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1 Available online at https://phoenix.ens-lyon.fr/Grids/BT-Settl/ C 2021 The Author(s) Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Royal Astronomical Society Downloaded from https://academic.oup.com/mnras/article/502/2/2826/6134490 by guest on 04 March 2021 Erratum:UVandX-rayobservationsofEXO0748-676 2827 Figure A1. The paper 'UV and X-ray observations of the neutron star LMXB EXO 0748-676 in its quiescent state' was published as Parikh et al. (2021). Erratum: UV and X-ray observations of the neutron star LMXB EXO 0748-676 in its quiescent state. [Extracted from the article]

IGR J17285−2922 is a known X-ray binary with a low peak 2–10 keV X-ray luminosity of ∼ 1036 erg s−1 during outburst. IGR J17285−2922 exhibited two outbursts in 2003 and 2010 and went into outburst again in 2019. We have monitored this ∼ 4-month long 2019 outburst with Swift in X-ray and the Very Large Array in radio. We have also obtained four optical spectra with the Gran Telescopio Canarias and Southern Astrophysical Research Telescope, three optical photometry measurements with the Las Cumbres Observatory, and one near-infrared spectrum with the Gemini South telescope. The ratio between its X-ray and radio luminosity is consistent with both samples of neutron star and black hole (BH) X-ray binaries, while the ratio between the X-ray and optical luminosity is consistent with BH X-ray binaries. Studying the evolution of its X-ray power-law index throughout the outburst, we find additional evidence for a BH as compact object. The four optical spectra show no H α emission and the nIR spectrum shows no Brγ emission, suggesting that the donor star could be hydrogen-poor and hence that IGR J17285−2922 might have an ultracompact binary orbit. The shape of the X-ray light curve is well described by an exponential, followed by a linear decay, from which we obtain a relation between the orbital period P orb and the binary mass ratio. We discuss how this relation is consistent with theoretical predictions and known ultracompact X-ray binaries. Lastly, we discuss how the observed properties are reminiscent of short- P orb BH X-ray binaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

