Characteristics of healthy and androgenetic alopecia scalp microbiome: Effect of Lindera strychnifolia roots extract as a natural solution for its modulation.

OBJECTIVE: The human scalp harbours a vast community of microbiotal mutualists. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), the most common form of hair loss in males, is a multifactorial condition involving genetic predisposition and hormonal changes. The role of microflora during hair loss remains to be understood. After having characterized the scalp microbiota of 12 healthy male subjects and 12 AGA male subjects (D0), the aim of this investigation was to evaluate the capacity of Lindera strychnifolia root extract (LsR) to restore a healthy bacterial and fungal scalp microflora after 83 days (D83) of treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The strategy used was based on high-throughput DNA sequencing targeting the encoding 16S ribosomal RNA for bacteria and Internal Transcribed Spacer 1 ribosomal DNA for fungi. RESULTS: Test analysis of relative abundance comparing healthy and AGA subjects showed a significant increase of Cutibacterim acnes (P < 0.05) and Stenotrophomonas geniculata (P < 0.01) in AGA subjects. AGA scalp condition was also associated with a significant (P < 0.05) decrease of Staphylococcus epidermidis relative abundance. A lower proportion of Malassezia genus in samples corresponding to AGA scalps and an increase of other bacterial genera (Wallemia, Eurotium) were also noted. At the species level, mean relative abundance of Malassezia restricta and Malassezia globosa were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the AGA group. Eighty-three days of treatment induced a significant decrease in the relative abundance of C. acnes (P < 0.05) and S. geniculata (P < 0.01). S. epidermidis increased significantly (P < 0.05). At the same time, LsR treatment induced a significant increase in the proportion of M. restricta and M. globosa (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Data from sequencing profiling of the scalp microbiota strongly support a different microbial composition of scalp between control and AGA populations. Findings suggest that LsR extract may be a potential remedy for scalp microbiota re-equilibrium.

OBJECTIF: Le cuir chevelu humain abrite une vaste communauté microbienne. L'alopécie androgénétique (AGA), la forme la plus courante de perte de cheveux chez l'homme, est une pathologie multifactorielle impliquant une prédisposition génétique et des changements hormonaux. Le rôle de la microflore lors de la chute des cheveux reste à comprendre. Après avoir caractérisé le microbiote du cuir chevelu de 12 hommes sans alopecie et 12 hommes porteur d'une alopécie, (J0), l'objectif de cette étude était d'évaluer la capacité de l'extrait de racine de Lindera strychnifolia (LsR) à restaurer une microflore bactérienne et fongique saine du cuir chevelu après 83 jours (D83) de traitement. MATÉRIEL ET MÉTHODES: La stratégie utilisée était basée sur un séquençage d'ADN à haut débit ciblant l'ARN ribosomal 16S codant pour les bactéries et l'ADN ribosomal de l'espaceur transcrit interne 1 pour les champignons. RÉSULTATS: Une augmentation significative de Cutibacterim acnes (P < 0,05) et Stenotrophomonas geniculata (P < 0,01) chez les sujets AGA a ete note a J0 comparativement aux sujets non alopecique. L'état du cuir chevelu AGA était également associé à une diminution significative (P < 0,05) de l'abondance relative de Staphylococcus epidermidis. Une plus faible proportion du genre Malassezia dans les échantillons correspondant aux cuirs chevelus AGA et une augmentation d'autres genres bactériens (Wallemia, Eurotium) ont également été notées. Au niveau des espèces, l'abondance relative moyenne de Malassezia restricta et Malassezia globosa était significativement plus faible (P < 0,05) dans le groupe AGA. Quatre-vingt-trois jours de traitement ont induit une diminution significative de l'abondance relative de C. acnes (P < 0,05) et S. geniculata (P < 0,01). S. epidermidis a augmenté de manière significative (P < 0,05). Dans le même temps, le traitement LsR a induit une augmentation significative de la proportion de M. restricta et M. globosa (P < 0,05). CONCLUSION: Les données de séquençage soutiennent fortement une composition microbienne différente du cuir chevelu entre les populations témoin et AGA. Les résultats suggèrent que l'extrait de LsR peut être un remède potentiel pour le rééquilibre du microbiote du cuir chevelu.

