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We examined how summated training and match load measures relate to salivary immunological and hormonal profile changes in professional football players. Data were collected from 18 elite-level professional male football players from one English Championship team across a complete 40 wk competitive season. Daily training (micro-technology) and match (computerised tracking) measures of total, high-speed and high-metabolic load running distance and sprint, acceleration, deceleration and sRPE load were converted into exponentially weighted moving average "acute" (7d), "chronic" (28d) and acute:chronic composite load measures. Bi-weekly morning saliva samples were analysed for immunoglobulin-A, alpha-amylase, testosterone, cortisol and testosterone:cortisol. A two-stage data reduction technique using partial least squares modelling and a backward stepwise selection procedure determined the most parsimonious model for each salivary variable. Testosterone had non-linear relationships with chronic total (P = 0.015; Cohen's D: large), high-metabolic load (P = 0.001;small) and high-speed (P = 0.001;trivial) running distance and linear relationships with chronic sRPE (P = 0.002;moderate ↓) and acute:chronic high-speed running distance (P = 0.001; trivial ↑). Cortisol had a non-linear relationship with chronic high-speed running distance (P = 0.001;trivial). Testosterone:cortisol had non-linear relationships with chronic decelerations (P = 0.039;small) and chronic summated acceleration and deceleration load (P = 0.039;small). Non-linear relationships typically indicated optimal hormonal responses at squad mean loads. No load variables clearly related to salivary immunoglobulin-A or alpha-amylase changes. We conclude that chronic total and high-intensity load measures relate to hormonal changes and might be useful indicators of player readiness. Acute load variables were not related to immunological or hormonal changes and consequently, should not be used as surrogate measures of player readiness in isolation.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE We checked in this study the correlation between total immunoglobulin A (IgA) and Streptococcus mutans (SM) levels in saliva derived from Lebanese children with inappropriate eating habits and showing early childhood caries (ECC). MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty Lebanese preschool children with similar alimentation were included in this study and divided into two groups. Group I included children having 0 cavities where group II contained children having ECC. We measured the SM and IgA levels collected from saliva and dental plaque. RESULTS We observed a significant difference in SM levels between the two groups (p < 0.001). There was a marginal correlation between salivary total IgA and SM collected from dental plaque (r = 0.33, p = 0.077). However, no significant correlation was detected between total salivary IgA and salivary SM (p = 0.35). CONCLUSION This study suggests the absence of significant relationship between salivary markers of immune system and the development of ECC. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Early childhood caries is a public dental health problem that has been affecting preschool children all over the world. Its prevention must be a priority for all professionals in the medical and dental community. This study highlights the absence of correlation between total IgA and SM collected from the saliva. This does not completely exclude the preventive role of salivary immune components, but further studies are required to better understand this relationship.

Immunoglobulin A (IgA), which is the first line of defense against upper respiratory tract viruses, has been related with training load management. This article aimed to systematically identify and summarize (1) the studies that have found a relationship between training load and salivary IgA in team sports, and (2) the studies that have highlighted a relationship between IgA and upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) in team sports. A systematic review of relevant articles was carried out using two electronic databases (PubMed and WoK) until 3 October 2020. From a total of 174 studies initially found, 24 were included in the qualitative synthesis. This systematic review confirmed that lower values of IgA occurred after greater training load (intensity/volume) and congested periods. In this scenario, a low level of IgA was correlated with higher URTI, which makes training load management mandatory to healthcare avoiding immunosuppression. Therefore, physical fitness and conditioning coaches should carefully manage training load progression, avoiding high-intensity sessions in two consecutive days. In addition, they should not program high-intensity training sessions during at least the two days following competition.

Purpose: To evaluate the relative importance and predictive ability of salivary immunoglobulin A (s-IgA) measures with regards to upper respiratory illness (URI) in youth athletes. Methods: Over a 38-week period, 22 youth athletes (age = 16.8 [0.5] y) provided daily symptoms of URI and 15 fortnightly passive drool saliva samples, from which s-IgA concentration and secretion rate were measured. Kernel-smoothed bootstrapping generated a balanced data set with simulated data points. The random forest algorithm was used to evaluate the relative importance (RI) and predictive ability of s-IgA concentration and secretion rate with regards to URI symptoms present on the day of saliva sampling (URIday), within 2 weeks of sampling (URI2wk), and within 4 weeks of sampling (URI4wk). Results: The percentage deviation from average healthy s-IgA concentration was the most important feature for URIday (median RI 1.74, interquartile range 1.41–2.07). The average healthy s-IgA secretion rate was the most important feature for URI4wk (median RI 0.94, interquartile range 0.79–1.13). No feature was clearly more important than any other when URI symptoms were identified within 2 weeks of sampling. The values for median area under the curve were 0.68, 0.63, and 0.65 for URIday, URI2wk, and URI4wk, respectively. Conclusions: The RI values suggest that the percentage deviation from average healthy s-IgA concentration may be used to evaluate the short-term risk of URI, while the average healthy s-IgA secretion rate may be used to evaluate the long-term risk. However, the results show that neither s-IgA concentration nor secretion rate can be used to accurately predict URI onset within a 4-week window in youth athletes.

Objetive: The aim of the present study was evaluate the effect of the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) on the secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) kinetics in whole saliva of healthy elderly women. Methods: Nine healthy, elderly females (age 61 ± 6.7 years) performed the 6 MWT. Saliva samples and heart rate (HR) were measured in basal, immediately (IPE), and 30 minutes after the 6 MWT (30-Post Ex). Blood lactate [La] was measured at the same intervals. The ELISA assay was used to determine the sIgA concentrations [sIgA]. The Biuret assay was employed to determine the total proteins levels in saliva. Results: The exercise intensity reached by the participants was ≈ 84 + 16% of maximum HR. Baseline [La] was 1.8 ± 0.9 mmol/L. [La] at IPE increased 3.4 mmol/L above baseline (p = 0.02). [sIgA] increased by 233.3 + 109.3 % at IPE and remained 211.2 + 100.1 % greater at 30-Post Ex compared with basal (p = 0.02). The 6 MWT did not modify total proteins levels (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The 6 MWT, performed to submaximal intensity, appears to be enough of a stimulus to increases sIgA levels in healthy elderly women independent of total proteins concentration in saliva.