V341 Ara was recently recognized as one of the closest (d  ≃ 150 pc) and brightest (V ≃ 10) nova-like cataclysmic variables. This unique system is surrounded by a bright emission nebula, likely to be the remnant of a recent nova eruption. Embedded within this nebula is a prominent bow shock, where the system's accretion disc wind runs into its own nova shell. In order to establish its fundamental properties, we present the first comprehensive multiwavelength study of the system. Long-term photometry reveals quasi-periodic, super-orbital variations with a characteristic time-scale of 10–16 d and typical amplitude of ≃1 mag. High-cadence photometry from the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) reveals for the first time both the orbital period and a 'negative superhump' period. The latter is usually interpreted as the signature of a tilted accretion disc. We propose a recently developed disc instability model as a plausible explanation for the photometric behaviour. In our spectroscopic data, we clearly detect antiphased absorption and emission-line components. Their radial velocities suggest a high mass ratio, which in turn implies an unusually low white-dwarf mass. We also constrain the wind mass-loss rate of the system from the spatially resolved [O  iii ] emission produced in the bow shock; this can be used to test and calibrate accretion disc wind models. We suggest a possible association between V341 Ara and a 'guest star' mentioned in Chinese historical records in AD 1240. If this marks the date of the system's nova eruption, V341 Ara would be the oldest recovered nova of its class and an excellent laboratory for testing nova theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quasar broad emission lines are largely powered by photoionization from the accretion continuum. Increased central luminosity will enhance line emissivity in more distant clouds, leading to increased average distance of the broad-line-emitting clouds and decreased averaged line width, which is known as the "breathing" broad-line region. However, different lines breathe differently, and some high-ionization lines, such as C iv , can even show "anti-breathing" where the line broadens when luminosity increases. Using multi-year photometric and spectroscopic monitoring data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Reverberation Mapping project, we quantify the breathing effect () of broad Hα, Hβ, Mg ii , C iv , and C iii] for statistical quasar samples over z ≈ 0.1–2.5. We find that Hβ displays the most consistent normal breathing expected from the virial relation (α ∼ −0.25), Mg ii and Hα on average show no breathing (α ∼ 0), and C iv (and similarly C iii] and Si iv) mostly shows anti-breathing (α > 0). The anti-breathing of C iv can be well understood by the presence of a non-varying core component in addition to a reverberating broad-base component, which is consistent with earlier findings. The deviation from canonical breathing introduces extra scatter (a luminosity-dependent bias) in single-epoch virial BH mass estimates due to intrinsic quasar variability, which underlies the long-argued caveats of C iv single-epoch masses. Using the line dispersion instead of FWHM leads to fewer, albeit still substantial, deviations from canonical breathing in most cases. Our results strengthen the need for reverberation mapping to provide reliable quasar BH masses and to quantify the level of variability-induced bias in single-epoch BH masses based on various lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accreting neutron stars and black holes in low-mass X-ray binaries (LMXBs) radiate across the electromagnetic spectrum. Linking the emission produced at different wavelengths can provide valuable information about the accretion process and any associated outflows. In this work, we study simultaneous X-ray and ultraviolet (UV)/optical observations of the neutron star LMXB Aql X-1, obtained with the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory during its 2013, 2014, and 2016 accretion outbursts. We find that the UV/optical and X-ray emission are strongly correlated during all three outbursts. For the 2013 and 2014 episodes, which had the best Swift sampling, we find that the correlation between the UV/optical and X-ray fluxes is significantly steeper during the decay (soft state) of the outburst than during the rise (hard-to-soft state). We observe a UV/optical hysteresis behaviour that is likely linked to the commonly known X-ray spectral hysteresis pattern. For the decays of the three outbursts, we obtain a correlation index that cannot be directly explained by any single model. We suspect that this is a result of multiple emission processes contributing to the UV/optical emission, but we discuss alternative explanations. Based on these correlations, we discuss which mechanisms are likely dominating the UV/optical emission of Aql X-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diffraction line profile analysis was done to characterize the change in the dislocation density at different stages of the processing route of a Zr-2.5%Nb pressure tube. Two diffraction experiments were carried out: High Energy X-Ray Diffraction (HE-XRD) and Neutron Time of Flight Diffraction (TOF-ND). On samples in the extruded, cold-rolled and post-annealed conditions, the HE-XRD experiment in transmission geometry allows a detailed characterization of the dependence of the line shape on the direction of the scattering vector. Important variations of the FWHM (Full Width at Half Maximum) were observed, which was interpreted as the non-uniform distribution of dislocations among grains with different orientations. Average values of the dislocation density and subgrain size were obtained after applying the Warren-Averbach method. The effect of post deformation annealing for soaking temperatures from 400° to 450°C was studied using TOF-ND. Peak profile analysis was performed on in-situ neutron time-of-flight diffractograms to obtain peak positions and widths to calculate residual stresses and dislocation densities. The results show that the dislocation density decreases largely at early times and it is followed by a slow diminution over time. Dislocation density decreases from ∼8 × 1014 m−2 for the cold-rolled sample to values close or under 2 × 1014 m−2. A remnant dislocation density after long annealing times was detected, with a value that decreases as the soaking temperature increases. Dislocation type was also characterized. It was found that dislocations with 〈a〉 Burgers vectors represent approximately 90% of the population, while the other 10% are 〈c+a〉. An empirical recovery kinetics model was proposed where dislocation mobility is assumed as a thermally activated mechanism. This model can be used as a processing tool to estimate the dislocation density expected for different soaking temperatures and times. The effect of residual stresses on peak broadening was also discussed. It was estimated that this contribution represents around 10–20% to the observed physical line broadening. • Dislocation density in Zr-2.5%Nb tubes was calculated by line profile analysis. • Important density reduction at short annealing times. • Dislocation density stagnates at a residual value at long annealing times. • The higher the soaking temperature the lower the residual dislocation density. • Intergranular stresses represent 10 – 20% of the diffraction peak width. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the feasibility of a nondestructive method to determine hydrogen concentrations in concrete and mineral samples. The amount of total hydrogen in the sample is directly related to the proportion of water included in the paste preparation; and also considers all subsequent processes which can add or remove hydrogen in a real sample (like rain, evaporation, etc.). The hydrogen proportion is a critical variable in the curing concrete process; its excess or deficiency impacts negatively in the quality of the final product. The proposed technique is based on a pulsed neutron source and the technical support of the time of flight, which allow discriminating epithermal neutrons interacting with hydrogen (inelastic scattering) from the elastic and quasi-isotropic scattering produced by other kinds of atoms. The method was externally calibrated in limestone rocks fragments (CaCO-main material used in cement fabrication) and in steel, allowing an easy retrieval of the required information. The technique's simplicity may facilitate the development of a mobile measuring device in order to make determinations 'in situ.' In this paper, we describe the foundations of the proposed method and various analysis results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neutron diffraction methods offer a direct measure of the elastic component of strain deep within crystalline materials through precise characterisation of the interplanar crystal lattice spacing. The unique non-destructive nature of this measurement technique is particularly beneficial in the context of engineering design and archaeological materials science, since it allows the evaluation of a variety of structural and deformational parameters inside real components without material removal, or at worst with minimal interference. We review a wide range of recent experimental studies using the Engin-X materials engineering instrument at the ISIS neutron source and show how the technique provides the basis for developing improved insight into materials of great importance to applications and industry. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The ecological role of microorganisms is of utmost importance due to their multiple interactions with the environment. However, assessing the contribution of individual taxonomic groups has proven difficult despite the availability of high throughput data, hindering our understanding of such complex systems. Here, we propose a quantitative definition of guild that is readily applicable to metagenomic data. Our framework focuses on the functional character of protein sequences, as well as their diversifying nature. First, we discriminate functional sequences from the whole sequence space corresponding to a gene annotation to then quantify their contribution to the guild composition across environments. In addition, we identify and distinguish functional implementations, which are sequence spaces that have different ways of carrying out the function. In contrast, we found that orthology delineation did not consistently align with ecologically (or functionally) distinct implementations of the function. We demonstrate the value of our approach with two case studies: the ammonia oxidation and polyamine uptake guilds from the Malaspina circumnavigation cruise, revealing novel ecological dynamics of the latter in marine ecosystems. Thus, the quantification of guilds helps us to assess the functional role of different taxonomic groups with profound implications on the study of microbial communities., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the International Society for Microbial Ecology.)