Increase in subjective well-being and psychological health after application of C8-silk lipoamino acid functionalized pigments included in a foundation.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of two foundations before (D0) and after 5 days of application (D6) on psychophysiological parameters in order to compare C8-silk lipoamino acid functionalized pigments (FA) versus pure pigments (FP). METHODS: Assessment of self-esteem, stress, mood and emotion using psychological tests and evaluation of salivary cortisol concentrations were realized on 40 healthy females using a crossover study design at D0 and D6. Four saliva samples were taken on the awakening (C1), 30 min after the awakening (during the foundation application (C2)), 1 h after the foundation application (C3) and at 1900 h (C4) at DO and D6. Area under the curve was calculated in order to obtain information about the total amount of a given substance excreted in a specific time period. RESULTS: Five days of daily application of the foundation containing the pigments treated with the C8-silk lipoamino acids induced a significant increase (P < 0.001) in self-esteem and pleasant emotion (P < 0.05), and a significant decrease in general stress (P < 0.05). This was not the case after the FP application. Cortisol concentrations presented a pronounced diurnal rhythm whatever the foundation used. At DO, no significant differences were observed between the groups. At D6, cortisol concentrations measured 30 min and 1 h after the FA application were significantly lower (P < 0.05: C6.2, P < 0.05 C6.3, respectively) than those reported after FP application. AUC, a global stress response indicator, was significantly lower in FA group as compared to FP group after 5 days of application. Subjects found a decrease in tiredness signs and thought that FA has a good coverage. CONCLUSION: Our results show that incorporation of C8-silk lipoamino acid as agent of pigment functionalization brings new benefits to a foundation. Adopting a psychophysiological approach, which is not invasive to the subjects, we show the measurement of cortisol at the same time that psychological indicators provide a scientific approach to examine the beneficial effects of a cosmetic product.

OBJECTIF: Le but de cette étude randomisée croisée était d'évaluer les effets de deux fonds de teints (pigments traditionnels (FP) versus lipoaminoacides de C8 soie (FA)) avant (D0) et après 5 jours d'application (D6) sur des paramètres psychophysiologiques. METHODES: L'évaluation de l'estime de soi, du stress, de l'humeur et des émotions conjointement à l'évaluation des concentrations de cortisol salivaire ont été réalisées sur 40 femmes. Quatre prélèvements salivaires ont été effectués le matin au réveil (C1), 30 min après (pendant l'application du fond de teint (C2)), 1h après l'application du fond de teint (C3) et à 19h00 (C4) au début (D0) et en fin d'expériementation (D6). RÉSULTATS: Cinq jours d'application quotidienne du fond de teint contenant des pigments traités au lipoaminoacides de C8 soie ont induit une augmentation significative (P <0.001) de l'estime de soi et des émotions plaisantes (P <0.05), ainsi qu'une diminution significative du stress (P < 0.05). Ces résultats n'ont pas été observés après application du pigment traditionnel (FP). En début d'expérimentation (D0), aucune différence significative n'a été observée entre les groupes concernant les concentrations de cortisol salivaire, concentrations qui présentaient un rythme diurne prononcé. A D6, les concentrations de cortisol mesurées 30 minutes et 1 heure après l'application de FA étaient significativement inférieures (P < 0.05: C6.2, P < 0.05: C6.3, respectivement) à celles rapportées après l'application de FP. Les sujets ont constaté une diminution des signes de fatigue. CONCLUSION: Nos résultats montrent que l'incorporation du lipoaminoacide de C8 soie en tant qu'agent de fonctionnalisation des pigments apporte de nouveaux avantages à une base de fond de teint. L'approche psychophysiologique non invasive est une excellente approche permettant d'évaluer les effets bénéfiques d'un produit cosmétique.

Attenuation of negative effects of senescence in human skin using an extract from Sphingomonas hydrophobicum: development of new skin care solution.

