Differences in physical activity at recess and school-related social factors in four Finnish lower secondary schools.

This study investigated the differences in physical activity (PA) at recess and school-related social factors, and described school PA promotion processes and staff experiences at four lower secondary schools from the Finnish Schools on the Move programme. Recess PA, peer relationships at school, relatedness to school, and school climate were assessed via surveys with eighth-grade students in spring 2011 (n = 385) and spring 2013 (n = 373). Local contact people in the school projects (n = 6), school staff (n = 83) and principals (n = 3) provided information on the PA promotion process via telephone interviews and surveys. Differences in student-level data in years 2011 and 2013 were analysed by gender using two-way ANOVA. Data on school processes were analysed using a combination of classification, narrative approach and content analysis.In two of the four schools, male students reported higher levels of recess PA in 2013 compared to 2011. In three schools, school-related social factors did not differ between 2011 and 2013. School cultures and routes towards a more physically active school day differed; the project was highly visible in all schools, but staff participation varied. More research is needed to determine the effective physically active strategies to promote positive social well-being and to enhance staff engagement.

Adolescents' physical activity at recess and actions to promote a physically active school day in four Finnish schools.

The national Finnish Schools on the Move programme support schools with their individual plans to promote school-based physical activity (PA). We examined the changes in adolescents' recess and overall PA in four lower secondary schools and described the school actions to promote students' PA and the local contact persons' perceptions of the effects. Recess and overall PA were assessed four times by anonymous questionnaires from students in grades 7-9 (n = 789) in 2010-12, and local contact persons (n = 7) provided information on school actions with diaries, interviews and surveys. Student data were analysed with descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, and school actions data were analysed with quantitative content analysis. The proportion of students who participated in physical activities at recess at least sometimes increased from 30% to 49% in physically active play and from 33% to 42% in ball games, mostly due to improvements in males' participation. Females' participation in recess activities increased in two schools with gender-specific physical activities or facilities. Overall PA levels declined slightly. Organized recess activities, student recess activators and equipment provision and sports facilities development were considered to have affected students' PA positively. Solutions for getting females more physically active in the school setting are needed.

Coping in men with prostate cancer and their partners: a quantitative and qualitative study.

This study investigated coping and quality of life in men with prostate cancer (n= 105, 48-86 years of age) and their partners (n= 85, 48-84 years). Participants completed the Abbreviated Dyadic Adjustment Scale, Brief COPE, European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-C30) and open-ended questions on appraisal and coping. Multivariate analyses showed that better quality of life was associated with higher education levels (role functioning and fatigue), lower avoidant coping (emotional, social, and physical functioning and fatigue), and higher relationship satisfaction (emotional functioning). Use of medication or combined treatments was associated with worse physical and role functioning. Partners reported similar quality of life for patients as the patient ratings, except that partners reported patients' emotional functioning as significantly worse and social functioning as significantly better than the patients' own ratings. Patients and partners reported both positive and negative aspects to prostate cancer, and mentioned a range of coping strategies. Similarities between patients and partners in their responses to prostate cancer were identified using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Some differences within dyads were also noted and previous suggestions to incorporate partners and significant others in education and treatment were supported.

Questionnaire-assessed moderate to vigorous physical activity of the Finnish youth in 1979-2005.

The purpose of the study was to investigate the time trend of questionnaire-assessed moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among 12-18-year-old Finnish boys and girls from 1979 to 2005. The MVPA was defined as "at least moderately breathtaking and sweating in leisure time physical activities more than 3 times week." Data were based on the Adolescent Health and Lifestyle Survey, which is a biannual, nation-wide survey on adolescent health and health-related lifestyle in Finland. The nationally representative samples were drawn from the Finnish Population Register Centre. The numbers of participants varied from 2832 to 8390 and the response rates from 91% (girls, 1981) to 58% (boys, 2005). The main results showed that the participation rate in MVPA increased during the study period. The increase was not continuous, but showed an upward trend during the years 2001-2005. The study also revealed that boys participated in MVPA more than girls. However, the gender difference decreased during the study period. Age differences in MVPA were rather small and they decreased during the study period. However, perceived intensity of physical activity was higher among older than younger groups, whereas participation in MVPA was more frequent in younger than older groups. The results supported the findings of some previous studies that reported that especially in Finland the vigorous physical activity among young people had consistently increased. This study gave more information about this phenomenon because the study period was longer, 26 years, and the sample also included older, 16- and 18-year-old boys and girls.

