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This article presents the procedure for determining numerical scales based on the graphic scales drawn to process the graphic material in Volume VII of the Valvasor collection. To calculate the numerical scales, the miles drawn on the maps and their lengths in relation to one degree of the meridian were studied. A total of 22 different miles were drawn on the maps studied, of which the German mile was the most common. After calculating the numerical scales, it was found that the largest scale of the maps examined was 1:220,000 and the smallest was 1:11,200,000. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To develop a scale to evaluate exercise knowledge in diabetes and to ensure validity and reliability of scale in Turkish. Methodology: The question pool prepared on exercise in diabetes. Content validity rates of the scale were between 0.54-1.00. Content validity index of the scale was determined as 0.79. The pilot application of the first scale with a total of 46 items was carried out with 279 people who had been diagnosed with diabetes. In estimating the aspects of the scale; descriptive analyzes of the scale, construct validity and Cronbach's alpha reliability analysis were performed. Results: In analysis, it was decided that a total of 21 items should be removed from the aforethought 46-item in the scale. It was observed that the factor loads of the remaining 25 items in the scale ranged from 0.481 to 0.949. It was determined that the structure was explained by 4 factors. Cronbach's alpha coefficient of the scale was found to be 0.943. Conclusions: 'Exercise Knowledge Scale in Diabetes' with 25 items and a 4-factor structure established its Turkish validity and reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of exercise modality and intensity on Interleukin-6 (IL-6), iron status, and hepcidin levels was investigated. Ten trained male triathletes performed 4 exercise trials including low-intensity continuous running (L-R), low-intensity continuous cycling (L-C), high-intensity interval running (H-R), and high-intensity interval cycling (H-C). Both L-R and L-C consisted of 40 min continuous exercise performed at 65% of peak running velocity (vVO2peak) and cycling power output (pVO2peak), while H-R and H-C consisted of 8 × 3-min intervals performed at 85% vVO2peak and pVO2peak. Venous blood samples were drawn pre-, post-, and 3 hr postexercise. Significant increases in postexercise IL-6 were seen within each trial (p < .05) and were significantly greater in H-R than L-R (p < .05). Hepcidin levels were significantly elevated at 3 hr postexercise within each trial (p < .05). Serum iron levels were significantly elevated (p < .05) immediately postexercise in all trials except L-C. These results suggest that, regardless of exercise mode or intensity, postexercise increases in IL-6 may be expected, likely influencing a subsequent elevation in hepcidin. Regardless, the lack of change in postexercise serum iron levels in L-C may indicate that reduced hemolysis occurs during weight-supported, low-intensity activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood sodium concentration of tetraplegics during exercise has not been investigated. This study aimed to measure blood sodium changes in relation to fluid intakes and thermal comfort in tetraplegics during wheelchair rugby training. Twelve international male wheelchair rugby players volunteered, and measures were taken during 2 training sessions. Body mass, blood sodium concentration, and subjective thermal comfort using a 10-point scale were recorded before and after both training sessions. Fluid intake and the distance covered were measured during both sessions. The mean (SD) percentage changes in body mass during the morning and afternoon training sessions were +0.4%1 (0.65%) and +0.69% (1.24%), respectively. There was a tendency for fluid intake rate to be correlated with the percentage change in blood sodium concentration (p = .072, r2 = .642) during the morning training session; this correlation reached significance during the afternoon session (p = .004, r2= .717). Fluid intake was significantly correlated to change in thermal comfort in the morning session (p = .018, r2 = .533), with this correlation showing a tendency in the afternoon session (p = .066, r2 = .151). This is the first study to investigate blood sodium concentrations in a group of tetraplegics. Over the day, blood sodium concentrations significantly declined; 2 players recorded blood sodium concentrations of 135 mmol/L, and 5 recorded blood sodium concentrations of 136 mmol/L. Excessive fluid intake as a means of attenuating thermal discomfort seems to be the primary cause of low blood sodium concentrations in tetraplegic athletes. Findings from this study could aid in the design of fluid-intake strategies for tetraplegics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose was to validate a self-efficacy (SE) instrument toward including students with disability in physical education (PE). Three scales referring to intellectual disabilities (ID), physical disabilities (PD), or visual impairments (VI) were administered to 486 physical education teacher education (PETE) majors. The sample was randomly split, and exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA and CFA, respectively) were conducted. After deleting items that did not meet inclusion criteria, EFA item loadings ranged from 0.53 to 0.91, and Cronbach's alpha reliability was high (for ID = .86, PD = .90, and VI = .92). CFA showed that the ID scale demonstrated good goodness-of-fit, whereas in the PD and in the VI scales demonstrated moderate fit. Thus, the content and construct validity of the instrument was supported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) experience difficulty performing everyday motor tasks. It is has been suggested that children with DCD have fewer self-regulatory (SR) skills with which to acquire motor skills. This article presents the results of an exploratory study examining the development of SR competence among ten 7-9-year-old children with DCD participating in the Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP) program (Polatajko & Mandich, 2004). Using a quantitative observational coding method, children's SR behavior was examined and compared across intervention sessions. Results indicate that children demonstrating improved motor performance similarly demonstrated more independent and effective SR behaviors. In contrast, children whose motor performance remained relatively stable failed to demonstrate such a change. These findings suggest that CO-OP enables SR performance among children with motor performance difficulties and, as a result, facilitates improved task performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compounds found in the skins of grapes, including catechins, quercetin, and resveratrol, have been added to the diet of rodents and improved run time to exhaustion, fitness, and skeletal-muscle mitochondrial function. It is unknown if such effects occur in humans. The purpose of this experiment was to investigate whether 6 wk of daily grape consumption influenced maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), work capacity, mood, perceived health status, inflammation, pain, and arm-function responses to a mild eccentric-exercise-induced arm-muscle injury. Forty recreationally active young adults were randomly assigned to consume a grape or placebo drink for 45 consecutive days. Before and after 42 d of supplementation, assessments were made of treadmill-running VO2max, work capacity (treadmill performance time), mood (Profile of Mood States), and perceived health status (SF-36 Health Survey). The day after posttreatment treadmill tests were completed, 18 high-intensity eccentric actions of the nondominant elbow flexors were performed. Arm-muscle inflammation, pain, and function (isometric strength and range of motion) were measured before and on 2 consecutive days after the eccentric exercise. Mixed-model ANOVA showed no significant effect of grape consumption on any of the outcomes. Six weeks of supplemental grape consumption by recreationally active young adults has no effect on VO2max, work capacity, mood, perceived health status, inflammation, pain, or physical-function responses to a mild injury induced by eccentric exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have reported that rinsing the mouth with a carbohydrate (CHO) solution improves cycling time-trial performance compared with rinsing with a placebo solution. However, no studies have compared the effect of mouth rinsing with a no-mouth-rinse control condition. