Effect of glissade-step on kinetic and kinematic variables of stag ring leaps with and without throw-catch of the ball in rhythmic gymnastics

This study focuses on certain characteristics of the jump take-offs in rhythmic gymnastics (RG). Rhythmic gymnasts always perform their jumps with the same preferred run-up technique, proceeded by a chassé-step in most of the cases. The overall idea was to analyse other step-techniques that could be performged on one-leg, which could prepare jumps. The aim of this study was to compare kinetic and kinematic variables between three-stag ring leaps with and without throwing-ball, performed using the glissade-step as a preparatory phase for take-off with one-leg these were as follows: glissade stag ring leap without-ball (GSWB), throw-ball glissade stag ring leap (TBGS) and glissade throw-ball stag ring leap (GTBS). Seven members of the Tunisian RG national team took part in this study. The technical elements were recorded in 2D using two-cameras on a specially designed floor carpet where a force-plate was integrated. The results showed that the three-leaps had significant impacts on the performance variables, especially on the force, the velocity and the flexibility. The GTBS was the most effective leap as the throw took place during the jump, which has increased its technicality and the applied physical variables, the vertical force, the rate of force development, the horizontal and vertical velocities and displacements.

Kinetic and Kinematic Analysis of Landing during Standing Back Somersault Using Three Technical Arm Swings in Artistic Gymnastics

The crucial criteria when assessing technical performance in artistic gymnastics is the higher elevation of the gymnast's body and a stable landing (i.e., stick-landing). The purpose of this study was to compare kinetic and kinematic parameters during the landing phase of standing back somersaults (SBS) following three technical arm-swing performed during the preparatory phase in high-level male gymnasts. The three different arm-swing pertain to three "gymnastics schools", i.e., Russian, Chinese, and Romanian. Six high-level male gymnasts participated in this study. Three arm-swing with different angles (i.e., SBS_270°, SBS_180°, and SBS_90°) were randomly performed. A 3D kinetic and kinematic analysis was conducted. Results showed significant variation in the landing angle (p = 0.009) across the three arm-swing techniques. The SBS_90° arm-swing resulted in the closest angle to the vertical. Additionally, the SBS_90° arm-swing technique induced the lowest horizontal and vertical force values upon landing compared to the other arm-swing techniques (SBS_270°: p = 0.023 and 0.009, respectively; SBS_180°: p = 0.004 and 0.080, respectively). The same was noted for the horizontal velocity (p = 0.021) with the lowest values noted for the SBS_90° arm-swing technique. However, the best opening angle was observed during the SBS_270° technique, since it presented the best vertical displacement. In conclusion, the SBS with a SBS_90° arm-swing seems to favor a better absorption of the ground reaction force upon landing by reducing the intensity of the impact with the ground and by affording a landing angle closer to the vertical in high-level male gymnasts.

Effects of a Football Simulated Exercise on Injury Risk Factors for Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury in Amateur Female Players

Females are more at risk of Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries than males; however, there is limited literature on neuromuscular risk factors such as angle-specific hamstring/quadriceps functional strength ratios (H_ecc/Q_con) and rate of torque development (RTD) in female footballers. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of fatigue on these neuromuscular risk factors. Thirty-three amateur players (20.3 ± 2.0 years old, 1.67 ± 9.31 m, 63.4 ±8.1 kg, 23.6 ± 5.7% body fat) performed strength assessments of the quadriceps (concentrically, Q_con) and hamstrings (eccentrically, H_ecc) on both legs on an isokinetic dynamometer, before and immediately after a football-specific exercise. Results showed significantly lower peak H_ecc (-15.1 to -15.5%), peak H_ecc/Q_con (-8.8 to -12.9%) and RTD (-14.0 to -17.0%) for hamstring eccentric contractions after fatigue in the dominant and non-dominant legs. Furthermore, significant decreases in H_ecc/Q_con were observed at 10° only in the dominant leg (-15.5%), and at 10°, 20° and 30° in the non-dominant leg (-15.1 to -21.8%). These results suggest a reduced capacity of the hamstrings to stabilise the knee joint with fatigue. Unlike results previously shown on men, the non-dominant leg seemed more affected, highlighting the need to consider specific prevention measures in females.

Exercise improves depression through positive modulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). A review based on 100 manuscripts over 20 years

The aim of this review was to explore the relevant neurobiology and the association between peripheral levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and acute and short to long-term exercise regimes, as well as its relation to depression and antidepressant treatment. A 20-year literature search was conducted. The screening process resulted in 100 manuscripts. Antidepressants as well as acute exercise, particularly high-intensity, elevates BDNF in healthy humans and clinical populations, as evidenced from aerobic and resistance-based studies. Although exercise is increasingly recognised in the management of depression, acute and short-term exercise studies have failed to establish a relationship between the severity of depression and changes in peripheral BDNF. The latter rapidly returns to baseline, possibly indicating a quick re-uptake by the brain, aiding its neuroplasticity functions. The timescale of administration needed for the antidepressants to stimulate biochemical changes is longer than similar increases with acute exercise.

