Footballscience.net
As previous literature updates, I have performed a PubCrawler search looking for football articles in NCBI Medline (PubMed) and GenBank databases.
Following studies were retrieved for this week:
#1 Nationwide Subjective and Objective Assessments of Potential Talent Predictors in Elite Youth Soccer: An Investigation of Prognostic Validity in a Prospective Study
Reference: Front Sports Act Living. 2021 May 28;3:638227. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2021.638227. eCollection 2021.
Authors: Oliver Höner, Dennis Murr, Paul Larkin, Robert Schreiner, Daniel Leyhr
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8193982/pdf/fspor-03-638227.pdf
Summary: Recent studies have provided empirical evidence on the prognostic relevance of objective performance diagnostics in the soccer talent identification and development process. However, little is known about the prognostic validity of coaches' subjective evaluations of performance. This study evaluated objective and subjective assessments within a nationwide talent development program and addressed motor, perceptual skill, and personality-related performance factors. Male players (N = 13,869; M age = 12.59 ± 1.07 years) from the age groups U12 to U15 of the German soccer talent development program participated in this study. Participants completed an objective motor diagnostic (sprint, agility, dribbling, ball control, juggling) and were subjectively rated by their coaches (kicking skills, endurance, individual tactical skills, psychosocial skills). All nine predictors were assessed with sufficient psychometric properties (α ≥ 0.72; except dribbling and ball control: α ≥ 0.53). Players' success three seasons later was operationalized by achieving professional youth academy level or not (success rate, 9%). Independent-samples t-tests analyzed univariate mean group comparisons between future selected and non-selected players. Logistic regression models examined the multivariate prognostic validity of all assessments by predicting success with subjective (model 1), objective (model 2), and both groups of predictors (model 3). Confirming the univariate prognostic validity, future selected outperformed non-selected players regarding all predictors (each p < 0.001, except for agility in U15: p < 0.01). Tactical skills, kicking skills, and sprint were of highest predictive value (d ≥ 0.61 in each age group). Multivariate results provided empirical evidence for the subjective (7% ≤ Nagelkerke's R 2 ≤ 11%; each p < 0.001) and objective (8% ≤ Nagelkerke's R 2 ≤ 13%; each p < 0.001) assessments' prognostic validity. However, model 3 revealed the best statistical explanatory power in each age group (0.15 ≤ Nagelkerke's R 2 ≤ 0.20; p < 0.001). In this combined assessment model, sprint, tactical skills, and dribbling were found to be the most predictive variables. In conclusion, this study reinforces the call for multidimensional diagnostics integrating objective and subjective assessments. Future research is needed to address the demands for longitudinal analyses of subjective ratings, the integration of biological maturation, and empirical evidence for female soccer.
#2 Sprint Mechanical Characteristics of Female Soccer Players: A Retrospective Pilot Study to Examine a Novel Approach for Correction of Timing Gate Starts
Reference: Front Sports Act Living. 2021 May 28;3:629694. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2021.629694. eCollection 2021.
Authors: Jason D Vescovi, Mladen Jovanović
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8192793/pdf/fspor-03-629694.pdf
Summary: The purpose of this study was to compare model estimates of linear sprint mechanical characteristics using timing gates with and without time correction. High-level female soccer players (n = 116) were evaluated on a 35-m linear sprint with splits at 5, 10, 20, 30, and 35 m. A mono-exponential function was used to model sprint mechanical metrics in three ways: without a time correction, with a fixed (+0.3 s) time correction, and with an estimated time correction. Separate repeated-measures ANOVAs compared the sprint parameter estimates between models and also the residuals between models. Differences were identified between all modeled sprint mechanical metrics; however, comparable estimates to the literature occurred when either time correction was used. Bias for both time-corrected models was reduced across all sprint distances compared to the uncorrected model. This study confirms that a time correction is warranted when using timing gates at the start line to model sprint mechanical metrics. However, determining whether fixed or estimated time corrections provide greater accuracy requires further investigation.
#3 Physiological Monitoring Detected Changes During Women's Soccer Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury
Reference: Cureus. 2021 May 4;13(5):e14838. doi: 10.7759/cureus.14838.