The present study was designed to investigate the correlation between periodontitis and smoking status and secretory IgA level among a sample of Egyptian patients. The study was carried out on male subjects with age ranging from 25- 45 years . The subjects were divided to 3 groups of 30 subjects each ; Group I (Control group) subjects with no clinical and/or radiographic manifestations of periodontal disease and no history of smoking, Group II which includes subjects diagnosed of periodontitis with no history of smoking and Group III which includes subjects diagnosed of periodontitis with history of smoking. The level of salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA) was measured for the three groups. The results of this study reported significant decrease in the level salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA ) in group III compared to group I and II (P< 0.05)

Context: Stress responses in athletes can be attributed to training and competition, where increased physiological and psychological stress may negatively affect performance and recovery. Purpose: To examine the relationship between training load (TL) and salivary biomarkers immunoglobulin A (IgA), alpha-amylase (AA), and cortisol across a 16-wk preparation phase and 10-d competition phase in Paralympic swimmers. Methods: Four Paralympic swimmers provided biweekly saliva samples during 3 training phases—(1) normal training, (2) intensified training, and (3) taper—as well as daily saliva samples in the 10-d Paralympic competition (2016 Paralympic Games). TL was measured using session rating of perceived exertion. Results: Multilevel analysis identified a significant increase in salivary immunoglobulin A (sIgA: 94.98 [27.69] μg·mL−1), salivary alpha-amylase (sAA: 45.78 [19.07] μg·mL−1), and salivary cortisol (7.92 [2.17] nM) during intensified training concurrent with a 38.3% increase in TL. During the taper phase, a 49.5% decrease in TL from the intensified training phase resulted in a decrease in sIgA, sAA, and salivary cortisol; however, all 3 remained higher than baseline levels. A further significant increase was observed during competition in sIgA (168.69 [24.19] μg·mL−1), sAA (35.86 [16.67] μg·mL−1), and salivary cortisol (10.49 [1.89] nM) despite a continued decrease (77.8%) in TL from the taper phase. Conclusions: Results demonstrate that performance in major competition such as Paralympic games, despite a noticeable reduction in TL, induces a stress response in athletes. Because of the elevated stress response observed, modifications to individual postrace recovery protocols may be required to enable athletes to maximize performance across all 10 d of competition.

Introduction Salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), saliva flow rate and plasma cortisol concentrations have been shown to be influenced by exercise, particularly the intensity exercise is performed at, and circadian variation. The autonomic nervous system partly regulates salivary secretion, but it is not yet known whether cortisol also explains some variation in salivary parameters. Methods Twelve moderately trained male individuals (\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$$\dot {V}{{\text{O}}_2}$$\end{document}V˙O2peak legs: 46.2 ± 6.8 mL·kg−1·min−1) performed three 45-min constant load exercise trials in the morning: arm cranking exercise at 60%\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$$\dot {V}{{\text{O}}_2}$$\end{document}V˙O2peak arms; moderate cycling at 60%\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$$\dot {V}{{\text{O}}_2}$$\end{document}V˙O2peak legs; and easy cycling at 60%\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$$\dot {V}{{\text{O}}_2}$$\end{document}V˙O2peak arms. Timed saliva samples and blood samples for plasma cortisol concentration determination were obtained before, post, 2 h post, and 4 h post-exercise. Saliva was collected in an additional resting trial at the same time points. Results At each time point for each exercise trial, negative correlations between cortisol and saliva flow rate (explaining 25 ± 17% of the variance, R2 = 0.002–0.46) and positive correlations between cortisol and sIgA concentration (explaining 8 ± 8% of the variance R2 = 0.002–0.24) were found. Saliva flow rate increased over time, whereas sIgA concentration and cortisol decreased over time for all trials (P

PURPOSE We examined the effects of a humor intervention on the physiological, physical, and psychological responses of school-aged children with atopic dermatitis. DESIGN AND METHODS This quasi-experimental study used a nonequivalent control group and a pre- and post-test design. Forty-five schoolchildren participated. RESULTS Children in the experimental group (n=26) received a humor intervention and reported significant differences in physiological response, which was evidenced by heightened salivary immunoglobulin A levels as compared to the control group (n=19). Additionally, the psychological response of the experimental group was significantly different from that of the control group as evidenced by decreased stress levels. CONCLUSION Humor intervention may be an effective nursing intervention for children with atopic dermatitis.

Objective This study investigated the salivary immunoglobulin A response to carbohydrate supplementation during judo training. Method Sixteen judokas were randomly assigned to one of two conditions: Carbohydrate solution and Placebo solution in a double-blind design. Saliva samples were collected at rest, immediately after the training session and 1 h after the training session. Results The concentration of the salivary immunoglobulin A decreased during the training session in both conditions (p = 0.0002) as well as at 1 h after the training session in the placebo solution condition (p = 0.035). The rate of salivary flow decreased during the training session in the placebo solution condition (p = 0.04). Conclusion Carbohydrate solution consumption during training session did not affect the athletes oral immunity, however, in the recovery period an upper-respiratory tract protection was observed.

Objective this study was conducted to determine the effect of type 2 diabetes mellitus on salivary secretion of glucose, amylase and immunoglobulin A levels and also to fined out if saliva could be used as anon invasive method to monitor glycaemic control in type 2 diabbetes. This study was conducted on 40 human subjectes, They were 20 males and 20 females, their ages ranged from 35 years to 64 years,and they were divided into two groups, the first one is the patient group which contains 20 diabetic paient. (10 males and 10 females,aged between 38 years to 64 years). the second one is the control group which contains 20 healthy adult (10 males and 10 females,aged between 35 years to 60 years) they were age and sex matched. All studied group were subjected to clinical and laboratory investigation which includes post prandial blood glucose, HA1C, salivary glucose, salivary amylase, and salivary immunoglobulin A. Results there was a highly significant increase in the level of post prandial blood glucose, HBA1C; Salivary glucose, Salivary amylase & Salivary immunoglobulin A in diabetic group compared with control group and There was a significant positive correlation between post prandial blood glucose and salivary glucose in diabetic group. Conclusions These results suggest that diabetes influences the composition of saliva and that saliva can be used as less painful,non invasive biomarker for monitoring the blood glucose concentration in the patients with diabetes mellitus.