All disc-accreting astrophysical objects produce powerful disc winds. In compact binaries containing neutron stars or black holes, accretion often takes place during violent outbursts. The main disc wind signatures during these eruptions are blue-shifted X-ray absorption lines, which are preferentially seen in disc-dominated 'soft states' 1,2 . By contrast, optical wind-formed lines have recently been detected in 'hard states', when a hot corona dominates the luminosity 3 . The relationship between these signatures is unknown, and no erupting system has as yet revealed wind-formed lines between the X-ray and optical bands, despite the many strong resonance transitions in this ultraviolet (UV) region 4 . Here we report that the transient neutron star binary Swift J1858.6-0814 exhibits wind-formed, blue-shifted absorption lines associated with C IV, N V and He II in time-resolved UV spectroscopy during a luminous hard state, which we interpret as a warm, moderately ionized outflow component in this state. Simultaneously observed optical lines also display transient blue-shifted absorption. Decomposing the UV data into constant and variable components, the blue-shifted absorption is associated with the former. This implies that the outflow is not associated with the luminous flares in the data. The joint presence of UV and optical wind features reveals a multi-phase and/or spatially stratified evaporative outflow from the outer disc 5 . This type of persistent mass loss across all accretion states has been predicted by radiation-hydrodynamic simulations 6 and helps to explain the shorter-than-expected duration of outbursts 7 ., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Limited.)

Objectives: This study aimed to ascertain if there is a defined pattern of injury related to the percentage of attained adult height and classify injuries according to maturity status bands., Design: Prospective cohort study., Methods: From 1998-2019, 63 elite male soccer players of at least the U12 category from a Spanish LaLiga club's academy were followed until reaching their final height. Medical staff recorded injuries following the FIFA consensus and measured height 2-3 times per season. The percentage of adult height at which each injury occurred was calculated using the player's closest height to the injury and his final adult height. Injuries were classified in maturity bands, pre-peak-height-velocity (PHV) <88%, circa-PHV 88%-96%, and post-PHV >96%., Results: There were 509 injuries among the 63 players. Growth-related injuries occurred at a median (IQR) of 91.2% (86.7%-95.2%) of adult height, predominating in pre-PHV and PHV bands. Muscle injuries predominantly occurred at post-PHV, with 77.78% of those conditions occurring within that time frame and at 98.7% (96%-99.5%) of adult height. Likewise, knee and ankle joint/ligament injuries predominated at post-PHV (87% and 65% of total cases, respectively) occurring at 99.0% (97.9%-99.9%) and 98.4% (89.2%-99.4%) of adult height, respectively., Conclusions: Injuries follow a specific pattern according to the percentage of adult height., (Copyright © 2020 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Purpose of Review: The objectives of this review are to examine and integrate existing empirical evidence regarding the impact of slow-wave sleep (SWS) modulation on memory and executive function performance in individuals with psychiatric disorders, and to examine the feasibility of integrating SWS modulation into psychiatric care., Recent Findings: SWS modulation in individuals with psychiatric disorders resulted in changes to SWS across multiple psychiatric disorders, using all stimulation methods. SWS stimulation was associated with improved cognitive performance. SWS modulation using acoustic stimulation resulted in improved cognitive performance in children with ADHD, and the use of transcranial stimulation was associated with improved cognitive performance in individuals with mild cognitive impairment. Significant relationships between changes in SWS and cognitive improvement were found for individual with mild cognitive impairment following the use of acoustic or transcranial stimulation night. Our review reveals partial support to the potential efficacy of SWS modulation as a transdiagnostic intervention that uses sleep to improve cognitive functions of individuals diagnosed with psychiatric disorders and cognitive deficits. It further highlights multiple barriers pertaining to the feasibility of integrating SWS modulation into clinical practice and proposes ways to improve it.

Relativistic jets are observed throughout the Universe and strongly affect their surrounding environments on a range of physical scales, from Galactic binary systems 1 to galaxies and clusters of galaxies 2 . All types of accreting black hole and neutron star have been observed to launch jets 3 , with the exception of neutron stars with strong magnetic fields 4,5 (higher than 10 12 gauss), leading to the conclusion that their magnetic field strength inhibits jet formation 6 . However, radio emission recently detected from two such objects could have a jet origin, among other possible explanations 7,8 , indicating that this long-standing idea might need to be reconsidered. But definitive observational evidence of such jets is still lacking. Here we report observations of an evolving jet launched by a strongly magnetized neutron star accreting above the theoretical maximum rate given by the Eddington limit. The radio luminosity of the jet is two orders of magnitude fainter than those seen in other neutron stars with similar X-ray luminosities 9 , implying an important role for the properties of the neutron star in regulating jet power. Our result also shows that the strong magnetic fields of ultra-luminous X-ray pulsars do not prevent such sources from launching jets.