Authors: John P Detherage, Jon G Divine, Michael A Donaworth, Thomas G Palmer, Joshua A Hagen, Kimberly A Hasselfeld, Marsha Eifert-Mangine, Robert E Mangine, Joseph F Clark, Brian M Grawe
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8191855/pdf/cureus-0013-00000014838.pdf
Summary: A growing number of studies utilizing wearable technologies are examining the influence of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) on intense training, recovery, and injury risk. Exercise biometric (EB) data were collected on collegiate, female soccer players during a preseason camp. One player sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Baseline anthropometric and EB data were compared to non-injured, position-matched teammates. All players had similar baseline testing. The injured athlete had a higher body mass index (BMI) and slower vision reaction time (RT). On the day of her injury (DOI), relative percentage heart rate recovery (tHRR) between intense training sets was calculated. Relative percentage tHRR was much lower for the injured athlete, indicating reduced recovery between training sets immediately prior to the injury. Also on DOI, the injured athlete had a lower glomerular filtration rate (GFR). In addition to BMI and RT differences, the lower relative percentage tHRR and GFR on the DOI observed for the injured athlete may reflect an imbalanced ANS recovery, and potentially to risk factors leading to her ACL injury.
#4 Female Adolescent Soccer Players Utilize Different Neuromuscular Strategies Between Limbs During the Propulsion Phase of a Lateral Vertical Jump
Reference: Int J Sports Phys Ther. 2021 Jun 2;16(3):695-703. doi: 10.26603/001c.22134.
Authors: Matthew D DeLang, Joseph P Hannon, Shiho Goto, James M Bothwell, J Craig Garrison
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8169019/pdf/ijspt_2021_16_3_22134.pdf
Summary: Multiplanar dynamic stability is an important unilateral function in soccer performance but has been scarcely examined in female soccer players. The lateral vertical jump task assesses unilateral functional performance, and energy generation contribution examines how each joint (hip, knee, ankle) contributes to the vertical component of the vertical jump phase to measure inter- and intra-limb differences. The purpose was to examine dominant versus non-dominant limb performance using energy generation contribution of the hip, knee, and ankle during the vertical jump component of the lateral vertical jump. Seventeen healthy, adolescent female soccer players (age 13.4±1.7 years; height 160.6±6.0 cm; mass 53.1±8.2 kg) participated. Quadriceps strength was measured via isokinetic dynamometry. Energy generation contribution (measured from maximal knee flexion to toe off) and vertical jump height were measured during the vertical component of the lateral vertical jump. There was no significant difference between limbs for quadriceps strength (p=0.64), jump height (p=0.59), or ankle energy generation contribution (p=0.38). Energy generation contribution was significantly greater in the dominant hip (dominant 29.7±8.6%, non-dominant 18.4±6.3%, p<0.001) and non-dominant knee (dominant 22.8±6.8%, non-dominant 36.2±8.5%, p<0.001). High demand on coordination and motor control during the lateral vertical jump and inherent limb dominance may explain different intra-limb strategies for task performance despite jump height symmetry. Non-dominant affinity for stability and dominant compensatory performance may neutralize potential asymmetries. Implications for symmetry in observable outcomes such as jump height must consider underlying internal asymmetries. Symmetrical findings on functional tasks have underlying internal asymmetries observed here in female adolescent soccer players. The lateral vertical jump may highlight these internal asymmetries (hip- versus knee-dominant movement strategies) due to the high coordinative demand to perform the task. Clinicians should be cognizant of underlying, potentially inherent, asymmetries even when observing functional symmetry in a task.
#5 Biomechanical Changes During a 90º Cut in Collegiate Female Soccer Players With Participation in the 11+
Reference: Int J Sports Phys Ther. 2021 Jun 2;16(3):671-680. doi: 10.26603/001c.22146.