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of a CHO mouth rinse with those of a placebo rinse and a no-rinse condition. Ten male cyclists completed three 1,000-kJ cycling time trials in a randomized, counterbalanced order. At every 12.5% of the time trial completed, participants were required to rinse their mouths for 5 s with either a 6.4% maltodextrin solution (CHO), water (WA), or no solution (CON). Heart rate and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded every 25% of the time trial completed. Time to completion was faster in both CHO (65.7 ± 11.07 min) and CON (67.6 ± 12.68 min) than in WA (69.4 ± 13.81 min; p = .013 and p = .042, respectively). The difference between CHO and CON approached significance (p = .086). There were no differences in heart rate or RPE between any conditions. In summary, repeated mouth rinsing with water results in decreased performance relative to not rinsing at all. Adding CHO to the rinse solution appears to oppose this fall in performance, possibly providing additional benefits to performance compared with not rinsing the mouth at all. This brings into question the magnitude of the effect of CHO mouth rinsing reported in previous studies that did not include a no-rinse condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant public health issue due to the incidence, complexity, and cost associated with treatment. The purpose of this study was to determine physical activity (PA) knowledge, attitudes, intentions, and barriers among individuals with a TBI undergoing outpatient rehabilitation. Seventeen participants completed a series of group interviews regarding their PA needs. A qualitative research design was adopted and trustworthiness was established through investigator triangulation of data. A cross-case analysis was completed to identify themes and conceptual patterns. The main themes identified were (a) an inability to differentiate between PA and physical therapy, (b) a limited knowledge of PA health benefits and the relationship to rehabilitation, and (c) an interest in participating in a PA based health promotion program. Future interventions should educate individuals about PA, the associated health benefits, and the role PA plays in the rehabilitation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ingestion of an acute dose of phosphate has been shown to attenuate energy intake in the subsequent meal. This raises the question of whether the practice of phosphate supplementation over a number of days by athletes to enhance performance also influences energy intake. This study investigated the effect of 6 d of phosphate supplementation on appetite and energy intake, as well as aerobic capacity, in trained individuals. Twenty participants completed two 6-d phases of supplementation with either sodium phosphate (50 mg/kg of fat-free mass per day) or a placebo in a double-blinded, counterbalanced design. On Days 1, 2, and 6 of supplementation, a laboratory meal was provided to assess appetite and ad libitum energy intake. All other food and drink consumed during each supplementation phase were recorded in a food diary. After the 6 d of supplementation, peak aerobic capacity (VO2peak) was assessed. There was no difference in energy intake at the laboratory meal after an acute dose (i.e., on Day 1; placebo 2,471 ± 919 kJ, phosphate 2,353 ± 987 kJ; p = .385) or prolonged supplementation with sodium phosphate (p = .581) compared with placebo. Likewise, there was no difference in VO2peak with phosphate supplementation (placebo 52.6 ± 5.2 ml · kg-1 · min-1, phosphate 53.3 ± 6.1 ml · kg-1 · min-1; p = .483). In summary, 6 d of sodium phosphate supplementation does not appear to influence energy intake. Therefore, athletes supplementing with sodium phosphate can do so without hindering their nutritional status. However, given that phosphate supplementation failed to improve aerobic capacity, the ergogenic benefit of this supplement remains questionable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The literature does not present a consistent pattern of altered scapular kinematics in patients with shoulder-impingement syndrome (SIS). Objectives: To perform meta-analyses of published comparative studies to determine the consistent differences in scapular kinematics between subjects with SIS and controls. In addition, the purpose was to analyze factors of the data-collection methods to explain the inconsistencies in reported kinematics. The results of this study will help guide future research and enable our understanding of the relationship between scapular kinematics and SIS. Evidence Acquisition: A search identified 65 studies; 9 papers met inclusion criteria. Sample sizes, means, and SDs of 5 scapular-kinematic variables were extracted or obtained from each paper's lead author. Standard difference in the mean between SIS and controls was calculated. Moderator variables were plane of arm elevation, level of arm elevation (ARM) and population (POP). Evidence Synthesis: Overall, the SIS group had less scapular upward rotation (UR) and external rotation (ER) and greater clavicular elevation (ELE) and retraction (RET) but no differences in scapular posterior tilt (PT). In the frontal plane, SIS subjects showed greater PT and ER, and in the scapular plane, less UR and ER and greater ELE and RET. There was also greater ELE and RET in the sagittal plane. There was less UR at the low ARM and greater ELE and RET at the high ARM with SIS. Athletes and overhead workers showed less UR, while athletes showed greater PT and workers showed less PT and ER. The general population with SIS had greater ELE and RET only. Conclusions: Subjects with SIS demonstrated altered scapular kinematics, and these differences are influenced by the plane, ARM, and POP. Athletes and overhead workers have a different pattern of scapular kinematics than the general population. The scapular plane is most likely to demonstrate altered kinematics. These factors should be considered when designing futures studies to assess the impact of altered kinematics in patients with SIS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Systematic literature review. Objective: To assess the efficacy of deep friction massage (DFM) in the treatment of tendinopathy. Context: Anecdotal evidence supports the efficacy of DFM for the treatment of tendinopathy. An advanced understanding of the etiopathogenesis of tendinopathy and the resultant paradigm shift away from an active inflammatory model has taken place since the popularization of the DFM technique by Cyriax for the treatment of "tendinitis." However, increasing mechanical load to the tendinopathic tissue, as well as reducing molecular cross-linking during the healing process via transverse massage, offers a plausible explanation for observed responses in light of the contemporary understanding of tendinopathy. Evidence Acquisition: The authors surveyed research articles in all languages by searching PubMed, Scopus, Pedro, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library using the terms deep friction massage, deep tissue massage, deep transverse massage, Cyriax, soft tissue mobilization, soft tissue mobilisation, cross friction massage, and transverse friction massage. They included 4 randomized comparison trials, 3 at the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) and 1 supraspinatus outlet tendinopathy; 2 nonrandomized comparison trials, both receiving DFM at the ECRB; and 3 prospective noncomparison trials--supraspinatus, ECRB, and Achilles tendons. Articles meeting inclusion criteria were assessed based on PEDro and Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine rating scales. Results: Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Evidence Synthesis: The heterogeneity of dependent measures did not allow for meta-analysis. Conclusion: The varied locations, study designs, etiopathogenesis, and outcome tools used to examine the efficacy of DFM make a unified conclusion tenuous. There is some evidence of benefit at the elbow in combination with a Mills manipulation, as well as for supraspinatus tendinopathy in the presence of outlet impingement and along with joint mobilization. The examination of DFM as a single modality of treatment in comparison with other methods and control has not been undertaken, so its isolated efficacy has not been established. Excellent anecdotal evidence remains along with a rationale for its use that fits the current understanding of tendinopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutritional supplement (NS) use has increased among the general population, athletes and fitness club participants, and has become a widespread and acceptable behavior. The objective of this study was to determine the differences in socio-demographic, health-related and psychological factors between NS users and non-users. A case control study design was used, whereby participants included 147 NS users (cases) and 147 non-users (controls) aged 18 years old and above who exercised at least three days/week in twenty four fitness clubs in Tehran. A self-administered pre-tested and validated questionnaire was used to collect data. The results showed that on average NS users were younger (29.8 ± 9.5 years) than non-users (35.5 ± 12.2 years). Logistic regression analysis showed that NS use was significantly associated with moderate or high physical activity level (PAL), smoking, gender, eating attitude and age. In conclusion, NS users were more likely to be female, younger, smokers, to have moderate or high PAL and to be prone to eating disorders compared to non-users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present investigation was to investigate the influence of ingesting a carbohydrate-electrolyte beverage ad-libitum or as a prescribed volume on 10 mile run performance and gastrointestinal discomfort. Nine male recreational runners completed the 10 mile run under the following three conditions (1) no drinking (ND; 0 ml, 0 g carbohydrate), (2) ad-libitum drinking (AD; 315 ± 123 ml, 19 ± 7 g carbohydrate) and (3) prescribed drinking (PD; 1055 ± 90 ml, 64 ± 5 g carbohydrate) strategy. During the ad-libitum and prescribed drinking trials, drinks were provided on completion of mile 2, 4, 6 and 8. Running performance, speed (km/hr) and 10 mile run time, were assessed using a global positioning satellite system. The runner's ratings of perceived exertion and gastrointestinal comfort were recorded on completion of each lap of the 10 mile run. There was a significant difference (P<0.10) in the performance times for 10 mile race for the ND, AD and PD trials which were 72:05 ± 3:36 min:s; 71:14 ± 3:35 min:s and 72:12 ± 3.53 min:s respectively (P = 0.094). Ratings of gastrointestinal comfort were reduced during the PD trial, in comparison to both AD and ND trials. In conclusion, runners unaccustomed to habitually drinking carbohydrate-electrolyte beverages during training improved their 10 mile race performance with ad-libitum drinking a carbohydrate-electrolyte beverage, in comparison to drinking a prescribed volume of the same beverage or no drinking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that β-alanine supplementation improves punch power and frequency in amateur boxers during a simulated contest. Sixteen amateur boxers (each approximately 6 years experience) were assigned to β-alanine (n=8; 1.5 g x 4 times/d for 4 wks) or placebo supplementation (n=8), after initially being assessed for baseline punch performance. Before and after the supplementation period, all boxers completed a simulated contest consisting of 3 x 3 minute rounds (interspersed with 60 s rest) on a punch bag (with a force transducer attached). Each round involved 2 minutes 50 seconds performing standardised punching (standardised jab, cross combination) based on notation analysis, whereas the last 10 seconds involved maximal output punching (standardised jab, cross combination) during which time, punch force and frequency were recorded. Post-contest blood lactate was significantly increased in the ?-alanine group (Pre-supplementation: 9.5 ± 0.9 mmol.L-1, Post-supplementation: 12.6 ± 0.5 mmol.L-1, P<0.05) whereas the placebo group showed no change (Pre-supplementation: 8 ± 2.8 mmol.L-1, Post-supplementation: 7.0 ± 2.7 mmol.L-1, P>0.05). During the 10 seconds maximal output punching, changes in mean punch force (?-alanine: 20 ± 1.01 kg: placebo 1 ± 1 kg) and punch frequency (β-alanine: 5 ± 4: placebo -2 ± 3) was greater (P<0.05) in the β-alanine supplemented group. We conclude that β-alanine supplementation improves punching performance in amateur boxers and suggest that this supplementation protocol may also prove ergogenic for other related combat sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laboratory-based studies demonstrate that fueling (carbohydrate; CHO) and fluid strategies can enhance training adaptations and race-day performance in endurance athletes. Thus, the aim of this case study was to characterize several periodized training and nutrition approaches leading to individualized race-day fluid and fueling plans for 3 elite male marathoners. The athletes kept detailed training logs on training volume, pace, and subjective ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) for each training session over 16 wk before race day. Training impulse/load calculations (TRIMP; min × RPE = load [arbitrary units; AU]) and 2 central nutritional techniques were implemented: periodic low-CHO-availability training and individualized CHO- and fluidintake assessments. Athletes averaged ~13 training sessions per week for a total average training volume of 182 km/wk and peak volume of 231 km/wk. Weekly TRIMP peaked at 4,437 AU (Wk 9), with a low of 1,887 AU (Wk 16) and an average of 3,082 ± 646 AU. Of the 606 total training sessions, ~74%, 11%, and 15% were completed at an intensity in Zone 1 (very easy to somewhat hard), Zone 2 (at lactate threshold) and Zone 3 (very hard to maximal), respectively. There were 2.5 ± 2.3 low-CHO-availability training bouts per week. On race day athletes consumed 61 ± 15 g CHO in 604 ± 156 ml/hr (10.1% ± 0.3% CHO solution) in the following format: ~15 g CHO in ~150 ml every ~15 min of racing. Their resultant marathon times were 2:11:23, 2:12:39 (both personal bests), and 2:16:17 (a marathon debut). Taken together, these periodized training and nutrition approaches were successfully applied to elite marathoners in training and competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight young men were recruited to a study designed to examine the effect of tyrosine (TYR) supplementation on the capacity to perform prolonged exercise in a warm environment. Subjects entered the laboratory in the morning and remained seated for 1 hr before cycling to exhaustion at 70% VO2peak. Two 250-ml aliquots of a placebo (PLA ) or a TYR solution were ingested at 30-min intervals before exercise, with an additional 150 ml consumed every 15 min throughout exercise (total TYR dose: 150 mg/kg BM). Cognitive function was assessed before drink ingestion, at the end of the rest period, and at exhaustion. TYR ingestion had no effect on exercise capacity (PLA 61.4 ± 13.7 min, TYR 60.2 ± 15.4 min; p = .505). No differences in heart rate (p = .380), core temperature (p = .554), or weighted mean skin temperature (p = .167) were apparent between trials. Ingestion of TYR produced a marked increase in serum TYR concentrations (+236 ± 46 μmol/L; p < .001), with this difference maintained throughout exercise. No change was apparent during the PLA trial (p = .924). Exercise caused an increase in error rate during the complex component of the Stroop test (p = .034), but this response was not influenced by the drink ingested. No other component of cognitive function was altered by the protocol (all