Identifying the ideal weekly training load for in-game performance in an elite Brazilian soccer team.

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to investigate the ideal training load to be applied during periods of fixture congestion to ensure an adequate dose-response effect for performance maintenance. Methods: Match performance data and corresponding pre-match training load sessions (both N = 498 match performance cases and training-block session cases) were collected (with the catapult system, VECTOR7) from 36 male professional soccer players (23.5 ± 5.2 years; 178 ± 4 cm; 75.5 ± 6.0 kg) belonging to the Brazilian First Division team during the 2022 season. The following data were collected in match and training sessions: jump, acceleration, deceleration, and change of direction (COD); running distance producing metabolic power at different intensities (>20, >20-35, >35-45, >45-55, and >55 W kg-1), total distance (m), relative distance (m/min), running distance at different speeds (>20, >25, and >30 km/h), number of sprints (running >25 km/h), and maximum speed (km/h). Mixed linear model (MLM), decision tree regression (DTR), and cluster K means model (SPSS v.26) approach were performed to identify the most critical variables (and their respective load) in the training sessions that could explain the athlete's match performance. Results: MLM and DTR regression show that training load significantly affects game performance in a specific way. According to the present data, an interference phenomenon can occur when a high load of two different skills (running in a straight line vs COD, deceleration, and jumping) is applied in the same training block of the week. The cluster approach, followed by a chi-squared test, identified significant associations between training load and athlete match performance in a dose-dependent manner. Discussion: The high load values described here have a beneficial effect on match performance, despite the interference between stimuli discussed above. We present a positive training load from a congested season from the Brazilian First Division team. The study suggests that an interference effect occurs when high physical training loads are applied to different specific physical skills throughout the season.

Trypanosoma cruzi infection reduces the population fitness of Mepraia spinolai, a Chagas disease vector.

The hematophagous insect Mepraia spinolai (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae) is naturally infected with the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, the agent of Chagas disease in humans. In this study, we compared the demographic parameters of M. spinolai with and without T. cruzi infection. We collected the immature life table data of 479 M. spinolai individuals of control cohort (reared on mice without T. cruzi infection) and 563 M. spinolai individuals of treatment cohort (reared on mice with T. cruzi infection). Nymphs were maintained in individual compartments inside a growth chamber (26°C; 65-75%) until adult emergence; moulting and survival were recorded daily. For the adult life table study of the control, we used 24 pairs of adults from the control cohort. For the adult life table study of T. cruzi-infected cohort, 25 infected females were paired with 25 males from the control cohort. Life table data were analysed using bootstrap-match technique based on the age-stage, two-sex life table. The preadult survival rate (0.5282) of the control cohort was significantly higher than that of the infected cohort (0.2913). However, the mean fecundity of reproductive females (Fr = 22.29 eggs/♀) and net reproductive rate of population (R0 = 5.07 offspring/individual) of the 0.5th percentile bootstrap-match control cohort were not significantly different from those of the infected cohort (Fr = 23.35 eggs/♀, R0 = 3.77 offspring/individual). Due to the shorter total preoviposition period and higher proportion of reproductive female, the intrinsic rate of increase (r = 0.0053 d-1 ) and finite rate of increase (λ = 1.0053 d-1 ) of control cohort of M. spinolai were significantly higher than those of the T. cruzi-infected cohort (r = 0.0035 d-1 , λ = 1.0035 d-1 ). These results suggest that T. cruzi infection reduces the population fitness of the Chagas disease vector M. spinolai.

Acute Responses of Youth Elite Players to a Football Match in Terms of Blood Markers.