Authors: Celeste Dix, Amelia Arundale, Holly Silvers-Granelli, Adam Marmon, Ryan Zarzycki, Lynn Snyder-Mackler
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8168994/pdf/ijspt_2021_16_3_22146.pdf
Summary: Valgus collapse and high knee abduction moments have been identified as biomechanical risk factors for ACL injury. It is unknown if participation in the 11+, a previously established, dynamic warm-up that emphasizes biomechanical technique and reduces ACL injury rates, reduces components of valgus collapse during a 90º cut. The aim was to determine whether participation in the 11+ during a single soccer season reduced peak knee abduction moment and components of valgus collapse during a 90º cut in collegiate female soccer players. Forty-six participants completed preseason and postseason motion analysis of a 90º cut. During the season, 31 players completed the 11+ and 15 players completed their typical warm-up (control group). Peak knee abduction moment, components of valgus collapse (hip adduction, internal rotation, and knee abduction angles), and a novel measure of knee valgus collapse were analyzed with repeated-measures ANOVAs to determine differences between preseason and postseason. Smallest detectable change (SDC) and minimal important difference (MID) values were applied to contextualize results. There was a significant main effect of time for non-dominant knee valgus collapse (p=0.03), but decreases in non-dominant knee valgus collapse only exceeded the SDC in the intervention team. Clinically meaningful decreases in knee valgus collapse may indicate a beneficial biomechanical effect of the 11+. Participation in the 11+ may lower ACL injury risk by reducing valgus collapse during a 90º cut.
#6 Are Soccer and Futsal Affected by the Relative Age Effect? The Portuguese Football Association Case
Reference: Front Psychol. 2021 May 28;12:679476. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.679476. eCollection 2021.
Authors: Pedro Figueiredo, André Seabra, Marta Brito, Marta Galvão, João Brito
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8194498/pdf/fpsyg-12-679476.pdf
Summary: A better understanding of the relative age effect (RAE) in youth will increase the awareness of the need for reducing the bias of (de)selection. Thus, we investigated the RAE in youth female and male soccer and futsal players in Portugal, using nationwide data. Birthdates of 5,306 female and 126,285 male soccer players, and 2,437 female and 23,988 male futsal players (U7-U19), registered in Portugal during the season 2019-2020, and Portuguese National teams (from U15 to AA soccer teams and from U17 to AA futsal teams) were analyzed. Data were categorized into age groups and certification levels [no certification, basic football training center, football school, and training institution] of the respective clubs/academies. Birthdates were stratified from the start of the selection year using quartiles (Q) and semesters (S). Differences between the observed and expected birthdate distributions were analyzed using chi-square statistics, and RAEs were calculated using odds ratios (OR). In both soccer and futsal, female players, in the age category U9, RAEs were found (Q1 vs. Q4, OR: 1.49 and 1.84, respectively). In male soccer, differences in the birthdate distribution were observed in all age categories (U7-U19) with significant OR between all comparisons (Q and S). In contrast, an over-representation of young male futsal players (Q1 vs. Q4) was observed only in the age categories U7 and U9 (OR: 1.54 and 1.34, respectively). The stratification by certification level showed a significant RAE for all certification levels in male soccer players. In contrast, in male futsal players, the RAE was significant only in clubs and academies with the highest level. For National teams, the RAE was more pronounced in male soccer, particularly in the U16 and U17 (OR: 9.84 and 12.36, respectively). Data showed a RAE in female and male youth soccer and futsal, particularly in male, younger age categories, and in clubs and academies having a higher certification level, which could be accompanied by a loss of valuable elite players during the youth phase of their careers. Thus, adjustments in the systems and structure of talent identification are recommended to prevent RAE-related discrimination in youth soccer and futsal.
#7 Relationships between RPE-derived internal training load parameters and GPS-based external training load variables in elite young soccer players
Reference: Res Sports Med. 2021 Jun 14;1-16. doi: 10.1080/15438627.2021.1937165. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Vicente de Dios-Álvarez, David Suárez-Iglesias, Sara Bouzas-Rico, Pello Alkain, Adrián González-Conde, Carlos Ayán-Pérez
Summary: This study aimed to identify the GPS-based external training load variables that influence the internal training loads (RPE-derived parameters: RPE and session RPE - sRPE), and generate a model to predict GPS-based external load variables from RPE and perceived wellness values. Training load data for 21 elite young players were collected over 72 training sessions and 23 matches from the same competitive season, and 564 observations (training sessions, 462; matches, 102) were analysed. Considering all observations (training sessions and matches), significant moderate and large correlations (p < 0.01) were detected between RPE values and EL measures. The correlation between the GPS outcomes with both the RPE and sRPE values was higher during training sessions than during matches. Moreover, increased RPE and perceived wellness measures had a significant positive effect on external load variables (p < 0.001). The present work provides preliminary evidence of the utility of the RPE and sRPE method to quantify the training loads in young soccer players since most of the GPS-based EL indicators were moderate to highly correlated with the RPE-derived parameters. Additionally, EL variables may be estimated when combining perceived IL and subjective wellness indicators in young soccer players.