OBJECTIVE: Intrinsic skin ageing is mainly caused by cellular senescence. p16 and p21 are two important tumour suppressor proteins that play essential roles during cell proliferation and ageing through regulating the expression of several genes. Moreover, physical changes between the ages of 55 and 60 years affect one's physical and disrupt self-esteem. The cosmetics industry has focused on bioactive substances derived from natural products such as plants, mushrooms and marine algae to counteract the deleterious effect on skin senescence. Besides these products, compounds produced by bacteria may decelerate individual senescence. METHODS: In order to evaluate the potential benefits of bacteria extract over skin ageing, we investigated whether a Sphingomonas hydrophobicum (SH) extract is able to protect our skin against senescence mechanisms. We used an ageing full-thickness skin equivalent model, which was treated or not with the bacteria extract in a systemic way for 42 days. p21 and p16 and senescence-associated galactosidase activity were used to detect cellular senescence with immunohistology. Using a psychobiological approach, we evaluated in vivo the effect of SH extract on self-esteem, isotropy and suppleness. RESULTS: Sphingomonas extract significantly suppressed senescence associated with ß-galactosidase activation. It also significantly inhibited the expression of cell cycle inhibitors (p21 and p16). At the same time, the bacteria extract has a significant positive impact on the issue by increasing the expression of versican and fibrillin-1. Significant improvements of self-esteem were reported after 56 days of SH extract application. These psychological benefits were accompanied by a significant improvement in skin suppleness and isotropy. CONCLUSION: Sphingomonas extract delays intrinsic skin ageing process by inhibiting cellular senescence, and has also the capability to restructure the skin. These beneficial physiological effects induced by SH extract have a positive influence on self-esteem. Because skin ageing causes emotional distress, SH extract can serve as an anti-ageing cosmeceutical agent and help to build a better psychological health, and help individuals to assume ageing.

OBJECTIF: Le vieillissement intrinsèque de la peau est principalement causé par la sénescence cellulaire. p16 et p21 sont deux importantes protéines suppressives de tumeurs qui jouent un rôle essentiel dans la prolifération et le vieillissement cellulaire en régulant l'expression de plusieurs gènes. De plus, les changements physiques survenant entre 55 et 60 ans affectent le physique et perturbent l'estime de soi. L'industrie cosmétique s'est concentrée sur les substances bioactives dérivées de produits naturels tels que les plantes, les champignons et les algues marines pour contrer les effets délétères sur la sénescence de la peau. En plus de ces produits, les composés produits par les bactéries peuvent ralentir la sénescence individuelle. MÉTHODES: Afin d'évaluer les bénéfices potentiels de l'extrait de bactérie sur le vieillissement cutané, nous avons étudié si un extrait de Sphingomonas hydrophobicum (SH) est capable de protéger notre peau des mécanismes de sénescence. Nous avons utilisé un modèle équivalent de peau vieillissante de pleine épaisseur, qui a été traitée ou non avec l'extrait de bactérie de façon systémique pendant 42 jours. p21 et p16, et l'activité galactosidase associée à la sénescence ont été utilisés pour détecter la sénescence cellulaire par immunohistologie. En utilisant une approche psychobiologique, nous avons évalué in vivo l'effet de l'extrait de SH sur l'estime de soi, l'isotropie et la souplesse. RÉSULTATS: L'extrait de Sphingomonas a considérablement supprimé la sénescence associée à l'activation de ß-galactosidase. Il a également inhibé de manière significative l'expression des inhibiteurs du cycle cellulaire (p21 et p16). En même temps, l'extrait de bactérie a un impact positif significatif sur le problème en augmentant l'expression du versican et de la fibrilline-1. Des améliorations significatives de l'estime de soi ont été rapportées après 56 jours d'application de l'extrait de SH. Ces bienfaits psychologiques s'accompagnaient d'une amélioration significative de la souplesse et de l'isotropie de la peau. CONCLUSION: L'extrait de Sphingomonas retarde le processus de vieillissement intrinsèque de la peau en inhibant la sénescence cellulaire et a également la capacité de restructurer la peau. Ces effets physiologiques bénéfiques induits par l'extrait de SH ont une influence positive sur l'estime de soi. Parce que le vieillissement de la peau provoque une détresse émotionnelle, l'extrait de SH peut servir d'agent cosméceutique anti-âge et aider à construire une meilleure santé psychologique, ainsi qu'aider les individus à assumer le vieillissement.

Nutritional Intake, Physical Activity and Quality of Life in COPD Patients.