The current study verified the acute responses of participants to a football match in terms of blood markers. Sixteen elite U-18 male football players were divided into two groups: experimental (EG, n = 10), who played a friendly football match; and control (CG), who were not exposed to any physical exertion. Intravenous blood samples were collected from both groups at baseline, pre-match, half-time, and post-match. The blood analysis consisted of four groups: immunological (leukocytes, platelets, and cortisol), muscle damage (creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase), metabolic (lactate, glucose, erythrocytes, hematocrit, hemoglobin, and urea), and electrolytic (sodium, calcium, and potassium). Edwards' training impulse demonstrated that the first half was more demanding than the second half (p = 0.020). Significant changes between time points and groups were observed for leukocytes (pre-match: 6920 ± 1949; post-match: 13,890 ± 3292; p ≤ 0.05) and cortisol (pre-match: 10.78 ± 3.63; post-match: 19.15 ± 7.40; p ≤ 0.05). CK (pre-match: 516.50 ± 248.38; post-match: 713.70 ± 308.20; p ≤ 0.05) and LDH (pre-match: 348.80 ± 36.49; post-match: 414.80 ± 26.55; p ≤ 0.05) increased significantly across the time points for the EG, with no difference between the groups, however. Raised lactate (pre-match: 1.05 ± 0.32; post-match: 3.24 ± 1.60; p ≤ 0.05) and glucose (pre-match: 72.54 ± 9.76; post-match: 101.42 ± 19.87; p ≤ 0.05) differences between the groups at half-time were also observed. These current findings provide helpful information to better understand football match demands regarding physiological effects.

Contextual factors and match-physical performance of international-level footballers with cerebral palsy.

This study aimed to explore the match-physical response of international-level footballers with cerebral palsy (CP) according to contextual factors such as team ranking, the quality level of opposition, and match outcome. Eighty-two male outfield footballers with CP from top-ranked teams (n = 26) and bottom-ranked teams (n = 56) took part in this study. The match-player response was recorded using global positioning devices considering the total distance, distance covered at different velocities and number of short-term actions. Players from top-ranked teams covered more distance at low intensities compared to players from bottom-ranked teams (p < 0.05; 0.45 < ES < 0.49). Higher sprint distance, moderate and high accelerations/decelerations were found in players from top-ranked teams playing against teams of similar levels (p < 0.05; 0.73g< 0.86). When players from bottom-ranked teams played against teams of equivalent rank, more physical requirements were presented in total distance, running from medium to sprint intensities, and the number of short-term actions (p < 0.0.05; -0.55S < -0.89). Players from the top-ranking teams presented greater sprint demands in losing matches (p<0.05; dg=-1.01). Considering the bottom-ranking opposition, players presented more running demands in matches with losing results in moderate running, sprinting, and moderate-to-high deceleration (p < 0.05; -0.61 < dg < -0.64). The match-physical response of players with CP varies according to the contextual factors studied. The results provide advice for coaches and classifiers to understand more comprehensively the competing demands in CP football. This knowledge could help practitioners to prepare competition matches and planning training load or post-match recovery strategies, but also for the observation assessments of the classification process in this team para-sport.

The Thoracic Surgery Medical Student Association: Understanding the needs of medical students pursuing cardiothoracic surgery in the United States.

OBJECTIVE: Founded in 2020, the Thoracic Surgery Medical Student Association is the first national organization dedicated to supporting medical students interested in pursuing cardiothoracic surgery. Our inaugural survey aimed to describe their basic characteristics and needs. METHODS: An Institutional Review Board-approved, nonincentivized, anonymous electronic survey was distributed to any medical students enrolled in Liaison Committee on Medical Education-accredited medical schools through social media such as Twitter, national organizations (Association of Women Surgeons, Thoracic Surgery Resident Association), and medical school cardiothoracic surgery interest groups. Their basic characteristics, attitudes, and preferences regarding cardiothoracic surgery were recorded. RESULTS: Of the 167 students from 117 unique schools who completed the survey, 53% identified as White and 57% identified as female. Stages of training were well distributed: 16% first-year medical students, 33% second-year medical students, 16% third-year medical students, 21% fourth-year medical students, and 14% dual degree/research students. Most participants (57%) did not have (32%) or were not aware of having (25%) a thoracic surgery training program at their home institution. The majority (72%) of students reported not having a cardiothoracic surgery interest group at their home institution. The most desired areas of cardiothoracic were networking (31%) and mentorship (28%). CONCLUSIONS: There is a significant need to directly engage medical students who are interested in cardiothoracic surgery considering limited exposure at home institutions through a lack of cardiothoracic surgery interest groups and cardiothoracic residency programs. The Thoracic Surgery Medical Student Association is poised to address these areas with directed networking by connecting cardiothoracic surgery faculty and residents from other institutions with medical students interested in pursuing cardiothoracic surgery.

The emergence of critical incidents in Rugby Union matches using Markov chain analysis.