#8 Dietary and Ergogenic Supplementation to Improve Elite Soccer Players' Performance
Reference: Ann Nutr Metab. 2021 Jun 11;1-7. doi: 10.1159/000516397. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Haniel Fernandes
Download link: https://www.karger.com/Article/Pdf/516397
Summary: Soccer is an extremely competitive sport, where the most match important moments can be defined in detail. Use of ergogenic supplements can be crucial to improve the performance of a high-performance athlete. Therefore, knowing which ergogenic supplements are important for soccer players can be an interesting strategy to maintain high level in this sport until final and decisive moments of the match. In addition, other supplements, such as dietary supplements, have been studied and increasingly referenced in the scientific literature. But, what if ergogenic supplements were combined with dietary supplements? This review brings some recommendations to improve performance of soccer athletes on the field through dietary and/or ergogenic supplements that can be used simultaneously. Soccer is a competitive sport, where the match important moments can be defined in detail. Thus, use of ergogenic supplements covered in this review can improve performance of elite soccer players maintaining high level in the match until final moments, such as creatine 3-5 g day-1, caffeine 3-6 mg kg-1 BW around 60 min before the match, sodium bicarbonate 0.1-0.4 g kg-1 BW starting from 30 to 180 min before the match, β-alanine 3.2 and 6.4 g day-1 provided in the sustained-release tablets divided into 4 times a day, and nitrate-rich beetroot juice 60 g in 200 mL of water (6 mmol of NO3- L) around 120 min before match or training, including a combination possible with taurine 50 mg kg-1 BW day-1, citrulline 1.2-3.4 g day-1, and arginine 1.2-6 g day-1. Key Messages: Soccer athletes can combine ergogenic and dietary supplements to improve their performance on the field. The ergogenic and dietary supplements used in a scientifically recommended dose did not demonstrate relevant side effects. The use of various evidence-based supplements can add up to further improvement in the performance of the elite soccer players.
#9 Assessment of diet quality and physical activity of soccer players aged 13 to 16, from the Principality of Asturias, Spain
Reference: An Pediatr (Engl Ed). 2021 Jun 9;S2341-2879(21)00103-4. doi: 10.1016/j.anpede.2020.05.015.
Authors: María Del Mar Fernández-Álvarez, Rubén Martín-Payo, Edurne Zabaleta-Del-Olmo, Rebeca García-García, Marcelino Cuesta, Xana Gonzalez-Méndez
Summary: Diet and physical activity are factors that have key roles in childhood overweight and obesity prevention. Appropriate assessment of these factors is an essential task in public health. The main aims of the study are to assess body composition, physical activity, and adherence to Mediterranean diet of soccer players, aged 13 to 16 years old in Asturias, Spain. It also aims to evaluate the relationships between diet, physical activity, body composition, and personal characteristics. A cross-sectional descriptive survey approach was used involving children (n = 303) with a mean age of 14.15 years (SD = 1.06), and using the KIDMED and PAQ-A questionnaires to assess adherence to Mediterranean diet and level of physical activity, respectively. Body composition was represented using the participants' body mass index. Approximately 23.1% of the participants were overweight or obese. With regards to adherence to Mediterranean diet, 54.8% of the participants had medium adherence, while 8.9% had low adherence. PAQ-A mean score was 2.69 (SD = 0.47). Excess weight was associated with being a goalkeeper (P = .001), higher PAQ-A (P = .011), and lower KIDMED scores (P = .032). Correlation analysis showed an inverse association between age and PAQ-A score (r = -0.122), and a direct association between KIDMED and PAQ-A scores (r = 0.152). Participants had an adequate level of physical activity. However, they had an obesogenic profile similar to that of their age population, who were not soccer players. Actions to improve adherence to healthy diet practices are highly recommended.
