The following electronic only articles are published in conjunction with this issue of BJSM

Does complete deficiency of muscle α actinin 3 alter functional capacity in elderly women? A preliminary report

A F San Juan, F Gomez-Gallego, S Cañete, C Santiago, M Pérez, A Lucia

The sarcomeric protein α actinin 3 is localised to the Z line of fast fibres, which are responsible for generating forceful muscle contractions at high velocity. However, a substantial proportion of healthy humans are totally deficient in this protein as they are homozygous for a premature stop codon polymorphism (R577X) in the ACTN3 gene. The purpose of this preliminary study was to assess if the presence or absence of α actinin 3 influences the deleterious effects of ageing on muscle output and functional capacity.

(Br J Sports Med 2005;40:e1) http://bjsm.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/40/9/e1

Concussion management by primary care providers

M D Pleacher, W W Dexter

Objective: To assess current concussion management practices of primary care providers.

Methods: An 11 item questionnaire was mailed to primary care providers in the state of Maine, with serial mailings to non-respondents.

Results: Over 50% of the questionnaires were completed, with nearly 70% of primary care providers indicating that they routinely use published guidelines as a tool in managing patients with concussion. Nearly two thirds of providers were aware that neuropsychological tests could be used, but only 16% had access to such tests within a week of injury.

Conclusions: Primary care providers are using published concussion management guidelines with high frequency, but many are unable to access neuropsychological testing when it is required.

(Br J Sports Med 2005;40:e2) http://bjsm.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/40/9/e2