Epidemiology of arthropods envenomation in Brazil: a public health issue.

Brazil is located between the Equator and Tropic of Capricorn, which allows diverse climates, reliefs, and habitats for arthropods, which sting represents a risk to human health and a public health issue. This manuscript updates the epidemiological data of cases of human envenoming by spiders, scorpions, and insects with medical relevance in Brazil from 2010 to 2021. Epidemiological data were taken using the Brazilian Notifiable Diseases Information System. Statistics of non-parametric data used the Kruskal-Wallis followed by the Nemenyi test. On average, more than 145,000 envenomation and 145 deaths are recorded annually, and more than 60% of deaths are caused by scorpion bites. When the number of deaths was pondered by the number of cases with each arthropod, bees kill the most. Most stings cause mild symptoms and affect men of working age. The incidence decreases during the colder months, which is better noticeable in regions with well-defined seasons. The distribution is distinct among the regions: Southeast, Northeast, and South have the highest rate of bites. The growing number of cases of envenomation reported annually is a serious public health concern, especially involving scorpions, and highlights the importance of studying arthropod venom and improving the therapies.

Understanding the Elevated Lethality of COVID-19 in Liver Transplant Recipients: Does Immunosuppression Management Matter? Results from a Brazilian Multicentric Historical Cohort.

BACKGROUND: Infections by SARS-CoV-2 in liver transplant recipients (LT) patients are of particular concern, notably due to perceived added risks related to immunosuppression and comorbidity burden. Current literature on this topic often relies on small, non-standardized, and geographically limited studies. This manuscript describes COVID-19 presentations and causes for elevated mortality in a large cohort of LT recipients. METHODS: This study was designed as a multicentric historical cohort, including LT recipient patients with COVID-19 in 25 study centers, with the primary endpoint being COVID-related death. We also collected demographic, clinical, and laboratory data regarding presentation and disease progression. RESULTS: Two hundred and thirty-four cases were included. The study population was predominantly male and White and had a median age of 60 years. The median time from transplantation was 2.6 years (IQR 1-6). Most patients had at least one comorbidity (189, 80.8%). Patient age (P = .04), dyspnea (P < .001), intensive care unit admission (P < .001), and mechanical ventilation (P < .001) were associated with increased mortality. Modifications of immunosuppressive therapy (P < .001), specifically the suspension of tacrolimus, maintained significance in multivariable analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Attention to risk factors and the individualization of patient care, especially regarding immunosuppression management, is crucial for delivering more precise interventions to these individuals.

Effect of Small-Sided Games with and without the Offside Rule on Young Soccer Players: Reliability of Physiological Demands.

This study aimed to compare the physiological demand between three vs. three small-sided games (SSGs) with (3vs.3WITH) and without (3vs.3WITHOUT) the offside rule, as well as the within- and between-session reliability of this demand. Twenty-four U-17 soccer athletes performed various three vs. three (plus goalkeepers) SSGs with and without the offside rule. The data collection was performed within an eight-week period. Athletes' heart rate was monitored during the SSG. The variables analyzed were the percentage mean heart rate (HRMEAN%) and the percentage peak heart rate (HRPEAK%). For the analysis of within-session reliability, the mean value of the first two and last two SSG bouts performed within one day were used. The between-session reliability was calculated using the mean value of the four SSG bouts of each SSG type performed on two different days. In both SSGs, the values for reliability were significant and were classified as moderate to excellent. There were no significant differences in the physiological demand among SSG types. We concluded that the offside rule does not influence the physiological demand in a three vs. three SSG and the HRMEAN% and HRPEAK% present moderate to excellent reliability in a three vs. three SSG with and without the offside rule.

Equalization of Training Protocols by Time Under Tension Determines the Magnitude of Changes in Strength and Muscular Hypertrophy.