Cat scratch's disease caused by Bartonella henselae, is known to be a self-limited benign process in immunocompetent children. The association with neurologic manifestations is very uncommon especially in patient with no immunologic defects and in cases without specific treatment. A 7 years old male patient, without any immunocompromised defect, presented an atypic presentation of the cat scratch disease. The patient came to the hospital in two opportunities in a status epilepticus, in both cases the diagnosis was encephalitis by Bartonella henselae and the evolution with treatment was monitored with PCR (polymerase chain reaction) in cerebrospinal fluid and blood, as well as IFI (IgM, IgG) serology (indirect immunofluorescence). The patient had a favorable clinical and laboratory evolution for 6 months showing no recurrence of the disease., (Copyright © 2016 Hainan Medical College. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Objective: We sought to determine the dose-response effects of extended-release (ER) dexmethylphenidate (d-MPH) and ER mixed amphetamine salts (MAS) on objective measures of sleep., Methods: This was an 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, two period, crossover study of youth with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as confirmed by the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders for School-Age Children-Present and Lifetime version (K-SADS-PL). Children aged 10-17 years were recruited from clinical practice, colleague referrals, and flyers. Participants were randomized to initially receive either d-MPH or MAS. During each 4-week drug period, children received three dose levels (10, 20, and 25/30 mg) in ascending order, with placebo substituted for active medication in a randomized fashion during 1 week of the study. After 4 weeks, participants were switched to the alternative medication for another 4 weeks of treatment. The main outcome measure was sleep duration as measured by actigraphy. Children, parents, and researchers were blinded to drug, dose, and placebo status., Results: Sixty-five participants met the inclusion criteria and were enrolled in the study. Of these, 37 participants with sufficient sleep data for analysis were included. Sleep schedule measures showed a significant effect for dose on sleep start time (F(1,36) = 6.284; p < 0.05), with a significantly later sleep start time when children were receiving 20- or 30-mg doses, compared with placebo (p < 0.05). A significant dose effect was found on actual sleep duration (F(1,36) = 8.112; p < 0.05), with significantly shorter actual sleep duration for subjects receiving 30 mg compared with those receiving placebo (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences on sleep duration or sleep schedule between the two stimulant medications. The trial is complete and closed to follow-up., Conclusions: Higher stimulant doses were associated with reduced sleep duration and later sleep start times, regardless of medication class., Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00393042.

Rectus femoris injuries are extremely common in athletes, particularly in soccer players, rugby player, and sprinters. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a key role in diagnosis, prognosis, and rehabilitation of these injuries. The current article discusses current concepts in the diagnosis and treatment of rectus femoris injuries in elite athletes, including a discussion of the less well known myofascial injuries and key prognostic factors as seen at MR imaging., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Unlabelled: Variations in rates of growth and development in young football players can influence relationships among various fitness qualities., Purpose: To investigate the relationships between repeated-sprint ability and other fundamental fitness qualities of acceleration, agility, explosive leg power, and aerobic conditioning through the age groups of U11 to U18 in highly trained junior football players., Methods: Male players (n = 119) across the age groups completed a fitness assessment battery over two testing sessions. The first session consisted of countermovement jumps without and with arm swing, 15-m sprint run, 15-m agility run, and the 20-m Shuttle Run (U11 to U15) or the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test, Level 1 (U16 to U18). The players were tested for repeated-sprint ability in the second testing session using a protocol of 6 × 30-m sprints on 30 s with an active recovery., Results: The correlations of repeated-sprint ability with the assorted fitness tests varied considerably between the age groups, especially for agility (r = .02 to .92) and explosive leg power (r = .04 to .84). Correlations of repeated sprint ability with acceleration (r = .48 to .93) and aerobic conditioning (r = .28 to .68) were less variable with age., Conclusion: Repeated-sprint ability associates differently with other fundamental fitness tests throughout the teenage years in highly trained football players, although stabilization of these relationships occurs by the age of 18 y. Coaches in junior football should prescribe physical training accounting for variations in short-term disruptions or impairment of physical performance during this developmental period.