Salivary endocrine response following a maximal incremental cycling protocol with local vibration

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of vibration (Vib versus noVib) during a maximal graded cycling exercise on hormonal response, precisely on cortisol (C) and testosterone (T). Twelve active males (25 ± 5yrs; 181 ± 5cm; 80.7 ± 11.1kg) randomly performed two maximal incremental cycling tests on two separate days and at the same time of the day (09:00). The protocol consisted of incremental steps of 3 min duration performed on a PowerBIKE^TM that induces vibration cycling. The study was a repeated measures design and participants performed the test with and without vibration. Gas exchange and heart rate (HR) were continuously assessed and blood lactate (Bla) was recorded at the end of each incremental stage. Saliva samples were collected before and immediately after the test, and analysed for (C) and (T).

The results show that C and T increased in both cycling conditions; however, the C’s magnitude of change was significantly higher by 83% after Vib cycling in comparison to the no Vib (p = 0.014), whereas the T’s magnitude of change were not statistically different between trials (p = 0.715). Vibration induced a decrease of the T/C ratio (p = 0.046) but no significant changes were observed following noVib (p = 0.476). As a conclusion, the investigation suggests that adding mechanical vibration to cycling may potentiate a catabolic exercise-induced state, which could have potential clinical implications in rehabilitation and injury treatment. Sport experts should take this message home to carefully plan the recovery process and time during training and competitions.

Vibration Cycling Did Not Affect Energy Demands Compared to Normal Cycling During Maximal Graded Test

The aim of this study was to compare the physiological responses between a vibration induced cycling step protocol (Vib) and normal cycling (without vibration, no-Vib). Eighteen moderate trained males (age 24.1 ± 4.3 years; weight 76.5 ± 10.5 kg; height 178.0 ± 6.4 cm) have participated in this study. They randomly performed two gradual maximal exercise tests on two separate days using a new bike that automatically induces vibration cycling and the Corival cycle ergometer. The choice of two different bikes was made because of the impossibility to recreate the same power output without altering the cycling cadence on the vibration Bike. Both protocols were matched for power output and cycling cadence incrementations. Oxygen uptake (VO₂), carbon dioxide production (VCO₂), ventilation (VE), heart rate (HR), blood lactate and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) during each stage were continuously recorded. No statistical differences were founded for all variables when comparing the Vib to no-Vib trials, except a higher ventilation during the vibration trial at submaximal levels. The results of this study do not confirm those of previous studies stated that Vib increased metabolic demands during cycling exercise. Added vibration stimulus to an incremental cycling protocol does not affect physiological parameters.

Profiles of Physical Fitness Risk Behaviours in School Adolescents from the ASSO Project: A Latent Class Analysis

The aim of the present investigation was to describe profiles of adolescents’ fitness level, identify latent classes of fitness-related risk behaviours, and describe their sociodemographic and environmental predictors. In total, 883 adolescents (16.4 ± 1.4 years; 167.3 ± 10.4 cm; 62.8 ± 13.5 kg; 62.2% males) were assessed for personal and lifestyle information and for physical fitness components. Eleven possible fitness determinants and seven predictors were included. Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to determine fitness-related risk behaviours. Logistic regressions predicted class membership and assessed associations with fitness levels and fitness components. Five latent classes were recognised: 1—virtuous, 30.7% of respondents; 2—low physical activity/sport, 18.8%; 3—incorrect alcohol/food habits, 25.8%; 4—health risk/overweight, 15.9%; 5—malaise/diseases, 8.8%. Sex, age, parents’ overweightness/obesity and education, and school type predicted most classes significantly. Compared to class 1, class 2 had higher odds of having all poor fitness components except upper body maximal strength; class 4 had higher risk of low muscular endurance; and class 5 was likely to have lower maximal strength, muscular endurance, and speed/agility. Educating adolescents to reach a sufficient practice of PA/sport could help decreasing the risk of low health-related fitness more than discouraging them from using alcohol, addressing proper food behaviours and habits, and helping them understand their psychophysical malaise symptoms.

Bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA) in sport and exercise: Systematic review and future perspectives

Background

Bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA) is a general concept that includes all methodologies used in the analysis of the bioelectrical vector, whereas the "classic" BIVA is a patented methodology included among these methods of analysis. Once this was clarified, the systematic review of the literature provides a deeper insight into the scope and range of application of BIVA in sport and exercise.

Objective

The main goal of this work was to systematically review the sources on the applications of BIVA in sport and exercise and to examine its usefulness and suitability as a technique for the evaluation of body composition, hydration status, and other physiological and clinical relevant characteristics, ultimately to trace future perspectives in this growing area, including a proposal for a research agenda.

Methods

Systematic literature searches in PubMed, SPORTDiscus and Scopus databases up to July, 2017 were conducted on any empirical investigations using phase-sensitive bioimpedance instruments to perform BIVA within exercise and sport contexts. The search included healthy sedentary individuals, physically active subjects and athletes.

Result

Nineteen eligible papers were included and classified as sixteen original articles and three scientific conference communications. Three studies analysed short-term variations in the hydration status evoked by exercise/training through whole-body measurements, eleven assessed whole-body body composition changes induced by long-term exercise, four compared athletic groups or populations using the whole-body assessment, and two analysed bioelectrical patterns of athletic injuries or muscle damage through localised bioimpedance measurements.