In this study, we aimed to document the level of physical activity (PA), quality of life, depression status and nutritional data of 20 individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (mean age 65.0±7.0 years) admitted in hospital for pulmonary rehabilitation and compare these data to those obtained in 20 similarly aged healthy individuals. Nutritional data were collected using a 3-day diet record. COPD patients engaged in significantly less PA than healthy individuals and achieved a significant higher score of Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) than the control group. Their Fat Free Mass Index (FFMI) was significantly lower when compared to the control group (p<0.05). Patients had significantly lower total caloric intake, Vitamins B6, B9, B12, Vitamin E, ß carotene and omega 3 than controls. Moreover, patients with low FFMI reported significantly lower mean intake of energy, carbohydrate, vitamin E and vitamin B6 than patients with normal FFMI. Because oxidative stress and inflammation are features of many lung diseases, nutrients with anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties could be useful in prevention or treatment. Further work is needed to explore the possible relationship between the intake of B group vitamins, Vitamin E, n-3PUFAS and the development and progression of lung disease.

Weight Loss, Performance and Psychological Related States in High-level Weightlifters.

We examined the effects of a rapid weight loss on dietary intakes, psychological parameters and physical performance of 11 international weightlifters. During the first period (T1), all subjects maintained their body weight and participated in a simulated weightlifting competition. Then, they were assigned into 2 groups depending on whether they lost (Group 2) or maintained (Group 1) their body weight over 6 days. A battery of tests was performed at T1 and after a 6-day food restriction (T2), including assessment for body composition, performance, evaluation of mood states and fatigue. Dietary data were collected using a 6-day diet record. A 4.34% reduction of body weight was achieved by a significant reduction of total energy intakes (- 40%), inducing a significant alteration of the general recovery score (p<0.05) and evaluated through the Recovery-Stress Questionnaire for Athletes. Increase in conflicts/pressure, emotional stress and physical complaints were observed. Intakes of vitamins B1, B3, B6, B9 and magnesium were significantly lower than the recommendations during the weight loss period. However, the food restriction did not impair weightlifting performance. Reduced energy and micronutrient intakes, inducing a rapid weight loss, could be a limiting factor to training adaptations and a threat towards athlete's health if frequently used.

Psychophysiological stress responses during training and competition in young female competitive tennis players.

This study sought to compare the psychophysiological stress responses during an actual competitive game and a training session in a group of high-level young female tennis players. 12 players were monitored during one match and a training day (i.e., simulated match play). Measurements included salivary cortisol (SC), the revised Competitive Sport Anxiety Inventory, heart rate (HR), and rate of perceived exertion (RPE). Match day elicited higher SC levels for losers at all points in time when compared to winners. All players showed significantly lower SC levels during training when compared to the match at all points in time except during the evening for winners. Winners of match and training situations had significantly higher self-confidence and lower cognitive anxiety and somatic anxiety scores than losers. Heart rate and RPE were significantly higher for losers only during the match (158.9±8.3 vs. 168±6.7 bpm; 12.9±1.2 vs. 15±0.8, for losers and winners, respectively). There were moderate to strong correlations between SC, self-confidence and anxiety scores, and match workload (i.e., HR and RPE) only during the match day. These results indicate that the interplay between psychophysiological responses, match workload and outcome was evident only under real competitive situations.

Lipid peroxidation in judoists using oral contraceptives.

12 female judoists using oral contraceptives (OCU) containing 0.03 mg ethinylestradiol and 3 mg drospirenone for 20 ± 12 months (mean ± SD) were compared with a control group of 14 judoist noncontraceptive users (NCU) in order to evaluate resting (T1) and postexercise (T2) lipid peroxidation (LPO) and antioxidant parameters. Data were collected 20 min before and 10 min after a morning session of judo training and included determination of lag phase (Lp) before free radical-induced oxidation, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), α-tocopherol, retinol, and oxidative stress markers related to LPO. Significantly higher resting oxidative stress (+125.8 and +165.2% for malondialdehyde and lipid peroxides, respectively) and lower values of Lp and GPx (-23.4 and -12.1%, respectively) were observed in the OCU compared with NCU. The judo training session induced an increase in plasma LPO whatever the treatment. We noted significant increases in Lp (+14.7%; p<0.05 vs. preexercise) and GPx (22.1%; p<0.05 vs. preexercise) only in the NCU group. We suggest that a judo training session favourably altered some antioxidants in NCU but not in OCU. As excessive oxidative stress is linked to the development of several chronic diseases, the use of agents to reduce antioxidants may be reasonable in OCU.

Effects of 6 weeks of n-3 fatty acids and antioxidant mixture on lipid peroxidation at rest and postexercise.