ABSTRACT: Martins-Costa, HC, Lacerda, LT, Diniz, RCR, Lima, FV, Andrade, AGP, Peixoto, GH, Gomes, MC, Lanza, MB, Bemben, MG, and Chagas, MH. Equalization of training protocols by time under tension determines the magnitude of changes in strength and muscular hypertrophy. J Strength Cond Res 36(7): 1770-1780, 2022-The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 2 training protocols equalized by tension (TUT) on maximal strength (1 repetition maximum [RM]), regional cross-sectional areas (proximal, middle, and distal), and total cross-sectional areas (sum of the regional cross-sectional areas) of the pectoralis major and triceps brachii muscles. Thirty-eight men untrained in resistance training participated in the study and were allocated under 3 conditions: Protocol 3s (n = 11; 12 repetitions; 3s repetition duration), Protocol 6s (n = 11; 6 repetitions; 6s repetition duration), and Control (n = 11; no training). Training protocols (10 weeks; bench press exercise) were equated for TUT (36 seconds per set), number of sets (3-4), intensity (50-55% of 1RM), and rest between sets (3 minutes). Analysis of variance was used to examine a percentage change in variables of interest across the 3 groups with an alpha level of 0.05 used to establish statistical significance. Protocols 3s and 6s showed no differences in the increase of total and regional muscle cross-sectional areas. There were no differences in regional hypertrophy of the pectoralis major muscle. In the triceps brachii muscle, the increase in distal cross-sectional area was greater when compared with the middle and proximal regions. Both experimental groups had similar increases in the 1RM test. In conclusion, training protocols with the same TUT promote similar strength gains and muscle hypertrophy. Moreover, considering that the protocols used different numbers of repetitions, the results indicate that training volumes cannot be considered separately from TUT when evaluating neuromuscular adaptations.

Does the change of direction deficit measure the time of change of direction?

Abstract Aim: To determine whether the change of direction (COD) deficit can represent the time of the change of direction in professional under 17 years old (U-17) soccer players. Methods: Sixteen young soccer athletes performed the adapted 505 agility test with the stationary stance (2 straight lines of 5 m) and the 10 m linear running test (LR). In both tests, the partial and total times were recorded every 2.5 m by time gates (0-2.5 m; 2.5-7.5 m; 7.5-10 m). The best performances were recorded and used to determine the COD deficit (difference between the time for the LR and 505 tests). The paired t-test compared the initial acceleration (0-2.5 m) time, the COD time (2.5-7.5 m), and the COD deficit among the tests. Results: Times in the LR test were significantly shorter in the initial acceleration phase (0-2.5 m), and the change of direction deficit was also lower than the change of direction time (2.5-7.5 m) for both sides (p = 0.005). Conclusion: When an athlete is aware of an upcoming change of direction, a lower initial acceleration results in biases for determining the change of direction deficit. Therefore, acceleration capacity might not be suitable to assess using the 505 agility test.

Mycelial Inhibition of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum by Trichoderma spp. Volatile Organic Compounds in Distinct Stages of Development.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> Fungi of the genus <i>Trichoderma </i>have high versatility in the control of different plant diseases. Among the main mechanisms of action of these fungi against phytopathogenic fungi, the production of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) is mentioned. These compounds are said to inhibit the mycelial growth of various fungal pathogens. The objective of this work was to evaluate the <i>in vitro</i> inhibition of the mycelial growth of <i>Sclerotinia sclerotiorum </i>by VOCs from six <i>Trichoderma </i>strains in different stages of development of the biocontrol agent. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> In this work, the <i>in vitro </i>evaluation of the mycelial growth of the phytopathogen <i>S. sclerotiorum </i>by VOCs from six <i>Trichoderma </i>strains was carried out: <i>T. koningiopsis </i>(CEN1386), <i>T. asperelloides </i>(CEN1397), <i>T. longibrachiatum </i>(CEN1399) <i>T. lentiforme </i>(CEN1416), <i>T</i>. <i>perbedyi</i> (CEN1389) and <i>T. azevedoi</i> (CEN1241). Observations were made at different stages of antagonist development: mycelial Growth Phase (GP), Sporulation Phase (SP) and paired with the Pathogen Phase (PP). Besides, the sporulation of the tested strains was quantified. <b>Conclusion:</b> In all experimental conditions, the VOCs produced by the CEN1241 strain showed a greater inhibitory effect, although the inhibition was less evident when the cultures of <i>S. sclerotiorum </i>were exposed in the GP phase of the antagonist. Greater sporulation was observed with <i>T. lentiforme</i> (CEN1416), a fact not related to a better ability to inhibit <i>S. sclerotiorum</i>, by VOCs.

Assessment of the Maximal Range of Motion from Initial Sensation of Stretching to the Limits of Tolerance.