p > .05). Ingestion of a TYR solution did not influence time to exhaustion or several aspects of cognitive function when exercise was undertaken in a warm environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy (APM) after meniscal tear has been widely accepted and associated with quick return to activity. Unfortunately, meniscectomy is associated with risk for knee osteoarthritis, which may be attributed to postsurgical quadriceps weakness. This has important implications, as the quadriceps play a prominent role in knee stabilization and energy attenuation in the lower extremity. Objective: To determine the magnitude of interlimb quadriceps strength deficits in people with unilateral APM by systematically reviewing the current literature. Evidence Acquisition: The Web of Knowledge databases were searched on September 22, 2010, using terms meniscus OR meniscectomy AND quadriceps strength OR quadriceps weakness. Included articles were written in English, reporting means and SDs of isokinetic peak torque at 60° and 180°/s for both limbs. Evidence Synthesis: Four articles were included in the final analysis. Effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated between limbs for periods less than 1 mo, 1-3 mo, 3-6 mo, and more than 6 mo. Conclusion: Homogeneous effect sizes indicate quadriceps weakness in the involved limb. Effects were strong at less than 1 mo (d = -1.01 to -1.62), while weak to strong effects were found for 1-3 mo (d = -0.40 to -8.04) and 3-6 mo (d = -0.40 to -5.11). Weak effects were found at more than 6 mo (d = -0.30 to -0.37). Definitive effects with a CI not crossing zero were found in 65% of the data. Although APM patients return to function within weeks after surgery, prolonged quadriceps strength deficits may increase the risk of knee-joint degeneration. Furthermore, evidence of bilateral dysfunction after unilateral injury may suggest that neuromuscular deficits post-APM are greater than the interlimb differences found in this review. Further research should be conducted to determine the nature of strength deficits and the best methods for restoring strength after APM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: It has been postulated that subjects with weak hip abductors and external rotators may demonstrate increased knee valgus, which may in turn raise risk of injury to the lower extremity. Recent studies have explored the potential link between hip strength and knee kinematics, but there has not yet been a review of this literature. Objective: To conduct a systematic review assessing the potential link between hip-abductor or external-rotator strength and knee-valgus kinematics during dynamic activities in asymptomatic subjects. Evidence Acquisition: An online computer search was conducted in early February 2011. Databases included Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria were English language, asymptomatic subjects, dynamometric hip-strength assessment, single or multicamera kinematic analysis, and statistical analysis of the link between hip strength and knee valgus via correlations or tests of differences. Data were extracted concerning subject characteristics, study design, strength measures, kinematic measures, subject tasks, and findings with regard to correlations or group differences. Evidence Synthesis: Eleven studies were selected for review, 4 of which found evidence that subjects with weak hip abductors or external rotators demonstrated increased knee valgus, and 1 study found a correlation to the contrary. Conclusions: There is a small amount of evidence that healthy subjects with weak hip abductors and perhaps weak external rotators demonstrate increased knee valgus. However, due to the variation in methodology and lack of agreement between studies, it is not possible to make any definitive conclusions or clinical recommendations based on the results of this review. Further research is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate perceptions of quality of life after a 4-month progressive resistance training program for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). A second purpose was to examine participants' views about factors that facilitated or impeded exercise behavior. Qualitative interviews were conducted with eight females (Mage = 49.86, SD = 6.94) with relapsing remitting MS. Audio-tape recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded. Walking performance improved (M = 13.08%, SD = 7.11). All participants perceived improvements in muscular strength and endurance while six indicated improvements in walking endurance and performance in tasks of daily living. Social benefits of participation were discussed by seven participants including interactions in the exercise environment. We concluded that supervised resistance training may promote improvements in QOL for women with relapsing remitting MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a carbohydrate (CHO) and protein (PRO) drink consumed immediately after endurance exercise on saliva antimicrobial proteins known to be important for host defense. Eleven male runners ran for 2 hr at 75% VO2max on 2 occasions and immediately postexercise were provided, in randomized order, either a placebo solution (CON) or a CHO-PRO solution containing 1.2 g CHO/kg body mass (BM) and 0.4 g PRO/kg BM (CHO-PRO). The solutions were flavor and volume equivalent (12 ml/kg BM). Saliva flow rate, lysozyme, α-amylase, and secretory (S) IgA concentrations were determined from unstimulated saliva samples collected preexercise, immediately postexercise, and every 30 min until 180 min postexercise. CHO-PRO ingestion immediately postexercise resulted in a lower saliva flow rate than with CON at 30 and 60 min postexercise. Saliva lysozyme concentration increased immediately postexercise in both trials compared with preexercise (p< .05), and CHO-PRO ingestion immediately postexercise resulted in a higher saliva lysozyme concentration in the first hour of recovery than with CON (125% greater at 30 min, 94% greater at 60 min; p< .01). Saliva SIgA concentration decreased below preexercise concentrations 90–150 min postexercise (p< .001), with no effect of CHO-PRO. Saliva α-amylase activity was unaffected by exercise or CHO-PRO refeeding. CHO-PRO refeeding did not alter the secretion rates of any saliva variables during recovery. In conclusion, immediate refeeding with CHO-PRO evoked a greater saliva lysozyme concentration during the first hour of recovery after prolonged exercise than ingestion of placebo but had minimal impact on saliva α-amylase and SIgA responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine the effects of ingesting caffeine (CAFF) and sodium bicarbonate (SB), taken individually and simultaneously, on 3-km cycling time-trial (TT) performance. Method: Ten well-trained cyclists, age 24.2 ± 5.4 yr, participated in this acute-treatment, double-blind, crossover study that involved four 3-km cycling TTs performed on separate days. Before each TT, participants ingested either 3 mg/kg body mass (BM) of CAFF, 0.3 g · kg-1 · BM-1 of SB, a combination of the two (CAFF+SB), or a placebo (PLAC). They completed each 3-km TT on a laboratory-based cycle ergometer, during which physiological, perceptual, and performance measurements were determined. For statistical analysis, the minimal worthwhile difference was considered ~1% based on previous research. Results: Pretrial pH and HCO3 were higher in SB and CAFF+SB than in the CAFF and PLAC trials. Differences across treatments for perceived exertion and gastric discomfort were mostly unclear. Compared with PLAC, mean power output during the 3-km TT was higher in CAFF, SB, and CAFF+SB trials (2.4%, 2.6%, 2.7% respectively), resulting in faster performance times (-0.9, -1.2, -1.2% respectively). Effect sizes for all trials were small (0.21-0.24). Conclusions: When ingested individually, both CAFF and SB enhance high-intensity cycling TT performance in trained cyclists. However, the ergogenic effect of these 2 popular supplements was not additive, bringing into question the efficacy of coingesting the 2 supplements before short-duration high-intensity exercise. In