The purpose of this randomized study was to measure the influence of 6 weeks of LCPUFA (600 mg EPA and 400 mg DHA per day) supplementation alone or in association with 30 mg vitamin E, 60 mg vitamin C and 6 mg ß-carotene on resting and exercise-induced lipid peroxidation in judoists (n = 36). Blood samples were collected at rest before (T (1)) and after the supplementation period, in preexercise (T (2)) and postexercise (T (3)) conditions, for analysis of α-tocopherol, retinol, lag phase (Lp) before free radical-induced oxidation, maximum rate of oxidation (R (max)) during the propagating chain reaction, maximum amount of conjugated dienes (CD(max)) accumulated after the propagation phase, and nitric oxide, malondialdehyde and lipoperoxide (POOL) concentrations. Dietary data were collected using a 7-day diet record. There were no significant differences among treatment groups with respect to habitual intakes of energy from fat, carbohydrate, or protein. At T (1), there were no significant differences among treatment groups with respect to lipid peroxidation, lag phase, and levels of α-tocopherol or retinol. The consumption of an n-3 LC PUFA supplement increased oxidative stress at rest and did not attenuate the exercise-induced oxidative stress. The addition of antioxidants did not prevent the formation of oxidation products at rest. On the contrary, it seems that the combination of antioxidants added to the n-3 LCPUFA supplement led to a decrease in, CD(max), R (max), and POOL and MDA concentrations after a judo training session.

Eating behaviours in relation to emotional intelligence.

The purpose of the study was to examine the abnormal eating attitudes in judoists and the possible relationships between eating attitudes, emotional intelligence, and body dissatisfaction. A total of 20 national judoists and 25 control participants were enrolled in the study. Subjects completed the following questionnaires: The Eating Attitudes Test, The Body Image Assessment Scale-Body Dimensions and the Bar-On Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire. 30 % of the athletes (n=6) and 20% of the controls (n=5) presented disordered eating attitudes although these subjects were of normal weight. They also presented body dissatisfaction and had lower levels of emotional intelligence in comparison to the groups without disordered eating attitudes, particularly in factors such as intrapersonal (p<0.01), adaptability (p<0.05), stress tolerance (p<0.04) and general mood (p<0.04). The athletes reported using different weight loss methods such as self-induced vomiting (20%), fasting (40%), diuretics (15%), and laxatives (50%). Among disordered eating attitude groups (Controls+Judoists), Global EAT-26 was negatively correlated with stress tolerance (p<0.04: r=-0.64), emotional self-awareness (p<0.05: r=-0.70), general mood (p<0.01: r=-0.74), and positively correlated with body dissatisfaction (p<0.01: r=0.79). Results highlight the role of emotion in disordered eating attitudes, which is an important finding in terms of the prevention and management of disordered eating.

Stress and recovery in sports: Effects on heart rate variability, cortisol, and subjective experience.

This study aimed to investigate (1) the time-variations and (2) the repeated measures relationship between training load (TL) and psychological and physiological parameters and performance. Data were collected around 12-weeks of training in fifteen national swimmers. Psychological states were assessed using the RESTQ-36-R-Sport Questionnaire and the Sport Emotion Questionnaire. Subjects collected four saliva samples throughout the day at 1) 7 a.m. immediately after waking, 2) 30 min after waking, 3) 60 min after waking, and 4) 8 p.m., allowing us to calculate the area under the curve with respect to ground (AUCg) and the sAA over cortisol ratio (AOC). Finally, heart rate variability was computed using a submaximal 5'-5' running test. Time variations were analyzed throughout repeated measures ANOVA and repeated measures correlations were run using the "rmcorr" R package. Recovery-stress states and emotional markers showed quadratic curves, while parasympathetic markers showed linear trajectories over time. Significant associations over time were found between TL and recovery, stress, emotional states, lnRMSSD and the AOC. Taken together, these results provided evidence that psychological and physiological states do not follow the same dynamics (i.e., linear vs. quadratic vs. no variation) in the functional training periodization condition. Our study also provided evidence that recovery-stress states, emotional states, lnRMSSD, and the AOC were of interest due to their intra-individual associations around the time with TL.

Salivary cortisol, heart rate and blood lactate during a qualifying trial and an official race in motorcycling competition.