#10 Heading in Football: Incidence, Biomechanical Characteristics and the Association with Acute Cognitive Function-A Three-Part Systematic Review
Reference: Sports Med. 2021 Jun 15. doi: 10.1007/s40279-021-01492-z. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Robert McCunn, Florian Beaudouin, Katy Stewart, Tim Meyer, John MacLean
Summary: There is growing concern surrounding the role of repetitive sub-concussive head impacts, such as football heading, on brain health. Three questions were addressed while only considering studies that observed heading exposure directly: (1) how frequently does heading occur within football training and matches, (2) what are the biomechanical characteristics of heading, and (3) is cognitive function affected by heading? This review followed the steps described in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Electronic databases including MEDLINE and SPORTDiscus were searched from the earliest entry to July 2020. Studies that reported independently quantified heading exposure, biomechanical characteristics of heading or the relationship between heading and cognitive function were included. Data were extracted and used to populate summary tables with reference to each research question. Heading incidence ranged between one to nine headers per player per match. The number of headers observed in small-sided games during training varied depending on the exact format used but generally speaking ranged between zero to one per player per game. The three most commonly reported biomechanical variables were head acceleration, head rotational velocity and overall movement kinematics during the heading action. Average head acceleration ranged from approximately four to 50 g. Nine out of 12 included studies did not observe a negative impact on cognitive test performance following exposure to heading and while three did, these negative effects were limited to specific outcome measures: reaction time and memory function. The current weight of evidence summarised herein does not support the notion that heading is deleterious to cognitive performance in the short term; however, this conclusion is tentative due to methodological shortcomings in the existing evidence base.
#11 Effect of playing position, passage duration and starting status on the most demanding passages of match play in professional football
Reference: Res Sports Med. 2021 Jun 14;1-10. doi: 10.1080/15438627.2021.1937163. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Isabel Martín-Fuentes, José M Oliva-Lozano, Víctor Fortes, José M Muyor
Summary: The aims of this research were to analyse the effect that different playing positions, passage durations and starting status had on the most demanding passages (MDP) of play in professional football matches. Players were categorized by positions and the MDP of distance (DIS), high-speed running distance (HSRD) and sprinting distance (SPD) were analysed for four passage durations (1, 3, 5 and 10 minutes). The results indicated that DIS (p < 0.001), HSRD (p < 0.001) and SPD (p < 0.001) covered per minute decreased as the passage durations increased for all positions. Regarding the playing position, it had a significant effect on the DIS (p < 0.001), HSRD (p < 0.001) and SPD (p < 0.001) covered. In addition, although the results reported that the starting status had no significant effect on the DIS (p = 0.36) covered, it had a statistically significant effect on the HSRD (p = 0.01) and SPD (p < 0.001) covered. Coaching and medical departments should consider the impact that these variables have on players' performance when designing training drills aimed at preparing the player for the competitive demands.
#12 Impact of Scoring First on Match Outcome in the Chinese Football Super League
Reference: Front Psychol. 2021 May 28;12:662708. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.662708. eCollection 2021.
Authors: Tianbiao Liu, Antonio García-de-Alcaraz, Hai Wang, Ping Hu, Qiu Chen
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8194256/pdf/fpsyg-12-662708.pdf
Summary: The aim of this study was to explore the effect of scoring first on match outcomes in the Chinese Football Super League (CSL). A total of 1,116 matches in which at least one goal was scored from the 2014 to 2018 seasons were collected. Match outcomes, absolute goal differences, the minute of the first goal, match locations, and teams' budgets were analyzed. A team's budget was measured in terms of a team's value at the beginning of the season, and teams were clustered into two groups (high and low budget with means of 50.77 and 13.77 million dollars, respectively). A descriptive analysis was conducted, and two generalized linear models (a multinomial logit model and a Poisson model; p < 0.05) were applied. The results showed a favorable outcome for the team that scored first both in match outcome and goal difference. Regarding the teams that scored first, 66.31% won their matches, 20.70% achieved a draw, and 12.99% lost. Specifically, home teams were more likely to win (13.42%) and less likely to lose (9.52%) or draw (3.90%) than away teams. Home teams also had a higher likelihood of obtaining a larger goal difference. Higher budget teams were more likely to win (14.90%) and less likely to lose (9.75%) or draw (5.14%) than low-budget teams. Additionally, for each minute, the team scores closer to the end of the match, and the average probability of winning increased by 0.0028. These findings can guide the strategies of coaches in different match scenarios according to the match location and the opponent's quality.