Using a video-based time-motion analysis system, a semi-automatic multiple-camera system, and two commercially available GPS systems (GPS-1; 5 Hz and GPS-2; 1 Hz), we compared activity pattern and fatigue development in the same football match. Twenty football players competing in the Spanish second and third divisions participated in the study. Total distance covered during the match for the four systems was as follows: 10.83 + or - 0.77 km (semi-automatic multiple-camera system, n = 20), 9.51 + or - 0.74 km (video-based time-motion analysis system, n = 17), 10.72 + or - 0.70 km (GPS-1, n = 18), and 9.52 + or - 0.89 km (GPS-2, n = 13). Distance covered by high-intensity running for the four systems was as follows: 2.65 + or - 0.53 km (semi-automatic multiple-camera system), 1.61 + or - 0.37 km (video-based time-motion analysing system), 2.03 + or - 0.60 km (GPS-1), and 1.66 + or - 0.44 km (GPS-2). Distance covered by sprinting for the four systems was as follows: 0.38 + or - 0.18 km (semi-automatic multiple-camera system), 0.42 + or - 0.17 km (video-based time-motion analysing system), 0.37 + or - 0.19 km (GPS-1), and 0.23 + or - 0.16 km (GPS-2). All four systems demonstrated greater (P < 0.05) total distance covered and high-intensity running in the first 15-min period and less (P < 0.05) total distance covered and high-intensity running during the last 15-min period than all other 15-min intervals, with a reduction (P < 0.05) in high-intensity running from the first to the last 15-min period of 46 + or - 19%, 37 + or - 26%, 50 + or - 26%, and 45 + or - 27% for the semi-automatic multiple-camera system, video-based time-motion analysis system, GPS-1, and GPS-2, respectively. Our results show that the four systems were able to detect similar performance decrements during a football game and can be used to study game-induced fatigue. Rather large between-system differences were present in the determination of the absolute distances covered, meaning that any comparisons of results between different match analysis systems should be done with caution.

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of 2 in-season short-term sprint and power training protocols on vertical countermovement jump height (with or without arms), sprint (Sprint-15m) speed, and agility (Agility-15m) speed in male elite junior soccer players. Twenty highly trained soccer players (age 18.3 +/- 0.6 years, height 177 +/- 4 cm, body mass 71.4 +/- 6.9 kg, sum skinfolds 48.1 +/- 11.4 mm), members of a professional soccer academy, were randomly allocated to either a CONTRAST (n = 10) or SPRINT (n = 10) group. The training intervention consisted of 6 supervised training sessions over 7 weeks, targeting the improvement of the players' speed and power. CONTRAST protocol consisted of alternating heavy-light resistance (15-50% body mass) with soccer-specific drills (small-sided games or technical skills). SPRINT training protocol used line 30-m sprints (2-4 sets of 4 x 30 m with 180 and 90 seconds of recovery, respectively). At baseline no difference between physical test performance was evident between the 2 groups (p > 0.05). No time x training group effect was found for any of the vertical jump and Agility-15m variables (p > 0.05). A time x training group effect was found for Sprint-15m performance with the CONTRAST group showing significantly better scores than the SPRINT group (7.23 +/- 0.18 vs. 7.09 +/- 0.20 m.s, p < 0.01). In light of these findings CONTRAST training should be preferred to line sprint training in the short term in young elite soccer players when the aim is to improve soccer-specific sprint performance (15 m) during the competitive season.

In this study, we investigated the age-related differences in repeated-sprint ability and blood lactate responses in 134 youth football players. Players from the development programme of a professional club were grouped according to their respective under-age team (U-11 to U-18). Following familiarization, the participants performed a repeated-sprint ability test [6 x 30-m sprints 30 s apart, with active recovery (2.0-2.2 m . s(-1)) between sprints]. The test variables were total time, percent sprint decrement, and post-test peak lactate concentration. Total time improved from the U-11 to U-15 age groups (range 33.15 +/- 1.84 vs. 27.25 +/- 0.82 s), whereas no further significant improvements were evident from U-15 to U-18. No significant differences in percent sprint decrement were reported among groups (range 4.0 +/- 1.0% to 5.5 +/- 2.1%). Post-test peak lactate increased from one age group to the next (range 7.3 +/- 1.8 to 12.6 +/- 1.6 mmol . l(-1)), but remained constant when adjusted for age-related difference in body mass. Peak lactate concentration was moderately correlated with sprint time (r = 0.70, P > 0.001). Our results suggest that performance in repeated-sprint ability improves during maturation of highly trained youth football players, although a plateau occurs from 15 years of age. In contrast to expectations based on previous suggestions, percent sprint decrement during repeated sprints did not deteriorate with age.

The relative age effect is an uneven distribution of birth date favouring subjects born in the initial months of a selection year. This study compared the birth-date distributions between several subgroups of Basque football players to identify whether the relative age effect is influenced by age and/or skill level. The study comprised 13,519 players including 114 senior professionals from the Spanish league's AC Bilbao over 21 seasons; over the season 2005-2006, it comprised elite youth (n=189) from the same club's academy; regional youth (n=4382) U11-U14 locally federated players; school youth (n=8834) U10-U11 locally registered school district players. Differences between the observed and expected birth-date distributions were tested based on data from the general Basque male population. Significant chi-square values were followed up by calculating odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the quartile and half-year distributions to examine subgroup differences in the relative age effect. Birth-date distributions of all groups of players showed a significant bias towards early birth in the selection year compared with the reference population (senior, chi-2(3) = 24.4, P < 0.001; elite youth, chi-2(3) = 59.1, P < 0.001; regional youth, chi-2(3) = 41.4, P < 0.001; school youth, chi-2(3) = 40.9, P < 0.001). Between-group comparison revealed that the relative age effect incidence progressively increased with a higher level of involvement in youth football. This bias represents a significant loss of potential youth football talent.