AIM: The study aims to examine the physiological load on motorcycling competitors during a qualifying trial and an official race. METHODS: Twelve male riders participated in this study, in which their anthropometric data, heart rate, blood lactate (La) and salivary cortisol (C) concentrations were measured. Two saliva samples were taken on a resting day at 8 a.m. (30 min after awakening: [T(0)] and at 8 p.m. [T(1)] and 6 saliva samples were collected on the day of the qualifying trial and on the day of the official race [T(2) through T(7)]). RESULTS: During the race, as well as during the qualifying trial, heart rate was found to be >80-90% of the maximum heart rate. Blood La increased more than two-fold (peak 5.6+/-2.1 mM) as compared to resting values (2+/-0.1 mM). However, La were not statistically different between qualifying trial and race. C concentrations on the motorcycling day were found to be up to 3 times higher than those measured on the resting day. In fact, there was a progressive increase in the C concentrations on the motorcycling day, the values noted 10 min after the race being the highest. There was a significant decrease in C values 60 min after the race, but the concentration was maintained at a higher level for a longer period; the values reported at T(7) (8 p.m.; 4.3 h after the end of the race) were significantly higher than those reported at the same time on a resting day (T(1)). CONCLUSION: The examination of heart rate, blood La and salivary C concentrations in motorcycling on a circuit shows that this sport is highly stressful, and also that a metabolic involvement is required to control the motorcycle at a high speed. Thus, riders may benefit from a specific training program aimed at improving their cardiovascular fitness and strength.

IGFBP-3, a sensitive marker of physical training and overtraining.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the response of the somatotrope axis (insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3)) to intense exercise in relation to tiredness. METHODS: The study involved 11 rugby players who completed a questionnaire intended to evaluate fitness or, conversely, overtraining and who agreed to plasma samples being taken before and after an international rugby match. RESULTS: The main finding of our study is that we observed strong negative correlations between IGF-1 (r = 0.652) and IGFBP-3 (r = 0.824) levels and the overtraining state estimated using the French Society of Sport Medicine questionnaire. In particular, there was a fall (of up to 25%) in IGFBP-3 levels after the match in the more fatigued subjects compared to an increase (of up to 40%) in fit subjects. CONCLUSIONS: A fall in IGFBP-3 in response to an intense bout of exercise may represent an index of tiredness in highly trained sportsmen, as indicated by the scores obtained from the overtraining questionnaire.

Effects of 16 weeks of training prior to a major competition on hormonal and biochemical parameters in young elite gymnasts.

The aim of this study was to investigate the response to 16 weeks of training on selected hormonal and biological parameters in seven international competition level female artistic gymnasts (14.5 +/- 1.2 years). Data were collected at the beginning of the first training week (W1) and in the 16th week (W16). Assessments also included anthropometric measurements, dietary intake for 7 days and Tanner staging. No gymnast had reached menarche and the puberty stages corresponded to Tanner's pubertal stage 2. The gymnasts were smaller than average for their age group, with a height:weight ratio above the 50th percentile. Energy intake was about 31% lower than recommendations. Significant decreases in IGF-I, IGFBP3, IGF-I:C ratio and triglyceride values and increases in uric acid and creatinine levels were noted. Cortisol values were high regardless of the period. This training provided evidence for alterations in resting somatotropic and adrenocorticotropic parameters.

Salivary testosterone and cortisol in rugby players: correlation with psychological overtraining items.

BACKGROUND: A psychocomportemental questionnaire has been devised by the consensus group of the Société Française de Médecine du Sport to characterise and quantify, using a list of functional and psychocomportemental signs, a state of "staleness", for which no biological indicator is unanimously recognised. OBJECTIVES: To determine the relation between this diagnostic method and two hormones (cortisol and testosterone) often used as indicators of a state of fitness or staleness. METHODS: The subjects were young rugby players. They were asked to complete the overtraining questionnaire and gave three saliva samples (at 8 am, 11 am, and 5 pm) during a rest day. Concentrations of cortisol and testosterone in the saliva were determined by radioimmunoassay. RESULTS: A preferential relation was found between the questionnaire score and testosterone concentration but not between the questionnaire score and cortisol concentration. CONCLUSIONS: The questionnaire may be a useful tool for screening subjects at risk of overtraining. Testosterone concentration is influenced by tiredness, and is therefore a valid marker of tiredness.

