Showing papers in "Journal of Physiological Anthropology in 2006"

Aging, disability, and frailty: implications for universal design.

Abstract: Throughout the world all populations are seeing burgeoning numbers of "elders", defined as persons aged 65 year and older. In many countries, including Japan, the United States, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom, those aged over 65 are at or approaching 15% of the population. As their numbers have increased, so have their health care expenses, leading to extensive research on the health, well being, and life expectancy of these increasingly older elders. Today this group is further sub-divided: the young-old ages 65-74, the old-old ages 75-84, and the oldest-old ages 85+, for both health care and research purposes. However broad variation still characterizes even these groupings. Rates of frailty and disability increase with increasing age among these elders. For example, inabilities to complete at least one activity of daily living increased from about 5-7% at ages 65-69 years to about 28-36% at ages 85+ in 1987. Death rates continue to decline at all ages past 50 years and rates of disability seem to be doing the same. For the foreseeable future, we may expect increasing numbers of older, frail elders than in previous decades. Thus, people are not only living longer, they generally are healthier at advanced ages than were previous cohorts, thus "old age" disabilities of the 20th century will be put off to even older ages during the 21st century. As yet there is no clear way to assess senescent changes in humans, although activities of daily living, allostatic load, and frailty indices have all been suggested. One future need is greater development and use of universal and accessible design in all aspects of the built environment.

The detrimental effects of allostasis: allostatic load as a measure of cumulative stress.

Abstract: Since its inception in the 1980s, through further developments during the 1990s, and continuing today, the paradigm of allostatic load (AL) has becomed an important paradigm for predicting senescence and mortality. AL is a cumulative measure of the effects of multiple stressors and the process of responding to stressors on the soma. AL measurements of individuals is being tested on various samples and species and being reported across a variety of medical and social science journals. From the ISI Web of Science, all articles published between January 2000 and June 2005 with AL in any default category were obtained and transferred to Endnote. These articles, categorized as theory/review or data-driven, human or animal, and variability in risk factors used to estimate AL, are reviewed here. Only two of 90 reports were published in anthropological journals, likely, at least partly, because research on AL has focused more on western, industrialized populations where data are more easily obtained. From 2000-2005, 12 of 42 data-driven reports focused on elderly humans. Studies of animal models also are common (0 in 2000, but 4 in 2004 covering 21 species). During the last year, multiple additional potential physiological variables have been tested as measures of AL (10 to 20 in any one article). In the past half decade, AL also has been introduced to a wide range of disciplines, including psychology, anthropology, gerontology, veterinary medicine, and medical specialties, as a viable research theme. AL appears to provide a useful method for determining cumulative somatic stress such as that seen with senescence and frailty at older ages.

Physiological and Subjective Responses to Low Relative Humidity in Young and Elderly Men

Abstract: In order to compare the physiological and the subjective responses to low relative humidity of elderly and young men, we measured saccharin clearance time (SCT), frequency of blinking, hydration state of the skin, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), sebum level recovery and skin temperatures as physiological responses. We asked subjects to evaluate thermal, dryness and comfort sensations as subjective responses using a rating scale. Eight non-smoking healthy male students (21.7+/-0.8 yr) and eight non-smoking healthy elderly men (71.1+/-4.1 yr) were selected. The pre-room conditions were maintained at an air temperature (Ta) of 25 degrees C and a relative humidity (RH) of 50%. The test-room conditions were adjusted to provide 25 degrees C Ta and RH levels of 10%, 30% and 50%. RH had no effect on the activity of the sebaceous gland or change of mean skin temperature. SCT of the elderly group under 10% RH was significantly longer than that of the young group. In particular, considering the SCT change, the nasal mucous membrane seems to be affected more in the elderly than in the young in low RH. Under 30% RH, the eyes and skin become dry, and under 10% RH the nasal mucous membrane becomes dry as well as the eyes and skin. These findings suggested that to avoid dryness of the eyes and skin, it is necessary to maintain greater than 30% RH, and to avoid dryness of the nasal mucous membrane, it is necessary to maintain greater than 10% RH. On the thermal sensation of the legs, at the lower humidity level, the elderly group felt cooler than the young group. On the dry sensation of the eyes and throat, the young group felt drier than the elderly group at the lower humidity levels. From the above results, the elderly group had difficulty in feeling dryness in the nasal mucous membrane despite being easily affected by low humidity. On the other hand, the young group felt the change of humidity sensitively despite not being severely affected by low humidity. Ocular mucosa and physiology of skin by dryness showed no difference by age. In the effect of longer exposure (180 min.) to low RH, only TEWL showed a slight decrease after 120 minutes in 30% RH, and all the measured results showed no noticeable differences compared with the result at 120 minutes.

Effects of pollution on human growth and development: an introduction.

