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In the fight against sports doping, the Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) system aims to indirectly unveil the doping incidents by monitoring selected biomarkers, however, several unexplored extrinsic factors may dampen a fair interpretation of ABP profiles. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) plays a pivotal role in the health care system, and some remedies have a long history of being used to treat anaemia. In this study, we addressed the concerns of whether the CHM administration could yield a measurable effect on altering the ABP haematological variables. Forty-eight healthy volunteers were randomly assigned to receive two-week oral administration of one of the six selected CHM products that are commonly prescribed in Taiwan (eight subjects per group). Their blood variables were determined longitudinally in the phases of baseline, intervention, and recovery over 5 weeks. Blood collection and analyses were carried out in strict compliance with relevant operating guidelines. In the groups receiving Angelicae Sinensis Radix, Astragali Radix, and Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, a significant increased reticulocyte percentage and decreased OFF-hr Score were manifested during the intervention, and such effects even sustained for a period of time after withdrawal. All other variables, including haemoglobin and Abnormal Blood Profile Score, did not generate statistical significance. Our results show that the use of CHM may impact the ABP haematological variables. As a consequence, we recommend athletes, particularly those who have been registered in the testing pool, should be aware of taking specific Chinese herbal-based treatment or supplementation, and document any of its usage on the anti-doping forms.

Astragalus membranaceus (AM) is classified as a high-class traditional herbal medicine, which has strengthened vitality and multifunctional pharmacological activities, but limited empirical evidence is available to support its effects in muscular hypertrophy. It evokes skeletal muscle hypertrophy by increasing anabolic pathway, which is essential to prevent sarcopenia in elderly population. In this study, we examined the effects of AM on skeletal muscle hypertrophy by focusing on the molecular mechanism. We employed an in vitro model to investigate whether AM-treated skeletal muscle, as represented by myotube C2C12 cells, was hypertrophic, and to further investigate the efficacy of AM-activated phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling that must occur prior to myotube hypertrophy. The results showed that the myotubes formed larger multinucleated myotubes with increased diameter and thickness (1.16-fold relative to control group, p < 0.05). Administration of PI3K and mTOR inhibitors abolished AM-induced muscular hypertrophy. Moreover, AM-induced PI3K-mediated myotube hypertrophy was accompanied by the activation of Akt and mTOR signaling. We concluded that the AM is a nutritional activator to enhance muscular hypertrophy by increasing PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling phosphorylation. As the AM is effective in myotube hypertrophy, AM and its derivatives may be promising candidates for ergogenic aid to prevent sarcopenia.

This paper reviews gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) methods for the analysis of amphetamines, ketamines, opioids, cocaine, and other abused drugs in urine that were developed by authors in Taiwanese institutions, and published during the 2000 to early 2008 period. Information on sample preparation, derivatization, internal standard, GC column, detection mode, and validation data for the reported methods are summarized in table format to facilitate readers' reference and adaptation.

In order to understand the quality of ampicillin capsules, fifty samples (46 domestic, 4 imported) were purchased from different counties and cities in Taiwan during 1991 fiscal year. All of the samples were investigated for appearance, mean weight, weight uniformity, identification of drug, potency, dissolution, content uniformity, and loss on drying. The results showed that 5 samples (10.0%) failed to meet the potency requirement of the official regulation (90-120%) and the contents of uniformity. Besides, there were three samples (6.0%) did not meet the specification of dissolution test.

A sensitive and specific gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method using selected ion monitoring (SIM) has been developed for quantification of pentazocine in urine. This method uses solid-solid extraction (SPE) and N, O-bis (trimethylsilyl) trifluoroacetamide with 1% trimethylchlorosilane derivatization, followed by GC-MS analysis using dextromethorphan as the internal standard. The method was linear between 125 and 1500 ng/mL (r^2=0.997). The limit of quantification and limit of detection were 125 and 62.5 ng/mL, respectively. The intraday accuracy and precision were -6.3~4.7% and 3.6~11.2%, respectively. The interday accuracy and precision were -7.5~7.0% and 6.2~10.0%, respectively. These data showed that the GC-MS method was suitable for the determination of pentazocine in urine. This method was further applied to an interlaboratory study. The collaborative study was given by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists International (AOAC International). Nine drug abuse urine testing laboratories in Taiwan participated to analyze 3 samples in duplicate. The repeatability relative standard deviation (RSDr) and reproducibility relative standard deviation (RSDR) values were 3.0~5.2% and 6.8~10.3%, respectively. The method showed acceptable reproducibility, as evidenced by HORRAT values of 1.1 to 1.5. The method recommended for use by the drug abuse urine testing laboratories in Taiwan.

A gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method for the analysis of phencyclidine (PCP) in urine was subjected to an inter-laboratory study. The collaborative study followed the guidelines provided by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists International. Ten laboratories participated, analyzing 3 samples of PCP-spiked urine as blind duplicate. The repeatability relative standard deviation (RSD(subscript r)) and the reproducibility relative standard deviation (RSD(subscript R)) were between 2.1%-3.6% and 4.2%-7.3%, respectively. HORRAT values for the reproducibility showed 0.4-0.7, indicating acceptable precision between laboratories. The method was thus proposed to be used by the drug-abuse urine testing laboratories in Taiwan.