#13 Design and Validation of an Observational System for Penalty Kick Analysis in Football (OSPAF)
Reference: Front Psychol. 2021 May 28;12:661179. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.661179. eCollection 2021.
Authors: Guilherme de Sousa Pinheiro, Vitor Bertoli Nascimento, Matt Dicks, Varley Teoldo Costa, Martin Lames
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8194359/pdf/fpsyg-12-661179.pdf
Summary: The analysis of penalty kick has played an important role in performance analysis. The study aims are to get formal feedback on the relevance of variables for penalty kick analysis, to design and validate an observational system; and to assess experts' opinion on the optimum video footage in penalty kick analysis. A structured development process was adopted for content validity, reliability and agreement on video usage. All observational variables included in OSPAF showed Aiken's V values above the cut-off (for 5-scale V> 0.64; for 2-scale = V > 0.75; p < 0.05). Cohen's Kappa resulted in mean intra- and inter-rater reliability values of 0.90 and 0.86, respectively. It is recommended to combine at least three different viewing angles (V = 0.90; p = 0.006) with standardization of video quality (V = 0.95; p = 0.006). Changing the viewing angles may influence the observer perception (V = 0.86; p = 0.006). The aerial and pitch-level viewing angle behind the penalty taker and pitch-level viewing angle behind the goalkeeper were indicated as most appropriate for observational analysis (V = 0.97; p = 0.01). The OSPAF met all requirements of instrument validation. It may be recommended as basis of future observational systems on penalty kicks.
#14 Pursuing Collective Synchrony in Teams: A Regime-Switching Dynamic Factor Model of Speed Similarity in Soccer
Reference: Psychometrika. 2021 Jun 18. doi: 10.1007/s11336-021-09782-1. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Daniel M Smith, Theodore A Walls
Summary: Collective synchrony refers to the simultaneous occurrence of behavior, cognition, emotion, and/or physiology within teams of three or more persons. It has been suggested that collective synchrony may emanate from the copresence of team members, from their engagement in a shared task, and from coordination enacted in pursuit of a collective goal. In this paper, a regime-switching dynamic factor analytical approach is used to examine interindividual similarities in a particular behavioral measure (i.e., speed) in a collegiate soccer team. First, the analytical approach is presented didactically, including the state space modeling framework in general, followed by the regime-switching dynamic factor model in particular. Next, an empirical application of the approach is presented. Speed similarity (covariation in speed, operationalized in two ways: running cadence and distance covered) during competitive women's soccer games is examined. A key methodological aspect of the approach is that the collective is the unit of analysis, and individuals vary about collective dynamics and their evolution. Reporting on the results of this study, we show how features of substantive interest, such as the magnitude and prevalence of behavioral similarity, can be parameterized, interpreted, and aggregated. Finally, we highlight several key findings, as well as opportunities for future research, in terms of methodological and substantive aims for advancing the study of collective synchrony.
#15 Total numbers and in-hospital mortality of patients with myocardial infarction in Germany during the FIFA soccer world cup 2014
Reference: Sci Rep. 2021 Jun 17;11(1):11330. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-90582-z.