Abstract: Pollution is a worldwide problem and its potential to influence the physiology of human populations is great. Studies of human growth and development in relation to pollution have increased in number and quality since the mid-twentieth century. Many studies have found that some pollutants have detrimental effects on human growth, particularly prenatal growth. The heavy metal, lead, is commonly found in human populations and is related to smaller size at birth and studies have reported decrements that range up to about 200 grams. Noise stress from transportation sources also is related to reduced prenatal growth with somewhat smaller decrements reported. Studies of humans exposed to polychlorinated biphenyls, one of the persistent organic pollutants, have reduced size at birth, advanced sexual maturation and altered hormone levels related to thyroid regulation. Thus different pollutants exert effects through different physiological pathways. However, some studies have not observed these effects, which indicates that the situation is complex and requires further study with better study designs. Determining the effects of pollutants on human physiology and growth is difficult as it requires fairly large numbers of subjects who are not purposely exposed but for whom exposure can be measured. These effects of pollutants and the mechanisms of effect require further study to understand and, it is hoped, to blunt or block any detrimental effects on human health and well-being.

Physiological and Subjective Responses to Low Relative Humidity

Abstract: In order to investigate the influence of low relative humidity, we measured saccharin clearance time (SCT), frequency of blinking, heart rate (HR), blood pressure, hydration state of skin, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), recovery sebum level and skin temperature as physiological responses. We asked subjects to judge thermal, dryness and comfort sensations as subjective responses using a rating scale. Sixteen non-smoking healthy male students were selected. The pre-room conditions were maintained at an air temperature (Ta) of 25 degrees C and a relative humidity (RH) of 50%. The test room conditions were adjusted to provide a Ta of 25 degrees C and RH levels of 10%, 30% and 50%.RH had no effect on the activity of the sebaceous gland and on cardiovascular reactions like blood pressure and HR. However, it was obvious that low RH affects SCT, the dryness of the ocular mucosa and the stratum corneum of the skin and causes a decrease in mean skin temperature. Under 30% RH, the eyes and skin become dry, and under 10% RH the nasal mucous membrane becomes dry as well as the eyes and skin, and the mean skin temperature decreases. These findings suggested that to avoid dryness of the eyes and skin, it is necessary to maintain an RH greater than 30%, and to avoid dryness of the nasal mucous membrane, it is necessary to maintain an RH greater than 10%. Subjects felt cold immediately after a change in RH while they had only a slight perception of dryness at the change of humidity.

Time under Tension and Blood Lactate Response during Four Different Resistance Training Methods

Abstract: Mechanical stimuli have often been suggested to be the major determinant of resistance training adaptations; however, some studies suggested that metabolic changes also play an important role in the gains of muscle size and strength. Several resistance training methods (RTM) have been employed with the purpose of manipulating mechanical and metabolic stimuli; however, information about their physiological effects are scarce. The objective of this study was to compare the time under tension (TUT) and blood lactate responses among four different RTM reported in the literature. The four RTM were performed in a knee extension machine at 10 repetition maximum (RM) load by 12 recreationally trained young men. The RTM tested were: 10RM, super-slow (SL-subjects performed one 60-second repetition with 30 seconds for eccentric and 30 seconds for concentric phase), functional isometrics (FI-in each repetition, a five-second maximal isometric contraction was executed with the knees fully extended) and adapted vascular occlusion (VO-subjects performed a 20-second maximal isometric contraction with the knees fully extended and immediately proceeded to normal isoinertial lifts). According to the results, all RTM produced significant increases in blood lactate levels. However, blood lactate responses during FI (4.48+/-1.57 mM) and VO (4.23+/-1.66 mM) methods were higher than the SL method (3.41+/-1.14 mM). The TUT for SL (60 s), FI (56.33+/-6.46 s), and VO (53.08+/-4.76 s) methods were higher than TUT for 10RM (42.08+/-3.18 s). Additionally, TUT for the SL method was higher than TUT during the VO method. Therefore, the SL method may not be recommended if one wants to provide a high metabolic stimulus. The FI method appeared to be especially effective in promoting both type of stimuli.

Effects of daily walking on subjective symptoms, mood and autonomic nervous function.

Abstract: It is well known that moderate exercise is beneficial to health. However, the effects of exercise on subjective symptoms in relation to mood and autonomic nervous function have not yet been fully examined. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of daily walking on subjective symptoms as well as on mood and autonomic nervous function in people who take no medication but have some general physical complaints. We assessed their symptoms by the Cornell Medical Index (CMI), and mood states by a profile of mood states (POMS) and a frontal alpha laterality ratio. Autonomic nervous function was evaluated by a supine rest basal level, reactivity to orthostatic challenge (physiological stimulus) and to a self-programmed videogame (psychophysiological stimulus) of heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), baroreflex sensitivity and blood pressure (BP). Repeated measures analysis of variance showed no significant group (control and walking group) x time (pre- and post- walking period) interaction of CMI scores. In contrast, the A-H sub-scale (anger and hostility) of POMS and basal HR significantly decreased after a 4-week walking period in a walking group compared to a control group. Negative mood score of POMS reduced, and basal high-frequency component of HRV and reactivity to orthostatic challenge of baroreflex sensitivity increased marginally significantly compared to the control group. Multiple regression analysis revealed a significant contribution of A-H to the physical score of CMI, which showed a marginally significant reduction after the experimental period in the walking group. These results suggest that daily walking can improve mood states and shift autonomic balance to parasympathetic predominance, and may consequently contribute to the reduction of subjective symptoms.