During a rugby match, teams are continually trying to cause instabilities of different magnitudes on each other. Once a perturbation occurs, a phase transition emerges. Markov chain analysis has the potential to investigate emerging patterns in rugby union. This study examined the probability of a critical incident (CI; penalties and tries) occurring during Rugby Union matches, and whether differences would exist between winning and losing. The Markov chain analysis was used to identify the probability of a transition from a game state to a further state, due to the analysis of the preceding state. A game phase was defined as a technical and tactical match action which occurred between two consecutive advantage lines. Contingency tables were assembled from 280 phases registered during 11 matches of Brazilian Rugby Union XV A Series Championship. The results showed that previous technical and tactical actions made from rucks had the highest probability of generating a transition phase leading to a CI. The results suggest that the winning teams adopt a more flexible approach to the environmental changes that occur throughout a game and demonstrated more flexibility during transitional state occurrences, with higher variability in technical and tactical actions related to a previous game phase.

The Markov chain analysis showed that previous technical and tactical actions made from rucks had the highest probability of generating a transition phase leading to a CI.Winning teams may adopt a more flexible approach to the environmental changes that occur throughout a game.Higher variability in technical and tactical actions related to a previous game phase was observed in winning teams.The game action leading to CI moments for winning teams involved forwards and backs, while losing teams mainly depended on the involvement of forwards and eventually on opponent errors.Markov chain analysis may be a useful and valid tool to rugby match-play analysis considering the complex system framework.

Differences between 48 and 72-hour intervals on match load and subsequent recovery: a report from the Brazilian under-20 national football team.

Purpose: To compare the external and internal load and subsequent recovery of football players after international tournament matches separated by 48 h vs. 72 h. Methods: A total of 14 male football players from the Brazilian National Team, competing in the 2019 South American Under-20 Championship, participated in the study. Match load was quantified using GPS variables and perceived exertion ratings (1). Additionally, before and 13-15 h after each match, players answered questions about the number of hours and quality of sleep, recovery status, and muscle soreness (0-10) and provided a blood sample for creatine kinase and reactive C-protein analysis. Values of all variables were compared between matches played with 48-h intervals (matches 1-4) and 72-h intervals (matches 5-8). Results: No significant differences in performance or perceptual parameters were observed between matches (p = 0.136-0.953). However, CK was higher in matches 1-4 compared to matches 5 and 6; and ΔPCR was higher in matches 2 and 3 compared to matches 5 and 6, and in match 4 compared to matches 5 and 8. Conclusions: After matches with a 48-h rest interval, players showed increased markers of inflammation and muscle damage compared to matches with a 72-h rest interval.

Shedding light on tactical performance and tactical behavior concepts with a particular reference to soccer / Lançando luz sobre os conceitos de desempenho tático e comportamento tático com uma referência especial ao futebol

Abstract Tactical aspects play a significant role in soccer, as a team sport, considering the inherent unpredictability of the actions during a game. Therefore, measuring tactical variables is essential for training planning in soccer and other team sports. However, previous studies have interchangeably used the terms "tactical behavior" and "tactical performance" to refer to the collected variables, which has become a source of questioning in recent literature. In this point-of-view article, the tactical behavior and tactical performance concepts are defined, discussed, and exemplified based on previous studies. While tactical behavior measures are associated with descriptions of the actions, tactical performance variables are assumed to classify and interpret such behaviors considering reference values. Finally, examples of instruments for collecting each data are provided.

Resumo Aspectos táticos representam um ponto chave no futebol enquanto um esporte coletivo considerando a imprevisibilidade das ações durante um jogo. Medir variáveis táticas é importante para o planejamento do treinamento no futebol e nos outros esportes coletivos. Estudos prévios, contudo, utilizaram de forma intercambiável os termos "comportamento tático" e "desempenho tático" para se referir às variáveis coletadas, o que se transformou em um ponto de dúvida na literatura recente. Neste artigo de ponto de vista, os conceitos de comportamento e desempenho tático são definidos, discutidos e exemplificados com base em estudos prévios. Enquanto comportamento tático está associado à descrição das ações, o desempenho tático é assumido como a classificação e a interpretação destes comportamentos considerando valores de referência. Finalmente, exemplos de instrumentos para a recolha de cada dado são apresentados.

The effects of weight categories on the time-motion analysis of female high-level judo athletes between the 2016 and 2020 Olympic cycles.