A previously published gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method for the analysis of 7-aminoflunitrazepam(7-amino-FM2) in urine was subjected to an inter-laboratory collaborative study. The method was rigorously defined in termsof performance requirements, yet allowed some degrees of flexibility to individual analysts. The collaborative study followedthe guidelines provided by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists International (AOAC International). Each of ninedrug-abuse urine testing laboratories in Taiwan participated in the study to analyze 3 samples in duplicate. The repeatabilityrelative standard deviation (RSD(subscript r)) and the reproducibility relative standard deviation (RSD(subscript R)) of the measurements of 7-amino-FM2 in urine were determined to be less than 9.91% and 14.84%, respectively. The method showed acceptable reproducibility, asevidenced by HORRAT values of 0.6 to 0.7. The method was thus proposed to be used by the testing laboratories in Taiwan.

Sesamin (SSM) is a water-insoluble compound that is easily eliminated by liver metabolism. To improve the solubility and bioavailability of SSM, this study developed and characterized a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) for the oral delivery of SSM and conducted pharmacokinetic assessments. Oil and surfactant materials suitable for SNEDDS preparation were selected on the basis of their saturation solubility at 37 &plusmn, 0.5 &deg, C. The mixing ratios of excipients were determined on the basis of their dispersibility, transmittance (%), droplet sizes, and polydispersity index. An SNEDDS (F10) formulation comprising glyceryl trioctanoate, polyoxyethylene castor oil, and Tween 20 at a ratio of 10:10:80 (w/w/w) was the optimal formulation. This formulation maintained over 90% of its contents in different storage environments for 12 weeks. After the self-emulsification of SNEDDS, the SSM dispersed droplet size was 66.4 &plusmn, 31.4 nm, intestinal permeability increased by more than three-fold, relative bioavailability increased by approximately 12.9-fold, and absolute bioavailability increased from 0.3% to 4.4%. Accordingly, the developed SNEDDS formulation can preserve SSM&rsquo, s solubility, permeability, and bioavailability. Therefore, this SNEDDS formulation has great potential for the oral administration of SSM, which can enhance its pharmacological application value.

Andrographolide (AG), a major diterpene lactone isolated from Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees (Acanthaceae), possesses a wide spectrum of biological activities. However, its poor water solubility and low bioavailability limit its clinical application. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a solid dispersion (SD) formulation to increase the aqueous solubility and dissolution rate of AG. Different drug-polymer ratios were used to prepare various SDs. The optimized formulation was characterized for differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and powder X-ray diffraction. The analysis indicated that the optimized SD enhanced AG solubility and dissolution rates by changing AG crystallinity to an amorphous state. The dissolution behaviors of the optimum SD composed of an AG-polyvinylpyrrolidone K30-Kolliphor EL ratio of 1:7:1 (w/w/w) resulted in the highest accumulated dissolution (approximately 80%). Pharmacokinetic studies revealed that Cmax/dose and the AUC/dose increased by 3.7-fold and 3.0-fold, respectively, compared with AG suspension. Furthermore, pretreatment using the optimized AG-SD significantly increased the swimming time to exhaustion by 1.7-fold and decreased the plasma ammonia level by 71.5%, compared with the vehicle group. In conclusion, the optimized AG-SD formulation appeared to effectively improve its dissolution rate and oral bioavailability. Moreover, the optimized AG-SD provides a promising treatment against physical fatigue.

Since 2017, higenamine has been added to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibited list as a &beta, 2-agonist prohibited at all times for sportspersons. According to WADA&rsquo, s report, positive cases of higenamine misuse have been increasing yearly. However, higenamine occurs naturally in the Chinese herb lotus plumule&mdash, the green embryo of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn) seeds&mdash, commercially available as concentrated powder on the Asian market. This study evaluated the major phytochemical components of lotus plumule products using an appropriate extraction method, followed by a human study in which the products were orally administered in multiple doses to investigate the risk of doping violations. Comparing various extraction methods revealed that optimized microwave-assisted extraction exhibited the highest extraction efficiency (extraction time, 26 min, power, 1046 W, and temperature, 120 &deg, C). Subsequently, the alkaloids in lotus plumule products were quantitatively confirmed and compared. Human study participants (n = 6) consumed 0.8 g of lotus plumule (equivalent to 679.6 &mu, g of higenamine) three times daily for three consecutive days. All participants&rsquo, urinary higenamine concentrations exceeded the WADA reporting cut-off of 10.0 ng/mL. Accordingly, lotus plumule consumption may engender adverse analytical findings regarding higenamine. Athletes should avoid consuming lotus plumule-containing products during in- and out-of-competition periods.