Authors: Karsten Keller, Lukas Hobohm, Volker H Schmitt, Martin Engelhardt, Philip Wenzel, Felix Post, Thomas Münzel, Tommaso Gori, Birgit Friedmann-Bette
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8211804/pdf/41598_2021_Article_90582.pdf
Summary: Environmental stress like important soccer events can induce excitation, stress and anger. We aimed to investigate (i) whether the FIFA soccer world cup (WC) 2014 and (ii) whether the soccer games of the German national team had an impact on total numbers and in-hospital mortality of patients with myocardial infarction (MI) in Germany. We analyzed data of MI inpatients of the German nationwide inpatient sample (2013-2015). Patients admitted due to MI during FIFA WC 2014 (12th June-13th July2014) were compared to those during the same period 2013 and 2015 (12th June-13th July). Total number of MI patients was higher during WC 2014 than in the comparison-period 2013 (18,479 vs.18,089, P < 0.001) and 2015 (18,479 vs.17,794, P < 0.001). WC was independently associated with higher MI numbers (2014 vs. 2013: OR 1.04 [95% CI 1.01-1.07]; 2014 vs. 2015: OR 1.07 [95% CI 1.04-1.10], P < 0.001). Patient characteristics and in-hospital mortality rate (8.3% vs. 8.3% vs. 8.4%) were similar during periods. In-hospital mortality rate was not affected by games of the German national team (8.9% vs. 8.1%, P = 0.110). However, we observed an increase regarding in-hospital mortality from 7.9 to 9.3% before to 12.0% at final-match-day. Number of hospital admissions due to MI in Germany was 3.7% higher during WC 2014 than during the same 31-day period 2015. While in-hospital mortality was not affected by the WC, the in-hospital mortality was highest at WC final.
#16 The effects of hydration status and ice-water dousing on physiological and performance indices during a simulated soccer match in the heat
Reference: J Sci Med Sport. 2021 May 24;S1440-2440(21)00138-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jsams.2021.05.013.
Authors: Courteney L Benjamin, Yasuki Sekiguchi, Margaret C Morrissey, Cody R Butler, Erica M Filep, Rebecca L Stearns, Douglas J Casa
Summary: The aim was to assess the effects of hydration status and ice-water dousing on physiological and performance parameters. Twelve athletes (mean[M] ± standard deviation[SD]; age, 20 ± 1 years; height, 174 ± 8 cm; body mass, 72.1 ± 11.0 kg; VO2max 53.9 ± 7.3 mL⋅kg-1⋅min-1) completed four trials (euhydrated without dousing, hypohydrated without dousing, euhydrated with dousing, and hypohydrated with dousing), which involved intermittent treadmill running (five 15-minute bouts) in the heat (M ± SD; ambient temperature, 34.7 ± 2.1 °C; relative humidity, 46 ± 3%; wet-bulb globe temperature, 28.0 ± 0.4 °C). Participants also completed four cognitive, power, agility, reaction time, and repeated sprint performance tests throughout each trial. Heart rate (HR) and rectal temperature (Trec) were measured continuously. Repeated measures ANOVAs were performed to assess differences between physiological and performance variables. Alpha was set at ≤0.05, a priori. Data are reported as mean difference ± standard error (MD ± SE). HR was significantly lower in euhydrated trials compared to hypohydrated trials, irrespective of dousing (8 ± 2 bpm; p = 0.001). Dousing did not significantly impact HR (p = 0.455) and there was no interaction between hydration and dousing (p = 0.893). Trec was significantly lower in euhydrated trials compared to hypohydrated trials (0.39 ± 0.05 °C, p < 0.001), with no effect from dousing alone (p = 0.113) or the interaction of hydration and dousing (p = 0.848). Dousing resulted in improved sprint performance (11 ± 3 belt rotations, p = 0.007), while hydration status did not (p = 0.235). Athletes should aim to maintain euhydration during exercise in the heat for improved physiological function and cooling with ice-water dousing elicits additional performance benefits.
#17 Football as an Alternative to Work on the Development of Social Skills in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder with Level 1
Reference: Behav Sci (Basel). 2021 Nov 19;11(11):159. doi: 10.3390/bs11110159.