In this study, we examined gender and age differences in physical performance in football. Thirty-four elite female and 34 elite male players (age 17 +/- 1.6 to 24 +/- 3.4 years) from a professional football club were divided into four groups (n=17 each) according to gender and competitive level (senior males, senior females, junior males, and junior females). Players were tested for specific endurance (Yo-YoIR1), sprint over 15 m (Sprint-15 m), vertical jump without (CMJ) or with (ACMJ) arm swing, agility (Agility-15 m), and ball dribbling over 15 m (Ball-15 m). The Yo-YoIR1 and Agility-15m performances showed both a gender and competitive level difference (P < 0.001). Senior and junior males covered 97 and 153% more distance during the Yo-YoIR1 than senior and junior females, respectively (P < 0.001). Gender but not age differences were found for Sprint-15 m performance (P < 0.001). No difference in vertical jump and Ball-15 m performances were found between senior and junior males (P > 0.05). More marked gender differences were evident in endurance than in anaerobic performance in female players. These results show major fitness differences by gender for a given competitive level in football players. It is suggested that training and talent identification should focus on football-specific endurance and agility as fitness traits in post-adolescent players of both sexes.

This study examined the exercise intensity and load of the mountain passes of the major 3-week races according to their difficulty (length and slope) and position within the stage, using competition heart rate (HR). Sixteen world-class cyclists performed a laboratory test to assess maximal power output (W (max)), maximal HR (HR(max)), HR reserve (HRR), onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA), lactate threshold (LT) and a HR-power output relationship. HR was monitored during 68 OFF, 172 FIRST, and 134 SECOND category passes. Passes were also classified as BEGINNING, MIDDLE or END if they were placed in the first, second or final thirds of a stage, respectively. The training impulse (TRIMP) was calculated from HR and climb duration. %HRR was significantly higher in OFF and FIRST (77 +/- 7% in both), than SECOND (74 +/- 7%). Competition HR relative to HR(OBLA)R and HR(LT)R were higher in OFF (86 +/- 8, 98 +/- 11%) and FIRST (87 +/- 7, 100 +/- 11%) than SECOND (83 +/- 9, 95 +/- 13%). %HRR was lower in OFF situated in BEGINNING (66 +/- 1%) than in MIDDLE (82 +/- 5%) and END (77 +/- 7%); in FIRST situated in BEGINNING (74 +/- 9%) than in MIDDLE (79 +/- 5%); and in SECOND situated in BEGINNING (69 +/- 9%) compared to END (75 +/- 8%). The amount of TRIMP in OFF, FIRST and SECOND were 115 +/- 30, 72 +/- 29 and 41 +/- 19 (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the present study showed that mountain passes are highly demanding and that their intensity is related not only to the difficulty of the ascents but also to the position within the stage. The knowledge of these demands could be useful for planning pre-competition training strategies.

The objective of this paper was to evaluate the effect of constant rate infusion of medetomidine on the anaesthetic requirements of desflurane in dogs. For this, six healthy dogs were studied. Measurements for baseline were taken in the awake, unsedated dogs, then each dog received intravenously (i.v.) three anaesthetic protocols: M (no medetomidine infusion), M0.5 (infusion of medetomidine at 0.5 microg/kg/h, i.v.) or M1 (infusion of medetomidine at 1 microg/kg/h, i.v.). All dogs were sedated with medetomidine (2 microg/kg, i.v.) and measurements repeated in 10 min. Induction of anaesthesia was delivered with propofol (3 mg/kg, i.v.) and maintained with desflurane for 90 min to achieve a defined surgical plane of anaesthesia in all cases. After tracheal intubation infusion of medetomidine was initiated and maintained until the end of anaesthesia. Cardiovascular, respiratory, arterial pH (pHa) and arterial blood gas tensions (PaO(2), PaCO(2)) variables were measured during the procedure. End tidal desflurane concentration (EtDES) was recorded throughout anaesthesia. Time to extubation, time to sternal recumbency and time to standing were also noted. Heart rate and respiratory rate were significantly decreased during sedation in all protocols compared to baseline values. Mean heart rate, mean arterial pressure, systolic arterial pressure, diastolic arterial pressure, respiratory rate, tidal volume, arterial oxygen saturation, end-tidal CO(2), pHa, PaO(2), and PaCO(2) during anaesthesia were similar for all protocols. EtDES for M (8.6 +/- 0.8%) was statistically higher than for M0.5 (7.6 +/- 0.5%) and M1 (7.3 +/- 0.7%) protocols. Infusion of medetomidine reduces desflurane concentration required to maintain anaesthesia in dogs.