Background/Objective: Although the functional movement screen (FMS) has been widely applied for screening athletes, no previous study has used FMS scores to examine the association between distinct training seasons in high school baseball players. The aims of this study were to ascertain the functional movement screen (FMS) scores differences between the preparative period (PPP) and the competitive period (CPP) among high school baseball players and further determine whether FMS can be used as a tool to predict injuries during two major periods. Methods: Fifty-five male high school baseball players (age 15.3 ± 1.7 years; height 1.7 ± 0.8 m; weight 64.6 ± 11.5 kg) volunteered. Athletic injuries were reported through a self-report questionnaire. Players performed the FMS during the PPP and the CPP. A receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve to calculate a cutoff total composite score ≤ 14 for the relationship between the FMS score and injury. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and an area under the curve (AUC) were calculated. Results: FMS individual task score and total composite score were significantly lower in the CPP than in the PPP. However, a cutoff total composite score ≤14 for risk of injury, determined through a ROC curve, represented a low sensitivity of 58%, NPV of 66%, an AUC of 69%, specificity of 79%, and PPV of 71%. Conclusion: Although the low sensitivity and NPV and AUC scores indicated that the FMS does not accurately predict the risk of injury, the FMS individual task and total composite scores differed significantly between the PPP and CPP. Therefore, FMS could be used as a tool to identify physical deficiencies between distinct training seasons; however, utilizing the FMS as a screening tool for injury prediction in particular during the CPP in this population would not be recommended. Keywords: Functional movement screen, Assessment, Athlete

Globally, the proportion of older adults is increasing. Older people face chronic conditions such as sarcopenia and functional decline, which are often associated with disability and frailty. Proteomics assay of potential serum biomarkers of frailty in older adults. Older adults were divided into non-frail and frail groups (n = 6 each; 3 males in each group) in accordance with the Chinese-Canadian Study of Health and Aging Clinical Frailty Scale. Adults were measured for grip power and the 6-min walk test for physical activity, and venous blood was sampled after adults fasted for 8 h. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used for proteomics assay. The groups were compared for levels of biomarkers by t test and Pearson correlation analysis. Non-frail and frail subjects had mean age 77.5±0.4 and 77.7±1.6 years, mean height 160.5±1.3 and 156.6±2.9 cm and mean weight 62.5±1.2 and 62.8±2.9 kg, respectively. Physical activity level was lower for frail than non-frail subjects (grip power: 13.8±0.4 vs 26.1±1.2 kg; 6-min walk test: 215.2±17.2 vs 438.3±17.2 m). Among 226 proteins detected, for 31, serum levels were significantly higher for frail than non-frail subjects; serum levels of Ig kappa chain V-III region WOL, COX7A2, and albumin were lower. The serum levels of ANGT, KG and AT were 2.05-, 1.76- and 2.22-fold lower (all p < 0.05; Figure 1A, 2A and 3A) for non-frail than frail subjects and were highly correlated with grip power (Figure 1B, 2B and 3B). Our study found that ANGT, KG and AT levels are known to increase with aging, so degenerated vascular function might be associated with frailty. In total, 226 proteins were revealed proteomics assay; levels of angiotensinogen (ANGT), kininogen-1 (KG) and antithrombin III (AT) were higher in frail than non-frail subjects (11.26±2.21 vs 5.09±0.74; 18.42±1.36 vs 11.64±1.36; 22.23±1.64 vs 9.52±0.95, respectively, p < 0.05). These 3 factors were highly correlated with grip power (p < 0.05), with higher correlations between grip power and serum levels of ANGT (r = -0.89), KG (r = -0.90), and AT (r = -0.84). In conclusion, this is the first study to demonstrate a serum proteomic profile characteristic of frailty in older adults. Serum ANGT, KG and AT levels could be potential biomarkers for monitoring the development and progression of frailty in older adults.

Cornu cervi pantotrichum (CCP), used in traditional Chinese medicine, is a well-known yang-invigorating agent with multifunctional bioactivities. We previously showed, through an acute exercise challenge, that short-term CCP supplementation improved physical activities and fatigue-associated biochemical indices. Questions about the long-term effects of CCP treatment on exercise performance and physical fatigue, as well as safety, with intensive exercise training need further research. ICR-strain mice were randomly assigned to three groups: (1) sedentary control and vehicle treatment (SC); (2) exercise training with vehicle treatment (ET); and (3) ET with CCP treatment at 4,108 mg/kg/day (ET+CCP). We assessed the physical performance, body compositions, and serum levels of lactate, ammonia, glucose and creatine kinase (CK) after an acute exercise challenge. The ET and ET+CCP groups had significantly increased grip strength and endurance swimming time, and decreased serum lactate and ammonia levels after the acute exercise challenge than the SC group. Moreover, serum ammonia and CK levels in the ET+CCP group were significantly decreased when compared to that of the ET only group. In regard to the body composition, the ET+CCP group inhibits the decrease in fat tissue, and related biochemical changes induced by the high intensity endurance training CCP supplementation combined with high-intensity endurance exercise could significantly improve the physiological adaptions related to fatigue or energy consumption and maintain the fat composition when compared to treatment with training only. Therefore, CCP may potentially improve the physiological adaptions in intensive exercise training.

Ubiquinol (QH), a reduced form of coenzyme Q10, is a lipid antioxidant that is hydro-soluble and is commonly formulated in commercial supplements. Ubiquinol has been increasingly reported to exert antioxidant functions, in addition to its role in the cell energy-producing system of mitochondria and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. The aim of this study was to assess the potential beneficial effects of QH on anti-fatigue and ergogenic functions following physiological challenge. Forty 8-week-old male Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice were divided into four groups (n = 10 for each group): Group 1 (vehicle control or oil only), Group 2 (1X QH dose or 102.5 mg/kg), Group 3 (2X QH dose or 205 mg/kg), Group 4 (6X QH dose or 615 mg/kg). Anti-fatigue activity and exercise performance were studied using the forelimb grip strength experiment and exhaustive weight-loaded swimming time, and levels of serum lactate, ammonia, glucose, BUN (blood urea nitrogen), creatine kinase (CK), and free fatty acids (FFA) after an acute exercise challenge. The forelimb grip strength and exhaustive weight-loaded swimming time of the QH-6X group were significantly higher than those of the other groups. QH supplementation dose-dependently reduced serum lactate, ammonia, and CK levels and increased the FFA concentration after acute exercise. In addition, QH increased the liver and muscle glycogen content, an important energy source during exercise. Therefore, the results suggest that QH formulation is a safe dietary supplement for amelioration of fatigue and for promoting exercise performance.