Conclusions

BIVA is a relatively new technique that has potential in sport and exercise, especially for the assessment of soft-tissue injury. On the other hand, the current tolerance ellipses of “classic” BIVA are not a valid method to identify dehydration in individual athletes and a new approach is needed. “Specific” BIVA, a method which proposes a correction of bioelectrical values for body geometry, emerges as the key to overcome “classic” BIVA limitations regarding the body composition assessment. Further research establishing standardised testing procedures and investigating the relationship between physiology and the bioelectrical signal in sport and exercise is needed.

Effect of Two Different Types of Olympic Rotation Order on Cardiovascular and Metabolic Variables in Men's Artistic Gymnastics

The rotation sequence-order differs from a gymnast to another according to the draw at the time of the qualifying competitions in men's artistic gymnastics. Only the six best gymnasts start on the floor exercises, the others could start on any of the other five apparatuses. It has been demonstrated that some gymnastics events are physiologically less taxing than others; hence some gymnasts could experience lower and/or higher levels of cardiovascular and metabolic stress compared to others, depending on the apparatus they start with. In this regard, the objective of this investigation was to compare cardiovascular and metabolic variables between two different types of Olympic rotation-order; one began with the floor exercises and the other began with the pommel horse. Six elite male gymnasts took part in this investigation. Heart rates, synchronized with real-time video acquisition, as well as capillary lactate concentration following each apparatus routine were monitored. Cardiovascular and metabolic stresses were significantly higher when gymnasts started their rotation with the pommel horse in all apparatuses except the pommel horse. The floor exercises' score was significantly affected when gymnasts ended up their competition on this apparatus. As a conclusion, starting gymnastics' competition on the floor exercises implicates less cardiovascular and metabolic stress associated with better performance compared with the other rotation order. As a matter of fact, best gymnasts who start on this apparatus could have a slight advantage compared with the other athletes.

Southern Italian teenagers: the older they get, the unfit they become with girls worse than boys: a cohort epidemiological study: The adolescents surveillance system for the obesity prevention project (ASSO)

Italy comprises a high proportion of people who never exercised. Low physical activity levels in adolescents is a risk factor for several disorders. The aim of this cohort epidemiological study was to compare physical fitness profiles between boys and girls with regard to age and gender and to identify health and fitness-related markers that contribute to the make-up of Southern Italian teenagers.Eight hundred eleven teenagers were assessed for anthropometric measurements and completed the 5 ASSO-fitness tests battery. Data were analyzed with a 2-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for repeated measures to compare the effect of both age and gender on the fitness components.The boys' anthropometric measurements were superior than the girls as expected [weight, height, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference]; the overall BMI was found in the normality range. The overall teenagers' fitness markers were found to be quite poor with the boys outperforming the girls in all fitness tests. The weak cardiorespiratory performance of the female teenagers was remarkable. The under 16 years old (-16 yrs) girls outperformed the over 16 years old (+16yrs) girls. There were less significant differences when comparing (-16) and (+16) yrs old mixed-gender groups. There were no correlations between the (-16) and (+16) yrs when both genders were considered. The trend analysis showed the younger teenagers might be "catching up" the older ones in both contexts.Gender significantly influenced all variables. Although age did not influence cardiorespiratory fitness, the older the teenagers the worse their health and fitness markers become with the older girls worse than their younger peers.

A Fitness Index model for Italian adolescents living in Southern Italy: the ASSO project

BACKGROUND

Strong relations between physical fitness and health in adolescents have been established in the last decades. The main objectives of the present investigation were to assess major physical fitness components in a sample of Italian school adolescents, comparing them with international data, and providing a Fitness Index model derived from percentile cut-off values of five considered physical fitness components.

METHODS

A total of 644 school pupils (15.9±1.1 years; M: N.=399; F: N.=245) were tested using the ASSO-Fitness Test Battery (FTB), a tool developed within the Adolescents and Surveillance System for the Obesity prevention project, which included the handgrip, standing broad-jump, sit-up to exhaustion, 4×10-m shuttle run and 20-m shuttle run tests. Stratified percentile values and related smoothed curves were obtained. The method of principal components analysis (PCA) was applied to the considered five fitness components to derive a continuous fitness level score (the Fit-Score). A Likert-type scale on the Fit-Score values was applied to obtain an intuitive classification of the individual level of fitness: very poor (X<P20), poor (P20≤X<P40), medium (P40≤X<P60), good (P60≤X<P80) and very good (X≥P80).

RESULTS

Boys had higher fitness levels compared to girls. They also showed an incremental trend amongst fitness levels with age in all physical components. These results could be overlapped with those related to European adolescents. Data revealed high correlations (r>0.5) between the Fit-Score and all the fitness components. The median Fit-Score was equal to 33 for females and 53 for males (in a scale from 0 to 100).

CONCLUSIONS

The ASSO-FTB allowed the assessment of health-related fitness components in a convenient sample of Italian adolescents and provided a Fitness Index model incorporating all these components for an intuitive classification of fitness levels. If this model is confirmed, the monitoring of these variables will allow early detection of health-related issues in a mass population, thus giving the opportunity to plan appropriate interventions.