We examined the changes in salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA) and the incidence of upper respiratory syndrome (URS) throughout a college cross-country season as well as the acute effect of a VO2max test on SIgA. Subjects were 22 cross country athletes (XC) (20.7±0.3 years) and 23 matched controls (C) (20.4±0.2 years). Saliva samples were collected pre and post VO2max and at four training time points (August – November). Weekly logs indicating S&S of URS from which a total symptom score (TSS) was calculated were collected. There was a significant decrease in SIgA F(1,43)=10.742, p

This study evaluates salivary immunoglobulin A (s-IgA) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) in saliva of children and its correlation to tooth decay severity. Fifty-nine patients were divided into two groups: caries free (A group) and caries active (B group). B group was investigated according to Mount and Monse indices. Mean salivary IgA rate between two groups (A 16.7 &plusmn, 4.5 mg/dL vs. B 21.8 &plusmn, 12.9 mg/dL) was not significant, while IL-6 rate (A 19.02 &plusmn, 5.3 pg/mL vs. B 30.2 &plusmn, 11.8 pg/mL) was statistically different. This study revealed that salivary IL-6 levels were significantly higher in children with active caries when compared with the caries-free group, while the s-IgA rate showed no significant differences between the two groups.

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the primarily positive affective state of fattening pigs influences various behavioral and physiological parameters such as the pigs’ playing behavior, way of behaving in behavioral tests, body language signals, or diameter, and astroglia cell numbers of hippocampi, salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA) content, or salivary protein composition. Additionally, the suitability of the variables mentioned was examined to assess the pigs’ positive affective state in practice, which still constitutes a latent variable not itself measurable. For this, a dataset including behavioral and physiological data of 60 fattening pigs from 3 different farms with different housing systems was analyzed by the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method. A hierarchical component model (HCM) was used including the pigs’ positive affective state as a higher-order component (HOC) and the behavioral and physiological parameters as lower-order components (LOC). Playing behavior, body language signals, and behavioral tests were revealed, in this order, to be most influenced by the pigs’ positive affective state since these resulted in the corresponding path coefficients (PC) of PC = 0.83, PC = 0.79, and PC = 0.62, respectively. Additionally moderate and weak R2-values occurred for the endogenous latent variables playing behavior (R2 = 69.8%), body language signals (R2 = 62.7%), and behavioral tests (R2 = 39.5%). Furthermore, the indicator of the “locomotor play” showed the highest indicator reliability (IR) (IR = 0.85) to estimate the latent variable of pigs’ positive affective state. The results of the present study supplement the comprehension and assessment of the pigs’ positive affective state in general.

The study aims to explore the effect of positive psychological intervention (fun activities combined with positive mental health education) on the well-being, 2-week illness prevalence, and salivary immunoglobulin A of empty nesters. Ninety-two empty nesters were divided into intervention ( n = 49) and control ( n = 43) groups. The empty nesters in the intervention group performed the intervention in addition to routine community activities. The intervention group scored significantly higher on well-being ( p< .05) compared with the control group after intervention. A week after intervention, salivary immunoglobulin A of the intervention group ( p< .05) was higher than that before intervention. Meanwhile, the difference in salivary immunoglobulin A in the control group before and after intervention was not statistically significant. 2-week illness prevalence in both groups did not exhibit a significant difference ( p> .05). Results indicate that positive psychological intervention can effectively increase the well-being and salivary immunoglobulin A of empty nesters and improve their physical and mental health.

Objectives: this study was aimed at comparing dental stress in children having their first dental visit to those returning for dental treatment using salivary biomarkers of stress including salivary cortisol (s-cortisol), Immunoglobulin-A (s-IgA) and alpha-amylase (s-α-amylase). Additionally, the study was aimed at monitoring the change in stress in new patients as they progressed from the waiting to the clinical areas. Study design: salivary samples were collected from 40 children who had not been to a dentist before and similar samples were collected from 40 children who were returning for completion of dental treatment. Salivary cortisol, s-IgA and s-α-amylase concentrations were obtained by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Results: salivary cortisol levels were higher for new patients at the waiting area compared to that at the dental chair (p=0.05). Salivary alpha-amylase significantly increased in new patients while being seated in the dental chair. Returning patients had higher s-α-amylase (p=0.001) and s-IgA (p=0.016) compared to new patients. Returning patients had the lowest level of s-cortisol when providers were faculty pediatric dentists than with students and interns (p=0.035). Conclusions: children coming in for their first dental visit may experience dental stress at the waiting area before being seated for dental examination. Returning children may experience higher levels of stress compared to new child patients possibly due to previous dental exposure.

The purpose of the present study was to examine SIgA responses (concentration [SIgAabs] and a secretion rate [SIgArate]) to official and simulated competitive matches in young soccer players. The sample was composed of 26 male soccer players (age 15.6 ± 1.1 yrs, stature 177.0 ± 6.1 cm, body mass 70.5 ± 5.7 kg). Four soccer matches (two simulated matches [SM] and two official matches [OM]) were conducted. The matches consisted of two halves of 35 min with a 10 min rest interval. Each assessed player participated in only one SM and one OM. All matches were performed in the same week, during the competitive season, and at the same time of the day (9:00 am), separated by 48 h. Saliva samples were collected before and after every match. The session rating of perceived exertion was reported 30 min after each match in order to determine the internal training load (ITL). A significant decrease in SIgAabs and SIgArate after OM was observed when compared to the pre-match value. In addition, the SIgArate was higher at pre-OM when compared to pre-SM. A higher ITL for OM was observed compared to SM. The current findings indicate that OM may lead to a decrease in the main mucosal immunity function parameter of young soccer players that could increase the risk of URTI. Coaches should be aware of it in order to plan appropriate training loads and recovery procedures to avoid or minimize the likelihood of upper respiratory tract infection occurrences.

This study aims to determine the effects of prolonged exercise in the heat (31°C) and cool (18°C) environments on salivary Immunoglobulin A (SIgA) among recreational athletes. Thirteen healthy male participants (age: 20.9 ± 1.3 years old) were recruited and randomised in this cross-over study. In this study, participants performed the exercise trials in the heat environment at 31°C first followed by another exercise trial in the cool environment trial at 18°C or vice versa with one week of recovery period. Physiological parameters (heart rate, body weight changes and oxygen uptake) as well as room temperature and relative humidity were recorded. Cool water (3 ml.kg -1 body weight) was given to the participants at every 20 min during both exercise trials. Saliva samples were collected to calculate the saliva flow rate and analysed for salivary Immunoglobulin A (SIgA) concentrations and secretion rate. Paired t-test and two-way ANOVA with repeated measures were performed to analyse the data. The results revealed that saliva flow rate, SIgA concentration, and SIgA secretion rate did not significantly different between exercise trial in the heat and in the cool environments. However, prolonged exercise significantly decreased (p < 0.05) saliva flow rate in both trials with the values return to baseline 1 h post exercise. Salivary IgA concentration and secretion rate were not affected by prolonged running. As a conclusion, SIgA responses did not affected by ambient/room temperature. In addition, prolonged exercise with adequate fluid intake during exercise did not supress SIgA responses thus may not increase infection risk among athletes.