The emergence of obesity among indigenous Siberians.

Abstract: Once considered a disease of affluence and confined to industrialized nations, obesity is currently emerging as a major health concern in nearly every country in the world. Available data suggest that the prevalence rate of obesity has reached unprecedented levels in most developing countries, and is increasing at a rate that far outpaces that of developed nations. This increase in obesity has also been documented among North American circumpolar populations and is associated with lifestyle changes related to economic development. While obesity has not been well studied among indigenous Siberians, recent anthropological studies indicate that obesity and its associated comorbidities are important health problems.The present study examines recent adult body composition data from four indigenous Siberian populations (Evenki, Ket, Buriat, and Yakut) with two main objectives: 1) to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity among these groups, and 2) to assess the influence of lifestyle and socioeconomic factors on the development of excess body fat. The results of this study indicate that obesity has emerged as an important health issue among indigenous Siberians, and especially for women, whose obesity rates are considerably higher than those of men (12% vs. 7%). The present study investigated the association between lifestyle and body composition among the Yakut, and documented substantial sex differences in lifestyle correlates of obesity. Yakut men with higher incomes and who owned more luxury consumer goods were more likely to have excess body fat while, among Yakut women, affluence was not strongly associated with overweight and obesity.

Physique, Body Composition and Maximum Oxygen Consumption of Selected Soccer Players of Kunimi High School, Nagasaki, Japan

Abstract: This study evaluates the physical and physiological ability of selected soccer players of Kunimi High School in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. The Kunimi team is famous for its intensive training, and had won the championship of the All Japan High School Soccer Tournament six times by 2003. We measured physique, body composition, and maximal oxygen uptake of 72 members aged between 16 and 18 years old between 1986 and 1994. They consisted of 66 outfield players (12 forward players, 23 midfielders, 31 defenders) and 6 goalkeepers. Body density was measured by the under-water weighing method, and Brozek's equation was applied to calculate percentage body fat (%Fat, %), fat-free mass (FFM, kg), FFM/height (FFM/Ht, kg·m−1), and FFM index (FFM/Ht3, kg·m−3). The following results were obtained: 1. The average of 66 outfield players was 172.7 cm of height, 64.6 kg of weight, 54.0 cm of girth of thigh, and 90.0 cm of girth of hip, 9.3% of %Fat, 58.6 kg of FFM, 33.9 kg·m−1 of FFM/Ht and 113.8 kg·m−3 of FFM index. The mean vital capacity was 4.25 L and total lung capacity was 5.58 L. The mean maximal ventilation was 138.7 L·min−1, VO2max was 3.95 L·min−1, and VO2max/Wt was 61.4 ml·kg−1·min−1.2. Goalkeepers were taller and heavier than outfielders, and had a smaller mean value of VO2max/Wt than outfielders (p<0.01).3. For 23 out of the 72 players measured twice with an interval of about one year, FFM increased and %Fat reduced significantly, while VEmax, VO2max and VO2max/Wt did not change.Kunimi players of the present study had as large a VO2max/Wt as local players, and a similar or slightly smaller VO2max/Wt than national-level players. They had similar %Fat and a similar VO2max/Wt with professional soccer players in England (Davis et al., 1992) while they had much smaller physiques.

Survey on Cellular Phone Usage on Students in Thailand

Abstract: The number of cellular phone subscribers is increasing every year and there have been reports of health disorders related to the high-frequency radio waves. This paper considers the dependence of Thai university and high school students on cellular phones. A survey form (cellular phone dependence questionnaire: CPDQ) was distributed to 181 female and 177 male Thai university students and to 240 female and 140 male Thai high school students. The surveys were collected, Cronbach alpha coefficient was calculated, and a factor analysis was performed using the principal factor method and varimax rotation. The total scores were 16.54 to 20.04 and the Cronbach's alpha coefficients were 0.808 to 0.930. According to a factor analysis of 20 scored items, 4 factors were extracted for both male and female high school students, and the cumulative correlation coefficients of the male and female groups were 64.85% and 62.70%, respectively. Five factors were extracted for male university students and 6 factors were extracted for female university students, and the cumulative correlation coefficients were 58.08% and 57.91%, respectively. The W value results of the Shapiro-Wilk W-test for male university students, female university students, male high school students and female high school students were 0.969, 0.984, 0.964, and 0.913 respectively, thus verifying the normality of the score distributions. The total scores for the Thai university students were higher than the scores for the Thai high school students. The factor analysis of female high school students confirmed a large difference compared to male university students, male high school students, and Japanese female university students. (The Japanese students were surveyed in an earlier study by Toda et al.). Also, the CPDQ total score was high, which indicated a strong tendency toward dependence.