The aim of this study was to determine whether the first sensation of stretching (ROMFSS) may predict the maximum range of motion (ROMMAX) in male (N = 37) and female (N = 32) volunteer subjects, and to assess the reliability of the ROM perceived by subjects in relation to a pre-determined ROM (ROM50%). Subjects attempted three experimental sessions with 48 hours between sessions 1 and 2 and 28 days between sessions 1 and 3. Within each session, five trials were performed with isokinetic equipment to assess posterior thigh muscle flexibility. The results revealed a strong and significant correlation between ROMMAX and ROMFSS for both sexes, females (r = 0.96, p < 0.001, R2 = 0.92) and males (r = 0.91, p < 0.001; R2 = 0.82). The accuracy of the model verified by the standard error of estimate (SEE) was high in the equations proposed for both female (SEE = 4.53%) and male (SEE = 5.45%). Our results revealed that ROMFSS may predict the ROMMAX for both male and female subjects. The ROMFSS may contribute to the development of evaluation methods that do not subject the individuals to conditions that may include unnecessary risk of injury and is well suited to monitor the training process of stretching exercises with submaximal loads.

Correlation between running asymmetry, mechanical efficiency, and performance during a 10 km run.

Running asymmetry is considered a matter of concern for performance and injury, but the association between asymmetry and performance remain unclear. There are different strategies to address asymmetries and its relationship with performance. Here we investigated the correlation between global symmetry index and mechanical efficiency during 10 km running. Thirteen amateur trained athletes (8 men and 5 women) performed a 10 km running at a fixed pace while a 3D accelerometer attached to the pelvic region recorded position data throughout the course of the run and gas exchanges were monitored breath by breath. Global symmetry index was determined for 3 directions, and mechanical efficiency was calculated as the ratio of external work output to energy expenditure determined from gas analysis. Global Symmetry Index and mechanical efficiency decreased (-55.5% and -44.8%, respectively) during the course of the 10 km run (p < 0.01). A positive correlation was observed between global symmetry index and efficiency (r = 0.66, p = 0.01). Asymmetry in the vertical direction had a relatively higher impact on the global symmetry index. The global symmetry index accounted for 43.1% of the variance in mechanical efficiency (p = 0.015). Symmetry, evaluated by the global symmetry index, directly correlates with mechanical efficiency during a 10 km run.

Understanding Player Load: Meanings and Limitations.

We present a critical reflection on the mechanical variable Player Load, which is based on acceleration data and commonly used in sports. Our motivation to write this paper came from the difficulties that we encountered in the calculation and interpretation of Player Load using our own data, since we did not use the Catapult Sports equipment, which is a merchandise of the company that proposed this variable. We reviewed existing literature in order to understand Player Load better; we found many inconsistencies in PL calculation methods and in the meanings attached to it. Accordingly, this paper presents a brief discussion on the meanings that have been assigned to Player Load, its limitations, and the lack of clear and complete information about Player Load calculation methods. Moreover, the use of arbitrary units and different practical meanings in the literature has associated Player Load with many physical quantities, thereby resulting in difficulties in determining what Player Load measures within the context of sports. It seems that Player Load is related to the magnitude of changes in acceleration, but not the magnitude of acceleration itself. Therefore, coaches and sports scientists should take this information into account when they use Player Load to prescribe and monitor external loads. We concluded that a deeper discussion of Player Load as a descriptor of external load is warranted in the sports sciences literature.

Biomechanical Response to Acute Stretching in Dancers and Non-Dancers.

This study aimed to investigate the bio- mechanical response of the hamstring muscles to acute stretching in dancers (D) compared to non-dancers (ND). Maximal range of motion (ROMMax) and stiffness of the hamstrings were assessed in 46 young males, 23 undergraduate students (ND) and 23 professional dancers (D). Ages of the two groups were D 21.5 ± 0.60 years; ND 27.5 ± 0.98 years). Testing was performed in two sessions, familiarization with procedures in the first session and the tests themselves (pre- and post-test and intervention) in the second, with a 24- to 48-hour interval between. The pre-test consisted of three trials of passive knee extension to the point of increased tension in the hamstrings, defined as ROMMax. The resistance torque recorded at ROMMax was defined as torqueMax. Six 30-second constant torque stretches were performed at 100% of the torqueMaxreached in the pre-test in one lower limb only (intervention), with the contralateral limb used as control. The torque measured at an identical ROM before (pre-test) and after (post-test) the intervention was defined as torqueROM, and represented stiffness in this study. Reliability of the ROMMax, torqueMax, and torqueROMwas assessed via intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC3, k) and standard error of the measurements (SEM). Comparison between dancers and non-dancers, control, and intervention conditions for all dependent variables was performed using ANOVA repeated measures followed by Tukey post hoc comparisons to highlight any interaction. The submaximal stretch intensity applied caused torqueROM to decrease in both D and ND groups (p < 0.01), indicating a decrease in stiffness, but no difference between the groups was found. A significantly greater increase in ROMMax was found for the D group compared to the ND group (p < 0.01), suggesting that other aspects in addition to MTU biomechanical adaptations may have played a role in the ROMMax increase, especially for the D group. Further research is needed to explore what those other adaptations are. Meanwhile, coaches and physical therapists should be aware that dancers may require different stretch training protocols than non-dancers.