A 7-week, 10-session individual training program was implemented with a youth elite football (soccer) player who had been underperforming because of poor aerobic fitness. The intervention focused on developing aerobic power and high lactate production and contributed to a 32.3% improvement in a football-specific performance test. The player was able to return to play and exceed expected performance levels during competitive match play.

Objectives: Due to the absence of randomized studies, the Spanish Reemex Working Group started a registry to analyze and review the results of a large group of patients with mid-term and long-term follow-up to obtain conclusions based on clinical experience., Methods: A registry of 715 patients who underwent surgical intervention for insertion of the SUI readjustable prosthesis Reemex TRT (tension free readjustable tape) in 15 Spanish hospitals (40% urology departments, 60% gynecology departments). The registry was established to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the sling adjustability concept in the surgical treatment of female SUI. The Spanish Working Group was able to evaluate results of the Reemex system in 683 patients of a total of 715. Mean age was 59.9 yr (range 21-87) with a mean follow-up of 23 months (6-93). The group includes: 30.2% patients with mixed incontinence, 73.1% patients with urodynamic intrinsic sphincteric deficit, 35.7% patients with previous history of failed surgical interventions for urinary incontinence, and 54.3% previous pelvic floor associated operations. All patients were evaluated preoperatively with history, physical examination and urinary incontinence questionnaire. Each follow-up visit included incontinence questionnaire, physical examination and stress test., Results: Cure rate was 92.2%, with 6.9% improvement and 0.9% failures. Readjustment was performed in 416 patients (60.9%) as a second phase of surgery over the following 24-48 hours, before hospital discharge. 80 patients (11.7%) were readjusted in the mid- or long-term (between 6 and 8 months after surgery). The level of support of the sling was successfully reduced in three patients between 6 and 14 months after surgery. No other patient suffered voiding difficulties in the long-term. 1.7% of the patients needed extraction of the tensor due to persistent abdominal wall seroma. 0.8% presented vaginal extrusion of the sling., Conclusions: The Reemex system is a minimally invasive technique with consistent results and even improved in heterogeneous groups of patients including intrinsic sphincter defficiency, reoperations, mixed incontinence and associated pathologies.

By applying principles of adaptive management, and by using the valuable information that arthropods provide from assessment and monitoring programs, managers can identify and reduce possible impacts on biodiversity in development projects. In 1996, the Smithsonian Institution's Monitoring and Assessment of Biodiversity program worked together with Shell Prospecting and Development Peru to establish an adaptive management program to protect biodiversity in a natural gas exploration project in a Peruvian rainforest. In this paper, we outlined the conceptual steps involved in establishing an assessment and monitoring program for arthropods, including setting objectives, evaluating the results and making decisions. We also present the results of the assessment using some of groups of arthropods, and summarize the steps taken to identify appropriate groups for monitoring.

Effect of long-term intake of isoleucine-proline-proline (IPP) and valine-proline-proline (VPP), or a sour milk product containing these peptides on development of hypertension was investigated in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Six-week-old SHR were given: 1) water (control group), 2) IPP and VPP dissolved in water (peptide group) or 3) sour milk containing IPP and VPP (sour milk group) for 12 weeks. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured by tail-cuff method. Development of hypertension was attenuated in the groups receiving tripeptides or sour milk as compared to the control group. At the end of treatment period, SBP was 176 +/- 1 mmHg in sour milk group, 181 +/- 2 mmHg in peptide group, and 193 +/- 1 mmHg in control group (P < 0.001). After treatment withdrawal, SBP rose gradually reaching the level of control group within four weeks' follow-up. In functional bioassay of ACE inhibitory activity, effect of the tripeptides on angiotensin I or angiotensin II-induced contraction in rat mesenteric arteries was evaluated. IPP inhibited the angiotensin I-induced contraction, whereas the angiotensin II-induced contraction remained unaltered. In conclusion, long-term intake of IPP and VPP, or a sour milk containing these tripeptides attenuated the development of hypertension in SHR. One possible mechanism underlying this effect is ACE inhibition.

Functional and morphological changes of blood vessels in cyclosporine A (CsA)-induced hypertension and nephrotoxicity were studied in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). The role of the L-arginine-nitric oxide (NO) pathway and the importance of oxidative stress in CsA toxicity were also assessed. SHR (7-8 week old) on a high-sodium diet were treated with CsA (5 mg kg(-1) d(-1) s.c.) for 6 weeks. A proportion of the rats were treated concomitantly with the NO precursor L-arginine (1.7 g kg(-1)d(-1) p.o.). CsA elevated blood pressure and caused renal dysfunction and morphological nephrotoxicity. CsA also impaired mesenteric and renal arterial function and caused structural damage to intrarenal and extrarenal small arteries and arterioles. Medial atrophy of the mesenteric resistance vessels and decreased viability of smooth muscle cells of the thoracic aorta were observed. Renal and arterial damage was associated with the presence of inflammatory cells. CsA did not affect markers of the L-arginine-NO pathway (urinary cyclic GMP excretion or endothelial or inducible NO synthase expression in kidney, aorta or heart) or oxidative stress (urinary excretion of 8-isoprostaglandin F2alpha, plasma urate concentration or total radical trapping capacity). Concomitant L-arginine treatment did not affect CsA-induced changes in blood pressure or histological findings but tended to alleviate the arterial dysfunction. The renal and cardiovascular toxicity of CsA was associated with arterial dysfunction and morphological changes in small arteries and arterioles in SHR on a high-sodium diet. The findings did not support the role of oxidative stress or a defect in the L-arginine-NO pathway.