Parental investment, late reproduction, and increased reserve capacity are associated with longevity in humans.

Abstract: Throughout the living world trade-offs between reproductive success and longevity have been observed. In general, two extremes of life history patterning are reported, r- and K-selected species. The latter tend toward larger body sizes, few offspring from any one pregnancy, few offspring over the female reproductive span, longer life spans, and greater parental investment (PI: all efforts and expenses associated with the production, gestation, post-natal care, feeding, and protection of young) (e.g., whales, elephants, hominids). r-selected species tend toward smaller body size, multiple births/litters per pregnancy, female production of many gametes and offspring over the life span, and low levels of PI (e.g., most plants, insects, mice). These differences have significant influences on physiological variation among human populations. Across human samples, reproductive success (RS: the number of offspring successfully birthed and reared to reproductive age) has been reported to vary positively, negatively, and not at all with longevity of women. This complexity may be in part due to the fact that both early-life and late-life fecundity are associated with longevity in women, while total parity seems a poor gauge of female longevity in humankind. Large variations in associations of RS with longevity in women suggest that multiple factors may confound this association. One confounding factor is that among women, RS is largely determined not by fecundity, but by the quality of PI available to offspring. Among modern humans, PI is more complex, longer lasting (both relatively and absolutely), and extensive than for any other mammal. This suggests that modern human life history is a reflection of the co-evolution of longevity and extensive PI as part of our species' biocultural evolution. The need for long-term PI has greatly shaped human physiological variation and patterns of longevity.

Seasonal Variations of Physiological Characteristics and Thermal Sensation under Identical Thermal Conditions

Abstract: Seasonal variations of human thermal characteristics were inspected in thermal comfort and when constantly indoors. Metabolic rate, tympanic temperature, skin temperature, body fat, body weight and thermal sensation were measured under identical thermal conditions in a chamber over the course of one year. Experiments were carried out for each subject in both summer and winter. Six subjects were measured 35 times in summer and 45 times in winter. one subject was measured weekly for 14 months. Measurements for analyses were taken 40-60 min after entrance into the chamber. Results revealed the following. 1) For all subjects, the metabolic rate, tympanic temperature and body fat were lower in summer than in winter; thigh skin temperatures were higher in summer than in winter. The averaged individual ratio of seasonal difference was 11.9% for metabolic rate, 14.9% for body fat, 1.8% for thigh temperature and 0.53% for tympanic temperature. Seasonal differences of about 10% in metabolic rate were maintained in this study. 2) Seasonal variations of the variables were examined for phase relationships against the outdoor temperature. 2-1) Metabolic rate, thermal sensation, body weight and body fat changed in reverse phase, whereas skin temperature was in-phase. 2-2) Skin temperature lagged by about one month in both summer and winter. Body fat also lagged by about one month in summer, but corresponded to the phase in winter. Metabolic rates were also in-phase in winter but led about three months in summer. Thermal sensations lagged by about three months in winter but were in-phase in summer. Body weight was in-phase in summer and winter. 2-3) Summer disorders were observed particularly in seasonal variations of metabolic rates, tympanic temperature, skin temperatures, and thermal sensation, thereby suggesting that the effect of temperature exposure was altered by air-conditioner use.

Obesity and cardiovascular risk factors among men and women aged 40 years and older in a rural area of Japan.

Abstract: Obesity is one of the most common health problems, and is recognized worldwide as an "escalating epidemic." For the establishment of an obesity-prevention strategy in Japan, it is important to assess the association between obesity and cardiovascular risk factors. Therefore, we conducted anthropometric measures of obesity and investigated the association of obesity with cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia among community-dwelling men (N=85) and women (N=173) aged 40 years and older. Height, weight, and waist circumference (WC) were measured, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Subjects with a BMI> or =25 kg/m(2) were considered obese (BMI obesity), while men with a WC> or =85 cm and women with a WC> or =90 cm were classified as obese (WC obesity). In the present study, we defined 'obesity' as a BMI> or =25 kg/m(2) or a WC> or =85 cm for men, and a BMI> or =25 kg/m(2) or a WC> or =90 cm for women. The results of an age- and sex-adjusted logistic regression analysis indicated that BMI obesity was associated with dyslipidemia (p=0.04), WC obesity was associated with dyslipidemia (p=0.07), and 'obesity' was associated with diabetes (p=0.06) and dyslipidemia (p=0.01). These results emphasize the importance of preventing obesity in Japan. Therefore, healthcare professionals should measure BMI and WC in order to enhance their assessment of cardiovascular risk.

Thermal insulation and body temperature wearing a thermal swimsuit during water immersion.