Ansiedade e depressão em pacientes internados vítimas de acidentes e violência física interpessoal / Anxiety and depression in hospitalized patients victims of accidents and violence

Introdução: Ansiedade e depressão são as repercussões psíquicas mais frequentes em pacientes hospitalizados. No Ceará, o Instituto Dr. José Frota (IJF) configura-se como o maior hospital de emergência traumatológica que recebe pacientes vítimas de acidentes e violências físicas. Objetivou-se estudar as alterações de humor ansiedade e depressão em pacientes hospitalizados no IJF, vítimas de acidentes e violência física interpessoal (VFI). Metodologia: Tratou-se de um estudo quantitativo, observacional, individualizado, analítico, transversal, baseado em investigações que observaram causa e efeito. Utilizou-se questionário com variáveis socioeconômicas e demográficas e a Escala de Ansiedade e Depressão Hospitalares. Resultados: Observou-se que dos 185 pacientes, houve uma predominância de indivíduos do sexo masculino (74,4% e 92,5%, acidentes e VFI, respectivamente), média de idade de 30,78 (+/- 12,88) e 25,58 (+/- 0,878) anos, solteiros (64% e 67,3%), pardos (45,4% e 72%) e com baixo nível socioeconômico. A avaliação dos transtornos psíquicos nas vítimas de acidente mostrou que 42,3% e 10,3% apresentaram ansiedade e depressão, respectivamente. Dentre as vítimas de violência, 31,6% e 29% foram considerados com ansiedade e depressão, respectivamente. Conclusões: A participação do cirurgião-dentista no âmbito hospitalar exige o reconhecimento das alterações de humor dos pacientes, visto que influenciará na conduta clínica adequada e recuperação de cada indivíduo... (AU)

Introduction: Anxiety and depression are the most frequent psychic repercussions in hospitalized patients. In Ceará, the Dr. José Frota Institute (IJF) is the largest trauma emergency hospital, which receives patients victims of accidents and physical violence. The objective was to study the mood changes anxiety and depression in patients hospitalized in the IJF, victims of accidents and interpersonal physical violence (IPV). Methodology: It was a quantitative, observational, individuated, analytical, cross-sectional study based on investigations that observed cause and effect. A questionnaire was used with socioeconomic and demographic variables and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Results: It was observed that of the 185 patients, the majority were male (74.4% and 92.5%, accidents and IPV, respectively), mean age of 30,78 (+/- 12.88) and 25,58 (+/- 0.878) years old, single (64% and 67.3%), brown (45.4% and 72%) and with low socioeconomic status. The evaluation of psychic disorders in accident victims showed that 42.3% and 10.3% presented anxiety and depression, respectively. Among the victims of violence, 31.6% and 29% were considered with anxiety and depression, respectively. Conclusions: In conclusion, the participation of the dental surgeon in the hospital requires the recognition of patients' mood swings, since it will influence the appropriate clinical management and recovery of each individual... (AU)

Longer Concentric Action Increases Muscle Activation and Neuromuscular Fatigue Responses in Protocols Equalized by Repetition Duration.