Authors: Jose Maria Lopez-Diaz, Nerea Felgueras Custodio, Inmaculada Garrote Camarena
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8614793/pdf/behavsci-11-00159.pdf
Summary: Given the characteristics of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, it is evident the difficulties they show in the development of social skills. The scarce participation of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder in group sports can be taken as a reference. The aim of this study was to analyse the impact of football on the development of social skills in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. In order to measure the sporting impact, it was necessary to implement a football training programme with the intention of evaluating different social skills. Thirteen children participated in the programme, all of them with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and with a severity level of 1. The study was based on a pre-experimental, pre-test/post-test design. Non-parametric tests were used for the statistical analysis, applying the Wilcoxon test. Two specific tools on social skills were used for data collection. The results showed a generalised improvement in the dimensions linked to the social skills assessed. This highlights the possibility of considering group sport as an alternative to be taken into account to work on and enhance social skills in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
#18 FIFA 11+ Kids program effects on jump kinetics in soccer players - A randomized controlled clinical trial
Reference: Res Sports Med. 2021 Nov 26;1-12. doi: 10.1080/15438627.2021.2010204. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Vitória A Teixeira, Thiago M Queiroz, Isadora V Leão, Lucas D G Innecco, Erica L Marcelino, Daniel F M Lobato
Summary: This study aimed to analyse the effects of the FIFA 11+ Kids programme on jump kinetics in soccer players. Twenty-four athletes (aged 9-11 years) were randomly allocated to the following groups: 1) the FIFA 11+ Kids programme (FT, n = 12), and 2) control training (CT, n = 12). Kinetic assessments of vertical jump (VJ), drop landing (DL), and anterior jump + maximum vertical jump (AJ) were performed on a force platform before and after eight weeks of training. Post-intervention impulse peak force and maximum impulse force (VJ) were significantly greater than the baseline values in the FT group (P < 0.001). Post-intervention landing peak force values for the first and second landings (DL) were significantly greater than the baseline values in the FT group (P = 0.01 and P = 0.05, respectively). Post-intervention landing peak force in the first landing (AJ) was significantly greater than the baseline values in the FT group (P = 0.005). The FT was effective in improving the impulsion performance during VJ. However, it increased the landing forces during DL and VJ.
#19 The Intra- and Inter-Rater Reliability of a Hip Rotation Range-of-Motion Measurement Using a Smartphone Application in Academy Football (Soccer) Players
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2021 Oct 26;9(11):148. doi: 10.3390/sports9110148.
Authors: Paul Spork, James O'Brien, Morris Sepoetro, Maximilian Plachel, Thomas Stöggl
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8623895/pdf/sports-09-00148.pdf
Summary: The clinical assessment of hip rotation range-of-motion (ROM) is important for managing hip and groin injuries in footballers. Previously published reliability studies on hip ROM have employed protocols that are difficult to replicate under everyday clinical conditions. This single trial, intra- and inter-rater reliability study included 41 male academy football (soccer) players, aged 14-15 years, from one European football academy. Passive hip internal rotation (IR) and external rotation (ER) ROM were measured in supine with hip and knee flexed to 90°. The ROM was determined using a smartphone application, with the smartphone attached to the lower leg. The tests were performed on two separate occasions, one week apart, by two different physiotherapists and on both sides (left and right hips). Reliability was evaluated using Intra-Class Correlation Coefficients (ICCs) and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC). Hip IR and ER ROM displayed moderate to good intra-rater agreement (ICCs 0.54-0.75), with MDCs ranging from 10.9° to 16.4°. Inter-rater reliability displayed poor to moderate reliability (ICCs 0.33-0.75), with MDCs ranging from 11.7° to 16.5°. A hip rotation ROM test using a smartphone application and a protocol closely reflecting everyday clinical conditions displayed moderate to good intra-rater reliability and poor to moderate inter-rater reliability. Due to the high MDCs, the practical applicability of this test procedure is limited and further refinement is necessary.
#20 The neurological risks of playing association football
Reference: JRSM Open. 2021 Nov 18;12(11):20542704211055558. doi: 10.1177/20542704211055558. eCollection 2021 Nov.
Authors: Oliver C Cockerell, Natalie Iino Hayes, Richard Sylvester
Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8609100/pdf/10.1177_20542704211055558.pdf
Summary: The present study aims to provide a narrative review of the literature surrounding concussion and head injury in football and its clarity in evaluating the risk of long-term neurological disease. Epidemiological studies have shown correlations between participation in professional football and increased incidence of neurodegenerative disease and there have been reports of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in the brains of former players in autopsy. These findings have been assumed by some to be the result of repetitive brain injury from head injuries and/or from heading the ball over a player's career. Data linking increased heading exposure with dementia is conflicting, and studies are limited by the reliance on retrospection and undocumented reports of concussion. It remains unclear whether CTE is unique to sportsmen or a variant of dementia pathology endemic in the population. Although logically appealing, there is no current evidence that heading is the cause of neurodegeneration amongst footballers and risks should be balanced by the protective mental and physical benefits of the sport. Physicians have an important role in providing balanced views in this emotive and controversial area.