this study there were no negative effects of combining CAFF and SB, 2 relatively inexpensive and safe supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Walking in water has been included in rehabilitation programs. However, there is a dearth of information regarding the influence of a water current on physiological responses, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and stride characteristics of subjects while they walk in water. Objective: To compare physiological responses, RPE, and stride characteristics of subjects walking in water (with and without a current) with those of subjects walking on dry land. Design: Repeated measures. Setting: University laboratory. Participants: 7 male adults (mean age = 21.6 y). Intervention: Subjects walked on a treadmill on dry land and on an underwater treadmill immersed to the level of the xiphoid process. The walking speeds in water were set to be half of that on dry land. Main Outcome Measures: Oxygen consumption (VO2), respiratory-exchange ratio (RER), heart rate (HR), minute ventilation (VE), RPE (for breathing and legs, RPE-Br and RPE-Legs, respectively), systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressures, and stride frequency (SF) were measured. In addition, stride length (SL) was calculated. Results: There was no significant difference in the VO2, RER, HR, VE, RPE-Br, and RPE-Legs while walking in water with a current compared with walking on dry land (P > .05). Furthermore, VO2, RER, HR, VE, RPE-Br, RPE-Legs, SF, and SBP while walking in water were significantly higher with a water current than without (P < .05). Conclusions: These observations suggest that half the speed should be required to work at the similar metabolic costs and RPE while walking in water with a current, compared with walking on dry land. Furthermore, it was suggested that the physiological responses and RPE would be higher while walking in water with a current than without. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The gluteus medius (Gmed) is proposed to consist of 3 functional subdivisions (anterior, middle, and posterior). Gmed weakness and dysfunction have been implicated in numerous lower extremity disorders, including patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). PFPS is a knee condition that frequently occurs in females and is associated with activities such as squatting and stair climbing. There is a lack of evidence for the role of the subdivisions of the Gmed in females with and without PFPS. Objective: To compare muscle activation in the 3 Gmed subdivisions during 4 weight-bearing exercises in women with and without PFPS. Design: Single-session, repeated-measures observational study. Setting: University research laboratory. Participants: Convenience sample of 12 women with PFPS and 12 age- and gender-matched asymptomatic controls. Intervention: Participants performed 4 weight-bearing exercises (wall press, pelvic drop, step-up-and-over, and unilateral squat) 3 times while surface electromyography (sEMG) activity of the Gmed segments was recorded. Main Outcome Measures: sEMG muscle activity for each functional subdivision of the Gmed during each weight-bearing exercise was analyzed using a mixed between-within-subjects ANOVA (post hoc Bonferroni). Results: No statistically significant differences in muscle activation were found between the PFPS and healthy participants (P = .97). Furthermore, there were no statistically significant differences between the exercises (P = .19) or muscle fibers (P = .36) independent of group analyzed. However, the activation of the subdivisions varied according to the exercise performed (P = .003). Conclusions: Similar levels of muscle activation were recorded in the Gmed subdivisions of the PFPS and healthy participants during the different exercises. This is the first study to examine all 3 Gmed subdivisions in PFPS. Future studies using larger sample sizes should also investigate onset and duration of muscle activation in all Gmed subdivisions in both healthy individuals and those with PFPS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of stimulant medication use by children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) on the rating of perceived exertion (RPE)-heart rate (HR) relationship was examined. Children with ADHD (n = 20; 11.3 ± 1.8 yrs) and children without ADHD (n = 25; 11.2 ± 2.1 yrs) were studied. Children with ADHD were examined while on their usual dose of medication on the day of study. HR and RPE, using the OMNI RPE scale, were assessed during a graded exercise to peak voluntary effort. The RPE-HR relationship was determined individually and the intercept and slope responses were compared between groups. The intercept was 132.4 ± 19.5 bpm for children with ADHD and 120.6 ± 15.7 bpm for children without ADHD. The slope was 7.3 ± 1.9 bpm/RPE for the children with ADHD and 8.1 ± 1.6 bpm/ RPE for the children without ADHD. For the group with ADHD the intercept and slope values fell outside of the 95% CI observed in the control group. The altered relationship between RPE and HR with stimulant medication use in children with ADHD has practical implications with respect to the use of HR and RPE to monitor exercise intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discovery tools are emerging in libraries. These tools offer library patrons the ability to concurrently search the library catalog and journal articles. While vendors rush to provide feature-rich interfaces and access to as much content as possible, librarians wonder about the usefulness of these tools to library patrons. To learn about both the utility and usability of EBSCO Discovery Service, James Madison University (JMU) conducted a usability test with eight students and two faculty members. The test consisted of nine tasks focused on common patron requests or related to the utility of specific discovery tool features. Software recorded participants' actions and time on task, human observers judged the success of each task, and a post-survey questionnaire gathered qualitative feedback and comments from the participants. Participants were successful at most tasks, but specific usability problems suggested some interface changes for both EBSCO Discovery Service and JMU's customizations of the tool. The study also raised several questions for libraries above and beyond any specific discovery-tool interface, including the scope and purpose of a discovery tool versus other library systems, working with the large result sets made possible by discovery tools, and navigation between the tool and other library services and resources. This article will be of interest to those who are investigating discovery tools, selecting products, integrating discovery tools into a library web presence, or performing evaluations of similar systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six days of dietary nitrate supplementation in the form of beetroot juice (~0.5 L/d) has been reported to reduce pulmonary oxygen uptake (VO2) during submaximal exercise and increase tolerance of high-intensity work rates, suggesting that nitrate can be a potent ergogenic aid. Limited data are available regarding the effect of nitrate ingestion on athletic performance, and no study has investigated the potential ergogenic effects of a small-volume, concentrated dose of beetroot juice. The authors tested the hypothesis that 6 d of nitrate ingestion would improve time-trial performance in trained cyclists. Using a double-blind, repeated-measures crossover design, 12 male cyclists (31 ± 3 yr, VO2peak = 58 ± 2 ml · kg-1 · min--1, maximal power [Wmax] = 342 ± 10 W) ingested 140 ml/d of concentrated beetroot (~8 mmol/d nitrate) juice (BEET) or a placebo (nitrate-depleted beetroot juice; PLAC) for 6 d, separated by a 14-d washout. After supplementation on Day 6, subjects performed 60 min of submaximal cycling (2 × 30 min at 45% and 65% Wmax, respectively), followed by a 10-km time trial. Time-trial performance (953 ± 18 vs. 965 ± 18 s, p < .005) and power output (294 ± 12 vs. 288 ± 12 W, p < .05) improved after BEET compared with PLAC supplementation. Submaximal VO2 was lower after BEET (45% Wmax = 1.92 ± 0.06 vs. 2.02 ± 0.09 L/min, 65% Wmax 2.94 ± 0.12 vs. 3.11 ± 0.12 L/min) than with PLAC (main effect, p < .05). Wholebody fuel selection and plasma lactate, glucose, and insulin concentrations did not differ between treatments. Six days of nitrate supplementation reduced VO2 during submaximal exercise and improved time-trial performance in trained cyclists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty-two tennis players were individually studied on 2 occasions. They performed a prematch skill test, a 2-hr tennis match against an equally ranked opponent, and a postmatch skill test. A carbohydrate-electrolyte (CHO-E; Lucozade Sport) or flavor-matched placebo-electrolyte (PL) beverage was administered in a double-blind fashion. During the trials, heart-rate and movement intensity were monitored, and the match was recorded for performance analysis. There were no differences in skill-test scores pre- to postmatch or between trials (154 ± 38 pre- and 160 ± 35 postmatch on PL, 155 ± 36 pre- and 165 ± 33 postmatch on CHO-E). CHO-E ingestion elevated blood glucose concentration throughout the match, and participants reported feeling more energetic (general activation) and more tense (high activation) 1 hr into the match than at baseline (p < .05). Participants in the CHO-E trial spent more time in moderate-intensity activity and less time in low-intensity activity than on PL. Performance analysis revealed that CHO-E ingestion increased overall serve success (M ± SD, 68% ± 7% for CHO-E vs. 66% ± 7% for PL; p < .05) and success of first serves (65% ± 9% for CHO-E, 61% ± 7% for PL; p < .01) and serves to the advantage side (70% ± 9% for CHO-E, 66% ± 7% for PL; p < .05). Return success was greater during the second set of the match (p < .05) in the CHO-E trial. Differences in serve and return success were not associated with blood glucose response to CHO or player ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of aerobic training in a fasted versus a fed state during Ramadan on body composition and metabolic parameters in physically active men. Nineteen men were allocated to 2 groups: 10 practicing aerobic training in a fasted state (FAST) and 9 training in an acutely fed state (FED) during Ramadan. All subjects visited the laboratory for a total of 4 sessions on the following occasions: 3 days before Ramadan (Bef-R), the 15th day of Ramadan; the 29th day of Ramadan (End-R), and 21 days after Ramadan. During each session, subjects underwent anthropometric measurement, completed a dietary questionnaire, and provided fasting blood and urine samples. Body weight decreased in FAST and FED by 1.9% (p < .001) and 2.6% (p = .046), respectively. Body fat percentage decreased only in FAST by 6.2% (p = .016). FAST experienced an increase in the following parameters from Bef-R to End-R: urine specific gravity (0.64%, p = .012), urea (8.7%, p < .001), creatinine (7.5%, p < .001), uric acid (12.7%, p < .001), sodium (1.9%, p = .003), chloride (2.6%, p < .001), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (27.3%, p < .001). Of these parameters, only creatinine increased (5.8%, p = .004) in FED. Creatinine clearance values of FAST decreased by 8.9% (p < .001) and by 7.6% in FED (p = .01) from Bef-R to End-R. The authors conclude that aerobic training in a fasted state lowers body weight and body fat percentage. In contrast, fed aerobic training decreases only body weight. In addition, Ramadan fasting induced change in some metabolic parameters in FAST, but these changes were absent in FED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The parent-rated Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire (DCDQ) has been revised to incorporate a wider age range, including adolescence. In this exploratory study, internal consistency and validity of the DCDQ-2007 was assessed using a community-based sample of 87 adolescents. Psychometric properties of the DCDQ-2007 were investigated and concurrent validity, sensitivity, and specificity were assessed with the MABC-2 as a criterion standard. The results demonstrated high internal consistency for the DCDQ-2007 and a relationship with the MABC-2 was found. The DCDQ-2007 met the recommended standard for sensitivity, although the confidence interval was large; however, it failed to meet the recommended standard for specificity. This has important implications concerning the suitability of the DCDQ-2007. Although promising psychometric properties were found within the current study, the applicability of the DCDQ- 2007 as a screening measure for motor difficulties requires careful consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study assessed parental perceptions of the benefits of physical activity (PA) and the factors that influence participation of children with autism spectrum disorders in PA after school. Data were collected from 103 parents using an online open-ended questionnaire and focus-group interviews. Data were analyzed using a socioecological model. Parents provided 225 responses that were coded as advantages, 106 as disadvantages, 225 as facilitators, and 250 as barriers of PA. The most frequently reported advantages were physical, followed by psychosocial, and cognitive. Disadvantages were psychosocial and physical. The most frequently reported barriers were intrapersonal, followed by interpersonal, physical, community, and institutional. Facilitators were intrapersonal, followed by physical, interpersonal, community, and institutional. Public policy factors were elicited in the interviews. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high drive-for-thinness (DT) score obtained from the Eating Disorder Inventory-2 is associated with surrogate markers of energy deficiency in exercising women. The purposes of this study were to confirm the association between DT and energy deficiency in a larger population of exercising women that was previously published and to compare the distribution of menstrual status in exercising women when categorized as high vs. normal DT. A high DT was defined as a score ≥7, corresponding to the 75th percentile for college-age women. Exercising women age 22.9 ± 4.3 yr with a BMI of 21.2 ± 2.2 kg/m2 were retrospectively grouped as high DT (n = 27) or normal DT (n = 90) to compare psychometric, energetic, and reproductive characteristics. Chi-square analyses were performed to compare the distribution of menstrual disturbances between groups. Measures of resting energy expenditure (REE) (4,949 ± 494 kJ/day vs. 5,406 ± 560 kJ/day, p < .001) and adjusted REE (123 ± 16 kJ/LBM vs. 130 ± 9 kJ/LBM, p = .027) were suppressed in exercising women with high DT vs. normal DT, respectively. Ratio of measured REE to predicted REE (pREE) in the high-DT group was 0.85 ± 0.10, meeting the authors' operational definition for an energy deficiency (REE:pREE <0.90). A greater prevalence of severe menstrual disturbances such as amenorrhea and oligomenorrhea was observed in the high-DT group χ2 = 9.3, p = .003) than in the normal-DT group. The current study confirms the association between a high DT score and energy deficiency in exercising women and demonstrates a greater prevalence of severe menstrual disturbances in exercising women with high DT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Firebrands generated from structures source of rapid flame spread in large outdoor fires. • Projected area of firebrands proportional to firebrand mass for experiments over various scales. • The influence of wind speeds on firebrand production revealed in this study. Abstract Firebrands generated from structures are known to be a source of rapid flame spread within communities in large outdoor fires, such as wildland-urban (WUI) fires, and urban fires. It is important to better understand firebrand generation mechanism to prevent structure ignitions by firebrands. Though the wind plays an important role during the large outdoor fires, little known is the influence of wind speeds on firebrand production. To this end, a series of experiments were performed using mock-ups of full-scale wall assemblies exposed to wind. The objective of this study was to examine if experiments with