Internal and external workload in national and international netball competition.

Differences in workload exist between netball playing positions and competition levels, but no research has compared workloads experienced by the same elite players during national and international competitions. This study collected internal (heart rate) and external (PlayerLoad·min-1) workload data per match quarter from 44 players during a national competition and 12 players during an international competition. Nine players played in both competitions. Linear mixed models compared percentage of match quarter in each heart rate zone and PlayerLoad·min-1 between competitions for each playing position. Workloads against low- and high-ranked international opponents were also compared. Internal workloads were greater in national compared to international competition for GD and WD positions. PlayerLoad·min-1 was significantly higher by 8-13% in the national competition for positions WD and C, and by 5-8% in the international competition for GD and GA. Positional differences may indicate a role of the team's tactical style of play. Workloads were generally greater against higher- rather than lower-ranked international opponents. These results indicate that tactical factors in combination with playing position and opposition characteristics should be considered when preparing physically for matches.

The relationships between impact location and post-impact ball speed, bat torsion, and ball direction in cricket batting.

Three-dimensional kinematic data of bat and ball were recorded for 239 individual shots performed by twenty batsmen ranging from club to international standard. The impact location of the ball on the bat face was determined and assessed against the resultant instantaneous post-impact ball speed and measures of post-impact bat torsion and ball direction. Significant negative linear relationships were found between post-impact ball speed and the absolute distance of impact from the midline medio-laterally and sweetspot longitudinally. Significant cubic relationships were found between the distance of impact from the midline of the bat medio-laterally and both a measure of bat torsion and the post-impact ball direction. A "sweet region" on the bat face was identified whereby impacts within 2 cm of the sweetspot in the medio-lateral direction, and 4.5 cm in the longitudinal direction, caused reductions in ball speed of less than 6% from the optimal value, and deviations in ball direction of less than 10° from the intended target. This study provides a greater understanding of the margin for error afforded to batsmen, allowing researchers to assess shot success in more detail, and highlights the importance of players generating consistently central impact locations when hitting for optimal performance.

Health surveillance for occupational asthma in the UK.

BACKGROUND: Periodic health surveillance (HS) of workers can identify early cases of occupational asthma. Information about its uptake and its content in the UK is lacking. AIMS: To identify the overall levels of uptake and quality of HS for occupational asthma within three high-risk industry sectors in the UK. METHODS: A telephone survey of employers, and their occupational health (OH) professionals, carried out in three sectors with exposures potentially capable of causing occupational asthma (bakeries, wood working and motor vehicle repair). RESULTS: A total of 457 organizations participated (31% response rate). About 77% employed <10 people, 17% between 10 and 50 and 6% >50. Risk assessments were common (67%) and 14% carried out some form of HS for occupational asthma, rising to 19% if only organizations reporting asthma hazards and risks were considered. HS was carried out both by in-house (31%) and external providers (69%). Organizational policies were often used to define HS approaches (80%), but infrequently shared with the OH provider. OH providers described considerable variation in practice. Record keeping was universal, but worker-held records were not reported. HS tools were generally developed in-house. Lung function was commonly measured, but only limited interpretation evident. Referral of workers to local specialist respiratory services was variable. CONCLUSIONS: This study provided new insights into the real world of HS for occupational asthma. We consider that future work could and should define simpler, more practical and evidence-based approaches to HS to ensure maximal consistency and use of high-quality approaches.

Conserving large carnivores: dollars and fence.

Conservationists often advocate for landscape approaches to wildlife management while others argue for physical separation between protected species and human communities, but direct empirical comparisons of these alternatives are scarce. We relate African lion population densities and population trends to contrasting management practices across 42 sites in 11 countries. Lion populations in fenced reserves are significantly closer to their estimated carrying capacities than unfenced populations. Whereas fenced reserves can maintain lions at 80% of their potential densities on annual management budgets of $500 km(-2) , unfenced populations require budgets in excess of $2000 km(-2) to attain half their potential densities. Lions in fenced reserves are primarily limited by density dependence, but lions in unfenced reserves are highly sensitive to human population densities in surrounding communities, and unfenced populations are frequently subjected to density-independent factors. Nearly half the unfenced lion populations may decline to near extinction over the next 20-40 years.

Survey of the reliability of carbon monoxide alarms deployed in domestic homes and efficacy of use by consumers.

Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms are extensively used in domestic premises in the UK to help protect against CO poisoning. Their expected lifetime has been increasing, and some current models now have a replacement period of more than 6 years under normal operation. However, concerns have been expressed as to the reliability of alarms over an extended period. In this study, 110 households with a CO alarm were surveyed, during which the alarm was uninstalled and replaced and a household survey questionnaire administered. Alarm reliability was assessed under laboratory conditions by testing conformity to the alarm condition gas tests in either the British (European) standard, BS EN 50291 for UK certified models, or the US standard, UL 2034 for US certified models. The questionnaire recorded the alarm make and model, its age, its location, whether it was correctly sited, and how often it was tested. General information on the property was also collected. Results of laboratory testing suggest that the reliability of the most common models of CO alarms used by UK consumers has improved over the last 7 years. However, findings from the household survey suggest that the way alarms are used in many homes may not maximize their ability to detect abnormal levels CO.

Microcell mediated chromosome transfer maps the Fanconi anaemia group D gene to chromosome 3p.

Fanconi anaemia (FA) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by progressive pancytopenia, short stature, radial ray defects, skin hyperpigmentation and a predisposition to cancer. Cells from FA patients are hypersensitive to cell killing and chromosome breakage induced by DNA cross-linking agents such as mitomycin C (MMC) and diepoxybutane (DEB). Consequently, the defect in FA is thought to be in DNA crosslink repair. Additional cellular phenotypes of FA include oxygen sensitivity, poor cell growth and a G2 cell cycle delay. At least 5 complementation groups for Fanconi anaemia exist, termed A through E. One of the five FA genes, FA(C), has been identified by cDNA complementation, but no other FA genes have been mapped or cloned until now. The strategy of cDNA complementation, which was successful for identifying the FA(C) gene has not yet been successful for cloning additional FA genes. The alternative approach of linkage analysis, followed by positional cloning, is hindered in FA by genetic heterogeneity and the lack of a simple assay for determining complementation groups. In contrast to genetic linkage studies, microcell mediated chromosome transfer utilizes functional complementation to identify the disease bearing chromosome. Here we report the successful use of this technique to map the gene for the rare FA complementation group D (FA(D)).

Kinematic differences between left- and right-handed cricket fast bowlers during the bowling action.

Background: Despite differences between left- and right-handed athletes in other sports, minimal evidence exists regarding biomechanical similarities and differences between left- and right-handed cricket fast bowlers performing an equivalent task. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the kinematics between left and right-handed fast bowlers performing an equivalent task (i.e. bowling 'over the wicket' to a batter of the same handedness as the bowler). Methods: Full body, three-dimensional kinematic data for six left-handed and 20 right-handed adolescent, male, fast bowlers were collected using the Xsens inertial measurement system. Time-normalised joint and segment angle time histories from back foot contact to follow-through ground contacts were compared between groups via statistical parametric mapping. Whole movement and subphase durations were also compared. Results: Left-handed players displayed significantly more trunk flexion from 49%-56% of the total movement (ball release occurred at 54%; p = 0.037) and had shorter back foot contact durations on average (0.153 vs 0.177 s; p = 0.036) compared to right-handed players. Conclusion: Left- and right-handed bowlers displayed similar sagittal plane kinematics but appeared to use non-sagittal plane movements differently around the time of ball release. The kinematic differences identified in this study can inform future research investigating the effect of hand dominance on bowling performance and injury risk.

Exploring peer tutoring from the peer tutor's perspective.

INTRODUCTION: Changing working practices, student numbers, workforce demands, and deficits, have created a need to consider new ways of radiography student training. One suggestion could be to implement Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) during clinical placements. PAL utilises social constructivist theories, where peer tutors teach lower or same level tutees, reinforcing and practicing material formally taught. The aim of this study was to trial an intervention of PAL, co-designed between the university and students and evaluated to identify opportunities and challenges. METHODS: Using participatory action research 8 final year student volunteers trialled a 3-week intervention, where they delivered PAL to first years, tutoring on first year radiographic clinical practice. Focus groups were held pre and post intervention to gather qualitative data. RESULTS: Focus group discussions were transcribed and collectively thematically analysed. Two students and the primary researcher took part in the analysis. CONCLUSION: Students identified benefits and challenges to PAL. Issue around preparing for and being a peer tutor are also discussed. Further study involving experiences of first year students and clinical colleagues is required. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Peer-tutoring has potential benefits to students to facilitate the development of skills related to image analysis and critique as well as radiographic anatomy and patient positioning.