Nutritional status and body composition of juvenile elite female gymnasts.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to examine body composition, dietary intake and energy expenditure in 12 young female elite gymnasts aged 10.1 +/- 0.3 years, doing a physical exercise of 15 hrs x week-1. The results were compared with a control group consisting of nine volunteer school girls age matched doing less than 4 hrs x wk-1 of physical exercise. METHODS: Assessments included dietary intake for 7 days, anthropometric measurements (body weight, height, arm circumference, triceps and subscapular skinfolds, body mass index). Body fat percentage was estimated using the Slaughter equation. Anthropometric measurements and nutritional intake were recorded in autumn. RESULTS: The gymnasts were shorter and had lower body weight compared with controls (p<0.05). Percentage of body fat was significantly lower in gymnasts versus controls (p<0.01). Gymnasts had higher percentage of fat free mass (p<0.01) than the reference group. Daily energy intake met daily energy requirement in both groups. Distribution of energy for both groups was almost identical, with approximately 14% from protein, 48% from carbohydrate, and 37% from fat. The average intakes of polyunsaturated fat were low in the two groups. The main daily intake of most nutrients in both groups were in accordance with recommendations; exceptions were dietary fibre, E and B6 vitamins. CONCLUSIONS: The primary finding of this investigation is that in both groups, the mean daily energy intake met the energy requirement. Thus, the gymnasts did not restrict total energy. The overall nutrient intake of the two groups may appear adequate. Prepubertal gymnasts have higher percentage of fat free mass and daily energy expenditure and dietary intakes, but lower percent body fat than age matched controls.

Psychophysiological stress in judo athletes during competitions.

BACKGROUND: The relationships between psychophysiological variables were investigated by comparing physiological responses (salivary cortisol and testosterone concentrations) and psychological responses (measured by the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 -CSAI-2-and by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory -STAY-) prior to judo competitions at two levels (regional versus interregional). METHODS: Twelve male judo competitors at interregional level (mean age 22.2+/-1.6 years) entered the experimentation after informed consent. Judo athletes completed the CSAI-2 prior to both competitions and collected saliva for cortisol and testosterone analysis on three occasions: during a resting day (baseline values) and prior to and after both competitions. Trait scales of the STAI (Y-2) were used during a resting baseline period with no stressful situations in order to measure participant's self reported anxiety. RESULTS: Cognitive and somatic anxiety were higher in interregional championships compared to regional championships whereas self-confidence was significantly lower. Cortisol levels increased sharply (about 2.5 fold resting levels) throughout both competitions with no changes in testosterone levels. Positive relationships between anxiety components (somatic and cognitive anxiety) and cortisol were noted in both competitions. CONCLUSIONS: Salivary cortisol, together with anxiety components, may provide a better sensitive index of physiological stress than testosterone concentrations.

Training and 24-hr urinary catecholamine excretion.

We examined the effects of 28 weeks of training on 24-hr urinary catecholamine excretion and mood (evaluated using the Recovery-Stress Questionnaire for Athletes RESTQ-Sport) among seven national young female tennis players. Data were collected after a 1-month rest (September, T (1)), 3 months after T1(T2) and 7 months after T1(T3). Standardized Stress and Standardized Recovery scores and RESTQ-Index were computed. The training load increased by 161 % between T1 and T2 and by 55 % between T2 and T3. The performance (wins/total number of matches) decreased throughout the study. Urinary catecholamine excretion presented an U-shaped curve with a significant increase in 24-hr urinary catecholamine excretions, and epinephrine/norepinephrine ratio from T1 to T2 (T1 vs. T2: epinephrine: + 100 %, p < 0.05; norepinephrine: + 30 %, p < 0.05. Then, at T3, urinary catecholamine excretions and the epinephrine/norepinephrine ratio decreased significantly to values lower than the values observed at T1. A decrease in RESTQ-Index throughout the study was mainly based on a large increase in the Standardized Stress score. Changes in specific stress and recovery scales of the RESTQ-Sport for athletes and changes in catecholamine values indicated a state of heavy training stress and incomplete recovery at the end of the study.