This study compared the time of female judo combat phases in international competitions between two Olympic cycles (2016; 2020) according to weight divisions (48 kg = 132; 52 kg = 72; 57 kg = 109; 63 kg = 96; 70 kg = 69; 78 kg = 106; >78 kg = 82; total = 666 combats/cycle). The behaviors of 1,332 high-level female judo combats were randomly observed over two Olympic cycles (2016 = 666; 2020 = 666) from the top 20 athletes in the world ranking by weight division. We performed time-motion analysis according to the combat phase and sequential judo actions (approach, gripping, attack, defense, groundwork, pause, and effort: pause ratio) considering the moment when the combat ended (Regular time = RT; Golden score = GS). The weight division groups were compared between Olympic cycles (2016; 2020), and p < 0.05 was defined as significant. The main results showed that 2020 athletes spent less time in the gripping (p = 0.005), attack (p < 0.001), defense (p < 0.001), groundwork (p<0.001) and pause (p = 0.002) phases than 2016 athletes. However, compared by the end-of-combat, 2020 female athletes spent less time in all combat phases for RT combats (p < 0.001), and more time in the approach phase for GS combats (p < 0.05) than in 2016. The 2016 weight divisions showed a higher diversity in the effort: pause ratio (2.5:1-3.4:1), whereas the 2020 weight divisions had values closer to each other (2.8,1-3:1). Analyzing each weight division separately and by the end-of-combat, the main results showed that (p < 0.05): 48, 63, 70, and 78 kg reduced the time in almost every phase of RT combat (except for: 63 kg = gripping and attack; 70 kg = approach and groundwork; 78 kg = approach); 48 and 57 kg increased the groundwork time in GS combats whereas 78 kg decreased; 52 kg and 78 kg increased the GS approach time. The temporal behavior of the combats changed between the Olympic cycles with different rules. These data must be considered to understand the characteristics of each group and to prescribe specialized training in female judo.

Contextual variables affect peak running performance in elite soccer players: A brief report.

The current brief research report aimed to investigate the influence of contextual variables on peak running performance in male elite soccer players. We analyzed 29 matches of an elite soccer team during the Brazilian Serie A 2019. Twenty players were tracked using GPS units. Peak physical performance was determined using moving average running values with different time windows (1, 3, and 5-min periods). The variables analyzed were total distance covered, total distance covered in high-intensity running (≥19.8 km·h-1), and the distance in accelerations (≥2 m·s-2) and decelerations ( ≤-2 m·s-2). Four contextual variables were considered: 1) positional status; 2) match location; 3) match outcome; and 4) match status. Central defenders showed a lower 1-min peak total distance in relation to all other positions (p = 0.001-0.03). Peak physical performance was higher in away matches for high-intensity running, acceleration, and deceleration (p = 0.01-0.03). In matches that ended in losses, peak values for high-intensity running and acceleration were higher compared to draws and wins (p = 0.01-0.04). Regarding the match status, higher values were observed in draws than wins and losses (p = 0.01). Peak running performance vary according to contextual variables of the match in male elite soccer players. Positional differences were found for peak periods, and physical performance was higher in away matches.

More time for judo matches? Analysis of type of techniques, time, scores, and penalties in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

This study aimed to analyze the distribution of judo matches in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, considering matches in the regular duration (≤4 min) and during the extra time (the golden score) according to sex, scores, penalties, phases of competition, weight categories, and judo techniques. The data were extracted from the Official Results Books of the Olympic Games in Tokyo 2020. The combats were divided in matches that were finished in the regular duration and that were finished by the golden score, with a total of 450 matches. The Chi-square test was used to identify the association between all variables and different groups of matches duration, with the level at p < 0.05. The main results demonstrated significant association, considering sex and frequency of matches in the regular time (χ2 = 6.59; p = 0.010) for female athletes. The majority of matches ended in the 3-4 min (χ2 = 204.16; p < 0.001), scores were mostly awarded in the regular time and penalties in the golden score (χ2 = 48.72; p < 0.001), and few matches ended by the golden score for heavyweight athletes (χ2 = 15.16; p = 0.019). Therefore, a high number of matches ended in the golden score in the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, with a high number of penalties in this competition.

Salivary hormone concentrations and technical-tactical performance indicators in beach volleyball: Preliminary evidence.