This study was to investigate the protective and recovery effects of Danggui Buxue Tang (DBT) supplementation on exercise performance, hepcidin, iron status, and other related biochemical parameters after being challenged by a single bout of intense aerobic exercise. A total of 36 recreationally active males were pair-matched and randomly assigned to receive DBT or a placebo for 11 days, while using clusters based on their aerobic capacities. On the eighth day of the supplementation, the participants performed a 13-km run with maximal effort. Blood and urine samples were collected and analysed before treatment (Pre-Tre) and immediately after (Post-Ex), 24 h after (24-h Rec), and 72 h after (72-h Rec) the run. DBT supplementation dramatically shortened the finish times by 14.0% (12.3 min) when compared with that in the placebo group. Significant group &times, time effects were observed in serum hepcidin and iron levels. DBT supplementation repressed hepcidin levels at Post-Ex and 24-h Rec, thereby causing a significant increase in iron levels by 63.3% and 31.4% at Post-Ex and 72-h Rec, respectively. However, DBT supplementation had no significant anti-inflammatory or haemolysis-preventative effects. Short-term DBT supplementation shortened the running time and repressed exercise-induced hepcidin levels, thereby boosting iron levels and accelerating iron homeostasis during recovery.

Resveratrol (RES), a natural polyphenolic compound, exerts anti-fatigue activity, but its administration is complicated by its low water solubility. To improve RES bioavailability, this study developed a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) for RES and evaluated its anti-fatigue activity and rat exercise performance by measuring fatigue-related parameters, namely lactate, ammonia, plasma creatinine phosphokinase, and glucose levels and the swimming time to exhaustion. Through solubility and emulsification testing, the optimized SNEDDS composed of Capryol 90, Cremophor EL, and Tween 20 was developed; the average particle size in this formulation, which had favorable self-emulsification ability, was approximately 41.3 ± 4.1 nm. Pharmacokinetic studies revealed that the oral bioavailability of the optimized RES-SNEDDS increased by 3.2-fold compared with that of the unformulated RES-solution. Pretreatment using the RES-SNEDDS before exercise accelerated the recovery of lactate after exercise; compared with the vehicle group, the plasma ammonia level in the RES-SNEDDS group significantly decreased by 65.4%, whereas the glucose level significantly increased by approximately 1.8-fold. Moreover, the swimming time to exhaustion increased by 2.1- and 1.8-fold, respectively, compared with the vehicle and RES-solution pretreatment groups. Therefore, the developed RES-SNEDDS not only enhances the oral bioavailability of RES but may also exert anti-fatigue pharmacological effect.

Cornu cervi pantotrichum (CCP), used in traditional Chinese medicine, is a well-known yang-invigorating agent with multifunctional bioactivities. We previously showed, through an acute exercise challenge, that short-term CCP supplementation improved physical activities and fatigue-associated biochemical indices. Questions about the long-term effects of CCP treatment on exercise performance and physical fatigue, as well as safety, with intensive exercise training need further research. ICR-strain mice were randomly assigned to three groups: (1) sedentary control and vehicle treatment (SC); (2) exercise training with vehicle treatment (ET); and (3) ET with CCP treatment at 4,108 mg/kg/day (ET+CCP). We assessed the physical performance, body compositions, and serum levels of lactate, ammonia, glucose and creatine kinase (CK) after an acute exercise challenge. The ET and ET+CCP groups had significantly increased grip strength and endurance swimming time, and decreased serum lactate and ammonia levels after the acute exercise challenge than the SC group. Moreover, serum ammonia and CK levels in the ET+CCP group were significantly decreased when compared to that of the ET only group. In regard to the body composition, the ET+CCP group inhibits the decrease in fat tissue, and related biochemical changes induced by the high intensity endurance training CCP supplementation combined with high-intensity endurance exercise could significantly improve the physiological adaptions related to fatigue or energy consumption and maintain the fat composition when compared to treatment with training only. Therefore, CCP may potentially improve the physiological adaptions in intensive exercise training.

Triamcinolone acetonide (TA) is classified as an S9 glucocorticoid in the 2014 Prohibited List published by the World Anti-Doping Agency, which caused it to be prohibited in-competition when administered orally, intravenously, intramuscularly or rectally. The Minimum Required Performance Level (MRPL) for the detection and identification of glucocorticoids is 30 ng/mL. Other common local injection routes, such as intraarticular, intratendinous, or intrabursal injection, are not prohibited. The purpose of this study was to analyze the TA and triamcinolone (T) concentrations in urine after a single injection of TA in patients to determine if it would produce a positive result. This study was performed on 40 patients with sports injuries or joint pains. TA was administered locally (doses varied from 12 to 80 mg). Samples were extracted using a solid-phase extraction column, followed by hydrolysis and liquid extraction using diethyl ether. The elution solvents were collected and dried. The dried residue was reconstituted and assayed by performing liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) in positive ionization mode using electrospray ionization and multiple-reaction monitoring as the acquisition mode. The results demonstrated that the concentrations of both TA and T in urine exceeded the MRPL (30 ng/mL) after a single local injection. We obtained positive results for TA in 25 patients, and a positive result for T in one patient. Furthermore, the metabolic situation of TA, a long-acting glucocorticoid, was not an exact linear model. The highest concentrations of TA and T appeared 1–4 h after injection. This information could be useful for limiting the misuse of TA by athletes. We suggest that athletes be aware when using TA injections during a competition period and obtain approval for therapeutic use exemption prior to using TA.