Matsumoto M, Satoh, K, Kushi, H, Hamuro, K, Sakurai, M, Saito, H, Tanaka, R, Saito, T, Kohda, N, and Hamada, K. Salivary immunoglobulin A secretion rate during peak period conditioning regimens in triathletes. J Strength Cond Res 35(5): 1389-1396, 2021-Triathletes often feel unwell during the conditioning period (peak period) leading up to a race. The aim of this study was to evaluate the factors relevant to the condition of athletes and their impact on mucosal immune responses and the salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA) secretion rate. This study recruited college student triathletes (33 men and 7 women) who participated in an Olympic distance race. For each subject, the salivary IgA rate was measured continuously for 1 month before the race (peak period). Data on physical activity during the peak period were calculated in metabolic equivalents, and the relationships between these factors and the salivary IgA secretion rate were evaluated. The average amount of physical activity was highest during the 2- to 3-week period before the race, at 744.7 ± 51.5 kcal expended per day. In subjects who, on average, expended more than 1,000 kcal·d-1 in physical activity between 12 and 14 days before the race, the salivary IgA secretion rate was significantly reduced compared with the value at 1 week before the race (p < 0.05). On the day before the race, a further reduction was observed (p < 0.1). The salivary IgA secretion rate was decreased by high-intensity exercise during the peak period in advance of a race; this was associated with a loss of optimal condition just before the race.

Purpose: To gain an exploratory insight into the relation between training load (TL), salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), and upper respiratory tract illness (URI) in elite paratriathletes. Methods: Seven paratriathletes were recruited. Athletes provided weekly saliva samples for the measurement of sIgA over 23 consecutive weeks (February to July) and a further 11 consecutive weeks (November to January). sIgA was compared to individuals’ weekly training duration, external TL, and internal TL, using time spent in predetermined heart-rate zones. Correlations were assessed via regression analyses. URI was quantified via weekly self-report symptom questionnaire. Results: There was a significant negative relation between athletes’ individual weekly training duration and sIgA secretion rate (P = .028), with changes in training duration accounting for 12.7% of the variance (quartiles: 0.2%, 19.2%). There was, however, no significant relation between external or internal TL and sIgA parameters (P ≥ .104). There was no significant difference in sIgA when URI was present or not (101% vs 118% healthy median concentration; P ≥ .225); likewise, there was no difference in sIgA when URI occurred within 2 wk of sampling or not (83% vs 125% healthy median concentration; P ≥ .120). Conclusions: Paratriathletes’ weekly training duration significantly affects sIgA secretion rate, yet the authors did not find a relation between external or internal TL and sIgA parameters. Furthermore, it was not possible to detect any link between sIgA and URI occurrence, which throws into question the potential of using sIgA as a monitoring tool for early detection of illness.

We present results of a case study on effect of humanoid in comparison with voice-only communication on frontal brain activity of elderly adults. Our results indicate that use of humanoid induces an increase in frontal brain activity. Additionally, these results imply an increase in their salivary Immunoglobulin A (sIgA) Antibody, thereby suggesting physical embodiment as a potential health factor in communication with elderly individuals. Such increases in hormonal as well as frontal brain activity, as observed in healthy condition, suggest the potential that physical embodiment can offer to the solution concept of sustaining the process of cognitive decline associated with aging and its consequential diseases such as Alzheimer.

The primary purpose of this study was to examine the effect of acute maximal exercise (VO2max test) on salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA) responses in adolescent females. A secondary aim was to examine the relationship between resting SIgA levels and VO2max, physical activity, body composition, and diet.Fifty healthy female adolescents completed a laboratory-based VO2max test, assessment of body composition via hydrodensitometry, a validated physical activity questionnaire (PAQ-A), and a three-day food diary. Unstimulated saliva was collected before, and 5 and 120 minutes after VO2max testing. Absolute SIgA (µg/mL) concentration was determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Secretion rate of SIgA (µg/min) was calculated by multiplying absolute SIgA concentration by saliva flow rate (SFR, µL/min).A significant increase in absolute SIgA concentration (146.8±59.2 µg/mL) was noted immediately after VO2max testing (P0.05) and returned to pre-exercise levels (120.1±54.1 µg/mL) by 120-min post-exercise (P0.05). No significant VO2max test effects were observed for SIgA secretion rate and SFR (P0.05). VO2max values (41.92±6.36 mL/kg/min) were correlated with body fat percentage (r=-0.59; P0.01), PAQ-A total score (r=0.48; P0.01), and acute changes in absolute SIgA levels (r=0.28; P0.05). No significant associations were observed between dietary measures and resting SIgA levels or SFR (P0.05) except for dietary fiber which correlated with resting absolute SIgA concentration (r=0.29; P0.05).Findings indicate that acute graded maximal exercise results in a transient increase in absolute SIgA concentration and that these changes are associated with individual VO2max values.

Background: Salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA) is an important factor in the oral defense mechanism. SIgA levels in infants have shown to vary widely. Mode of delivery may influence SIgA levels. The present study was conducted to evaluate levels of SIgA in infants at different ages, and to compare it with the mode of delivery. Methodology: The study group consisted of 279 healthy neonates and infants up to the age of 9 months. They were divided according to age: Group I: 6–10 days; Group II: 6–8 weeks; Group III: 6 months, and Group IV: 9 months. Unstimulated whole saliva was collected from the floor of the mouth and buccal sulcii by means of sterile polyethylene pipettes. Saliva was collected 1 h after feeding. All salivary samples were collected in disposable sterile vials and transferred suitably to a laboratory for estimation of SIgA level using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were subjected to statistical analysis. Results: There were 146 infants that were delivered by cesarean section and 133 vaginally delivered infants. There was a significant difference in the SIgA levels between vaginal delivery and cesarean section infants (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Mode of delivery appears to have influence on the levels of SIgA in saliva of neonates and infants.