Abstract: This study evaluated the effects of a thermal swimsuit on body temperatures, thermoregulatory responses and thermal insulation during 60 min water immersion at rest. Ten healthy male subjects wearing either thermal swimsuits or normal swimsuits were immersed in water (26 degrees C or 29 degrees C). Esophageal temperature, skin temperatures and oxygen consumption were measured during the experiments. Metabolic heat production was calculated from oxygen consumption. Heat loss from skin to the water was calculated from the metabolic heat production and the change in mean body temperature during water immersion. Total insulation and tissue insulation were estimated by dividing the temperature difference between the esophagus and the water or the esophagus and the skin with heat loss from the skin. Esophageal temperature with a thermal swimsuit was higher than that with a normal swimsuit at the end of immersion in both water temperature conditions (p<0.05). Oxygen consumption, metabolic heat production and heat loss from the skin were less with the thermal swimsuit than with a normal swimsuit in both water temperatures (p<0.05). Total insulation with the thermal swimsuit was higher than that with a normal swimsuit due to insulation of the suit at both water temperatures (p<0.05). Tissue insulation was similar in all four conditions, but significantly higher with the thermal swimsuit in both water temperature conditions (p<0.05), perhaps due to of the attenuation of shivering during immersion with a thermal swimsuit. A thermal swimsuit can increase total insulation and reduce heat loss from the skin. Therefore, subjects with thermal swimsuits can maintain higher body temperatures than with a normal swimsuit and reduce shivering thermo-genesis.

Differential perceived exertion measured using a new visual analogue scale during pedaling and running.

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the differential perceived exertion measured using a new set of Visual Analogue Scales (VAS) during pedaling and running. The subjects were eleven healthy males. They performed an incremental maximal test and then three 4-min stages of exercise, for both pedaling and running. During the tests, VO2, V(CO2), V(E), f, and HR were monitored continuously. Bla and perceptual variables including VAS consisting of four scales (VAS 1-VAS 4) and Borg's RPE were measured at the end of each stage. Although the VO2 (%VO2max)) and HR for both pedaling and running were not significantly different, Bla in pedaling was significantly higher than that in running. A significant interaction (mode, stage) was also obtained. The VAS 1 of pedaling was significantly higher than that of running. A significant interaction in VAS 1 (mode, stage) was obtained. The VAS 2 of pedaling was significantly higher than that of running. The subjects indicated that local pain became stronger than central pain in pedaling, but they were almost equal in running. In both pedaling and running, leg pain became stronger than arm pain (VAS 3). VAS 4 showed that during running, breathing difficulty and heart pain were almost equal in perceived intensity. However, during pedaling, breathing difficulty became greater than heart pain. Thus, a new four-part visual analogue scale was found to be useful for monitoring exercise intensity. In addition, the new VAS gave us more information in relation to the differential perceived exertion reflected in the different physiological responses obtained by different exercise modes.

Energy expenditure in maximal jumps on sand.

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to comparatively investigate the energy expenditure of jumping on sand and on a firm surface. Eight male university volleyball players were recruited in this study and performed 3 sets of 10 repetitive jumps on sand (the S condition), and also on a force platform (the F condition). The subjects jumped every two seconds during a set, and the interval between sets was 20 seconds. The subjects performed each jump on sand with maximal exertion while in the F condition they jumped as high as they did on sand. The oxygen requirement for jumping was defined as the total oxygen uptake consecutively measured between the first set of jumps and the point that oxygen uptake recovers to the resting value, and the energy expenditure was calculated. The jump height in the S condition was equivalent to 64.0 +/- 4.4% of the height in the maximal jump on the firm surface. The oxygen requirement was 7.39 +/- 0.33 liters in S condition and 6.24 +/- 0.69 liters in the F condition, and the energy expenditure was 37.0 +/- 1.64 kcal and 31.2 +/- 3.46 kcal respectively. The differences in the two counter values were both statistically significant (p < 0.01). The energy expenditure of jumping in the S condition was equivalent to 119.4 +/- 10.1% of the one in the F condition, which ratio was less than in walking and close to in running.

Age-related changes of reaction time and p300 for low-contrast color stimuli: Effects of yellowing of the aging human lens.

Abstract: We measured reaction time (RT), P300, and subjective evaluation for color Landolt-Cs with a gray color background presented on a CRT display Seven young and 7 elderly subjects (mean ages: 216 and 684 years, respectively) participated, and the young subjects wore glasses with filters simulating spectral transmittance of an aging human lens as a test condition The results for young subjects not wearing the filters showed that RT and P300 latency are constant among different test colors In contrast, the results for elderly subjects showed that RT and P300 varied substantially depending upon the test colors and RT and P300 latency became longer than those of young subjects, particularly for gray and blue stimuli In addition, the results for the young subjects with filters showed tendencies similar to those in elderly subjects These results indicate that the yellowing of the human lens strongly influences reaction time and cognition time for color targets, suggesting that wearing the filters enables the young to simulate RT qualitatively as well as visibility of the elderly because both the simulated filter and the aging human lens modify the effective luminance, effective luminance contrast and effective color difference between the color target and the background on the retina We also found that the reciprocal of RT and P300 latency could be expressed in a multiple regression model consisting of effective luminance, effective luminance contrast, effective color difference and age Absolute values of RT and P300 latency in young subjects with filters, however, did not quantitatively coincide with those of the elderly subjects There were differences of RT and P300 latency between the young with filters and the elderly, indicating that higher order age-related delay could be involved