Astragalus membranaceus (AM) is a popular “Qi-tonifying” herb with a long history of use as a Traditional Chinese Medicine with multiple biological functions. However, evidence for the effects of AM on exercise performance and physical fatigue is limited. We evaluated the potential beneficial effects of AM on ergogenic and anti-fatigue functions following physiological challenge. Male ICR strain mice were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 10 per group) for treatment: (1) sedentary control and vehicle treatment (vehicle control); (2) exercise training with vehicle treatment (exercise control); and (3) exercise training with AM treatment at 0.615 g/kg/day (Ex-AM1) or (4) 3.075 g/kg/day (Ex-AM5). Both the vehicle and AM were orally administered for 6 weeks. Exercise performance and anti-fatigue function were evaluated by forelimb grip strength, exhaustive swimming time, and levels of serum lactate, ammonia, glucose, and creatine kinase after 15-min swimming exercise. Exercise training combined with AM supplementation increased endurance exercise capacity and increased hepatic and muscle glycogen content. AM reduced exercise-induced accumulation of the byproducts blood lactate and ammonia with acute exercise challenge. Moreover, we found no deleterious effects from AM treatment. Therefore, AM supplementation improved exercise performance and had anti-fatigue effects in mice. It may be an effective ergogenic aid in exercise training.

Panax quinquefolium L. (American Ginseng, AG) is one of the most popular herbal medicines in the World. We aimed to investigate whether chronic (28-day) supplementation with AG could protect against ethanol-induced ulcer in gastric tissue. Furthermore, we investigated the possible molecular mechanisms leading to AG-mediated gastric mucosal protection. We randomized 32 male Wistar rats into four groups for treatment (n = 8 per group): supplementation with water (vehicle) and low-dose (AG-1X), medium-dose (AG-2X) and high-dose (AG-5X) AG at 0, 250, 500, and 1250 mg/kg, respectively. In the first experiment, animals were fed vehicle or AG treatments for 4 weeks. At day 29, 75% ethanol was given orally to each animal at 10 mL/kg to induce gastric ulceration for 2 h. In a second experiment, animals were pretreated orally with each treatment for 1 hr before a single oral administration of ethanol (70%, 10 mL/kg). Trend analysis revealed that AG treatments inhibited ethanol-induced gastric mucosal damage. AG supplementation dose-dependently decreased the pro-inflammatory levels of interleukin 1β and cyclooxygenase 2 and the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins tBid, cytochrome C, and caspases-9 and -3 and increased the levels of anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2, Bcl-xL and p-Bad. AG could have pharmacological potential for treating gastric ulcer.

Ixora parviflora, a species of the Rubiaceae, is rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, and has been traditionally used as a folk medicine. An I. parviflora extract (IPE) has great antioxidant activity in vitro, including a scavenging effect on superoxide radicals, reducing power, and ferrous ion-chelating ability. However, whether IPE is efficacious against oxidative damage in vivo is not known. The purpose of this study was to determine the protective effects of IPE treatment on hepatic oxidative stress and antioxidant defenses after exhaustive exercise in mice. Fifty male C57BL/6 mice (6 week old) were randomly divided into five groups and designated a sedentary control with vehicle (C), and exhaustive exercise with vehicle (IPE0), low dosage (IPE10), medium dosage (IPE50) and high dosage (IPE100) of IPE at 0, 10, 50, and 100 mg/kg, respectively. After a single bout of exhaustive swimming exercise challenge, levels of blood ammonia and creatine kinase (CK), and hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD) protein expression, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance (TBARS), and gp91(phox), p22(phox), and p47(phox) subunits of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase expressions in the IPE0 group were significantly affected compared to those of the C group, but they were all significantly inhibited by the IPE treatments. Results of the present in vivo study in mice indicate that I. parviflora extract possesses antioxidative and hepatoprotective potential following exhaustive exercise.