Reliability and criterion-related validity of a new repeated agility test

The study aimed to assess the reliability and the criterion-related validity of a new repeated sprint T-test (RSTT) that includes intense multidirectional intermittent efforts. The RSTT consisted of 7 maximal repeated executions of the agility T-test with 25 s of passive recovery rest in between. Forty-five team sports players performed two RSTTs separated by 3 days to assess the reliability of best time (BT) and total time (TT) of the RSTT. The intra-class correlation coefficient analysis revealed a high relative reliability between test and retest for BT and TT (>0.90). The standard error of measurement (<0.50) showed that the RSTT has a good absolute reliability. The minimal detectable change values for BT and TT related to the RSTT were 0.09 s and 0.58 s, respectively. To check the criterion-related validity of the RSTT, players performed a repeated linear sprint (RLS) and a repeated sprint with changes of direction (RSCD). Significant correlations between the BT and TT of the RLS, RSCD and RSTT were observed (p<0.001). The RSTT is, therefore, a reliable and valid measure of the intermittent repeated sprint agility performance. As this ability is required in all team sports, it is suggested that team sports coaches, fitness coaches and sports scientists consider this test in their training follow-up.

Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of the Adolescents and Surveillance System for the Obesity Prevention Project

The Adolescents Surveillance System for Obesity prevention (ASSO) Project aimed at developing standardized and web-based tools for collecting data on adolescents' obesity and its potential determinants. This has been implemented and piloted in the local area of Palermo city, Italy. The aim of the present study is to provide an overview of the Project's design, implementation, and evaluation, highlighting all the aspects for a potential scale-up of the surveillance system on the whole national territory and abroad, as a sustainable and effective source of data.The overall structure and management, the ASSO-toolkit, the ASSO-NutFit software, and all developed and used procedures for recruiting, training, and data collecting/analyzing are addressed. An interim evaluation has been performed through a feasibility study; a final Project evaluation has been performed reporting the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) and the attributes that a surveillance system should have.This article provides a detailed overview of the Project and highlights that ASSO can be considered a valid, logical, coherent, efficient, and sustainable surveillance system that is consistent with countries' needs and priorities.The system developed by the ASSO Project provides high-quality data and complies with several characteristics typical of a suitable surveillance system. It has a potential of being adopted within the National Health Service and other countries' Health Services for monitoring adolescents' obesity and its determinants, such as food intakes, behaviors, physical activity, and fitness profiles.

Comparative validity of the ASSO-Food Frequency Questionnaire for the web-based assessment of food and nutrients intake in adolescents

BACKGROUND

A new web-based food frequency questionnaire (the ASSO-FFQ) was developed within the ASSO Project funded by the Italian Ministry of Health.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study is to assess the validity of the ASSO-FFQ at food groups, energy, and nutrients level.

DESIGN AND SUBJECTS

The validation study compared the ASSO-FFQ against a weighted food record (WFR) measuring foods, beverages and supplements intake, compiled during the week following the ASSO-FFQ administration. Ninety-two subjects aged 14-17, recruited from secondary schools in Palermo (Italy), completed the ASSO-FFQ and WFR. The intake of 24 food groups, energy, and 52 nutrients were taken as main outcomes. Tests for paired observations, Spearman and Pearson's correlation coefficients (cc), kappa statistics and classification in quintiles, Bland-Altman plots and multiple regressions, on untransformed and transformed data were used for the statistical analysis.

RESULTS

High cc (≥0.40) were found for soft drinks, milk, tea/coffee, vegetables, and lactose; fair energy-adjusted cc (0.25-0.40) for water, alcoholic drinks, breakfast cereals, fishery products, savory food, fruit juice, eggs, and 19 nutrients. The subjects classified in the same or adjacent quintile for food groups ranged from 40% (alcoholic drinks) to 100% (dried fruit); for energy and nutrients from 43% (phosphorus, thiamin, niacin) to 77% (lactose). Mean differences were not significant for water, soft drinks, meat, sweets, animal fats, milk and white bread, and vitamin B12 and folate. Limits of Agreement were broad for all food groups and nutrients. School, gender, alcohol consumption and between meals mainly affected most food groups' intake differences. Gender stratification showed females had increased Pearson's cc for energy and 28 nutrients, such as almost all fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.

CONCLUSIONS

The ASSO-FFQ could be applied in epidemiological studies for the assessment of dietary consumption in adolescents to adequately rank food, energy and nutrient intakes at a group level.

The web-based ASSO-food frequency questionnaire for adolescents: relative and absolute reproducibility assessment

Background

A new food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) has been recently developed within the Italian Adolescents and Surveillance System for the Obesity prevention (ASSO) Project; it was found to be appropriate for ranking adolescents in food and nutrient levels of intake. The aim of this study was to assess the relative and absolute reproducibility of the ASSO-FFQ for 24 food groups, energy and 52 nutrients.

Methods

A test-retest study was performed on two ASSO-FFQs administered one month apart of each other to 185 adolescents, aged 14–17 and attending secondary schools in Palermo (Italy). Wilcoxon test assessed differences in median daily intakes between the two FFQs. Agreement was evaluated by quintiles comparison and weighted kappa. Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) and Bland-Altman method assessed the relative and absolute reliability respectively.