The Frequency of Fingerprint Type in Parents of Children with Trisomy 21 in Japan

Abstract: Analysis of the frequency data of each fingerprint type (arch, ulnar loop, radial loop, and whorl) of the parents of children with Trisomy 21 (Fathers: 71; Mothers: 128) born between 1965 and 1970 obtained from the Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital was carried out. Japanese controls were taken from dermatoglyphics data in Japan. We conducted the Friedman test on each type of fingerprint between Japanese controls and parents of Trisomy 21 children. Results from a statistical analysis based on the above data showed significant differences, more arches (p < 0.0001) and fewer whorls (p < 0.05) in mothers of children with Trisomy 21. Among fathers of Trisomy 21 children, a significant difference was found in there being fewer whorls (p < 0.05) and ulnar loops (p = 0.06). Considering the mothers' fingerprints, we suspected that females with a higher frequency of arches and a lower frequency of whorls had a stronger possibility of bearing Trisomy 21 babies. On the other hand, in fathers of Trisomy 21 children, we considered that there would be a possibility of significant differences if cases in the sample were increased.

Overweight in Urban Schoolchildren Assessed by Body Mass Index and Body Fat Mass in Dalian, China

Abstract: In order to assess overweight in urban schoolchildren (298 boys and 298 girls) aged 9-16 years in Dalian, China, their body height, weight, skinfolds at triceps, biceps, subscapular and suprailiac, and body circumferences of mid-upper arm, waist and hip were measured. The results showed that the prevalence of overweight, based on the United States Centers for Disease Control 2000 reference values using body mass index (BMI), was 22.9% in boys and 10.4% in girls, which was higher than that of indicated in Chinese national surveys of recent decades. More boys were overweight than girls due to excessive increase in body fat, although the prevalence of overweight in girls prevalence increased from 13 years. Discussion here focuses on the effects of behavioral patterns on overweight in Dalian schoolchildren, paying attention to gender difference.

Effect of Blood Lactate Concentration and the Level of Oxygen Uptake Immediately before a Cycling Sprint on Neuromuscular Activation during Repeated Cycling Sprints

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine whether neuromuscular activation is affected by blood lactate concentration (La) and the level of oxygen uptake immediately before a cycling sprint (preVO(2)). The tests consisted of ten repeated cycling sprints for 10 sec with 35-sec (RCS(35)) and 350-sec recovery periods (RCS(350)). Peak power output (PPO) was not significantly changed despite an increase in La concentration up to 12 mmol/L in RCS(350). Mean power frequency (MPF) of the power spectrum calculated from a surface electromyogram on the vastus lateralis showed a significantly higher level in RCS(350). In RCS(35), preVO(2) level and La were higher than those in RCS(350) in the initial stage of the RCS and in the last half of the RCS, respectively. Thus, neuromuscular activation during exercise with maximal effort is affected by blood lactate concentration and the level of oxygen uptake immediately before exercise, suggesting a cyclic system between muscle recruitment pattern and muscle metabolites.

The Influence of Different Target Values and Measurement Times on the Decreasing Force Curve during Sustained Static Gripping Work

Abstract: The purposes of this study were to clarify the decreasing properties of, and to examine useful measurement times for evaluating muscle endurance in a comparison among various parameters using measurement times of 1, 3 and 6 mins and target values of 50, 75 and 100% MVC. Fifteen males and 15 females participated in this study. All subjects carried out sustained isometric gripping under nine conditions of measurement times and target forces, (1, 3 and 6 mins vs. 50, 75 and 100% MVC) with an interval of one or two days. The property of decreasing force in the initial phase (marked decreasing phase) differed among the target values, and the decreasing speed of the gripping force was highest for 100% MVC. However, the decreasing property after about 60 sec, in which the force decreased to about 30% MVC from the onset of grip, was similar among all target values, and then the gripping force reached an almost steady state phase at about 150–180 sec. In other words, the difference of the decreasing property during the initial phase with different target values was considered not to influence the property in the later phase, in which the force decreases to about 30% MVC. When muscle endurance is evaluated from the phase until reaching the steady state, it may be possible to evaluate the same property of the decreasing phase at 6 min as the measurement at 3 min. The measurement for 1 min at 50% MVC was not valid as an evaluation time because the grip force did not decrease enough. The integrated area in the initial phase was considered to depend on the magnitude of the target value, and the integrated area for 30 sec or 60 sec at 75% MVC was larger than that at 100% MVC. It was inferred that higher pain at 100% MVC resulted in a greater decrease in the speed of the force.

Exposure to bright light modifies HRV responses to mental tasks during nocturnal sleep deprivation.