LANGUAGE NOTE | Document text in English; abstract also in Chinese. The purpose of this study was to understand the current usage of nutritional supplements in Taiwan elite athletes. This study adopting purposive sampling, we surveyed 105 male and 80 female athletes across sports selected for doping control at the National Athletic Games during year 2007 in Taiwan to understand the athletes’ use of nutritional supplements 14 days prior to the games. Categories of nutritional supplements include vitamin/mineral supplements, amino acid supplements, instant energy supplements, healthcare foods, and drinks. The results indicated 88.1% of the athletes have used nutritional supplements. The usage rates for different categories of nutritional supplements were vitamin/mineral supplements (48.1%), drinks (45.9%), healthcare foods (39.5%), amino acid supplements (31.9%), and instant energy supplements (24.9%). Female athletes had a higher tendency to use vitamin/mineral supplements (55.0% vs. 42.9%) and healthcare foods (47.5% vs. 33.3%) compared to male athletes. Among the sports, weightlifters/bodybuilders and swimmers have all used nutritional supplements (100%), especially the use of creatine for the weightlifters/bodybuilders (69.7%) and multivitamin (76.2%) for the swimmers. In addition, the most consumed types in different categories of nutritional supplements were multivitamins (37.3%) for vitamin/ mineral supplements, creatine (26.5%) for amino acid supplements, chocolate (15.1%) for instant energy supplements, Cordymax Cs-4 Capsules (16.2%) for healthcare foods, and sports drinks (42.4%) for drinks. In conclusion, the results on the current use of nutritional supplements for Taiwan elite athletes could act as a reference to coaches, athletes and sports organizations. 本研究目的在於了解台灣優秀選手使用營養增補劑的現況。本研究採立意抽樣，我們調查了2007年全國運動會(全運會) 期間，105 名男性以及 80 名女性需接受運動禁藥抽檢之選手，以了解其比賽前14天使用營養增補劑的情形。營養增補劑種類包括：維生素/礦物質、胺基酸補給品、即時能量補給品、保健食品，以及飲料類。本研究結果顯示88.1%的運動員有使用營養增補劑。不同種類的營養增補劑中，選手使用率分別為維生素/礦物質 (48.1%)；飲料 (45.9%)；保健食品 (39.5%)；胺基酸補給品 (31.9%)；即時能量補給品 (24.9%)。相較於男性選手，女性選手在維生素/礦物質 (55.0% vs. 42.9%) 與保健食品 (47.5% vs. 33.3%) 的使用率有較高的趨勢。在所有的運動項目中，舉重/健美以及游泳選手營養增補劑的使用率為100%，特別是舉重/健美選手對肌酸 (69.7%)，以及游泳選手對綜合維生素 (76.2%)有較高的使用率。此外，不同種類的營養增補劑中，選手最常使用的分別為維生素/礦物質之綜合維生素 (37.3%)；胺基酸補給品之肌酸 (26.5%)；即時能量補給品之巧克力 (15.1%)；保健食品類之動能食物膠囊 (16.2%)；飲料類之運動飲料 (42.4%)。本研究對台灣優秀選手使用增補劑的現況之結果可作為教練、選手以及各級運動團體之參考。

This study investigated satellite cells and their related molecular events adapted to light moderate endurance training in the white gastrocnemius muscle of the rat. The white gastrocnemius muscle of male Sprague-Dawley rats that had been trained for 4 weeks and 8 weeks, with control rats being analysed alongside them, was selected for analysis (n=3 per group). The training protocol consisted of treadmill running at 20 m · min -1 for 30 min on a 0% grade, for 3 days · week -1 . Immunohistochemical staining coupled with image analysis was used for quantification. To provide deeper insight into the cell layer, 40 sections per rat, corresponding to 120 values per group, were obtained as a mean value for statistical comparison. The results indicated that at week 4, training effects increased the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) content and c-met positive satellite cell numbers. At week 8, the training effect was attenuated for VEGF and c-met satellite cell numbers, but it increased in the muscle fibre area. Additionally, c-met positive satellite cell numbers correlated with VEGF content (r = 0.79, p

This study established a simultaneous screening method based on solid-phase extraction and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) for the detection of 23 stimulants and 23 diuretics in human urine. An electrospray ionization source and multiple reaction monitoring were used for data acquisition. All stimulants and diuretics were separated in less than 12.52 min. The limits of detection were in the range of 25-500 ng/mL for stimulants and 25-125 ng/mL for diuretics. To evaluate the performance of this method, urine samples were collected from 1627 athletes in Taiwan, and 7 positive samples were found. This LC-MS-MS method not only meets the minimum required performance limits set by the World Anti-Doping Agency but also provides a fast way to analyze the authentic urine samples in doping control laboratories.

It is well known that muscle strength and power are important factors in exercise. Plyometrics is designed to gain muscle strength and power in a shock method. The passive repetitive isokinetic (PRI) machine is developed for plyometrics. The present study aims to understand the effect of ten-week PRI training in different intensities on human plasma concentration cytokines as well as hormonal changes. Thirty young male subjects were enrolled into the ten-week PRI training program and were divided randomly into traditional, low- and high-intensity PRI training groups. Blood samples were obtained before, during, after and 1-, 2-, 3-, 5- and 7-day (D) post-training. The plasma concentrations of cytokines and hormones were measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Elevated plasma IL-2 was found in the subjects in all the training programs. Significant increases of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1beta and TNF-alpha were observed at post 7 D in the high-intensity PRI training (29.5 +/- 4.4 and 515.8 +/- 127.1 pg/ml, respectively). No significance in differences in the plasma concentration of IL-6 was observed in the traditional and low-intensity PRI training. Significant elevation of IL-6 was found at post 5 D in high-intensity PRI training. Higher plasma IL-6 concentration was observed at post 3 and 5 D in high-intensity PRI training compared to low-intensity PRI training (P0.05). Significant elevation of plasma IL-15 during (week 6) and after (post 0 D) was observed in low-intensity PRI training. Also, there were differences between low-intensity PRI training and traditional training at post 0, 2, 3, and 5 D. The plasma concentration of cortisol was decreased to the lowest value (118.0 +/- 17.3 ng/ml) at post 0 D in traditional training, then returned to the baseline (220.5 +/- 19.1 ng/ml). In the high-intensity PRI training, but not in the low-intensity PRI training, the cortisol level dropped from 224.9 +/- 25.8 ng/ml at post 0 D down to the 123.2 +/- 22.6 ng/ml at post 1 D. Significant differences were found at post 1 and 5 D between low- and high-intensity PRI training, and post 0, 1, 2, and 3 D between traditional and high-intensity PRI training. Significant increased testosterone was found post 0, 1, 2, and 3 D in traditional training. Higher plasma testosterone was observed during and the recovery period in low-intensity, but not in high-intensity, PRI training. In conclusion, high-intensity PRI training could induce the proinflammatory cytokines, i.e., IL-1beta and TNF-alpha, and decrease plasma cortisol in the recovery period.