Results

Significant difference (p < 0.05) in median intakes was found only for bread substitutes, savoury food, water, soft drinks, carbohydrates and sugar. The subjects classified into the same or adjacent quintiles for food groups ranged from 62% (white bread) to 91% (soft drinks); for energy and nutrients from 64% (polyunsaturated fatty acids) to 90% (ethanol). Mean values of weighted kappa were 0.47 and 0.48, respectively for food groups and nutrients. Fair to good ICC values (>0.40) were assessed for thirteen food groups, energy and forty-three nutrients. Limits of Agreement were narrow for almost all food groups and all nutrients.

Conclusions

The ASSO-FFQ is a reliable instrument for estimating food groups, energy and nutrients intake in adolescents.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1475-2891-13-119) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Validation and reproducibility of dietary assessment methods in adolescents: a systematic literature review

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present work was to determine what dietary assessment method can provide a valid and accurate estimate of nutrient intake by comparison with the gold standard.

DESIGN

A MEDLINE, EMBASE, ISI Web of Science, Cochrane and related references literature review was conducted on dietary assessment methods for adolescents reporting the validity and/or reproducibility values. A study quality assessment on the retrieved FFQ was carried out according to two different scoring systems, judging respectively the quality of FFQ nutrition information and of FFQ validation and calibration.

SETTING

The present review considered adolescents attending high schools and recruited in hospitals or at home.

SUBJECTS

The target of the review was the healthy adolescent population in the age range 13-17 years.

RESULTS

Thirty-two eligible papers were included and analysed separately as 'original articles' (n 20) and 'reviews' (n 12). The majority (n 17) assessed the validation and reproducibility of FFQ. Almost all studies found the questionnaires to be valid and reproducible (r > 0·4), except for some food groups and nutrients. Different design and validation issues were highlighted, such as portion-size estimation, number of food items and statistics used.

CONCLUSIONS

The present review offers new insights in relation to the characteristics of assessment methods for dietary intake in adolescents. Further meta-analysis is required although the current review provides important indications on the development of a new FFQ, addressing the need for a valid, reproducible, user-friendly, cost-effective method of accurately assessing nutrient intakes in adolescents.

Jumping performance profile of male and female gymnasts

AIM

The aim of this study was to establish a more precise jumping performance profile of elite gymnasts than that published in previous studies.

METHODS

Seventy-six elite male and female competitive gymnasts and 91 moderately active subjects volunteered for the study. The jumping tests performed on a contact mat were: squat jump (SJ) with progressive loads of 0%, 25%, 50 %, 75% and 100% of body mass, counter-movement jump (CMJ), and counter-movement jump with arm swing (CMJA). The parameters used to assess the jumping performance were flight time (FT, ms), FT normalized to body mass (FTbm, ms/kg), estimated elastic component (EC) and arm participation (AP). In SJ, the overload with respect to body mass had a negative impact on reliability in all of the subgroups that were analysed. When overloads were above 50% of body mass in SJ, reliability was poor. Therefore, overloads should not be used with sedentary young females. Gymnasts carry out a large number of jumps from very young ages, which may explain their high jump reliability (ICC>0.91).

RESULTS

We used FT to estimate the F-v curve through SJ with overloads. The curves for male gymnasts and their controls were practically identical. However, when FT was normalized to body mass (FTbm), the F-v curve showed the advantage of female gymnasts in particular over their control group when overloads were above 50%. Larger, more significant (P<0.001) differences between gymnasts and their control groups were observed in CMJ and CMJA, with FTbm instead of FT. The combination of poor SJ and good CMJ performances explains why the EC was higher in gymnasts than in controls (+27%).

CONCLUSION

The better AP of the gymnasts (+79%) may be due to better arm strength conditioning and segmental coordination. EC and AP can be considered a suitable complementary parameter of jumping performance in gymnasts.

The effects of vibration during maximal graded cycling exercise: a pilot study

Whole Body Vibration training is studied and used in different areas, related to sport performance and rehabilitation. However, few studies have investigated the effects of Vibration (Vib) exposure on aerobic performance through the application of this concept to cycling exercise. A specifically designed vibrating cycloergometer, the powerBIKE(™), was used to compare the effects of Vib cycling exercise and normal cycling on different physiological parameters during maximal graded exercise test. Twelve recreationally active male adults (25 ± 4.8 yrs; 181.33 ± 5.47 cm; 80.66 ± 11.91 kg) performed two maximal incremental cycling tests with and without Vib in a block-randomized order. The protocol consisted of a 4 min warm up at 70 rev·min(-1) followed by incremental steps of 3 min each. Cycling cadence was increased at each step by 10 rev·min(-1) until participants reached their volitional exhaustion. Respiratory gases (VO2, VCO2), Heart Rate, Blood Lactate and RPE were collected during the test. Paired t-tests and Cor-relation Coefficients were used for statistical analysis. A significantly greater (P<0.05) response in the VO2, HR, BLa and RPE was observed during the Vib trial compare to normal cycling. No significant differences were found in the maximal aerobic power (Vib 34.32 ± 9.70 ml·kg(-1)·min(-1); no Vib 40.11 ± 9.49 ml·kg(-1)·min(-1)). Adding Vib to cycling exercise seems eliciting a quicker energetic demand during maximal exercise. However, mechanical limitations of the vibrating prototype could have affected the final outcomes. Future studies with more comparative setting are recommended to deeply appraise this concept.