Background A previous study has reported that low-frequency (LF) electroacupuncture (EA) influences salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) and the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS is known to control the secretion volume of sIgA; however, the effect of high-frequency (HF) EA on salivary sIgA has not been determined. We investigated whether HF EA affects salivary sIgA levels and the ANS. Method Sixteen healthy subjects were randomly classified into two groups: a control group and an EA group. After a 5 min rest, subjects in the EA group received EA at 100 Hz bilaterally at LI4 and LI11 for 15 min before resting for a further 40 min post-stimulation. Subjects in the control group rested for a total of 60 min. Measurements of the ANS and sIgA levels in both groups were made before, immediately after, 20 min after, and 40 min after rest or 15 min EA treatment. HF and LF components of heart rate variability were analysed as markers of ANS function. LF/HF ratio and HF were taken as indices of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve activity, respectively. Salivary protein concentrations and sIgA levels were determined by Bradford protein assay and ELISA, respectively. Results LF/HF ratio was significantly increased immediately after EA. HF was significantly increased at 20 min after EA and sIgA level was significantly increased at 40 min after EA. In addition, HF and salivary sIgA level were positively correlated with each another. Conclusions HF EA exerted sequential positive effects on sympathetic nerve activity, parasympathetic nerve activity, and salivary sIgA level (immediately and after 20 and 40 min, respectively). HF EA may increase salivary sIgA levels by influencing parasympathetic nerve activity.

The present study aimed to examine the effect of carrying different magnitudes of load on the changes and relationships of salivary Immunoglobulin A (IgA) and cortisol concentrations and the physiological parameters. Twelve Indian soldiers performed an intense uphill treadmill walking at two speeds viz. 2.5 km h −1 and 4 km h −1 without any load and carrying 10.7 kg, 17 kg and 21.4 kg loads for 36 min. Salivary IgA concentration relative to total protein decreased significantly after each exercise session and cortisol concentration increased concomitantly with physiological variables e.g. heart rate (HR), oxygen consumption (VO 2 ), minute ventilation (VE) and energy expenditure (EE). An inverse correlation (P −1 carrying 17 kg and 21.4 kg load. The degree and type of physiological and biochemical responses may help in designing combat training, operations and developing preventive strategies of military personnel involving intense exercise. Relevance to industry: Walking with load in incremental uphill terrain is highly stressful and fatiguing. Results of the present study will help in designing training schedules for maintaining the optimal fitness of an individual during uphill walking with loads in different speeds.

Purpose:To examine the response or pre- and postmatch salivary immunoglobulin A concentration ([s-IgA]) to Australian Football League (AFL) match play and investigate the acute and cumulative influence of player workload and postmatch [s-IgA] after repeated participation in AFL match play.Methods:Eleven elite AFL athletes (21.8 ± 2.4 y, 186.9 ± 7.9 cm, 87.4 ± 7.5 kg) were monitored throughout 3 matches during the preseason that were separated by 7 d. Saliva samples were collected across each AFL match at 24 h and 1 h prematch and 1, 12, 36, and 60 h postmatch to determine [s-IgA]. Global positioning systems (GPS) with integrated triaxial accelerometers were used to determine total player workload during match play. Hypothesis testing was conducted for time-dependent changes in [s-IgA] and player load using a repeated-measures ANOVA.Results:Player load during match 3 (1266 ± 124.6 AU) was significantly (P < .01) greater than in match 1 (1096 ± 115.1 AU) and match 2 (1082 ± 90.4 AU). Across match 3, [s-IgA] was significantly (P < .01) suppressed at 2 postmatch measures (12 and 36 h) compared with prematch measures (24 and 1 h), which coincided with significantly (P < .01) elevated player load.Conclusion:The findings indicate that an increase in player load during AFL preseason match play resulted in compromised postmatch mucosal immunological function. Longitudinal assessment of AFL-match player load and mucosal immunological function across the first 60 h of recovery may augment monitoring and preparedness strategies for athletes.

The aim of this study was to examine the validity and reliability of a novel immunoassay, developed to assess salivary Immunoglobulin A (s-IgA). Validity and reliability of the Individual Profiling Lateral Flow Device (IPRO LFD) for s-IgA concentrations ([s-IgA]) was assessed in males (n = 12) and females (n =13) who were involved in recreational activities. Reliability of the IPRO LFD method was assessed by comparing [s-IgA] of two saliva samples collected concurrently, while validity was assessed by comparing with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. The IPRO LFD had a strong positive correlation (r = 0.93, p < 0.001), with no difference in [s-IgA] compared with the ELISA. The IPRO LFD was considered reliable (ICC r = 0.89, p < 0.001 and CV = 9.40 %) for measures of [s-IgA]. We concluded that the IPRO LFD method may be a substitute to the ELISA method for measurements of [s-IgA].

Aims Biological and lifestyle factors, such as daily rhythm, caffeine ingestion, recent infection, and antibiotic intake, have been shown to influence measurements of salivary cortisol (SC) and secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA). Current methodology in unsynchronized, field-based biomarker studies does not take these effects into account. Moreover, very little is known about the combined effects of biological and lifestyle factors on SC and sIgA. This study supports development of a protocol for measuring biomarkers from saliva collected in field studies by examining the individual and combined effects of these factors on SC and sIgA. Method At three time points (start of the pre-season; start of playing season; and end of playing season), saliva samples were collected from the entire squad of 45 male players of an elite Australian Football club (mean age 22.8 ± 3.5 years). At each time, point daily rhythm and lifestyle factors were determined via a questionnaire, and concentrations of both SC and sIgA via an enzyme linked immuno-sorbent (ELISA) assay of saliva samples. In addition, player times to produce 0.5 mL of saliva were recorded. Results Analysis of covariance of the data across the three time points showed that daily rhythm had a more consistent effect than the lifestyle factors of caffeine ingestion, recent infection, and antibiotic intake on SC, but not on sIgA. Data for sIgA and SC concentrations were then adjusted for the effects of daily rhythm and lifestyle factors, and correlational analysis of the pooled data was used to examine the relative effects of these two sources of influence on sIgA and SC. With the exception of time to produce saliva, the biological measures of stress were affected by players’ daily rhythms. When daily rhythm was taken into account the group of lifestyle factors did not have an additional effect. Discussion It is recommended that future studies measuring SC and sIgA make additional adjustments for the daily rhythm, in particular time since first sight of daylight, as small measurement errors of biomarkers can confound discrimination among study participants.

Psychological stress among breast cancer patients can inhibit immune function and contribute to disease progression. We investigated the effects of autogenic training (AT), a relaxation method for reducing stress, on salivary immunoglobulin A (sIgA) in breast cancer surgery patients. Thirty patients scheduled to undergo breast cancer surgery were randomly assigned to an AT or control group (usual care). Patients in the AT group underwent training for 7 days after surgery. Salivary IgA and heart rate variability were assessed on the day before surgery, and on the third and seventh postoperative days. Levels of sIgA were significantly higher on the seventh postoperative day in the AT group (n = 7) compared to the control group (n = 7) (p = 0.049). These findings suggest that AT may improve immune function in breast surgery patients.