The present study aimed to investigate (i) differences in salivary testosterone and cortisol concentrations before, during, and after simulated beach volleyball match, depending on match outcome (winning vs. losing); (ii) the relationship between technical-tactical performance indicators in beach volleyball and salivary hormonal concentrations (i.e., testosterone, cortisol). We hypothesized (i) salivary testosterone concentrations would be greater in winners and salivary cortisol would be lower; (ii) testosterone would associate with positive technical-tactical performance and cortisol would associate with negative technical-tactical performance. Sixteen athletes participated in the study and were grouped according to the result of a simulated game (winners: n = 8; losers: n = 8). Salivary hormone concentration of testosterone and cortisol were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (pre-match, post first set, and post-match), and the coefficient of performance and efficiency were used as technical-tactical performance indicators. Regarding testosterone, there was a large effect size for match outcome after the first set (i.e., Winner vs. Losers) and a moderate effect size for the time in winners (pre-match vs. post-match). Regarding cortisol, there was a moderate effect size of time in losers only (pre-match vs. post-match). Moreover, cortisol pre-match was negatively correlated with the offensive performance (attack performance coefficient: r = -0.541; p = 0.030; attack efficiency: r = -0.568; p = 0.022). In conclusion, the effect of match outcome on testosterone and cortisol levels was moderate in winners and losers, respectively. Moreover, resting cortisol concentration appears to be related to a diminished attack technical-tactical performance. However, larger confirmatory studies are required to confirm these data to corroborate winning increases testosterone levels and/or reduces cortisol in a sporting setting.

Did the Absence of Crowd Support During the Covid-19 Pandemic Affect the Home Advantage in Brazilian Elite Soccer?

This study aimed to investigate the impact of crowd absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic on home advantage in Series A and B of professional Brazilian male soccer. Moreover, we sought to compare the home advantage between different competitive levels. Data from 2018 to 2020 Brazilian professional soccer championships (Series A and B) were analyzed, consisting of 2280 matches. The effect of home advantage was calculated in relation to the number of points won, the number of wins, goals scored and goals conceded. Our results indicated that home advantage was reduced in Serie A. Specifically, the 2020 (absence of the crowd) and 2019 seasons showed smaller home advantage compared to the 2018 season. On the other hand, Serie B analyses indicated no changes in home advantage over the seasons analyzed. The comparison of home advantage between competitive levels indicated higher home advantage in Serie A, exclusively in the 2018 season. In addition to the absence of fans, other changes occurred in elite sports due to the pandemic, such as changes in rules and the calendar. Considering that home advantage is affected by multiple interacting factors, it is important to investigate specific sports leagues across the world to determine which factors had the greatest impact on the advantage of playing home matches.

Frequência e eficácia dos arremessos por classe funcional e zonas de ataque na elite do basquetebol em cadeira de rodas / Throw frequency and effectiveness compared by functional classification and attack zones in elite wheelchair basketball / Frecuencia y efectividad de los lanzamientos por classe functional y zonas de ataque en la élite de baloncesto en silla de ruedas

Objetivo: O objetivo do estudo foi comparar as tentativas e eficácia dos arremessos entre as classes funcionais e zonas de ataque do basquetebol masculino em cadeira de rodas. Métodos: Os relatórios técnicos oficiais de todas as 42 partidas dos Jogos Paralímpicos Rio 2016 foram analisados e a quantidade de tentativas e eficácia por classe e quatro zonas de ataques foram anotadas. Para a comparação das distribuições de tentativas de arremessos por classes funcionais e zonas de ataque foi utilizado o teste qui-quadrado. Já o ANOVA one-way foi utilizado para verificar os efeitos principais das porcentagens do total de acertos e tentativas dos arremessos para cada zona da quadra e entre classes funcionais. Resultados e conclusão: Os principais resultados demonstraram que as classes mais elevadas (i.e., 3.0, 3.5, 4.0 e 4.5) representam 76% de todos os arremessos do jogo. Jogadores da classe 3.0 obtiveram significativamente maior frequência de arremessos nas zonas 1, 2 e 4 (áreas mais próximas da cesta). Enquanto os atletas da classe 4.0, apresentaram mais tentativas na zona 3 (área mais distante da cesta). Os jogadores das classes 3.5 e 4.0, comparados à classe 1.0, apresentaram maior eficácia na zona 1 (dentro do garrafão).