Experiences of diagnostic radiographers through the Covid-19 pandemic.

INTRODUCTION: Diagnostic Radiography plays a major role in the diagnosis and management of patients with Covid-19. This has seen an increase in the demand for imaging services, putting pressure on the workforce. Diagnostic radiographers, as with many other healthcare professions, have been on the frontline, dealing with an unprecedented situation. This research aimed to explore the experience of diagnostic radiographers working clinically during the Covid-19 pandemic. METHODS: Influenced by interpretative phenomenology, this study explored the experiences of diagnostic radiographers using virtual focus group interviews as a method of data collection. RESULTS: Data were analysed independently by four researchers and five themes emerged from the data. Adapting to new ways of working, feelings and emotions, support mechanisms, self-protection and resilience, and professional recognition. CONCLUSION: The adaptability of radiographers came across strongly in this study. Anxieties attributed to the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE), fear of contracting the virus and spreading it to family members were evident. The resilience of radiographers working throughout this pandemic came across strongly throughout this study. A significant factor for coping has been peer support from colleagues within the workplace. The study highlighted the lack of understanding of the role of the radiographer and how the profession is perceived by other health care professionals. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: This study highlights the importance of interprofessional working and that further work is required in the promotion of the profession.

Surface acceleration transmission during drop landings in humans.

The purpose of this study was to quantify the magnitude and frequency content of surface-measured accelerations at each major human body segment from foot to head during impact landings. Twelve males performed two single leg drop landings from each of 0.15 m, 0.30 m, and 0.45 m. Triaxial accelerometers (2000 Hz) were positioned over the: first metatarsophalangeal joint; distal anteromedial tibia; superior to the medial femoral condyle; L5 vertebra; and C6 vertebra. Analysis of acceleration signal power spectral densities revealed two distinct components, 2-14 Hz and 14-58 Hz, which were assumed to correspond to time domain signal joint rotations and elastic wave tissue deformation, respectively. Between each accelerometer position from the metatarsophalangeal joint to the L5 vertebra, signals exhibited decreased peak acceleration, increased time to peak acceleration, and decreased power spectral density integral of both the 2-14 Hz and 14-58 Hz components, with no further attenuation beyond the L5 vertebra. This resulted in peak accelerations close to vital organs of less than 10% of those at the foot. Following landings from greater heights, peak accelerations measured distally were greater, as was attenuation prior to the L5 position. Active and passive mechanisms within the lower limb therefore contribute to progressive attenuation of accelerations, preventing excessive accelerations from reaching the torso and head, even when distal accelerations are large.

Human immune interferon gene is located on chromosome 12.

A cDNA clone for human immune interferon (IFN-gamma) gene sequences, plasmid p69, was used to chromosomally map the IFN-gamma gene by detecting human IFN-gamma gene sequences in DNA isolated from human-rodent somatic cell hybrids. We were able to map the IFN-gamma gene by correlating the human chromosomes present in these hybrids with the human specific 8.8 and 2.0 kilobase pair fragments produced by EcoRI digestion of genomic DNA. Southern blot analysis of 37 hybrid cell lines indicated that the gene for IFN-gamma was on human chromosome 12. A hybrid containing a portion of chromosome 12 localized the IFN-gamma gene to the p1205 leads to qter region.

Simultaneous studies of reaction kinetics and structure development in polymer processing.

The simultaneous time-resolved study of structure development and reaction kinetics during polymer processing is an experimental method that has great potential in developing a deeper understanding of the parameters that govern the formation of structure and therefore polymer properties. A combination of synchrotron radiation small-angle x-ray scattering and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy experiments have been performed on a series of model segmented block copolyurethanes. These studies confirm that the driving force for structure development in polyurethanes is the thermodynamics of phase separation rather than hydrogen bonding.

Human c-Ki-ras2 proto-oncogene on chromosome 12.