Effects of branched-chain amino acids supplementation on physiological and psychological performance during an offshore sailing race.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of protein diets, rich in branched chain amino acids (BCAA) on perceived exertion, mental and physical performance during an offshore sailing race that lasted 32 h. Twelve sailors were randomly allocated into one of two groups [Control (CON) and BCAA: n = 6/group]. The BCAA group consumed a standard diet of 11.2 MJ day(-1) (58% carbohydrate, 30% fat, 12% Protein) along with a high-protein supplement of 1.7 MJ day(-1) (40% carbohydrate, 35% protein, 25% fat) and 1.7 MJ day(-1) composed of 50% valine, 35% leucine, and 15% isoleucine. CON was given a standard diet of 14.5 MJ day(-1) (58% carbohydrate, 30% fat and 12% protein). During the race, heart rate was monitored. Subjects self-evaluated their feeling of fatigue every 3 h, and 12 samples of saliva from each subject were collected to perform cortisol assays. Before and after the race a vertical jump and a handgrip test were performed, and mental performance was evaluated with a standardized battery of tests. A significant increase in the feeling of fatigue was noted on the second day (D2) of race in both groups; the increase was higher in CON (P < 0.05). For both groups, salivary cortisol concentration followed a nycthemeral rhythm, with an alteration during the race as evidenced by high midnight cortisol levels between D1 and D2, and significantly decreased cortisol levels observed on D2 (P < 0.05). There was no change in physical performance at the end of the race in both groups. As a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in short-term memory performance was observed only in the CON group. These data indicate that an offshore sailing race enhances the feeling of fatigue, and decreases short-term memory performance. These detrimental consequences are reduced by a high-protein diet with BCAA.

Eating attitudes, body esteem, perfectionism and anxiety of judo athletes and nonathletes.

The aim of the study was to examine the prevalence and relationships between disordered eating, menstrual irregularity, musculoskeletal injuries and psychological characteristics in 24 judo athletes (12 females and 12 males) and 31 controls (14 females and 17 males). All these parameters were assessed by a health/medical, dieting and menstrual history questionnaire, the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26), the Multidimensional perfectionism scale, the Rosenberg Self-esteem, the Body esteem scale, and the Profile of Mood States. Body mass index (BMI) was also computed. Twenty-five percent of female athletes would be "at risk" of EDs (EAT-26 > 20) and 0 % in the other sample groups. Bone injuries sustained over the judo athlete career were reported by 25 % of females and 33.3 % of males, while 35.7 % of the female controls reported bone injuries. The total frequency of menstrual dysfunction among judo athletes was 58.3 %, while 7.1 % of female controls reported oligoamenorrhea. Regression analyses showed that BE-Weight Satisfaction and BMI contributed to 54.6 % and 17 % of the variance, respectively, in the prediction of log-transformed Global EAT scores among female judo athletes. These data indicate that while the prevalence of clinical eating disorders is low in judo athletes, many are "at risk" for an eating disorder, which places them at an increased risk for menstrual irregularity and bone injuries. This study also highlights the relevance of body esteem to eating disorder symptoms.

Competition and food restriction effects on oxidative stress in judo.

We examined the effects of weight loss induced by restricting energy and fluid intake on antioxidant status and oxidative stress of judo athletes. Twenty male judoka were randomly assigned to one of two groups (Group A: called diet, n = 10; height 174.8 +/- 1.9 cm, body weight 75.9 +/- 3.1 kg; they were asked to lose approximately 5 % of their body weight through self-determined means during the week before the competition; Group B: called control, n = 10; height 176.4 +/- 1.1 cm, body weight 73.3 +/- 6.3 kg maintained their body weight during the week before the competition). A battery of tests was performed during a baseline period (T1) on the morning of a simulated competition (T2) and 10 minutes after the end of the competition (T3). These tests included assessment for body composition, determination of lag phase (Lp) before free radical induced oxidation, maximum rate of oxidation (Rmax) during the propagating chain reaction and maximum amount of conjugated dienes (CDmax) accumulated after the propagation phase, and lipidic profile. Uric acid concentrations were also evaluated in plasma. Dietary data were collected using a 7-day diet record. We noted that the athletes followed a low carbohydrate diet whatever the period of the investigation. Concerning antioxidant nutrients, we can notice that mean nutritional intakes are in the normal range values for vitamin A, C and E at T1 and T2. Rapid weight loss induced a significant increase in Lp values (p < 0.05) and uric acid concentrations without alterations in oxidative stress. Our data also showed that the competition induced the same changes of oxidative-antioxidant status whatever the dietary intake during the seven days before the competition. Moreover, the effect of the competition on the antioxidant and oxidant parameters was more pronounced than the diet. Theses results could be linked to the food containing a large proportion of PUFA and a relative low proportion of carbohydrates.