mock-ups of full-scale wall assemblies may provide insight into firebrand generation from structures. Specifically, generated firebrands were collected and compared with those collected from full-scale components and a full-scale structure. The relationship between projected area and mass of firebrands were compared with previous experimental data. It was found that the projected area of firebrands was proportional to the firebrand mass in this study, which is the same as those from experimental studies performed for full-scale components and a full-scale structure. The slope of the relationship of the projected area and the mass of firebrands was the same under the same wind speed and was affected by the applied wind speed within this experimental range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes a method for diagnosing the accuracy of the vehicle scale without using standard weights. The novel method defines the possibility to estimate whether the scale would pass the test for error of indication in the next verification or not, only by using the results from simple tests with load of estimated weight and appropriate classifier. The method is primarily developed for users of these scales. Created classifier is based on the neural network algorithm. The neural network was trained with data from verifications, which are provided by Slovak Legal Metrology. Well trained classifier can provide not only information whether the scale will potentially pass the mentioned test or not, but reliability which is associated with this result as well. In this way, the user has valuable information about the scale in the period between the verifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a globalized world, the complexity of mobility prompts varied approaches to conceptualize connections across social and spatial boundaries. Over the past decade an increasing number of scholars have elaborated translocality as an approach to comprehend embeddedness while being mobile. Scale is one core dimension in conceptualizations of translocality. However, a systematic analysis of how scale is used in translocal research is lacking. Our core objective is to close this gap by reviewing and assessing how scale is conceptualized in research on translocality. Furthermore we discuss – against the backdrop of the rich literature on scale – how translocality research can benefit from considering notions of scale in a more systematic way. We find that by emphasizing the transgression and reshaping of spatial and scalar boundaries, translocality – beyond viewing scale as a category of spatial structuration – stresses the malleability of hierarchically ordered socio-spatial spheres. We accordingly conclude that scale is one conceptual approach whose explicit usage can help us to examine and operationalize practices of and power relations within social interactions by which translocal space is produced and reworked at multiple (abstract and concrete) levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: To determine the accuracy of weighing ventilated infants on incubator scales and whether the accuracy can be improved by the addition of a ventilator tube compensator (VTC) device to counterbalance the force exerted by the ventilator tubing. STUDY DESIGN: Body weights on integral incubator scales were compared in ventilated infants (with and without a VTC), with body weights on standalone electronic scales (true weight). Individual and series of trend weights were obtained on the infants. The method of Bland and Altman was used to assess the introduced bias. RESULTS: The study included 60 ventilated infants; 66% of them weighed <1000 g. A total of 102 paired-weight datasets for 30 infants undergoing conventional ventilation and 30 undergoing high frequency oscillator ventilation (HFOV) supported by a SensorMedics oscillator, (with and without a VTC) were obtained. The mean differences and (95% CI for the bias) between the integral and true scale weighing methods was 60.8 g (49.1 g to 72.5 g) without and -2.8 g (-8.9 g to 3.3 g) with a VTC in HFOV infants; 41.0 g (32.1 g to 50.0 g) without and -5.1 g (-9.3 g to -0.8 g) with a VTC for conventionally ventilated infants. Differences of greater than 2% were considered clinically relevant and occurred in 93.8% without and 20.8% with a VTC in HFOV infants and 81.5% without and 27.8% with VTC in conventionally ventilated infants. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the VTC device represents a substantial improvement on the current practice for weighing ventilated infants, particularly in the extreme preterm infants where an over- or underestimated weight can have important clinical implications for treatment. A large-scale clinical trial to validate these findings is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a manually operated, bilateral mechanical scaling instrument that simultaneously magnifies microscopic forces and reduces displacements with quasi-perfect transparency. In contrast with existing micro-teleoperation designs, the system is unconditionally stable for any scaling gains and interaction curves. In the present realization, the work done by the hand is more than a million times that done by a microscopic probe so that one can feel complete interaction cycles with water and compare them to what is felt when an insect leg interacts with a wet surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study combines SFA approach with an ESR model to assess the impact of cooperative membership on rice TFP. • Cooperative membership has positive impacts on rice TFP, TFP growth and its components. • The impacts are highly heterogeneous across regions, farm scales and mechanization levels. • The main impact channels include mechanical cultivation, high-quality seeds and technical training. • Cooperatives should be tailored to meet specific needs of rice producers in a specific region. Productivity growth is essential for food security and sustainable development of agriculture. Since rice is a major staple food in China, understanding factors affecting the performance of rice total factor productivity (TFP) is of great importance for China's future food security. Despite the growing importance of agricultural TFP, rigorous evidence-based studies on the impacts of cooperative membership on agricultural TFP, especially rice TFP, are scant, hindering the understanding about the potential contribution of agricultural cooperatives to TFP growth. This study examines the impacts of cooperative membership on rice productivity in China by using country-representative survey data from 2014 to 2018. An endogenous switching regression model is employed to account for selection bias. The empirical results show that cooperative membership has a positive and significant impact not only on rice TFP but also on TFP change, technical change and technical efficiency change. The results are robust to alternative choice of instrument variables. The effects of cooperatives on rice productivity are highly heterogeneous with regard to regions, farm scales and mechanization levels. Rice TFP gains through cooperatives are larger for producers in the eastern and central regions, while the effect on TFP growth is the highest in the western region. Regarding farm scales, cooperative membership has a positive and significant impact on rice TFP for small and medium farms but not for large farms. Moreover, cooperatives help improve rice productivity for provinces with low mechanization level of producers. This study further explores the underlying channels through which cooperative membership impacts rice productivity, and identifies that mechanical cultivation, high-quality inputs and technical training appear to be the main channels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of substantial improvements in old age mortality rates, oldest old and centenarians are the fastest growing age segments in modern time. Because aging, in general, is followed by an increased risk of physical and mental impairments and cognitive health, an increased number of these very old age groups may become a challenge to societies. However, improved survival