Protein supplementation in strength and conditioning adepts: knowledge, dietary behavior and practice in Palermo, Italy

Background

It is known that supplement use is a widespread and accepted practice by athletes and people who attend commercial gyms. Little is known about protein supplement amongst people undertaking strength training in commercial gyms in Italy when compared to the US.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the use of protein supplementation, alone or in association with other supplements, and dietary behavior amongst regular fitness center attendees in Palermo, Italy.

Design

Resistance training information have been collected from 800 regular fitness center attendees for the initial analysis. A specific questionnaire was generated for the experimentation. Data were collected using a face-to-face interview method. Supplement users were then compared to the non users and analyzed using a one-way ANOVA, Kruskall-Wallis, chi-square test or exact test of Fisher when appropriate.

Results

30.1% of the respondents use dietary supplements during their training as a believe it is the "way to gain muscles and strength". Whey protein shakes (50.0%) mixed with creatine and amino-acids (48.3%) were the most frequent choices amongst the users. A majority of the subjects (34.0%) appeared to rely on their gym instructors' advice for their intake; a lower proportion (13.0%) consulted physicians, while none of them consulted nutritionists. A high consumption of milk has been noticed in both users (67,7%) and non-users (52,8%); supplement non-users consumed significantly more snacks and bakery products than users per week (P < 0.001), while users consumed significantly more protein-rich foods (P < 0.01) with a particular preference for meat (48.0%).

Conclusions

A considerable number of regular strength training adepts consume protein supplements mixed with other products (mainly creatine and amino-acids). Limited numbers consult "dietary specialists" and rely mainly on their instructors. We emphasize on the importance of the dissemination of scientifically based information about supplementation in this environment and the promotion of updated educational programs for the instructors.

Influence of family history of NIDDM on basal metabolic rate in sedentary and active women

AIM AND METHODS

The influence of family history of non-insulin-dependent diabetes (NIDDM) on basal metabolic rate (BMR) has been investigated in 116 voluntarily women: 25 sedentary and 34 athletes without a family predisposition to type 2 diabetes (FH-); 21 sedentary and 15 athletes with a second degree predisposition to NIDDM (FH+); 10 sedentary and 11 athletes with a first degree predisposition to NIDDM (FH++).

RESULTS

The results showed that family history on type 2 diabetes is strongly related to sedentary in women with significant high body weight values and an increased fat mass. There was no significant difference in the body parameters among the athletes groups, confirming the protective role of regular physical activity on these parameters. Analysing basal energy expenditure showed that sedentary FH++ women had a significant increase in BMR in absolute values; however there were no differences in BMR when reported to body weight and body fat-free mass. In contrast, the FH++ athletes group had lower BMR (absolute values) than the sedentary group. No differences were found in the relative BMR either. By comparing the recorded BMR of the groups with the theoretical values, it has been shown that the FH++ athletes had a reduced increase in BMR with respect to the other groups. The FH- athletes showed a higher energy turnover compared to the other women and relative to predicted values.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms that family history of type 2 diabetes has an important influence on the phenotype of women and it can be associated with significant metabolic and anthropometric modifications in young healthy subjects. It may also account for changes in the body composition and basal metabolic rate alterations in subjects with a predisposition to type 2 diabetes, by reducing the metabolic basal output expected in active subjects.

Any effect of gymnastics training on upper-body and lower-body aerobic and power components in national and international male gymnasts?

Aerobic and anaerobic performance of the upper body (UB) and lower body (LB) were assessed by arm cranking and treadmill tests respectively in a comparison of national (N) and international (I) male gymnasts. Force velocity and Wingate tests were performed using cycle ergometers for both arms and legs. In spite of a significant difference in training volume (4- 12 vs. 27-34 h.wk(-1) for N and I, respectively), there was no significant difference between N and I in aerobic and anaerobic performance. Upper body and LB maximal oxygen uptake (VO(2)max) values were 34.44 +/- 4.62 and 48.64 +/- 4.63 ml.kg(-1).min(-1) vs. 33.39 +/- 4.77 and 49.49 +/- 5.47 ml.kg(-1).min(-1), respectively, for N and I. Both N and I had a high lactic threshold (LT), at 76 and 82% of VO(2)max, respectively. Values for UB and LB force velocity (9.75 +/- 1.12 and 15.07 +/- 4.25 vs. 10.63 +/- 0.95 and 15.87 +/- 1.25 W.kg(-1)) and Wingate power output (10.43 +/- 0.74 and 10.98 +/- 3.06 vs. 9.58 +/- 0.60 and 13.46 +/- 1.34 W.kg(-1)) were also consistent for N and I. These findings confirm the consistency of VO(2)max values presented for gymnasts in the last 4 decades, together with an increase in peak power values. Consistent values for aerobic and anaerobic performance suggest that the significant difference in training volume is related to other aspects of perfomance that distinguish N from I gymnasts. Modern gymnastics training at N and I levels is characterized by a focus on relative strength and peak power. In the present study, the high LT is a reflection of the importance of strength training, which is consistent with research for sports such as wrestling.