Lacerda, LT, Costa, CG, Lima, FV, Martins-Costa, HC, Diniz, RCR, Andrade, AGP, Peixoto, GHC, Bemben, MG, and Chagas, MH. Longer concentric action increases muscle activation and neuromuscular fatigue responses in protocols equalized by repetition duration. J Strength Cond Res 33(6): 1629-1639, 2019-The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of protocols equalized by the repetition duration but composed of different concentric (CON) and eccentric (ECC) durations on muscle activation and neuromuscular fatigue. Seventeen males with previous experience in resistance training performed 3 training protocols (A - 2 second CON: 4 second ECC; B - 3 second CON: 3 second ECC; and C - 4 second CON: 2 second ECC) with the Smith machine bench press exercise, all with 3 sets, 6 repetitions, 3 minutes' rest, and 60% of 1RM. The normalized root mean square of the electromyographic signal (EMGRMS) and mean frequency electromyography (EMGMF) for pectoralis major and triceps brachii muscles were calculated for second and fifth repetitions in each set. The results showed an EMGMF decrease across the repetitions accompanied by a progressive increase of the EMGRMS across the repetitions for all protocols and muscles. The EMGRMS was higher in protocol C when compared with protocol A and B for pectoralis major. The EMGMF was lower in protocols B and C than in protocol A for pectoralis major throughout the sets and repetitions. A higher EMGRMS and a lower EMGMF were observed in protocols B and C compared with protocol A for triceps brachii, solely in the fifth repetition. In conclusion, training protocols conducted with the same repetition duration, but with different concentric and eccentric durations, produce distinct muscle activation and neuromuscular fatigue responses, in which performing longer concentric durations could be the more appropriate strategy to increase muscle activation and neuromuscular fatigue.

Space Creation Dynamics in Basketball Small-Sided Games.

Space creation dynamics (SCDs) describe actions players perform to create a scoring opportunity. This study compared SCDs and types of offense during three different three versus three (3vs.3) basketball small-sided games (SSGs) played in half court: 3vs.3 with man-to-man defense in half playing area (3vs.3HALF), 3vs.3 with man-to-man defense in full playing area (3vs.3FULL), and 3vs.3 with reduced shot clock (3vs.3RT). We also investigated the efficacy of SCDs in all SSGs and the reliability of SCDs in 3vs.3HALF. While the efficacy of SCDs did not differ among these SSGs, 3vs.3RT presented significantly more "space creation with ball dribbled" and "shot clock violations," and less "on ball screens." 3vs.3FULL presented no differences in the SCDs and types of offense compared with 3vs.3HALF. Reliability within 3vs.3HALF was higher for "space creation with ball dribbled," "space creation without the ball," "set offenses," "fast breaks," and "loss of ball during passing or dribbling." We concluded that 3vs.3 basketball SSGs with different rules can be used for training different tactical behaviors important to formal games, especially since the 3vs.3HALF presented good reliability for many variables related to tactical behavior.

Analysis of network properties and tactical behavior of u-17 soccer athletes with different tactical skills / Análise das interações e do comportamento tático de atletas sub-17 de futebol com diferentes capacidades táticas

ABSTRACT This study aimed compare individual tactical behavior and network properties of players with higher and lower tactical skills during soccer small-sided games. The sample was composed of 18 U-17 elite soccer players (16.2 years old) from the same national level team. Players were divided into group 1 and group 2, with higher and lower tactical skill, respectively, measured by the FUT-SAT. After this, they played 12 small-sided games in a 36x27m field with all rules of the formal game. Players' tactical behavior was assessed through the incidence of fundamental tactical principles during the SSG. Total links, density and clustering coefficient were defined as the general network metrics. Data were analyzed through independent t-test and Mann-Whitney test. Results showed that group 1 presented higher values of total links (p=0.007) and density (p=0.007). Group 1 also presented a higher incidence of defensive unity (p=0.001), while group 2 realized more actions of defensive balance (p=0.008) and recovery balance (p=0.038). We conclude that tactical skills are able to constraint individual team behavior in small-sided games.

RESUMO Este estudo objetivou comparar o comportamento tático individual e as propriedades da rede de interações de atletas com maior e menor capacidade tática durante pequenos jogos no futebol. A amostra foi composta por 19 jogadores de futebol sub-17 (16.2 anos) de um mesmo time, de nível nacional. Jogadores foram divididos em grupo 1 e grupo 2, com maior e menor capacidade tática, respectivamente, medida pelo FUT-SAT. Na sequência, eles participaram de 12 pequenos jogos em um campo de 36mx27m com todas as regras do jogo formal. Avaliou-se o comportamento tático dos jogadores por meio da incidência dos princípios táticos fundamentais durante os pequenos jogos. Total links, densidade e clustering coefficient foram definidos com as medidas das propriedades gerais da rede. Analisaram-se os dados por meio do teste t independente e do teste de Mann-Whitney. Os resultados mostraram que o grupo 1 apresentou maiores valores para total links (p=0.007) e densidade (p=0.007). O grupo 1 apresentou ainda maior incidência de ações de unidade defensiva (p=0.001), enquanto o grupo 2 realizou mais ações de equilíbrio defensivo (p=0.008) e equilíbrio de recuperação (p=0.038). Conclui-se que a capacidade tática influencia o comportamento individual e coletivo durante pequenos jogos.