Objective To investigate the effects of Ramadan fasting on serum concentrations of immunoglobulin (Ig)G and IgM, and salivary IgA concentrations. Methods Blood and saliva samples were collected one week before and during the last week of Ramadan from healthy male volunteers. Albumin, total lymphocyte count, electrolytes, and IgG and IgM concentrations were determined in serum; salivary IgA concentrations were measured. Anthropometric measurements were also recorded. Results Samples were collected from 35 subjects (mean age 35.86 years, range 20–59 years). Weight, body mass index, albumin levels and the nutritional risk index decreased significantly during Ramadan fasting compared with before fasting. In addition, Na+ and Cl− electrolyte levels were significantly decreased during Ramadan. Serum IgG concentrations decreased significantly during Ramadan compared with before fasting, but were still within the normal range. Salivary IgA concentrations also decreased significantly, whereas serum IgM levels did not change. Lymphocyte numbers increased significantly, but there was no correlation between Ig levels and lymphocyte count. Conclusion Ramadan fasting did not result in severe immunological disturbances.

Background Salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA) together with innate defenses such as α-amylase, provides the ‘first line of defense’ against pathogens present at mucosal surfaces. This study aimed to evaluate salivary α-amylase and immunoglobulin A (IgA) in whole saliva of spastic cerebral palsy (CP) individuals. Methods Whole saliva was collected from 22 CP and 24 sibling volunteers with no neurological damage control groups (CG) (aged 7–14 years). The salivary flow rate, total protein and SIgA concentrations, and α-amylase activity were determined. Results The CP group presented higher salivary flow rate (35%) and lower total protein concentration (18%) compared with the CG (P ≤ 0.05). CPG had higher absolute (68%, μg SIgA/ml) and relative (55%, μg SIgA/mg prot and 108%, μg SIgA/min) concentrations of IgA compared with the CG (P ≤ 0.05). CPG had lower relative α-amylase activity (15% mg malt/mg prot and 33%, mg malt/min) compared with the CG (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion This study concluded that CP individuals presented alterations in the profile of salivary proteins involved in the defense system of the oral cavity.

The aim of this study was to investigate the cumulative effects of intensive resistance training on salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA) and cortisol responses in elite male weightlifters. Eleven elite male Taiwanese weightlifters were trained through 3 training stages before a national weightlifting competition, and this was followed by a 2-week recovery stage. Resting saliva samples were collected once in each of the 4 stages. Salivary concentrations of total protein (TP), SIgA, lactoferrin, and cortisol were measured. The results showed that (a) salivary TP concentrations were not significantly affected; (b) resting levels of SIgA, the ratio of SIgA to TP (SIgA/TP), cortisol, and the ratio of cortisol to TP (cortisol/TP) were significantly higher in the training stages than in the recovery stage; (c) a positive correlation was revealed between the ratios of SIgA/TP and cortisol/TP; and (d) the resting salivary lactoferrin concentrations and the ratio of lactoferrin to TP (lactoferrin/TP) were significantly lower in stage 1 than in the recovery stage. The findings in this study suggest that prolonged, intensive resistance training exerts cumulative effects on SIgA and cortisol responses in elite weightlifters.

Objective: The aim of present study is study the effect of one bout incremental exercise on salivary IgA changes in boy athlete and no athlete high school students. Design: 15 no athlete and 30 athlete (15 wrestlers, 15 endurance runners) students were selected as subject randomly among students of Neishabur city in Iran. Subject ran on the treadmill to exhaustion range using Bruce protocol. Four milliliter unstimated saliva was collected pre, immediately and 2 hour after exercise. Results: The result showed that one bout incremental exercise caused significant increase in S-IgA concentration in non-athlete and endurance runners groups, and this increase continued to 2 hours after exercise. There was significant increase in S-IgA concentration in wrestlers group after activity. S-IgA concentration decreased after 2 hours of activity, but it did not reach to initial levels of pre-activity, this different was statically significant. Conclusion: Based on these findings, it is inferred that one bout incremental exercise in young students had no suppressor effect on the mucosal immune system and there is no probability of existence of the upper respiratory tract infection following this activities

Salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) is postulated to protect against dental caries. Dental hygiene and health are usually poor in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) due to several factors. We hypothesized higher salivary sIgA in caries-free subjects and a higher extent of caries in RA. A protocol-driven cross-sectional pilot study was carried out to determine salivary sIgA in 48 patients with RA and 102 non-RA, healthy case controls. Standard of care in clinical and dental assessments were done by experts. A decay, missing teeth, filled teeth (DMFT) index was used to classify caries. Whole unstimulated saliva was collected to assay sIgA using a commercial ELISA kit. Dental caries was diagnosed in 67% and 86% of the RA and healthy subjects, respectively. Eight percent of RA patients had visited a dental surgeon. Though they tend to be higher in caries-free status, there were no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) between RA and non-RA subjects with respect to salivary sIgA and extent of caries. The salivary sIgA levels for both RA and healthy case control subjects in this ethnic Indian (Asian) study were much higher than that reported in literature and need further validation. Rheumatologists ought to educate patients on dental matters.

According to previous studies, minor glands produce about 35% of the total salivary immunoglobulin A (salivary IgA). The age-dependent increase in whole-saliva salivary IgA concentrations has been studied extensively, but we found no published reports comparing the minor-gland saliva concentrations of salivary IgA in children, adolescents, and adults. In this study we measured the concentration of salivary IgA in saliva from the labial and the buccal minor glands of children, adolescents, and adults. Three age groups donated saliva for analysis: 3-yr-old children, 14-yr-old adolescents, and 20- to 25-yr-old adults. Minor-gland saliva was collected on filter paper and unstimulated whole saliva was collected by draining into a tube, and the salivary IgA concentration was determined by ELISA. The salivary IgA concentration in labial saliva was significantly lower among 3-yr-old children (0.037 mg 100 ml(-1), SD = 0.035) than among 14-yr-old adolescents (0.126 mg 100 ml(-1), SD = 0.128) and adults (0.128 mg 100 ml(-1), SD = 0.13). The 3-yr-old children also had significantly lower whole-saliva salivary IgA values compared with the other age groups (0.09 mg 100 ml(-1), SD = 0.091; 0.179 mg 100 ml(-1), SD = 0.149; and 0.170 mg 100 ml(-1), SD = 0.099, respectively). This increase in salivary IgA concentrations with age might reflect a developing immune response in the growing child.