Famprofazone, a major ingredient of Gewolen, is an analgesic that has been demonstrated to be metabolized to methamphetamine (MA) and amphetamine (AM) following administration. Therefore, a famprofazone user may be interpreted as an illicit MA abuser in Taiwan because the user's urine tested positive for MA. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the concentration of MA metabolized from a single dose of Gewolen users would offend the official controlled substance regulation and be identified as MA-positive. Subjects (n = 6) received 25 mg of famprofazone and collected all urine specimens at certain timed intervals for 48 h after drug administration. The urine specimens were screened by immunoassay and then confirmed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The highest concentration of amphetamines by immunoassay was 1954 ng/mL, and 18.8% of the urine specimens' amphetamines concentrations exceeded 500 ng/mL. The MA and AM concentrations by GC-MS analysis of these urine specimens ranged from 901 to 2670 ng/mL and 208 to 711 ng/mL, respectively. These urine specimens were interpreted as MA-positive (>or= 500 ng/mL MA and >or= 100 ng/mL AM), according to the official test methods of Taiwan. The MA positive results appeared within 2-34 h. It is therefore clearly possible to misinterpret the legitimate famprofazone user as an MA abuser in Taiwan.

The urine specimens of numerous athletes were found to be positive for mephentermine both in-competition and out-of-competition in Taiwan. The donor of one specimen claimed she had only taken Mucaine® (contains oxethazaine) for relieving symptomatic peptic ulcer and gastritis. Oxethazaine is not included in the prohibited list of the World Anti-Doping Agency; however, its metabolized compounds, mephentermine and phentermine, are included in that list. This study applied LC–MS–MS to analyze the excretions of three volunteers who ingested oxethazaine and presented positive results for mephentermine and/or phentermine. Thus, oxethazaine is the source of mephentermine and phentermine. Moreover, the results showed that 48 brands of gastric medicines containing oxethazaine were legally imported or locally manufactured in Taiwan, information which could be useful for limiting the misuse of oxethazaine by athletes. The data suggested that the sports associations should warn athletes about the risks of taking oxethazaine.

LANGUAGE NOTE | Document text in English; abstract also in Chinese. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between health-related fitness (HRF) and the physical activity (PA) level from web-based records in college students. The college students (N=221, 18.8±0.6 yr) were recruited. Sedentary time, exercise mode, duration and rating of perceived exertion scale for 7 days were recorded. The body mass index, sit-ups completed in 30 s and 60 s, standing long jump, sit and reach, and 800- or 1600-m run/walk were measured. Spearman correlation and independent t-test were used for statistics. A level of a=0.05 was set for significant on all tests. The results showed that both PA and moderate intensity physical activity were significantly related to HRF, where as cardiovascular endurance was not related. We suggested PA probably affect life movement but not cardiovascular endurance. This study also indicated the correlation patterns were different in gender. The best strategies to promote HRF in college students are to reduce the sedentary time for male and to increase PA intensity for female. 本研究主要探討網路版之身體活動量與大學生健康體適能關聯，本研究招募221位(18.8±0.6歲)大學生記錄7天靜態生活與運動種類、時間以及運動時自覺努力的程度，此外進行健康體適能之身體質量指數、一分鐘仰臥起坐、立定跳遠、坐姿體前彎以及男生1600公尺或是女生之800公尺跑走測驗。以Spearman積差相關進行各變數之關聯度檢定，並以獨立樣本t檢定考驗男生與女生間各變數之差異性，顯著水準定在0.05。結果顯示無論每週平均身體活動時間或是中等強度身體活動時間與非心肺適能之健康適能具顯著的關聯，此結果暗示了身體活動量與日常生活之活動力有關，與心肺適能無關，本研究亦發現身體活動量與健康適能關聯型態因性別不同而有所不同，本校最佳之男性體適能增進策略為減少坐式時間，最佳之女性體適能增進策略為增強運動強度。

