We tested the hypothesis that polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) cell counts and phagocytic activity determined by latex ingestion and superoxide anion production are influenced by different training periods. We investigated long-distance runners before and up to 24 h after a graded exercise test to exhaustion during moderate training (MT) and intense training (IT) and compared them with untrained (control) subjects. Cell counts and phagocytic activity at rest and after exercise did not differ significantly between MT and control. On the contrary, IT showed a significant (P < or = 0.05) decrease in PMN cell count at rest (2.55 +/- 0.3 cells/nl) compared with MT (3.63 +/- 0.2 cells/nl) and control (3.41 +/- 0.8 cells/nl). Furthermore, phagocytic activity was significantly reduced (P < or = 0.05) in IT at rest and after exercise compared with MT and control. A strong inverse correlation (r = -0.75; P < or = 0.01) between epinephrine and superoxide anion production was found. These results provide evidence that the phagocytic activity depends on the training period and indicate impaired PMN functions during IT, which might lead to increased susceptibility to infection.

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Thalidomid-Embryopathie II. Ergebnisse individueller anamnestischer Erhebungen in den Einzugsgebieten der Universitäts-Kinderkliniken Bonn.

Twenty-six male runners aged 14-16 years not yet specifically trained for sprint or middle-distance running performed a field test with distances of 25 m, 75 m, and 1000 m. Before the field test they were designated as sprinters (n = 19) and middle-distance runners (n = 7) according to their self-assessment and the estimation of the coaches. Blood ammonia and lactate concentrations were measured before and after the runs, and heart rates as well as the perceived exertion were evaluated. The most remarkable finding was a significantly higher ammonia increase in the supposed sprinters after 75 m compared with the supposed middle-distance runners. The ammonia concentrations after 1000 m were considerably less pronounced in both groups and did not differ significantly. The ratio of the ammonia concentration after the 75-m and the 1000-m distance was defined as an index. A high index was typical for designated sprinters, whereas a low index was found in supposed middle-distance runners. The combination of this index and the assessment of the coaches makes it possible to recommend special training regimens.