Secular trends in aerobic fitness performance in 13-18-year-old adolescents from 1976 to 2001.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the secular trends in aerobic fitness performance and some of its determinants (body mass index (BMI) and leisure time physical activity (LTPA)) in adolescents. DESIGN: Cross-sectional population-based studies in 1976 and 2001 in Finland. A stratified random sample of Finnish 13-18-year-old adolescents was studied in 1976 (n = 717; 384 boys and 333 girls) and in 2001 (n = 558; 305 boys and 253 girls). The main outcome measure was aerobic fitness, estimated with a 2000 m (for boys) and 1500 m (for girls) running test; the weight and height of participants were also measured. Self-reported weekly frequency of LTPA of at least 30 min duration and regularity of participation in organised sport were obtained by questionnaire. Identical methods were used in 1976 and 2001. RESULTS: Running time was longer in 2001 compared to 1976 in boys (56 s, Cohen d = 0.46, medium effect size; p<0.001) and girls (29 s, d = 0.32, small; p<0.01). BMI and participation in LTPA explained more of the variance in aerobic fitness in 2001 than in 1976 in boys and girls. CONCLUSIONS: Aerobic fitness of school-aged children deteriorated between the measurement points. BMI and organised LTPA were better associated with aerobic fitness in 2001 than in 1976. An increase in overweight and obesity was associated with the decrease in aerobic fitness. Although the importance of organised LTPA to fitness increased, it is possible that the decrease in overall physical activity between 1976 and 2001 contributed most to the decrease in the level of aerobic fitness.

Static magnets: what are they and what do they do? / Magnetos estáticos: o que são e para que servem?

INTRODUCTION: Therapeutic static magnets have gained wide community acceptance for neuromusculoskeletal pain relief in many countries yet, apart from strong anecdotal reports of benefit, there is a paucity of scientific evidence for their use. OBJECTIVES: In this review we describe the physical characteristics of traditional and commonplace unipolar and bipolar static magnets as well as newer quadripolar magnetic arrays; discuss what is known of the physiological effects of static magnets and the strength of the literature; and make suggestions for targeted future research for static magnets in the management of neuromusculoskeletal pain conditions.

INTRODUÇÃO: A magnetoterapia estática conquistou ampla aceitação da comunidade para alívio da dor neuromusculoesquelética em diversos países. No entanto, com exceção de relatórios anedóticos de seus benefícios, há uma grande escassez de evidências científicas para seu uso. OBJETIVOS: Nesta revisão, descrevemos as características físicas dos tradicionais magnetos estáticos unipolares e bipolares comuns, assim como os mais recentes conjuntos magnéticos quadripolares; discutimos o que se conhece sobre os efeitos fisiológicos da magnetoterapia estática e o suporte da literatura; e fazemos sugestões para futuras pesquisas direcionadas à magnetoterapia estática no controle de condições de dor neuromusculoesquelética.

Acetylenic TACE inhibitors. Part 3: Thiomorpholine sulfonamide hydroxamates.

A series of thiomorpholine sulfonamide hydroxamate TACE inhibitors, all bearing propargylic ether P1' groups, was explored. In particular, compound 5h has excellent in vitro potency against isolated TACE enzyme and in cells, oral activity in a model of TNF-alpha production and a collagen-induced arthritis model, was selected as a clinical candidate for the treatment of RA.

Acetylenic TACE inhibitors. Part 2: SAR of six-membered cyclic sulfonamide hydroxamates.

The SAR of a series of potent sulfonamide hydroxamate TACE inhibitors bearing a butynyloxy P1' group was explored. In particular, compound 5k has excellent in vitro potency against TACE enzyme and in cells, and oral activity in an in vivo model of TNF-alpha production and a collagen-induced arthritis model.

Quantification of lumbar intradiscal deformation during flexion and extension, by mathematical analysis of magnetic resonance imaging pixel intensity profiles.

