials from the Dutch Cochrane center.

Results

Acute, sub-chronic (2 weeks) and chronic (3 months) CF intake reduced exercise-induced oxidative stress. Evidence on the effect of CF on exercise-induced inflammation and platelet activation was scarce. Acute CF intake reduced and tempered the exercise-induced increase in blood pressure in obese participants. Acute and sub-chronic CF intake altered fat and carbohydrate metabolism during exercise. Acute and sub-chronic CF intake did not have ergogenic effects in athletes, while chronic CF intake improved mitochondrial efficiency in untrained participants. While combining sub-chronic CF intake and exercise training improved cardiovascular risk factors and vascular function, evidence on the synergistic effects of CF and exercise training on oxidative stress, inflammation, and fat and glucose metabolism was lacking.

Conclusion

CF intake may improve vascular function, reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress, and alter fat and carbohydrate utilization during exercise, but without affecting exercise performance. There is a strong need for future studies examining the synergetic effect of chronic CF intake and exercise training.

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Talent Identification and Development in Male Football: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background

Expertise has been extensively studied in several sports over recent years. The specificities of how excellence is achieved in Association Football, a sport practiced worldwide, are being repeatedly investigated by many researchers through a variety of approaches and scientific disciplines.

Objective

The aim of this review was to identify and synthesise the most significant literature addressing talent identification and development in football. We identified the most frequently researched topics and characterised their methodologies.

Methods

A systematic review of Web of Science™ Core Collection and Scopus databases was performed according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines. The following keywords were used: "football" and "soccer". Each word was associated with the terms "talent", "expert*", "elite", "elite athlete", "identification", "career transition" or "career progression". The selection was for the original articles in English containing relevant data about talent development/identification on male footballers.

Results

The search returned 2944 records. After screening against set criteria, a total of 70 manuscripts were fully reviewed. The quality of the evidence reviewed was generally excellent. The most common topics of analysis were (1) task constraints: (a) specificity and volume of practice; (2) performers' constraints: (a) psychological factors; (b) technical and tactical skills; (c) anthropometric and physiological factors; (3) environmental constraints: (a) relative age effect; (b) socio-cultural influences; and (4) multidimensional analysis. Results indicate that the most successful players present technical, tactical, anthropometric, physiological and psychological advantages that change non-linearly with age, maturational status and playing positions. These findings should be carefully considered by those involved in the identification and development of football players.

Conclusion

This review highlights the need for coaches and scouts to consider the players' technical and tactical skills combined with their anthropometric and physiological characteristics scaled to age. Moreover, research addressing the psychological and environmental aspects that influence talent identification and development in football is currently lacking. The limitations detected in the reviewed studies suggest that future research should include the best performers and adopt a longitudinal and multidimensional perspective.

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Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery can help enable the complete resection of a mediastinal tumor caused by immunoglobulin G4-related disease and avoid the need for postoperative medication: A case report

Abstract

Immunoglobulin (Ig) G4-related disease has various clinical signs and symptoms, and steroidal therapy with corticosteroids has been found to be effective for treatment. Few cases of IgG4-related disease associated with paravertebral tumor have been reported, and there have been no reports on complete resection of such a tumor. Here, we report a case of IgG4-related disease associated with a paravertebral tumor that was successfully resected without the need for postoperative medication. An 84-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with a paravertebral tumor. She underwent thoracoscopic surgery, and pathological examination of the tumor specimen revealed that the tumor resulted from IgG4-related disease. After resection, there was no need for postoperative medication. Our case indicates the rare possibility of a paravertebral tumor associated with IgG4-related disease and the potential for complete resection as a treatment for such a tumor.

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Elective laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal repair for Spigelian hernia: A case series of four patients

Abstract

Introduction

Spigelian hernia (SH) is uncommon. Clinical diagnosis may be difficult, but computed tomography (CT) can help to establish the diagnosis. Laparoscopic repair is increasingly performed because it is associated with low morbidity rates. Laparoscopic approaches include transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP), intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM), and totally extraperitoneal (TEP). Here, we report our experiences of TEP repair for SH.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed on all patients with SH who underwent elective laparoscopic TEP repair from 2007 to 2017 at Tung Wah Hospital, Hong Kong.

Results

Four patients with SH were identified in the study period: three with a preoperative diagnosis of SH confirmed by CT scan and one diagnosed incidentally during TEP repair for inguinal hernia. The patients' mean age was 66.8 years (range, 55.0–82.0 years). The mean BMI was 22.8 kg/m² (range, 20.8–23.6 kg/m²). The mean size of the SH defect was 2.0 cm (range, 0.5–3.0 cm). The mean operative time was 59 min (range, 40–86 min). Concomitant direct inguinal hernia was found in one patient and repaired simultaneously. All patients were discharged on postoperative day 1. One patient developed seroma, which subsided on conservative management. At a mean follow-up of 36 months (range, 2–108 months), there was no recurrence.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic repair for SH is preferred over the open approach as it is associated with a low morbidity rate and a short hospital stay. In our experience, TEP technique is safe and effective in laparoscopic SH repair.