A human colonic adenocarcinoma transforming gene, recently identified as a cellular homolog of the Kirsten sarcoma gene (v-ras), was used to assign the human cellular Kirsten ras2 gene to chromosome 12 by the Southern hybridization method. A single 640 base-pair Eco RI--Hind III fragment of the transforming gene, isolated by DNA transfection and molecular cloning, can detect a single Eco RI fragment (2.9 kilobase pairs) of DNA from phenotypically normal cells. The data suggest a constant chromosomal location of c-Ki-ras2.

Clustering of leukocyte and fibroblast interferon genes of human chromosome 9.

At least ten leukocyte interferon genes and the single known fibroblast interferon gene have been localized on the pter leads to q12 region of human chromosome 9. Gene mapping was accomplished by blot hybridization of cloned interferon complementary DNA to DNA from human-mouse cell hybrids with a translocation involving human chromosome 9. Supporting evidence suggests these genes are clustered.

Myotonic dystrophy type 2 caused by a CCTG expansion in intron 1 of ZNF9.

Myotonic dystrophy (DM), the most common form of muscular dystrophy in adults, can be caused by a mutation on either chromosome 19q13 (DM1) or 3q21 (DM2/PROMM). DM1 is caused by a CTG expansion in the 3' untranslated region of the dystrophia myotonica-protein kinase gene (DMPK). Several mechanisms have been invoked to explain how this mutation, which does not alter the protein-coding portion of a gene, causes the specific constellation of clinical features characteristic of DM. We now report that DM2 is caused by a CCTG expansion (mean approximately 5000 repeats) located in intron 1 of the zinc finger protein 9 (ZNF9) gene. Parallels between these mutations indicate that microsatellite expansions in RNA can be pathogenic and cause the multisystemic features of DM1 and DM2.

Relationships between technique and bat speed, post-impact ball speed, and carry distance during a range hitting task in cricket.

The ability of a batsman to clear the boundary is a major contributor to success in modern cricket. The aim of this study was to identify technique parameters characterising those batsmen able to generate greater bat speeds, ball launch speeds, and carry distances during a range hitting task in cricket. Kinematic data were collected for 20 batsmen ranging from international to club standard, and a series of ball launch, bat-ball impact, and technique parameters were calculated for each trial. A stepwise multiple linear regression analysis found impact location on the bat face in the medio-lateral and longitudinal directions and bat speed at impact to explain 68% of the observed variation in instantaneous post-impact ball speed. A further regression analysis found the X-factor (separation between the pelvis and thorax segments in the transverse plane) at the commencement of the downswing, lead elbow extension, and wrist uncocking during the downswing to explain 78% of the observed variation in maximum bat speed during the downswing. These findings indicate that players and coaches should focus on generating central impacts with the highest possible bat speed. Training and conditioning programmes should be developed to improve the important kinematic parameters shown to generate greater bat speeds, particularly focussing on increased pelvis to upper thorax separation in the transverse plane.

PHC3, a component of the hPRC-H complex, associates with E2F6 during G0 and is lost in osteosarcoma tumors.

Polyhomeotic-like 3 (PHC3) is a ubiquitously expressed member of the polycomb gene family and part of the human polycomb complex hPRC-H. We found that in normal cells PHC3 associated with both hPRC-H complex components and with the transcription factor E2F6. In differentiating and confluent cells, PHC3 and E2F6 showed nuclear colocalization in a punctate pattern that resembled the binding of polycomb bodies to heterochromatin. This punctate pattern was not seen in proliferating cells suggesting that PHC3 may be part of an E2F6-polycomb complex that has been shown to occupy and silence target promoters in G(0). Previous loss of heterozygosity (LoH) analyses had shown that the region containing PHC3 underwent frequent LoH in primary human osteosarcoma tumors. When we examined normal bone and human osteosarcoma tumors, we found loss of PHC3 expression in 36 of 56 osteosarcoma tumors. Sequence analysis revealed that PHC3 was mutated in nine of 15 primary osteosarcoma tumors. These findings suggest that loss of PHC3 may favor tumorigenesis by potentially disrupting the ability of cells to remain in G(0).

Correction of the disease phenotype in the mouse model of Stargardt disease by lentiviral gene therapy.