STUDY DESIGN: A magnetic resonance imaging study of the internal kinematic response of normal lumbar intervertebral discs to non-weight-bearing flexion and extension. OBJECTIVES: To quantify the pattern of magnetic resonance imaging pixel intensity variation across discs, and noninvasively monitor displacement of the nucleus pulposus during sagittal-plane movements. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Invasive techniques used to study intradiscal movements of the nucleus pulposus have suggested that it moves posteriorly during flexion and anteriorly during extension. A noninvasive study based on magnetic resonance images gave similar results for normal young women. Quantification has been problematic, and the invasive procedures may have altered disc dynamics. METHODS: Ten male subjects (age, 21-38 years) with healthy backs were positioned in a magnetic resonance imaging portal with their lumbar spine stabilized in flexion and extension by supporting pads. For each disc, a T2-weighted image was obtained, as was a computer-generated profile of pixel intensities along a horizontal mid-discal transect. Mathematical curve-fitting regression analysis was used to characterize the shape of the intensity profile and to compute the point of maximum pixel intensity. RESULTS: A single equation fitted the profile for all normal discs. The intensity peak shifted posteriorly during flexion, anteriorly during extension. CONCLUSIONS: Automated mathematical modeling of magnetic resonance imaging pixel data can be used to describe the fundamental shape of the pixel intensity profile across a normal lumbar disc, to determine the precise location of the site of maximum pixel intensity, and to measure the movement of this peak with flexion and extension. This technique may be of value in recognizing incipient degenerative changes in lumbar discs.

Physical activity in childhood and adolescence as predictor of physical activity in young adulthood.

BACKGROUND: Despite the general belief that physical activity in childhood and youth is an important prerequisite for the physical activity in adulthood, there is not much information based on reliable longitudinal studies about the continuity of physical activity from childhood and adolescence to adulthood. METHODS: As a part of a national-level research program called "Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finnus," we studied to what extent leisure-time physical activity at the age of 9, 12, 15, and 18 predicts physical activity nine and 12 years later. A total of 610 9-year-old, 624 12-year-old, 572 15-year-old, and 503 18-year-old boys and girls were studied in 1980. A follow-up measurement was carried out with the same subjects in 1983, 1986, 1989, and 1992. Accordingly, in 1992 they were 21, 24, 27, and 30 years of age. These data concern only the measurements taken in 1980, 1989, and 1992. Physical activity was measured by means of a short questionnaire. A sum index of physical activity (PAI) was computed with the help of five variables. RESULTS: The correlations between the indices derived in 1980 and 1989, and between those derived in 1980 and 1992, were, with the exception of one group, significant but low varying within a nine-year interval from .18 to .47, and within a 12-year interval from .00 to .27. Corresponding multiple correlations varied from .18 to .53 and from .18 to .30. Participation in competitive sport and the physical education grade were the best predictors of later physical activity. CONCLUSIONS: The results gave support to the conclusion that persistent participation in sport in particular increases the probability of a higher level of physical activity in later life.

Quality of light - is laser necessary for effective photobiostimulation?

Is true laser, with its unique qualities of coherence, collimation and monochromaticity, necessary for effective photobiostimulation, or is a simpler form of light sufficient? Doubt has been cast on the importance of coherence and collimation in influencing biostimulation. It is hypothesised that monochromaticity (or singularity of wavelength) is the only characteristic of laser necessary for photostimulation. If wavelength is the important factor in phototherapy, the clinician must consider which wavelengths are capable of producing specific effects within living tissues. In addition, it is important to distinguish the quality of light provided by a unit and whether it will give the desired results without a large financial outlay. This article reviews the unique properties of laser, discusses their contribution to photobiostimulation and looks at apparatus which provide these properties.

Factors affecting Low Level Laser Therapy.

Low Level Laser Therapy has been reported as causing many therapeutic reactions within living tissue, yet research studies have not been able to support conclusively the results which appear to occur clinically. If the physiotherapist accepts that light quality may have been a variable overlooked in previous studies, it is necessary to consider whether there are other factors which may have contributed to the variable and, at times, conflicting results. These factors include depth of penetration and resultant absorption. Factors such as power output, dose, pulse frequency and frequency of treatment will also influence the therapeutic action of laser. This review evaluates parameters common to most therapeutic lasers as well as other features including the multiple-diode probe. Issues which may help clinicians optimise their treatment when using Low Level Laser Therapy will be addressed.

Gastric ulcer localization by direct in vivo labeling of sucralfate. Work in progress.