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Effects of skin surface cooling before exercise on lactate accumulation in cool environment

Abstract

Purpose

We assessed whether plasma lactate accumulation increased and the lactate threshold (LT) declined when the skin temperature was lowered by whole body skin surface cooling before exercise in cool, but not temperate, conditions, and whether the lowered LT was associated with sympathetic activation or lowered plasma volume (PV) by cold-induced diuresis.

Methods

Ten healthy subjects performed a graded maximal cycling exercise after pre-conditioning under three different conditions for 60 min. Ambient temperature (using an artificial climatic chamber) and water temperature in a water-perfusion suit controlled at 25 and 34 °C in temperate–neutral (Temp–Neut); 25 and 10 °C in temperate–cool (Temp–Cool); and at 10 and 10 °C in cool–cool (Cool–Cool) conditions, respectively. Esophageal (T_es) and skin temperatures were measured; plasma lactate ([Lac]_p) and noradrenaline concentrations ([Norad]_p), and relative change in PV (%ΔPV) were determined before and after pre-conditioning and during exercise, and LT was determined.

Results

After pre-conditioning, T_es was not different among trials, whereas the mean skin temperature was lower in Cool–Cool and Temp–Cool than in Temp–Neut (P < 0.001). During exercise, [Lac]_p and [Norad]_p were higher (P = 0.009 and P < 0.001, respectively) and LT was lower (P = 0.013) in Cool–Cool than in the other trials. The %ΔPV was not different among trials. LT was correlated with [Norad]_p during exercise (R = 0.50, P = 0.005).

Conclusions

Whole body skin surface cooling before exercise increases lactate accumulation and decreases LT with sympathetic activation when exercise is performed in a cool, but not in a temperate, environment.

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The Incidence of Injury in Amateur Male Rugby Union: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background

Rugby union is a physically demanding, full-contact team sport that has gained worldwide popularity. The incidence of injury in rugby union has been widely reported in the literature. While comprehensive injury surveillance and prevention programmes have been implemented within the professional game, there is a need for similar strategies in the amateur game. Despite recent increases in the volume of research in rugby, there is little consensus regarding the true incidence rate of match and training injuries in senior amateur male rugby union players.

Objective

The aim of the current review was to systematically review the available evidence on the epidemiology of time-loss injuries in senior amateur male rugby union players and to subsequently conduct a meta-analysis of the findings.

Methods

A comprehensive search of the PubMed, Scopus, SportDiscus and Google Scholar electronic databases was performed using the following keywords; ('rugby' OR 'rugby union') AND ('amateur' OR 'community') AND ('injur*' OR 'pain*'). Six articles regarding the incidence of injury in senior amateur male rugby union players, in both matches and training, were retrieved and included in the meta-analysis to determine the overall incidence rate of match injury, with descriptive analyses also provided for other reported variables.

Results

The overall incidence rate of match injuries within senior amateur rugby union players was 46.8/1000 player hours [95% confidence interval (CI) 34.4–59.2]. Contact events accounted for the majority of injuries, with the tackler more at risk than the player being tackled, and with respective incidence rates of 15.9/1000 player hours (95% CI 12.4–19.5) and 12.2/1000 player hours (95% CI 9.3–15.1).

Conclusion

This meta-analysis found that the incidence rate of injury in amateur rugby union players was lower than that in professional players, but higher than the incidences reported in adolescent and youth rugby players. By understanding the true incidence and nature of injuries in rugby, injury prevention strategies can best be implemented. Future prevention strategies may best be aimed towards the tackle area, specifically to the tackler, in order to minimize injury risk.

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Bed-Sharing in the First 8 Weeks of Life: An Australian Study

Abstract

Background As the evidence continues to emerge about the relationship between sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI) and the way an infant sleeps, providing consistent and evidence-informed recommendations on how best to sleep infants is an ongoing challenge. A recent case series study in the state of Victoria, Australia, identified 45.8% of sleep-related infant deaths occurred whilst bed-sharing. This study prompted the need for further exploration of infant sleeping practices, including bed-sharing, in this population. Methods A cross-sectional survey of 2745 mothers attending the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Service across Victoria, Australia was conducted. Data included the prevalence and circumstances of bed-sharing, family demographics, and SUDI risk and protective factors. Associations between bed-sharing and SUDI risk and protective factors were examined using univariate and multivariate analyses. Results Bed-sharing prevalence was found to be 44.7%, with 21.5% reporting that this was intended. Multivariate analyses showed bed-sharing was less likely amongst those with an annual household income above $AUS104, 000 (OR 0.72; 95% CI 0.54–0.96) and more likely amongst mothers who breastfed (OR 1.71; 95% CI 1.23–2.37). Conclusions Bed-sharing prevalence in this population compares closely with the Victorian case series study and a previous cross-sectional study in the state of Queensland, Australia, in 2002. Noted gaps in how families are implementing current recommendations about reducing the risk of SUDI were identified for sleep position, sleep location and the sleep environment. Further consideration needs to be given to addressing these gaps and applying these findings of current bed-sharing practices to the development of infant safe sleeping policy and programs.

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