may reflect health improvements among oldest old. This chapter reviews the present literature on cohort differences in cognitive impairment and activities of daily living (ADL) in older people, with an emphasis on oldest old and centenarians. Previous studies among older people suggest improvements in both ADL ("compression of disability") and cognitive function, whereas comparative studies of oldest old and centenarian birth cohorts show improvements in the most recent cohort with respect to the ability to carry out ADL but stable cognitive function. Cohort differences are highly influenced by changes in the incidence and prevalence of predisposing risk factors for cognitive impairment in an aging society, and these factors are addressed. Studying representative samples of the oldest old and centenarians entails methodological challenges in identification and a possible selection bias toward the better performing individuals. Although the present literature suggests that recent cohorts of female centenarians, but not male, perform better in ADL, although cognitive function is stable, further studies are needed to further understand the consequences of declining oldest old mortality rates in different low-mortality countries. Is the decline in mortality followed by a parallel decline in morbidity and disability supported by improvements in prevention and active treatment, or do the same improvements just extend life so that even the frailest survive into very old age leading to a rise in the prevalence of oldest old and centenarians with cognitive and physical impairment? Comparative cross-national studies in countries with low old age mortality and using ex ante harmonized questionnaires in well- defined populations is currently being carried out, and the results will add to our knowledge of whether or not there is a trade-off between low mortality and high disability and morbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term psychological distress has been reported among significant others of patients who sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI). This study examined the course and potential predictors of posttraumatic stress symptoms in a relative sample (N = 135) drawn from a national cohort study on severe TBI in Switzerland. Latent growth mixture model analyses revealed two main groups: Across 3, 6, and 12 months after the accident, 63% of the sample indicated fairly low symptom severity (“resilient” course), whereas 37% showed persistence of “higher distress” as indicated by elevated scores on the Impact of Event Scale–Revised. Group membership was significantly associated with self-reported dysfunctional disclosure style. Implications for research and practice are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The Wenchuan earthquake, which occurred in southwestern China in May 2008, was a source of severe psychological distress to adolescents. This study explored the developmental trajectory of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and the longitudinal relationships between neuroticism, avoidant coping, and PTSD symptoms measured at three time points: 1 year (T1), 1.5 years (T2), and 2 years (T3) after the earthquake. The participants included 636 adolescents from several high schools located in the areas that were most severely affected by the earthquake. Structural equation modeling results revealed bidirectional effects between neuroticism, avoidant coping, and PTSD symptoms. More severe PTSD symptoms predicted higher levels of avoidant coping at T1–T2 and T2–T3 but only predicted higher levels of neuroticism at T1–T2. Higher levels of neuroticism at T1 predicted more severe PTSD symptoms at T1–T2, while higher levels of avoidant coping at T1 predicted more severe PTSD symptoms at T2–T3. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Posttraumatic growth (PTG) refers to the positive cognitive, spiritual, emotional, and social changes that can occur after a traumatic experience. The current study uses data from 1,663 soldiers who participated in a voluntary survey 6 months after redeployment. The purpose of this study was to predict posttraumatic growth from combat exposure, unit cohesion, and demographic characteristics. We found that greater combat exposure and stronger unit cohesion were associated with more PTG. Being married, a minority, and a junior enlisted soldier were also predictive of greater PTG. Our study defines a group of soldiers with low PTG who are at risk for adverse psychosocial problems. Our results suggest that unit cohesion could be targeted and strengthened to improve PTG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is much literature on crisis support in schools but little on how school staff are affected. This research had two aims: to begin to explore the coping strategies used by school staff after a crisis event, and to investigate measures that might prove valuable for future research. Seven cases are presented using three measures: the WHO (Five) Wellbeing Index, the Impact of Event Scale–Revised, and the Ways of Coping–Revised. Results from this initial study show great variation in the range of responses reported by teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This study investigated whether prolonged grief (PG) forms a coherent syndrome that is discrete from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a Cambodian refugee population and examined the relative centrality to PG of “avoidance of reminders of the deceased” as compared to “rebirth concerns” in the group. The Prolonged Grief 13 (PG-13) scale significantly explained variance over and beyond PTSD in regression analyses of severity of bereavement, as assessed by a culturally sensitive measure of grief (CSM-G) and by the presence of grief-related functional impairment. Rebirth concerns were significantly more correlated than avoidance of reminders to the PG-13 and CSM-G. In an item analysis of the PG-13 and its addendum item (rebirth concerns) to determine predictive power in respect to presence of grief-related functional impairment, the avoidance item performed very poorly and the rebirth item very well (as did the bitterness item). These findings point to the applicability of the prolonged grief disorder construct to the Cambodian experience of loss, yet indicate the poor performance of the avoidance item and the centrality of rebirth issues in this group. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The relationship between Holocaust child survivors' (n = 178) intrusive memories and their eldest offspring's (n = 178) well-being was examined. Results showed that survivors' intrusive memories were related to the loss of parents in the Holocaust and their symptoms of distress. The latter was related to offspring's perceived transmission of trauma of the mothers, which was associated with more symptoms of distress among offspring. These findings suggest that due to female survivors' uncompleted mourning processes and their subsequent suffering of intrusive memories, the emotional burden of the Holocaust was transmitted to the eldest offspring and caused them more symptoms of distress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Informed by current trauma literature, this study explored the relationships between posttraumatic growth (PTG), posttraumatic depreciation (PTD), and other posttrauma outcomes including well-being, psychological flourishing, and psychological distress. The predictive utility of PTG and PTD was also examined. The sample comprised 104 trauma survivors (28 community members and 76 university students) who completed the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory–42 and several outcome measures. As expected, PTD showed strong linear correlations with well-being, flourishing and distress, and emerged as a significant predictor of scores on such measures. However, PTG showed negligible correlations with well-being, flourishing, and distress. This reaffirms that PTG and PTD measure conceptually distinct and independent dimensions of experience, which has implications for therapeutic practice. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]