Autosomal recessive Stargardt disease (STGD1) is a macular dystrophy caused by mutations in the ABCA4 (ABCR) gene. The disease phenotype that is most recognized in STGD1 patients, and also in the Abca4-/- mouse (a disease model), is lipofuscin accumulation in retinal pigment epithelium. Here, we tested whether delivery of the normal (wt) human ABCA4 gene to the subretinal space of the Abca4 -/- mice via lentiviral vectors would correct the disease phenotype; that is, reduce accumulation of the lipofuscin pigment A2E. Equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV)-derived lentiviral vectors were constructed expressing either the human ABCA4 gene or the LacZ reporter gene under the control of the constitutive (CMV) or photoreceptor-specific (Rho) promoters. Abca4-/- mice were injected subretinally with 1 microl ( approximately 5.0 x 10(5) TU) of each EIAV vector in one eye at postnatal days 4 and 5. An injection of saline, an EIAV-null vector, or an uninjected contralateral eye served as a control. Mice were killed at various times after injection to determine photoreceptor (PR) transduction efficiency and A2E concentrations. EIAV-LacZ vectors transduced from 5 to 20% of the PRs in the injected area in mice. Most importantly, a single subretinal injection of EIAV-CMV-ABCA4 to Abca4-/- mouse eyes substantially reduced disease-associated A2E accumulation compared to untreated and mock-treated control eyes. Treated eyes of Abca4-/- mice accumulated 8-12 pmol per eye (s.d.=2.7) of A2E 1 year after treatment, amounts comparable to wt controls, whereas mock-treated or untreated eyes had 3-5 times more A2E (27-39 pmol per eye, s.d.=1.5; P=0.001-0.005). Although extrapolation to humans requires caution, the high transduction efficiency of both rod and cone photoreceptors and the statistically significant reduction of A2E accumulation in the mouse model of STGD1 suggest that lentiviral gene therapy is a potentially efficient tool for treating ABCA4-associated diseases.

Diagnostic radiographers working in the operating theatre: An action research project.

INTRODUCTION: Failures in interprofessional communication are well-documented and are an established cause of medical error and negative health outcomes. Socio-historical issues like imbalances in power and status are particularly prevalent in the operating theatre environment, adding complications to interprofessional working. Simulation, used in healthcare education, may impact positively on interprofessional working. METHODS: The aim of this action research study was to develop, pilot and run a simulation experience for Diagnostic Radiography (DRAD) students. Action research was used to structure this study. The first phase of the action research was to look at the problem; this was undertaken using critical incident technique. Findings from the critical incident technique influenced the simulation event. A focus group was held immediately after the event for reflection. A second simulation using a cohort of 48 students and a reflection after a period of three months formed the second round of the project. The simulation took place in a hi-fidelity simulated operating theatre. Thematic content analysis was undertaken of the focus group, data from the critical incident technique, and the reflections. RESULTS: The findings are discussed under the themes; identification, clarity, preparation, and the expert. Identification and lack of clarity in communication were seen as an important issue in the operating theatre. Lack of preparation of the working environment was also highlighted. Lack of confidence in the operating theatre inhibits interprofessional working. CONCLUSION: Simulation can help prepare students for working in the operating theatre. Realism is important as is scheduling the event to ensure maximum benefit.

Breast compression techniques in screening mammography - A Maltese evaluation project.

INTRODUCTION: In screening mammography, the radiographer should be responsible for providing mammograms of high diagnostic value, possibly without subjecting clients to a painful experience. This skill is demonstrated via the technique of breast compression and is explored in this study by analysing insights about methods and underlying principles in regards to this procedure. METHODS: One-to-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with radiographers who perform screening mammography in Malta. For data analysis, a descriptive phenomenological approach following a simplified version of Hycner's (1985) method was adopted. RESULTS: Five general themes were extracted from the data; meeting the client, preparing the client, the mammography procedure, pain from compression and client turnout. It was determined that the participants alter their breast compression technique according to the client rather than following a rigid step-by-step process and that explanation and requesting client feedback are essential to obtain cooperation. Additionally, mammography positioning and compression application are tailored in a way that encourage compliance, however not at the expense of degrading image quality. Ultimately, it is also believed that a proper breast compression technique positively influences client turnout. CONCLUSION: The results of this study demonstrate that radiographers should be flexible in their approach in order to carry out a successful breast compression technique. However, it has also been shown that such effectiveness in practice is gained from experience rather than initial training. If exposed to this study's findings, new mammographers would be able to form a robust core of knowledge before embarking on the challenging specialisation of mammography.