Acute neuromuscular response during eccentric overload protocol by using a mechanical device to increase the load / Resposta neuromuscular aguda durante um protocolo de sobrecarga excêntrica usando um dispositivo mecânico para aumentar a carga

Abstract The aim of this study was to propose a mechanical device that could increase the mechanical load during the entire eccentric (ECC) action on a knee flexor machine and to compare the muscular activity when the device was used during a testing protocol. Fifteen physically active women were recruited, and they performed two protocols: control and eccentric overload. Control protocol was performed with concentric (CON) and ECC actions with similar load (60% of one repetition maximum) whilst eccentric overload protocol consisted of ECC actions with 40% more load than CON actions. Muscular activation was measured using surface electromyography of the biceps femoris (BF) and the gastrocnemius medialis (GM) muscles. ECC actions presented a higher muscular activation during eccentric overload protocol than control protocol for BF (p = 0.032), but not for the GM (p = 0.439). The mechanical device increased the mechanical load during the ECC muscle action and consequently increased the amplitude of the neural drive to the BF muscle; however, it did not increase the amplitude of the neural drive to the GM muscle.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi propor um dispositivo mecânico que acoplado a uma cadeira flexora aumente a carga mecânica durante toda a ação excêntrica (ECC) e comparar a atividade muscular durante a utilização do dispositivo proposto. Quinze mulheres fisicamente ativas foram recrutadas e realizaram dois diferentes protocolos (controle e sobrecarga ECC). O protocolo controle foi realizado com ações concêntricas (CON) e ECC com carga iguais (60% de uma repetição máxima), enquanto o protocolo de sobrecarga ECC consistiu em ações ECC com 40% mais de carga do que as ações CON. A ativação muscular dos músculos biceps femoris (BF) e gastrocnemius medialis (GM) foi medida por meio de eletromiografia de superfície. Durante as ações ECC foi observada uma maior ativação do BF durante o protocolo de sobrecarga quando comparado ao protocolo controle (p = 0,032). No entanto, GM não apresentou diferenças na ativação entre os protocolos (p = 0,439). O dispositivo mecânico proposto foi capaz de aumentar a carga durante a ação ECC e, consequentemente, a atividade muscular do BF.

Tactical behavior in soccer small-sided games: influence of team composition criteria / Comportamento tático em pequenos jogos no futebol: influência do critério de composição das equipes

Abstract This study aimed to compare the tactical behavior of young soccer players during small-sided games played with team composition criteria based on procedural tactical knowledge, aerobic power and speed performance. Eighteen male soccer players played 3vs.3 small-sided games with teams balanced according to players' performance on Sprint Test, Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test and the field test of the System of Tactical Assessment in Soccer. Data related to the incidence of tactical principles were analyzed through the proportions chi-square test with Bonferroni's correction. One-way ANOVA was used to compare players' offensive and defensive tactical performance. Results showed different incidence of offensive and defensive tactical principles in games with different teams' composition criteria. It has also been shown a higher defensive performance when the teams' composition criteria was based on players' procedural tactical knowledge.

Resumo Este estudo objetivou comparar o comportamento tático de jovens atletas de futebol durante pequenos jogos com critérios de composição das equipes baseados no conhecimento tático processual, capacidade aeróbica e desempenho de velocidade. Dezoito jogadores participaram de pequenos jogos na configuração 3vs.3 com equipes equilibradas de acordo com o desempenho no Teste de Sprint, no Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test e no teste de campo do Sistema de Avaliação Tática no Futebol - FUT-SAT Analisaram-se os dados relativos à incidência dos princípios táticos por meio do teste de qui-quadrado de proporções e conduziram-se comparações pareadas a partir da correção de Bonferroni. Para a comparação do desempenho tático ofensivo e defensivo recorreu-se à ANOVA one-way. Resultados apontaram diferenças na incidência de princípios táticos ofensivos e defensivos a partir da utilização dos três diferentes critérios de composição das equipes. Observou-se ainda maior desempenho tático defensivo a partir da composição das equipes baseada no conhecimento tático processual dos atletas

Exploratory factor analysis for differentiating sensory and mechanical variables related to muscle-tendon unit elongation.