The objective of this paper was to evaluate the use of romifidine as a premedicant in dogs before general anesthesia induced with propofol or thiopentone and maintained with halothane-N2O. Fifteen healthy dogs were anesthetized twice. Each dog received, as preanesthetic protocol, atropine (10 microg/kg, IM) and romifidine (40 microg/kg, IM); induction was delivered with propofol or thiopentone and anesthesia was maintained with halothane and N2O for 1 h. Some cardiovascular and respiratory variables and recovery times were recorded. Induction doses of propofol or thiopentone and the percentage of halothane necessary for maintaining anesthesia were also registered. Thiopentone as an induction agent is more respiratory depressive but is less hypotensive than propofol. Thiopentone reduces further the percentage of halothane necessary for maintaining the anesthesia. However, the quality of recovery is poorer, as the time to extubation is longer and the dogs occasionally had a violent recovery. The combination of romifidine, atropine, propofol, halothane, and N2O appears to be an effective combination for inducing and maintaining general anesthesia in healthy dogs.

Three anesthetic protocols, each using an alpha-2 agonist sedative in combination with a dissociative anesthetic, were evaluated in 17 captive fallow deer (Cervus dama). The alpha-2 agonist was given first in two of the three protocols: 1) detomidine (0.1-0.2 mg/kg i.m.) followed by tiletamine-zolazepam (3.0-6.3 mg/kg i.m.) and 2) xylazine (0.6-0.9 mg/kg i.m.) followed by tiletamine-zolazepam (4-5 mg/kg i.m.). In the third protocol, xylazine (1.0-6.2 mg/kg i.m.) and ketamine (2.5-5.1 mg/kg i.m.) were given simultaneously. Each of the sedative/anesthetic combinations produced acceptable immobilization in fallow deer and both provide an alternative to narcotic anesthesia.

The objective of this paper was to evaluate romifidine as a premedicant in dogs prior to propofol-halothane-N2O anesthesia, and to compare it with the other alpha2-agonists (medetomidine and xylazine). For this, ten healthy dogs were anesthetized. Each dog received 3 preanesthetic protocols: atropine (10 microg/kg BW, IM), and as a sedative, romifidine (ROM; 40 microg/kg BW, IM), xylazine (XYL; 1 microg/kg, IM), or medetomidine (MED; 20 microg/kg BW, IM). Induction of anesthesia was delivered with propofol 15 min later and maintained with halothane and N2O for one hour in all cases. The following variables were registered before preanesthesia, 10 min after the administration of preanesthesia, and at 5-minute intervals during maintenance: PR, RR, rectal temperature (RT), MAP, SAP, and DAP. During maintenance, arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2), end-tidal CO2 (EtCO2) and percentage of halothane necessary for maintaining anesthesia (%HAL) were also recorded. Induction dose of propofol (DOSE), time to extubation (TE), time to sternal recumbency (TSR) and time to standing (TS) were also registered. The statistical analysis was carried out during the anesthetic period. ANOVA for repeat measures revealed no differences between the 3 groups for PR and RR; however, MAP, SAP and DAP were higher in the MED group; SpO2 was lower in MED and EtCO2 was lower in ROM; %HAL was higher in XYL. No statistical differences were observed in DOSE, TE, TSR or TS. Percentage of halothane was lower in romifidine and medetomidine than in xylazine premedicated dogs also anesthetized with propofol. All the cardiorespiratory variables measured were within normal limits. The studied combination of romifidine, atropine, propofol, halothane and N2O appears to be a safe and effective drug combination for inducing and maintaining general anesthesia in healthy dogs.

A 13-year-old patient with an ovarian abscess caused by Salmonella paratyphi C1-7 had positive stool cultures for the same organism. She recovered after surgical removal of the abscess and intravenous antibiotics.

We report on a 50-year-old male patient who presented with a scrotal mass which he had noted two years earlier. Ultrasound revealed a well-defined, regular, paratesticular mass. Pathological examination of the surgical specimen revealed abundant lipoblasts and a stroma with myxoid changes, prompting a diagnosis of myxoid liposarcoma of the spermatic cord. Liposarcoma is a rare tumor of the spermatic cord which frequently metastasizes to the lumbar retroperitoneal lymph nodes. The foregoing characteristic and the histologic features of the tumor type influence treatment.