The hypothesis that salivary cortisol would increase and salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA) decrease after a kickboxing match was tested among 20 male athletes. Saliva samples collected before and after the match were analyzed. Salivary cortisol and salivary IgA concentrations (absolute concentration, salivary IgAabs) and the secretion rate of IgA (salivary IgArate) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A Wilcoxon test for paired samples showed significant increases in salivary Cortisol from pre- to postmatch. No significant changes were observed in salivary IgAabs or secretory IgArate and saliva flow rate. This study indicates that a kickboxing match might increase salivary concentration and thereafter it could be considered a significant source of exercise-related stress. On the other hand, the effect of a kickboxing match on mucosal immunity seems not to be relevant.

This study attempted to determine the relationship of physiological indices of stress (ie, cortisol and salivary immunoglobulin A) to the job strain and the job demand-control-support models.A sample of 98 direct-care disability workers completed the Maslach Burnout Inventory and the Job Content Questionnaire. In addition, participants' morning saliva samples were analyzed for cortisol and salivary immunoglobulin A concentration levels.The job strain and job demand-control-support models were tested using structural equation modeling. The job demand-control-support model successfully fitted with the data and was able to predict physiological outcomes, the job strain model did not. The salivary immunoglobulin A scores, in comparison to the cortisol data, were predicted more successfully by these models.Researchers are encouraged to study if different employee groups are at-risk for differing types of stress-related-illness, which may be triggered by occupation-specific stressors and/or physiological reactions.

International audience; Owen, AL, Wong, DP, Dunlop, G, Groussard, C, Kebsi, W, Dellal, A, Morgans, R, and Zouhal, H. High-intensity training and salivary immunoglobulin A responses in professional top-level soccer players: Effect of training intensity. J Strength Cond Res 30(9): 2460-2469, 2016-This study aimed (a) to test the hypothesis that salivary immunoglobulin A (s-IgA) would vary with training intensity sessions (low-intensity [LI] vs. high-intensity sessions [HI]) during a traditional training program divided into 4 training periods and (b) to identify key variables (e.g., GPS data, rating of perceived exertion [RPE], and training duration), which could affect s-IgA. Saliva samples of 10 elite professional soccer players were collected (a) before the investigation started to establish the baseline level and (b) before and after each 4 training sessions (LI vs. HI). Training intensity was monitored as internal (through heart rate responses and RPE) and external (through GPS) loads. High-intensity sessions were associated with higher external load (GPS) and with higher RPE. Baseline and pretraining s-IgA did not differ between the 4 training sessions both for HI and LI. Post-training s-IgA were not different (in absolute value and in percentage of change) between HI and LI sessions at the first 3 periods. However, at the fourth period, s-IgA concentration for HI session was significantly lower (p ≤ 0.05) than the LI session. The percentage change between s-IgA post-training and s-IgA baseline concentrations differ significantly (p ≤ 0.05) between HI and LI training sessions. Significant correlations between s-IgA and training intensity were also noted. High-intensity soccer training sessions might cause a significant decrease in s-IgA values during the postexercise window as compared with LI sessions. This study encourages coaches to monitor s-IgA in routine, particularly during HI training periods, to take precautions to avoid upper respiratory tract infection in highly trained soccer players.

The aim was to investigate the effects of a 48 h period of fluid, energy or combined fluid and energy restriction on salivary IgA (s-IgA) responses at rest and after exercise. Thirteen healthy males (age 21 (sem1) years) participated in four randomised 48 h trials. In the control trial participants received their estimated energy (12 154 (sem230) kJ/d) and water (3912 (sem140) ml/d) requirements. On fluid restriction (FR) participants received their energy requirements and 193 (sem19) ml water/d to drink and on energy restriction (ER) participants received their water requirements and 1214 (sem25) kJ/d. Fluid and energy restriction (F+ER) was a combination of FR and ER. After 48 h, participants performed a 30 min treadmill time trial (TT) followed by rehydration (0–2 h) and refeeding (2–6 h). Unstimulated saliva was collected at 0, 24 and 48 h, post-TT, and 2 and 6 h post-TT. Saliva flow rate (sflw) and s-IgA (ELISA) remained unchanged in control conditions and on ER. However, 48 h on FR decreased sflw (64 %) which most probably accounted for the increase in s-IgA concentration (P sem2); 24 h: 12 (sem2) μg/min;P

Purpose:To assess match-to-match variations in salivary immunoglobulin A concentration ([s-IgA]) measured at 36 h postmatch throughout an Australian Football League (AFL) premiership season and to assess the trends between 36-h-postmatch [s-IgA] and match-play exercise workloads throughout the same season.Methods:Eighteen elite male AFL athletes (24 ± 4.2 y, 187.0 ± 7.1 cm, 87.0 ± 7.6 kg) were monitored on a weekly basis to determine total match-play exercise workloads and 36-h-postmatch [s-IgA] throughout 16 consecutive matches in an AFL premiership season. Global positioning systems (GPS) with integrated triaxial accelerometers were used to measure exercise workloads (PlayerLoad) during each AFL match. A linear mixed-model analyses was conducted for time-dependent changes in [s-IgA] and player load.Results:A significant main effect was found for longitudinal postmatch [s-IgA] data (F16,240 = 3.78, P < .01) and PlayerLoad data (F16,66 = 1.98, P = .03). For all matches after and including match 7, a substantial suppression trend in [s-IgA] 36-h-postmatch values was found compared with preseason baseline [s-IgA].Conclusion:The current study provides novel data regarding longitudinal trends in 36-h-postmatch [s-IgA] for AFL athletes. Results demonstrate that weekly in-season AFL match-play exercise workloads may result in delayed mucosal immunological recovery beyond 36 h postmatch. The inclusion of individual athlete-monitoring strategies of [s-IgA] may be advantageous in the detection of compromised postmatch mucosal immunological function for AFL athletes.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a concentração sérica e salivar de IgA. Pacientes com câncer de cabeça e pescoço podem apresentar alterações na concentração de IgA sérica e salivar, decorrentes de desordem imunológica inespecífica que acompanha o desenvolvimento das lesões malignas. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo em dois grupos: 34 pacientes portadores de carcinoma epidermóide da boca e orofaringe e 34 controles pareados por idade e sexo. Sangue e saliva foram colhidos e as amostras dosadas por nefelometria e imunodifusão radial. A análise estatística incluiu teste t de Student, ANOVA e coeficiente de correlação de Pearson, com limite de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS: A comparação entre os métodos de nefelometria e imunodifusão radial não mostrou diferença (p = 0,039). As concentrações de IgA sérica foram de 279,4 ± 131,7 mg/dl no grupo controle e 310,9 ± 194,1 mg/dl no grupo de estudo. A concentração de IgA salivar, por nefelometria, foi de 17,0 ± 10,4 mg/dl para os controles e 7,2 ± 5,0 mg/dl nos portadores de câncer e a imunodifusão radial mostrou concentrações de 13,7 ± 9,1 mg/dl e 5,6 ± 4,2 mg/dl para controles e grupo de estudo, respectivamente. Não foram encontradas correlações entre idade, estádio clínico da doença e níveis sérico ou salivar de IgA. CONCLUSÃO: Os indivíduos com câncer da boca e orofaringe apresentaram concentração sérica de IgA semelhante aos controles, mas com concentração de IgA salivar menor no grupo oncológico. Causas associadas à diminuição de IgA salivar como desnutrição, estresse e uso de tabaco podem estar relacionadas a estes achados. OBJECTIVE: Patients carriers of head and neck cancer (HNC) may show changes in concentrations of serum and salivary IgA owing to an inespecific immunologic disorder that follows the development of malignant lesions. PURPOSE: Evaluate the serum and salivary IgA levelS in Patients With Hnc. METHODS: A prospective study based on a sample of 34 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the mouth and oropharynx and 34 normal control cases, matched by sex and age. Blood and saliva samples were collected at the same time and assayed for IgA by nephelometry and single radial immunodiffusion (RID). Statistical analysis included Student t Test, ANOVA and Pearson correlation index. RESULTS: The differences between nephelometry and RID could not be detected (p=0.039). The serum concentrations of IgA were 279.4 ± 131.7 mg/dl and 310.9 ± 194.1 mg/dl for control and study groups, respectively. Concerning salivary IgA, levels obtained by nephelometry were 17.0 ± 10.4 mg/dl for control cases and 7.2 ± 5.0 mg/dl for cancer cases and RID showed concentrations of 13.7 ± 9.1 mg/dl and 5.6 ± 4.2 mg/dl for control and study group, respectively. There were no significant correlations between serum or salivary IgA levels and age or disease stage. CONCLUSION: Patients carriers of HNC and control subjects showed similar serum concentrations of IgA but it was found that salivary IgA levels were reduced in cancer patients. Causes associated with decreased salivary IgA levels like malnutrition, stress and tobacco could be related to these findings.