Pediatric urolithiasis in Tunisia: a multi-centric study of 525 patients

PURPOSE

To investigate retrospectively the clinical and epidemiological characteristics, and method of treatment of childhood urolithiasis, a major urological problem in Tunisia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The records of 525 children with urolithiasis treated in Tunisia between 1990 and 2004 were reviewed in a multi-centric study with regard to age at diagnosis, sex, history, and physical, laboratory, and radiologic findings. Metabolic evaluation when performed included serum electrolytes, calcium, phosphorus, uric acid, 24-h urine collection for calcium and creatinine, and a sodium nitroprusside test for cystine. In all cases urine specimens were sent for culture.

RESULTS

The stone was located in the upper tract in 420 (80%) and lower tract in 105 children. Of the urine cultures, 40% were positive. Metabolic investigation was performed in 201 patients and was normal in 170 (84%). Urinary stasis secondary to a urinary tract anomaly that led to the formation of stones was found in 77 patients. Stones were treated by surgery (80%), extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) (5%) and ureteroscopic extraction (4%), and percutaneous nephrolithotomy was performed in 10 patients (2%). The stone passed spontaneously in 9% of cases.

CONCLUSION

The use of ESWL and endourological methods of treatment for childhood urolithiasis must be generalized, with open surgery being reserved for particular and complex cases.

Effect of active and passive recovery on blood lactate and performance during simulated competition in high level gymnasts

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of two recovery strategies between men's gymnastics events on blood lactate removal (BL) and performance as rated by expert "blind" judges. Twelve male gymnasts (21.8 +/- 2.4 years) participated. The sessions were composed of routine performances in the six Olympic events, which were separated by 10 min of recovery. All gymnasts performed two recovery protocols between events on separate days: Rest protocol, 10 min rest in a sitting position; Combined protocol, 5 min rest and 5 min self-selected active recovery. Three blood samples were taken at 2, 5, and 10 min following each event. Gymnasts produced moderate values of BL following each of the six events (2.2 to 11.6 mmol.L-1). There was moderate variability in BL values between events that could not be accounted for by the athlete's event performance. Gymnasts showed higher BL concentration (p > .05) and significantly (p < .05) higher scoring performances (as rated by a panel of certified judges) when they used a combined recovery between gymnastics events rather than a passive recovery (delta BL = 40.51% vs. 28.76% of maximal BL, p < .05, and total score = 47.28 +/- 6.82 vs. 38.39 +/- 7.55, p < .05, respectively).

[Evolution of the physiological profile of gymnasts over the past 40 years. A review of the literature]

Authors illustrate the evolution of the physiological profile of gymnasts over the past 40 years. Gymnasts are demonstrating increased anaerobic power. Maximal power output measured by the Wingate test in high level male gymnasts is currently between 12 and 14 W x kg(-1). Female gymnasts show maximal power between 10 and 12 W x kg(-1). In spite of an increase in the number of training hours, they have a low aerobic aptitude. It is still adequate and sufficient for their practice. Maximal heart rate values measured during gymnastic exercises have mirrored technical and acrobatic demands of increasing difficulty. Currently, exercise heart rates exceed 190 beat x min(-1) as compared to 135 to 151 beat x min(-1) in the seventies. Measurement of higher blood lactate values suggests that anaerobic glycolysis has increased in importance. Glycolytic contributions differ between apparatuses. Data from energy cost studies demonstrate that gymnastics energy demands are greater now than in the seventies.

Evolution du profil physiologique des gymnastes durant les 40 dernieres annees (revue de littérature)

Authors illustrate the evolution of the physiological profile of gymnasts over the past 40 years. Gymnasts are demonstrating increased anaerobic power. Maximal power output measured by the Wingate test in high level male gymnasts is currently between 12 and 14 W • kg−1. Female gymnasts show maximal power between 10 and 12 W • kg−1. In spite of an increase in the number of training hours, they have a low aerobic aptitude. It is still adequate and sufficient for their practice.Maximal heart rate values measured during gymnastic exercises have mirrored technical and acrobatic demands of increasing difficulty. Currently, exercise heart rates exceed 190 beat • min−1 as compared to 135 to 151 beat • min−1 in the seventies. Measurement of higher blood lactate values suggests that anaerobic glycolysis has increased in importance. Glycolytic contributions differ between apparatuses. Data from energy cost studies demonstrate that gymnastics energy demands are greater now than in the seventies. Key words: maximal anaerobic power, maximal oxygen uptake, heart rate, blood lactate, energetic cost

[Abdominoscrotal hydrocele]

The abdominoscrotal hydrocele (ASH) is a rare variant of hydrocele of the tunica vaginalis with fluid accumulation into the abdominal cavity passing through the inguinal canal. The etiology of ASH is not clear. The positive diagnosis depends on the clinical data (hydrocele + abdominal mass). It is confirmed by means of echography and or by TDM. The treatment is surgical complete resection of the vaginalis with ligation of the peritoneal cavity. This report concerns the observation of a huge ASH, so far described in a literature review. We try to distinguish the diagnostic and therapeutic elements of this exceptional pathology.

[Urachal cyst. Report of 3 cases]

The authors report three cases of cyst of the urachus, one of which was complicated by infection. This diagnosis is only rarely established clinically. The current performance of ultrasonography allows very precise analysis of the anterosuperior surface of the bladder, which may reveal the diagnosis. The authors discuss the problems raised by cysts of the urachus and emphasize the importance of clinical history, physical examination and complementary investigations, particularly CT which should allow the diagnosis of this disease, which needs to be treated surgically.