We developed and evaluated a new procedure for imaging gastric ulcer disease with technetium 99m-labeled sucralfate. The new method employs direct in vivo labeling of sucralfate instead of in vitro labeling using human serum albumin, as previously reported in the literature. Tests using hydrochloric acid and a rabbit ulcer model showed the efficacy of the direct in vivo labeling technique and the ability of the tagged material to bind to ulcers, respectively. In 26 studies using humans with sucralfate labeled directly in vivo, 15 gave true-negative results and 11 gave true-positive results. Of 14 studies using humans with in vitro labeled sucralfate, three gave true-negative results, three gave true-positive results, and the results of eight were either false-negative or could not be interpreted because of high levels of activity remaining in the stomach. We suggest that the direct in vivo labeling method significantly improves the sucralfate gastric ulcer imaging technique.

Smooth muscle antibodies in pre-eclampsia of pregnancy.

Sera from 176 patients with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, and oedema of pregnancy, and from 51 normal pregnant control subjects were tested for smooth muscle antibodies (SMA) by indirect immunofluorescence. An increased incidence of SMA positivity was found in cases of pre-eclampsia and in superimposed pre-eclampsia of pregnancy, oedema of pregnancy and intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy combined with oedema of pregnancy. In the pre-eclampsia group, SMA positivity occurred only in cases of pre-eclampsia levis and was often accompanied by mild proteinuria. This indicates that SMA are a result rather than a cause of an (immuno)pathological process, the short duration of which in severe forms is not enough for the development of the antibodies. The increased incidence of positive SMA titres in oedematous pregnant patients may be a sign of imminent pre-eclampsia, although oedema is often regarded as being a feature of otherwise normal pregnancies.

Cyproterone acetate in the treatment of hirsutism.

Cyproterone acetate (100 mg daily on the 5th-14th days of the normal cycle) together with ethinyl estradiol (0.05 mg daily on the 5th-25th days) was used for the treatment of hirsutism in 23 women for six months. This treatment caused a significant decrease in the severity of the hirsutism after only three months, the effect being maximal after six months. Sixty per cent of our patients reported being subjectively satisfied with the results. A relapse occurred, however, within three months of the end of the treatment in half the patients. The serum testosterone was significantly decreased after three months of treatment, but the changes in serum testosterone did not follow the changes in the clinical picture of hirsutism, suggesting that one facet in the favorable action of cyproterone acetate is an inhibition of the action of androgen on target cells. Various side effects, such as nausea, headache, loss of libido and depression, were reported very frequently, which undoubtedly limits the large scale use of this treatment, at least with the doses used in this study.

A longterm isotope renography follow-up of patients following pregnancy complicated by pre-eclampsia and hypertension.

61 patients were studied with the renography and urography during puerperium ten years ago and now again. The technique and analyses were identical. The results showed that some of these parameters (SV, K, and T 1/2) were either decreased or prolonged more than ten per cent during this period in nearly all cases. However, these changes occurred in both the normal and complicated groups without any correlation with the original diagnosis from the first study. Hypertension has developed in 10 per cent of the toxemic group.

Short-term topical treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis with the combination of 5-fluorocytosine and candicidin.

A combination of 5-fluorocytosine (1000 mg) and candicidin (5 mg) was compared with clotrimazole (100 mg) in the treatment of 112 non-pregnant volunteers with vulvovaginal candidiasis. Seventy-two (75%) of the 96 patients treated with 1 or 2 vaginal tablets of the combination product and 10 (62%) of the 16 women treated with clotrimazole for 6 days were cured. The efficacy of the treatments was assessed mycologically and clinically 1 week and 1 month after the therapy. Both treatments were well tolerated and no side-effects could be detected. It is concluded that a short-term vaginal treatment with a 5-fluorocytosine and candicidin combination is effective in vaginal moniliasis, and the brevity of the treatment is an advantage compared with others now available.

Changes in the cervical blood flow during labour.

The cervical blood flow changes during labour in pregnant women (15 cases) have been studied by local injection of 133Xe into the cervix. The blood flow changes were compared with the external uterine pressure which was measured with a tocograph. During contractions the radioactivity decreased temporarily, but increased again between contractions. The overall decrease was greater in the control group (4 cases) than during spontaneous contractions. The conclusion is, that relative cervical blood circulation is rapidly changed during labour.