Neuromuscular adaptations to constant vs. variable resistance training in older men.

This study examined the effects of constant or variable external resistance training on neuromuscular adaptations in the lower limbs of older men. 37 subjects (age 65±4 year) were quasi-randomly assigned to the constant or variable training group, or a non-training control group. Training consisted of a 20-week medium-intensity, high volume resistance training program. Maximum bilateral concentric and isometric force production of the leg extensors as well as repetitions-to-failure test were performed pre-, mid- and post-training. Vastus lateralis muscle cross-sectional area was assessed by ultrasound and lean leg mass was assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Both training groups significantly increased force production of the leg extensors (variable: 26 kg, 95% CI=12-39, P<0.01; constant: 31 kg, 95% CI=19-43, P<0.01) and VL cross-sectional area (variable: 1.5 cm2, 95% CI=0.03-3.1, P=0.046; constant: 3 cm2, 95% CI=1.2-4.8, P=0.002). However, only the variable training group significantly improved repetitions to failure performance (704 kg, 95% CI=45-1 364, P=0.035). Only the variable resistance training group improved fatigue-resistance properties, which may be an important adaptation to maintain exercise and functional capacity in older individuals.

[Congenital luxation of the hip in a newborn infant after tubal pregnancy (feto-salpynx). Plea for the postural theory of luxation]. / Luxation congénitale de la hanche chez un nouveau-né après grossesse tubaire (foeto-salpynx). Plaidoyer pour la théorie posturale de la luxation.

The authors report a case of an infant born after a 37-week intra-tubal pregnancy (foeto-salpinx). There were several orthopaedic complications due to malposition: torticollis which will be treated by sternomastoid tenotomy at the age of three, pes valgus with metatarsus varus and congenital dislocation of the right hip. Conservative treatment proved inadequate and required treatment by pelvic osteotomy to correct a severe acetabular dysplasia. A review of the literature reveals that tubal pregnancies resulting in the birth of a mature and living new born are exceptional. From the mechanical point of view, the authors consider that, in this case, two factors combined to produce a congenital dislocation of the hip--excessive pressure exerted on the foetus by the tubal wall and an abnormal position of the foetus favouring the dislocation. The reasons for the ineffectiveness of conservative treatment to correct the severe acetabular dysplasia are discussed.