Objective: The aims of this study was to compare the frequency and effectiveness of throws by sport classes and attack zones of male wheelchair basketball. Methods: Official reports of all 42 matches from Rio 2016 Paralympics were analyzed. To compare the distributions of throws attempts by sport classes and attacking zones it was utilized the chi-square test. The ANOVA one-way was utilized to verify the main effects of the percentage of the total right throws and throwing attempts for each court zone and between sport classes. The frequency of throws and its effectiveness per class and four attack zones were noted. Results and conclusion: Our results showed that higher sport classes (i.e., 3.0, 3.5, 4.0 and 4.5) represent 76% of all throws performed during the matches. Players eligible by 3.0 sport class had significantly greater throws in zones 1, 2 and 4 (closest to the basket). Athletes of 4.0 class presented higher throw frequency in zone 3 (furthest from the basket). The players with 3.5 and 4.0 sport classes, compared to those with 1.0 class, showed greater effectiveness in zone 1 (in the painted area).

Objetivo: El objetivo del estudio fue comparar los intentos y la efectividad de los lanzamientos entre las clases funcionales y las zonas de ataque del baloncesto masculino en una silla de ruedas. Métodos: Se analizaron los informes técnicos oficiales de los 42 partidos de los Juegos Paralímpicos de Río 2016 y se anotó el número de intentos y efectividad por clase y cuatro zonas de ataque. Para comparar la distribución de los intentos de lanzamiento por clases funcionales y zonas de ataque, se utilizó la prueba de chi-cuadrado. El ANOVA de una vía se utilizó para verificar los efectos principales de los porcentajes del número total de golpes correctos e intentos de tiros para cada zona de la cancha y entre clases funcionales. Resultados y conclusión: Los resultados principales mostraron que las clases más altas (es decir, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0 y 4.5) representan 76% de todos los lanzamientos en el juego. Los jugadores de la clase 3.0 tuvieron lanzamientos significativamente más altos en las zonas 1, 2 y 4 (áreas más cercanas a la canasta). Mientras que los atletas de la clase 4.0, presentaron más intentos en la zona 3 (área más alejada de la canasta). Los jugadores de las clases 3.5 y 4.0, en comparación con la clase 1.0, mostraron una mayor efectividad en la zona 1 (dentro de la zona pintada).

Analysis of goal scoring patterns and match outcome during the Intercontinental Beach Soccer Cup Dubai 2019

Abstract Aim: To characterize the goal-scoring patterns and investigate the goal process on match outcome during the Intercontinental Beach Soccer Cup Dubai 2019. Methods: A set of 35 goal-scoring patterns were grouped into nine macro-categories: Match-period, Court-zone, Set-play, Open-play, Touching by players before the goal, Offensive method, Goalkeeper-line, Number of passes before the goal, and Ball trajectory. Match outcome in regular time was considered the matches resulting in a loss (n=16), draw (n=8), or win (n=16). The offensive sequences that resulted in the goal were analyzed in all 20 matches during the competition (n=138 goals). Results: The most goals were scored in Open-play (69%), during the 2nd and 3rd periods (36% for each), near to goal (Zone 4; 50%), preceded by 1-touch (67%) and 0-pass (29%), using positional attack (46%), without goalkeeper-line (68%), and with high-ball trajectory (51%). In addition, won matches presented a higher number of goals in Zone 4, 1-touch, Counterattack, 4v4 goal-successful, Receiving pass, Sand-touch, and High-ball compared to draw and loss matches (p<0.001−0.03; Effect Size [ES]=1.24−2.58, large). Conclusion: In summary, winning teams scored their goals mainly in open-play situations and without a goalkeeper-line, using counterattacks to achieve zones near the opponent's goals, and implementing a direct offensive style. In addition, goals scored were usually preceded by 1-touch, both through high-ball and sand-touch ball trajectory. Coaches and practitioners may consider these goal processes to train prescription and deep understanding of the process to goal in elite Beach soccer.

The Effects of Successive Soccer Matches on the Internal Match Load, Stress Tolerance, Salivary Cortisol and Jumping Performance in Youth Soccer Players.