[Results of the treatment of renal lithiasis by percutaneous nephrolithotomy: apropos of 115 cases]

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to analyse the results of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), which was recently introduced into Tunisia, in order to determine its place among the treatment options for renal stones.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Our retrospective study was based on 115 consecutive PCNL procedures performed between April 1994 and November 1997. The stone was a single pelvic stone in 13 cases, lower caliceal in 15 cases, lower pyelocaliceal in 28 cases, partial staghorn in 20 cases, total staghorn in 16 cases and multiple pyelocaliceal in 23 cases. In our series, ultrasound lithotripsy constitutes the procedure of choice for renal stone fragmentation.

RESULTS

A good result was obtained immediately in 67% of cases. This figure is lower than that published in the literature because of the complexity of the stones and the high failure rate due to the learning curve, involving 6 members of the team. In the case of failure, the procedure was converted to conventional surgery under the same anaesthetic in 20 patients. Residual stones, observed in 23 patients, were successfully treated by extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL) in 79% of cases. By combining PCNL and ESWL, the good result rate was 80%. The mortality rate of this series was 0.8% and the morbidity rate was 7.5%. Complications were generally rare and often minor.

CONCLUSION

PCNL occupies an important place in the treatment of renal stones. The results depend on the site, size and number of stones and on the operator's experience.

[Results of BCG in the treatment of pTa and pT1 bladder tumors. Evaluation of a long protocol using 75 mg of Pasteur strain BCG]

OBJECTIVES

Evaluation of a protocol of intravesical BCG therapy using 75 mg of Pasteur strain BCG with 2 years of maintenance treatment, and a follow-up of up to 60 months.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

189 patients treated by transurethral resection (TUR) for a pTa (N = 80) or pT1 (N = 109) bladder tumour were included in the study. The local and general safety was excellent. We retrospectively compared this series to a group of patients treated by TUR alone (N = 42) another group treated with TUR and Mitomycin C (MMC) (N = 81). The 3 groups were statistically comparable.

RESULTS

At 48 months, 62% of patients treated with BCG were recurrence-free, versus only 18% for patients treated with TUR alone and 38% for patients treated with TUR and MMC (p = 0.001). At 42 months, 11% of pT1 tumours treated with BCG had progressed to invasive carcinoma, and this progression occurred during the first 18 months in every case. In comparison, this progression was observed in 25% of pT1 tumours treated by TUR alone and 21% of tumours treated with TUR and MMC.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study confirms the efficacy of our BCG protocol ro reduce the potential for recurrence and progression of superficial bladder tumours, despite reduction of the dose to 75 mg. It also suggests the superiority of BCG compared to MMC in terms of recurrence and progression.

[Urinary fistula after transplantation: eleven cases]

OBJECTIVES

To specify the anatomical features of urinary fistulas and to evaluate the results of percutaneous and surgical treatment of post-transplantation urinary fistulas.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

11 urinary fistulas were observed after 160 renal transplantations, corresponding to an incidence of this complication of 6.8%. Urinary fistulas were treated percutaneously in three cases and surgically in eight cases. THE FOLLOWING COMPLICATIONS WERE OBSERVED DURING SURGICAL TREATMENT: extensive necrosis of the urethra in four cases, rupture of the sutures in two cases, a punctate pelvic fistula in one case.

RESULTS

The incidence of fistula was 5.8% for Leadbetter reimplantation and 8.1% for Lich-Gregoir extravesical reimplantation. We obtained one success in three patients treated percutaneously and one death and seven successes out of eight patients treated surgically. We performed ureteropelvic anastomosis with the native ureter in the case of extensive necrosis of the ureter (4 cases), a new reimplantation in three cases and suture of the pelvic fistula in one case.

CONCLUSION

More than one half of post-transplantation urinary fistulas observed in our department are secondary to ischaemic necrosis of the ureter. We emphasize the value of preservation of the ureteric blood supply during organ harvesting. Post-transplantation urinary fistulas must be treated surgically, as soon as possible, to avoid infectious complications.

[The treatment of ureteroceles complicated by calculi]

In a series of 13 adults with calculi in ureteroceles, 10 cases underwent endoscopic meatotomy associated with endoscopic lithotripsy. In 2 bulky ureteroceles with calculi, the authors performed excision of the ureterocele and reimplantation of the ureter. In one case, the authors successfully performed extracorporeal lithotripsy. The authors obtained good results in all cases. Endoscopic meatotomy with lithotripsy is a very useful procedure for treatment of small or medium sized ureteroceles with calculi in adults.

Vaginal leiomyoma: the female prostate

We report one case of vaginal leiomyoma revealed by dysuria operated with success. Our observation are discussed with the review of the literature data.

[Pyogenic abscess of the psoas]

11 cases (7 primary and 4 secondary) of pyogenic psoas abscesses are reported. In all cases Staphylococcus aureus was isolated on blood culture or pus drained under ultra-sonographic control. US is very useful for diagnosis and the follow up of psoas pyogenic abscesses. Percutaneous aspiration and drainage of psoas abscesses under ultrasonographic control combined to antibiotherapy is an effective therapeutic procedure. Our experience suggests that antibiotherapy alone is an effective therapy of presuppurative pyogenic psoas abscesses and even in collected and non complicated primary psoas abscesses.