Rugby union is a sport involving high force and frequency impacts making the likelihood of injury a significant risk. The aim of this study was to measure and report the individual and group acute and cumulative physiological stress response during 3 professional rugby games through non-invasive sampling. 24 professional rugby players volunteered for the study. Urine and saliva samples were collected pre and post 3 matches. Myoglobin, salivary immunoglobulin A, cortisol, neopterin and total neopterin (neopterin+7,8-dihydroneopterin) were analysed by high performance liquid chromatography or enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Significant increases in cortisol, myoglobin, neopterin and total neopterin when urine volume was corrected with specific gravity were observed (p0.05). Significant decreases in salivary immunoglobulin A concentration were observed for games 1 and 2 while secretion rate decreased after games 2 and 3. Significant decreases were seen with the percent of 7,8-dihydroneopterin being converted to neopterin following games 2 and 3. The intensity of 3 professional rugby games was sufficient to elicit significant changes in the physiological markers selected for our study. Furthermore, results suggest the selected markers not only provide a means for analysing the stress encountered during a single game of rugby but also highlight the unique pattern of response for each individual player.

The role of saliva in maintaining oral health and homeostasis is based on its physicochemical properties and biological activities of its components, including salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA). Both salivary rates and immunological status of saliva are found to be compromised in smokers. The aim of this study was to investigate the acute time-dependent effect of smoking and black currant consumption on the salivary flow rate (SFR) and salivary IgA secretion rate (sIgA SR) in healthy smokers. SFR, sIgA levels in saliva, and sIgA SRs were determined in healthy smokers (n=8) at eight times of assessment within three consecutive interventions: at the baseline; 5, 30, and 60 min after smoking; 5, 30, and 60 min after black currant consumption (100 g), followed by smoking; and 5 min after black currant consumption. Smoking induced a significant delayed effect on SFR measured 60 min after smoking (P=.03), while black currant consumption preceding smoking prevented that effect. Salivary IgA concentrations and sIgA flow rates were not acutely influenced by smoking. Black currant consumption preceding smoking induced a significant decrease in sIgA concentrations 5 min after the intervention compared with the baseline (P=.046), with a further increasing trend, statistically significant, 60 min after the intervention (P=.025). Although smoking cessation is the most important strategy in the prevention of chronic diseases, the obtained results suggest that the influence of black currant consumption on negative effects of tobacco smoke on salivary flow and immunological status of saliva could partly reduce the smoking-associated risk on oral health.

Rugby union is a sport governed by the impacts of high force and high frequency. Analysis of physiological markers following a game can provide an understanding of the physiological response of an individual and the time course changes in response to recovery. Urine and saliva were collected from 11 elite amateur rugby players 24 h before, immediately after, and at 17, 25, 38, 62 and 86 h post-game. Myoglobin, salivary immunoglobulin A and cortisol were analysed by ELISA, whereas neopterin and total neopterin were analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography. There was a significant post-game increase of all four markers. The increases were cortisol 4-fold, myoglobin 2.85-fold, neopterin 1.75-fold and total neopterin 2.3-fold when corrected with specific gravity. All significant changes occurred post-game only, with markers returning to and remaining at baseline within 17 h. The intensity of the game caused significant changes in key physiological markers of stress. They provide an understanding of the stress experienced during a single game of rugby and the time course changes associated with player recovery. Neopterin provides a new marker of detecting an acute inflammatory response in physical exercise, while specific gravity should be considered for urine volume correction post-exercise.

Objective. The aim of this study was to determine salivary immunoglobulin A levels in people who stopped smoking for at least 2 weeks. Salivary immunoglobulin A is a primary antibody at mucosal surfaces. Study Design. Salivary immunoglobulin A levels of each of 20 subjects were determined on 3 occasions: first, while the subject was still smoking; second, 7 days after cessation of smoking; third, on the 14th day after cessation. Two control groups (with 20 people in each group) were also used: the members of the first had never smoked, and the members of the second were current smokers. Results were analyzed through use of a repeated-measures analysis of variance and the t test. Results. Seven days after cessation of the smoking habit, a transient decrease in salivary immunoglobulin A levels was observed. However, within 14 days the levels returned to normal. Conclusions. Salivary immunoglobulin A levels transiently decrease in people who have stopped smoking for 7 days, but they recover to normal values within 2 weeks after cessation of the habit.(Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 1999;87:170-3)