BACKGROUND: Stretching exercises are able to promote adaptations in the muscle-tendon unit (MTU), which can be tested through physiological and biomechanical variables. Identifying the key variables in MTU adaptations is crucial to improvements in training. OBJECTIVE: To perform an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) involving the variables often used to evaluate the response of the MTU to stretching exercises. METHOD: Maximum joint range of motion (ROMMAX), ROM at first sensation of stretching (FSTROM), peak torque (torqueMAX), passive stiffness, normalized stiffness, passive energy, and normalized energy were investigated in 36 participants during passive knee extension on an isokinetic dynamometer. Stiffness and energy values were normalized by the muscle cross-sectional area and their passive mode assured by monitoring the EMG activity. RESULTS: EFA revealed two major factors that explained 89.68% of the total variance: 53.13% was explained by the variables torqueMAX, passive stiffness, normalized stiffness, passive energy, and normalized energy, whereas the remaining 36.55% was explained by the variables ROMMAX and FSTROM. CONCLUSION: This result supports the literature wherein two main hypotheses (mechanical and sensory theories) have been suggested to describe the adaptations of the MTU to stretching exercises. Contrary to some studies, in the present investigation torqueMAX was significantly correlated with the variables of the mechanical theory rather than those of the sensory theory. Therefore, a new approach was proposed to explain the behavior of the torqueMAX during stretching exercises.

Exploratory factor analysis for differentiating sensory and mechanical variables related to muscle-tendon unit elongation

ABSTRACT Background Stretching exercises are able to promote adaptations in the muscle-tendon unit (MTU), which can be tested through physiological and biomechanical variables. Identifying the key variables in MTU adaptations is crucial to improvements in training. Objective To perform an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) involving the variables often used to evaluate the response of the MTU to stretching exercises. Method Maximum joint range of motion (ROMMAX), ROM at first sensation of stretching (FSTROM), peak torque (torqueMAX), passive stiffness, normalized stiffness, passive energy, and normalized energy were investigated in 36 participants during passive knee extension on an isokinetic dynamometer. Stiffness and energy values were normalized by the muscle cross-sectional area and their passive mode assured by monitoring the EMG activity. Results EFA revealed two major factors that explained 89.68% of the total variance: 53.13% was explained by the variables torqueMAX, passive stiffness, normalized stiffness, passive energy, and normalized energy, whereas the remaining 36.55% was explained by the variables ROMMAX and FSTROM. Conclusion This result supports the literature wherein two main hypotheses (mechanical and sensory theories) have been suggested to describe the adaptations of the MTU to stretching exercises. Contrary to some studies, in the present investigation torqueMAX was significantly correlated with the variables of the mechanical theory rather than those of the sensory theory. Therefore, a new approach was proposed to explain the behavior of the torqueMAX during stretching exercises.

Trigeminal neuralgia secondary to basilar impression: A case report.

We report a rare case of trigeminal neuralgia. A 23-year-old woman with a history of 1 year of typical trigeminal neuralgia manifested the characteristics of basilar impression. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated basilar impression, deformity of the posterior fossa with asymmetry of petrous bone, and compression of medulla oblongata in the topography of the odontoid apophysis. The operation was performed through a suboccipital craniectomy. The neuralgia disappeared after surgery and remains completely resolved until today. This is the second reported case of trigeminal neuralgia in a patient with basilar impression in Brazil.

Viscoelastic stress relaxation in the hamstrings before and after a 10-week stretching program.

INTRODUCTION: We investigated the viscoelastic stress relaxation response before and after a 10-week hamstrings static stretch program. METHODS: The maximal range of motion (ROMmax ) and maximal torque (Torquemax ) were assessed before and after a 10-week stretching program. Six 30-s static stretches at a predetermined torque were performed, and the relative change in stress relaxation was examined. RESULTS: ROMmax and Torquemax increased by 53% and 82%, respectively (P < 0.001). The relative stress relaxation (RSR) decreased significantly for repetition 1 when comparing the pretest (25%) and posttest (21%) values (P = 0.003). A significant decrease was also observed for repetitions 2 and 3 (P < 0.014), with no significant difference in repetitions 4-6 (P > 0.056). CONCLUSIONS: Individuals who participated in a 10-week hamstrings passive-static stretch program had a reduced RSR response. A higher stretch intensity or longer duration may be necessary to achieve RSRs similar to those reported before the stretch program.