The study aim was to analyze the effects of successive matches on the internal match load, stress tolerance, salivary cortisol concentration and countermovement vertical jump height in twelve youth soccer players (16.6 ± 0.5 yr; 175 ± 8 cm; 65 ± 8 kg) who performed four official matches within a four day-period with a 24-h recovery interval between the matches. The internal match load, monotony index and competitive strain, as well as stress tolerance were examined. Saliva samples were collected and countermovement vertical jump height was assessed 60 min pre and 30 min post each match; delta of salivary cortisol and countermovement vertical jump height for each match were analyzed. Salivary cortisol was analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results of ANOVA with repeated measures showed no differences between matches for the internal match load (p > 0.05). The scores of the monotony index and competitive strain were 4.3 (±2.3) and 8104 (±6795) arbitrary units, respectively. There was no difference for stress tolerance between matches (p > 0.05). Delta values of salivary cortisol were not different among the assessed matches (F(3,33) = 1.397, p = 0.351, η2: 0.09); however, delta of countermovement vertical jump height decreased from match 1 to match 4 (F(3,33) = 8.64, p < 0.001, η2: 0.44). The current findings suggest that participating in four successive matches, with 24-h of recovery in between, may not lead to changes in stress tolerance and salivary cortisol of youth players, but it may induce a decrease in players' jumping performance after the fourth match.

Running Performance and Hormonal, Maturity and Physical Variables in Starting and Non-Starting Elite U14 Soccer Players During a Congested Match Schedule.

This study examined changes in match running performance (MRP) in Under-14 soccer players (13.5 ± 0.7 yrs) during a congested match schedule (CMS) (4 matches played within a 5-day period). It also examined the difference in salivary testosterone (sT) concentration, somatic maturation, jumping tests, and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (Yo-Yo IR1) between the players selected to play (SLG; group who participated in all matches) and players non-selected to play (NSG). A significant difference was observed for the frequency of decelerations (DEC) across matches (match 4 vs. matches 1, 2 and 3; p = 0.05; partial ƞ2 = 0.20). No difference between matches was observed for total running distance (TRD), high-speed running distance (HSRD), and frequency of accelerations (ACC) (p > 0.05). A wide range for within-player coefficient of variation (CV) values was observed for all MRP variables (range: 10.5 = TRD to 30.6 = HSRD). No difference between SLG and NSG for any of the assessed variables was observed (p > 0.05). The findings suggest that DEC was the most pertinent variable for monitoring changes in MRP during the CMS. In addition, at an elite youth soccer level, the biological maturity and fitness might not influence selection to play.

Grow fast, die young: Does compensatory growth reduce survival of juvenile blacktip sharks (Carcharhinus limbatus) in the western Gulf of Mexico?

Effective conservation and management necessitate an understanding of the ecological mechanisms that shape species life histories in order to predict how variability in natural and anthropogenic impacts will alter growth rates, recruitment, and survival. Among these mechanisms, the interaction between parturition timing and prey availability frequently influences offspring success, particularly when postnatal care is absent. Here, we assess how parturition timing and nursery conditions, including prey abundance and environmental conditions, influence the growth and potential survival of blacktip sharks (Carcharhinus limbatus) in western Gulf of Mexico (GOM) estuaries over their first year. Catch data from long-term gillnet monitoring allowed for clear delineation of cohorts based on size frequency distribution plots, and showed that late parturition cohorts born in estuaries with fewer prey resources exhibited more rapid growth than early parturition cohorts that experienced more abundant prey. Compensatory behaviors that promoted accelerated growth led to reduced second year residency, likely due to reduced survival resultant from greater risk taking and potentially due to reduced site fidelity attributed to larger body size. Water temperatures influenced blacktip growth rates through physiological increases in metabolism and potential premigratory foraging cues associated with cooling temperatures. Gradual warming of the GOM (0.03°C year-1) was also correlated with earlier parturition across the study period (1982-2017), similar to other migratory species. Considering current trends in climate and associated phenological shifts in many animals, testing hypotheses assessing compensatory growth-risk trade-offs is important moving forward to predict changes in life histories and associated recruitment in concert with current and future conservation actions, like wildlife management.