LANGUAGE NOTE | Document text in English; abstract also in Chinese. The objective of the present study was to examine the effects of Guizhi-Longgu-Muli Tang (a traditional Chinese medicine) supplement on physiopsychological responses in mental stimuli in personal archery competition. Eleven archery athletes were randomly allocated into two groups: Guizhi-Longgu-Muli Tang (GLMT group) and Yi-Ren (placebo, PL group). All subjects completed 2 sessions following 3 days (2.0g/time, 3 times per day) of GLMT and placebo administered in a double-blind counterbalanced crossover maimer with 14-day washout. Besides, the subjects also took 2.0g of GLMT or placebo 30 min before the personal archery competition. Our findings showed that no difference was seen between treatments in physical parameters of HR (heart rate), SBP (systolic blood pressure) before and after the competition. However, there was a significantly lower pre- and post-competition DBP (diastolic blood pressure) response in the GLMT trial than in the PL trial. In biochemical parameters, there was a significantly lower pre-competition GLU (glucose), ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), and NE (norepinephrine) response in the GLMT trial than in the PL trial. Additionally, the trait anxiety was significantly positive correlated to state anxiety both in GLMT and PL groups. In conclusion, the findings of this study indicated that Guizhi-Longgu-Muli Tang supplementation could decrease the level of DBP, GLU, ACTH and NE. It might reduce physiopsychological responses in mental stimuli and probably improve exercise performance of the archery athletes. 本研究主要探討服用桂枝龍骨牡蠣湯後從事個人對抗賽對射箭選手生理心理反應之影響。以11位健康射箭選手為對象，採隨機交叉平衡次序法，分別給予每位受試者服用桂枝龍骨牡蠣湯(GIMD或安慰劑(PL)三天，每天服用三次，每次服用2.0g，並於射箭對抗賽前30分鐘再服用2.0g，之後在於射箭個人對抗賽前，測量心跳率、血壓及測定促腎上腺皮質激素、皮質醇、腎上腺素、正腎上腺素、睪固酮、生長激素及泌乳素等荷爾蒙的濃度。結果顯示，服用桂枝龍骨牡蠣湯不影響競賽前後心跳率及收縮壓；但GLMT組舒張壓顯著低於PL組；GLMT組競賽前的血糖、促腎上腺皮質激素、正腎上腺素濃度顯著低於PL組；此外， GLMT組與PL組的特質性焦慮與狀態性均呈正相關。綜合以上結果得知，服用桂枝龍骨牡蠣湯，可降低競賽前的舒張壓、血糖、 促腎上腺皮質激素及正腎上腺素，或許可降低競賽前的心理壓力，進而促進運動表現。

LANGUAGE NOTE | Document text in English; abstract also in Chinese. This study investigated the physiological and psychological aspects of first-year cadets who adopted a basic military training. We focused on the extent to which the Military physical fitness and the physical self-concept will be affected by a basic military training program. Military physical fitness included the score of BMI, pull-ups, 3000m endurance running and 1-min sit-up. Physical self-concept was assessed using the Marsh's Physical Self-Description Questionnaire (PSDQ), which was adapted to use in college students. PSDQ scale was assessed using a 6-point rating scale on which the subject estimated their physical characteristics. Testing was administered in a pre- and posttest fashion over 9 weeks (n=166). The collected data were analyzed by t-test. The study revealed that 1) Military physical fitness that including 3000m endurance running, 1-min sit-up and BMI are significant (p.05), (3) the health of PSDQ are significant (p.05) (3) PSDQ的健康分項得分有顯著差異(p

LANGUAGE NOTE | Document text in English; abstract also in Chinese. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of 10 weeks Passive Repetitive Isokinetic Training (PRI) training on hormone concentrations and physical performance. Nineteen untrained men were randomized to intervention with either PRI training (n=10) or traditional resistance training (n=9). PRI group performed five sets with ten repetitions with corresponding 70-75% repetition maximum (RM) loads on the PRI platform and 2-min rest periods, whereas TR group performed the same protocol with squat exercise. Strength and power performance testing were measured before and after 10-week training. Resting hormones were measured at pre-training (week-0), week-6, and post training (week-10). The results of our study were that after 10 weeks of PRI training, vertical jump, running vertical jump, 30-m sprint time and maximal strength by squat-test were significantly higher with respect to pre-training (p

Background Dyslipidaemia is highly associated with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, which have been ranked second and third place of leading causes of death in Taiwan. Some plant extracts have been proved effective against dyslipidaemia. However, the combination of plant extracts was rarely studied. The purpose of the present study is to understand the beneficial effects of a combined extract (comprising cocoa, coffee, green tea and garcinia; CCGG) on lipid profiles in serum, liver, and faeces as well as glycaemic markers and related proinflammatory cytokines by using an appropriate animal model, the golden Syrian hamster. Methods A total of 40 male hamsters were randomly assigned to five groups: (1) vehicle control, (2) high-cholesterol diet control, (3) high-cholesterol diet of 311 mg/kg/d of CCGG, (4) high-cholesterol diet of 622 mg/kg/d of CCGG and (5) high-cholesterol diet of 1555 mg/kg/d of CCGG. At the end of the experiment, blood, tissue and faecal samples were collected for further analysis. Results After 6 weeks of treatment, CCGG supplementation significantly reduced serum lipid content (triglycerides, total cholesterol and LDL-C) and hepatic lipid content (triglycerides and cholesterol) with dose-dependent effects. In addition, an increase in excretion of faecal lipids (bile acids) was observed after supplementation. Furthermore, the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index and serum proinflammatory cytokine levels (TNF-α and IL-6) involved in dyslipidaemia was markedly improved. In addition, by monitoring biochemical parameters as well as histopathology of major tissues, no toxicity was observed after the consumption of CCGG. Conclusion Dietary CCGG supplementation may exert potential effects on ameliorating hyperlipidaemia, insulin resistance, liver steatosis and related inflammation. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12906-015-0806-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.