Abstract: This study was intended to determine the effects of continuous bright light exposure on cardiovascular responses, particularly heart rate variability (HRV), at rest and during performance of mental tasks with acute nocturnal sleep deprivation. Eight healthy male subjects stayed awake from 21.00 to 04.30 hours under bright (BL, 2800 lux) or dim (DL, 120 lux) light conditions. During sleep deprivation, mental tasks (Stroop color-word conflict test: CWT) were performed for 15 min each hour. Blood pressure, electrocardiogram, respiratory rate, urinary melatonin concentrations and rectal temperature were measured. During sleep deprivation, BL exposure depressed melatonin secretion in comparison to DL conditions. During sleep deprivation, exposure to BL delayed the decline in heart rate (HR) for 4 h in resting periods. A significant increment of HR induced by each CWT was detected, especially at 03.00 h and later, under DL conditions only. In addition, at 04.00 h, an index of sympathetic activity and sympatho-vagal balance on HRV during CWT increased significantly under DL conditions. In contrast, an index of parasympathetic activity during CWT decreased significantly under DL conditions. However, the indexes of HRV during CWT did not change throughout sleep deprivation under BL conditions. Our results suggest that BL exposure not only delays the nocturnal decrease in HR at rest but also maintains HR and balance of cardiac autonomic modulation to mental tasks during nocturnal sleep deprivation.

Validity and reliability of an alginate method to measure body surface area.

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of coating methods (plaster bandage, inelastic tape, and the alginate method) and an indirect method using a three dimensional (3D) whole body scanner. The surface area of geometric solids was measured five times using the three coating methods, and analyzed through 2D scanning and a planimeter. Second, to examine the accuracy of the alginate method more closely, the surface areas of boards with different surface properties at various inclines were measured and compared. Lastly, the surface area of a human arm was measured using the three coating methods and a 3D scanning method. The results are as follows: 1) The three coating methods were statistically valid and reliable for measuring the surface area of geometric solids. 2) The planimeter was rejected because the mean error was bigger than in 2D scanning. 3) The method showing the least error was the inelastic tape method, but that method was not recommended because it was too tiresome and laborious. 4) The greater the curvature and smaller the size of a geometric solid, the greater the error. 5) In measuring surface area using the alginate method, the objects that were smoother and had steeper angles showed a greater surface area: however, the mean error was less than 1%. 6) In measuring a human arm, the surface area obtained by 3D scanning was less than any other surface area obtained in the three coating methods, because the 3D scanner could not discern the armpit and fingers. In conclusion, the method using alginate was statistically valid and reliable in the measuring of surface area both of geometric solids and real human skin.

Muscle power output properties using the stretch-shortening cycle of the upper limb and their relationships with a one-repetition maximum bench press.

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the output properties of muscle power by the dominant upper limb using SSC, and the relationships between the power output by SSC and a one-repetition maximum bench press (1 RM BP) used as a strength indicator of the upper body. Sixteen male athletes (21.4+/-0.9 yr) participated in this study. They pulled a load of 40% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) at a stretch by elbow flexion of the dominant upper limb in the following three preliminary conditions: static relaxed muscle state (SR condition), isometric muscle contraction state (ISO condition), and using SSC (SSC condition). The velocity with a wire load via a pulley during elbow flexion was measured accurately using a power instrument with a rotary encoder, and the muscle power curve was drawn from the product of the velocity and load. Significant differences were found among all evaluation parameters of muscle power exerted from the above three conditions and the parameters regarding early power output during concentric contraction were larger in the SSC condition than the SR and ISO conditions. The parameters on initial muscle contraction velocity when only using SSC significantly correlated with 1 RM BP (r=0.60-0.62). The use of SSC before powerful elbow flexion may contribute largely to early explosive power output during concentric contraction. Bench press capacity relates to a development of the above early power output when using SSC.

Blood volume and haemoglobin oxygen content changes in human bone marrow during orthostatic stress.

Abstract: The interest in, and the need for effective measures to be used in screening, diagnosis, and the follow-up of skeletal pathologies is growing markedly. This paper proposes a completely new and non-invasive technique allowing the study of the human tibia bone marrow (BM) haemodynamics with a time resolution of 1 s. The technique, based on near infrared spectroscopy, is sensitive enough to allow the detection of BM blood volume and/or oxygen saturation changes during orthostatic variations imposed by a tilt bed. An increase in the slope of the bed of 15 degrees is sufficient to detect this phenomenon. The ability to study the possible presence of a neural control of BM haemodynamics is also discussed. No other existing technique currently allows one to obtain the proposed results and this approach might open up a new field of study related to human BM physiology.

Menstrual cycle characteristics and predictability of ovulation of Bhutia women in Sikkim, India.