Retrasplante pulmonar con cross-match positivo en trasplante pulmonar primario complicado con rechazo mediado por anticuerpos / Lung Retransplantation with Positive Crossmatch in Primary Lung Transplantation Complicated by Antibody-Mediated Rejection

La hipertensión arterial pulmonar (HAP) representa el 2,6% de los trasplantes pulmonares (TP), con una mediana de supervivencia condi cional (desde los 30 días del TP) de 9,8 años. Son frecuentes, el rechazo celular agudo (ACR) y la disfunción crónica del injerto (CLAD), mientras que es infrecuente el rechazo mediado por anticuerpos (AMR). El retrasplante pulmonar (RTP) constituye el 4% del TP mundial, debido a complicaciones en la vía aérea, disfunción primaria del injerto, ACR y CLAD. Mujer de 22 años, portadora de HAP idiopática (HAPI) desde el año 2013, trasplantada bipulmonar (TBP) en enero de 2018. A los 16 meses presentó neumonía adquirida en la comuni dad. En una internación posterior, presentó ACR y a pesar de pulsos de metilprednisolona, progresó a requerimientos de cánula de alto flujo y ventilación mecánica no invasiva hospitalaria, caída del VEF1, y tomografía de tórax con vidrio esmerilado difuso y engrosamiento irregular reticular del intersticio subpleural; interpretándose como CLAD a predominio de síndrome de bronquiolitis obliterante (BOS), con presencia de anticuerpos específicos contra el donante (DSA). En enero de 2020 se realizó nuevo TP y ante cross-match positivo, se realizó plasmaféresis y reposición de IgG. Al mes del egreso, no se observaron signos de rechazo en control de biopsias transbronquiales. Entre 2 y 10% de los pacientes con indicación primaria de TP por HAPI son sometidos a retrasplante pulmonar (RTP). La presencia de DSA y el miss-match de HLA, no son contraindicaciones para el RTP.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) represents 2.6% of lung transplantations (LT), with a conditional median survival (from 30 days after LT) of 9.8 years. Acute cellular rejection (ACR) and chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) are common; whereas the antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) is not. Lung retransplantation (LR) accounts for 4% of global LTs for complications in the airways, primary allograft dys function, ACR and CLAD. 22-year-old woman with idiopathic PAH (IPAH) since 2013, who underwent a double-lung transplantation (DLT) in January 2018. 16 months after transplantation she presented community-acquired pneumonia. During a subsequent hospitalization, she presented ACR. Despite the fact that she received pulse methylprednisolone, she required high-flow cannula therapy and hospital non-invasive mechanical ventilation; the FEV1 was reduced and she underwent a chest tomography with diffuse ground glass opacities and irregular reticular thickening of the subpleural interstitium; interpreting the predominance of BOS (bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome) as CLAD, with presence of donor-specific antibodies (DSA). In January 2020, she received a new DLT and due to a positive crossmatch, she was treated with plasmapheresis and IgG replacement. One month after hospital discharge, no signs of rejection were observed at the BTB (bone-patellar tendon-bone) control. Between 2 to 10% of patients with primary indication of LT for IPAH are subjected to lung retransplantation (LR). The presence of DSA and HLA (human leucocyte antigen) mismatch aren't contraindications to LR.

Match running performance in Brazilian professional soccer players: comparisons between successful and unsuccessful teams.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to compare the match running performance between bottom- and top-ranked teams in professional soccer players over the 2020 season of the Brazilian National 2nd Division League. In addition, this study verified the independent and interactive effects of playing position and contextual factors on running outputs between these teams. METHODS: Forty-eight professional male outfield soccer players participated in this study (top-ranked team, n = 24; bottom-ranked team, n = 24). The distance- and accelerometry-based measures were recorded during 69 matches using a global positioning system (10 Hz) integrated with an accelerometer (400 Hz). RESULTS: The top-ranked team covered greater total distance [median (interquartile range); 10,330.0 m (1430.0)] and high-acceleration [97.0 m (32.0)] than the bottom-ranked team, in home and away matches [p < 0.05, effect size (ES) = small]. The midfielders of the top-ranked team covered higher total distance, high-speed running (> 18 km h-1), high acceleration (≥ 3 m s-2), high-deceleration (≤ -3 m s-2), and performed more sprints [(> 25 km h-1) compared to midfielders of the bottom-ranked team (p < 0.05, η2 = small-moderate]. The matches against top-level opponents required high values of high-acceleration and number of sprints only for the top-ranked team (p < 0.05, ES = small). Independent analysis showed that match outcome (loss vs. draw vs. win) was not influenced by running performance for both bottom- and top-ranked teams (p > 0.05; η2 = small). However, the top-ranked team covered greater total distance, high-acceleration/deceleration than bottom-ranked team in loss matches (p < 0.05, η2 = small). CONCLUSIONS: These findings should be considered when the coaches and practitioners interpret the match running outputs and when evaluating the effects of training intervention on these performance indicators.