Abstract: Although a woman's menstrual history can have significant implications for health outcomes, few studies have examined menstrual cycle variability in non-western, non-clinically based populations. This study presents menstrual cycle characteristics from Bhutia women living in Gangtok, Sikkim, India. The Bhutia are one of two indigenous populations residing in this small, northeastern state of India. A total of 1067 cycles were recorded by 200 Bhutia women over the course of 12 months. Mean cycle length in this population was similar to reported mean cycle lengths for populations in the U.S (30 days vs. 28 days). Menstrual cycles in this sample were highly variable with most women experiencing more than one short or long menstrual cycle. The frequency of irregular menstrual cycles experienced by individuals also varied significantly by season. A body mass index (BMI) above or below the WHO defined normal range was associated with higher rates of irregular cycles. Leutenizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were also determined from urine samples collected just before mid-cycle, based on median cycle lengths. Although menstrual cycles in this sample were highly variable, median cycle length was still useful in predicting timing of the pre-ovulatory hormone surges of LH and FSH. Frequency of irregular cycles did impact the successful capture of the LH and FSH peak values.

Contribution of physical fitness component to health status in middle-aged and elderly males.

Abstract: This study determined the physical fitness component that contributes to improving and maintaining health status for each age group as well as quantifying the degree of the relationship between health status and physical fitness in middle-aged and elderly females. The participants were 2,371 females aged 30 to 69 years. Ten physical fitness tests and medical checkups were performed. The participants were divided into a healthy group and an unhealthy group according to health status. Multiple discriminant analysis was applied to the multivariate data. Correct discriminant probabilities of the multiple discriminant function to discriminate the healthy and unhealthy groups for females ranged from 63.0% to 77.5%. These results suggest that there is a relatively high relationship between health status and physical fitness level for middle-aged and elderly females. With each individual's discriminant score calculated by the obtained multiple discriminant function as the index of the degree of health, the Pearson's correlation coefficient of the discriminant score and the performance in each physical fitness test were calculated. The aging change from 30 to 69 years old was classified into four patterns according to the contribution. The result of this study is considered to be useful as objective data to prepare an exercise program considering the contribution of the physical fitness component of health status.

Cross-sectional study on attitudes toward sex and sexual behavior among Japanese college students.

Abstract: A total of 978 Japanese students, who visited the health services center of a college in Japan for medical check-ups, were asked to anonymously complete a 55-item questionnaire which assessed their attitudes toward sex and sexual behavior. Seven hundred eighty-five Japanese students (80.3%) responded to the questionnaire. In this survey, 90% of male students and 83% of female students indicated that they expected to have sexual intercourse before marriage, while 8% of male students and 3% of female students indicated that it was not wrong to have extramarital sexual intercourse after marriage. In addition, 75% of sexually experienced students reported that they used a condom during their first sexual intercourse, while 73% reported using a condom during their most recent sexual intercourse. The more sexual partners students had had up to the time of the study, the less condom use they reported for both their first and most recent sexual intercourse. The proportion of Japanese students who used a condom is high in comparison to that of students in other countries. However, as students are prone to have sexual intercourse with non-steady, casual partners, more efforts are needed to promote safe sex practices among college students in Japan.

New Percentage Body Fat Prediction Equations for Japanese Females

Abstract: Anthropometry is simple, cheap, portable and non-invasive method for the assessment of body composition. While the Nagamine and Suzuki body density prediction equation has been frequently used to estimate %BF of Japanese, the equation was developed more than 40 years ago and its applicability to the current Japanese population has not been studied. This study aimed to compare %BF results estimated from anthropometry and dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in order to examine applicability of the Nagamine and Suzuki equation. Body composition of 45 Japanese males (age: 24.3+/-5.5 years, stature: 171.6+/-5.8 cm, body mass: 62.6+/-7.1 kg, %BF: 15.7+/-5.6%) were assessed using whole-body DXA (Hologic QDR-2000) scan and anthropometry using the protocol of the International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK). From anthropometric measurements %BF was calculated using the Nagamine and Suzuki equation. The results showed that the Nagamine and Suzuki equation significantly (p<0.05) underestimated %BF of Japanese males compared to the DXA results. There was a trend towards greater underestimation as the estimated %BF values using DXA increased. New %BF prediction equations were proposed from the DXA and anthropometry results. Application of the proposed equations may assist in more accurate assessment of body fatness in Japanese males living today.

Low salivary cortisol and elevated depressive affect among rural men in Botswana: reliability and validity of laboratory results.

Abstract: Most research on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function under aversive conditions has focused on relatively increased acute episodic, or chronic secretions as an operationalization of "stress." Severe or recurrent stress, perhaps in interaction with individual characteristics, results in chronically decreased HPA function among some persons suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder. Little evidence exists to assess the population distribution of chronic low cortisol in different free-ranging human populations, as a manifestation of past trauma or stress. This study reports findings of chronically depressed ambulatory salivary cortisol among rural-dwelling Batswana men (n=30) compared with men living in Gaborone (n=34), the capital of Botswana, based on repeated ambulatory sampling. Out of 914 saliva samples analyzed by radioimmunoassay, 268 (29.3%) samples (41 urban, 227 rural) were below the minimum detectable dose (