Search

This descriptive study aimed to investigate the current practices of Portuguese and Brazilian soccer coaches in the design and implementation of small-sided games (SSGs) in soccer. A total of 187 male coaches participated in the online survey, consisting of 82 Portuguese and 105 Brazilian individuals. These coaches held various positions within the technical staff, with 63 serving as head coaches, 38 as assistant coaches, 38 as physical trainers, and 48 in other roles related to the technical staff. Additionally, the participants represented both youth (n = 102) and adult competitive levels (n = 59), along with some who were not currently associated with a specific group. The survey consisted of 32 questions divided into three main sections: (i) the timing of SSG application, (ii) the methods used for applying SSGs, and (iii) the reasons for applying SSGs. The Chi-square test revealed a statistically significant association between nationality and the frequency of SSGs used in training sessions during the pre-season (p = 0.039) and in-season (p < 0.001). Moreover, significant association between nationality and the time allocated to employing SSGs for targeting aerobic training (p < 0.001) was found. There was a significant association between nationality and the weekly frequency of SSGs use for targeting sprint training (p = 0.019). The Chi-square test identified significant associations between nationality and the use of SSGs for targeting technical training (p = 0.002), as well as for tactical training (p = 0.002). In summary, this study underscores that SSGs are primarily employed to enhance aerobic fitness, change of direction, technical skills, and tactical behaviors. Coaches generally favor employing SSGs two to three times a week, with typical sessions lasting between 16 to 30 minutes. Notably, the major discrepancies between nationalities lie in the importance assigned to the use of SSGs. However, in practice, the formats and objectives for implementing SSGs remain relatively similar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this review was to identify and synthesise the most significant literature addressing the effects of changing the HC on soccer team's performance, identifying the most frequently researched outcomes and characterizing their methodologies. A systematic review of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and SPORTDiscus databases was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA, 2020) guidelines. The following keywords and synonyms were entered in various combinations in the title, abstract or keywords: "football*" OR soccer AND "coach*" OR "manager*" AND "replacement" OR "turnover" OR "substitution*" OR "change". Solely original articles written in English that contained data about the effects of the change in the HC on performance in professional male soccer were included. A total of 94 titles were identified, of which 24 met the eligibility criteria. The quality of the studies was considered excellent. The most common topic of analysis was the effects of the HC on match outcomes (i.e., win, draw, loss, points won, goals average). Some studies suggest that the HCs dismissal has small but positive impacts on a team's short-term performance, while other findings suggest that little-to-no impact is observed following HC departure. The dismissal of the HC does not guarantee increase success of an underperforming team. Some studies suggest that hiring an appropriate coach could positively affect match performance in the short-term. Due to limited variations in study designs, further research is needed before robust conclusions can be drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Water Resources / Recursos Hídricos is the property of Associacao Portuguesa dos Recursos Hidricos and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Resting energy expenditure (REE) is often estimated in athletes using equations developed from the general population however, the application in athletic-specific populations is questionable. The aim of this systematic review was to compare measured REE and estimations of REE obtained from non-sport participants and athletes. Inclusion criteria met PICO criteria: population -- participants involved in organized sport; intervention -- resting energy expenditure was obtained by calorimetry; comparator -- equations to estimate REE; outcomes -- comparisons between measured REE and predicted REE. The search was conducted in Web of Science all databases, PubMed and Scopus. Comparisons between measured REE and predicted REE as well the potential models to estimate REE developed among athletes were summarized. Allowing for variation among studies, equations developed within general populations were not comparable to REE measured by calorimetry in athletes. Equations across athletic samples were obtained but, few studies tested their validity across independent samples of sport participants. Nevertheless, equations developed within athlete populations seem to be widely unused in sports nutrition literature and practice. De Lorenzo and ten Haaf equations appear to present an acceptable agreement with measured REE. Finally, equations used among adults should not be generalised for youth sport participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this scoping review were (i) to characterize the main methodological approaches to assessing individualized running speed thresholds in team sports players; (ii) to assess the use of traditional arbitrary (absolute) thresholds compared to individualized running speed thresholds in team sports players; (iii) to provide an evidence gap map (EGM) about the approaches and study designs employed in investigations in team sports and (iv) to provide directions for future research and practical applications for the strength and conditioning field. Methods studies were searched for in the following databases: (i) PubMed; (ii) Scopus; (iii) SPORTDiscus and (iv) Web of Science. The search was conducted on 15/07/2022. Risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Nonrandomized Studies (RoBANS). From 3,195 potentially relevant articles, 36 were eligible for inclusion in this review. Of the 36 included articles, 27 (75%) focused on the use of arbitrary and individualized running speed thresholds to describe the locomotor demands (e.g., high intensity running) of players. Thirty-four articles used individualized speed running thresholds based on physical fitness assessments (e.g., 40-m linear sprint) or physical performance (e.g., maximal acceleration). This scoping review supported the need for a greater focus to be placed on improving the methodological aspects of using individualized speed running thresholds in team sports. More than just creating alternatives to arbitrary thresholds, it is essential to increase the replicability of methodological conditions whilst ensuring that research comparing the most adequate measures and approaches to individualization takes into consideration the population and context of each study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review aimed to (1) identify and summarize studies that have examined the effects of re-warm-up (RWU) protocols on the physical performance of soccer players (vertical jump height and sprint time) and (2) establish a meta-comparison between performing a re-warm-up and not performing one regarding the outcomes of the aforementioned outcomes. A systematic review of EBSCO, PubMed, SciELO, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science databases was performed on 12 January, 2021, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. From the 892 studies initially identified, four studies were reviewed, and three of these were included in the present meta-analysis. Compared to a control condition, there was a moderate effect of RWU on vertical jump height (ES = 0.66; p = 0.001; I² = 0.0%). However, compared to a control condition, there was a trivial effect of RWU on linear sprint time (ES = 0.19; p = 0.440; I² = 38.4%). The nature of RWU enhances the performance of players with an emphasis on actions requiring vertical jumps. Therefore, the results provide essential information that soccer coaching staff can use to improve the performance of their teams. The limited number of studies available for the meta-analysis may have magnified the impact of heterogeneity on linear sprint time findings. More high-quality studies, with homogeneous study designs, may help to clarify the potential benefits of RWU for linear sprint time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between sprint performance (time), and strength and power capabilities in football players. A total of 33 professional Portuguese football players performed isokinetic strength assessments, countermovement jumps (CMJ), squat jumps (SJ), and 10, 20 and 30 m sprints. Pearson's correlation (r) was used to determine the relationships between variables. Concentric knee extensor torque at 180° · s-1 was largely-to-very largely correlated with 10 m (r = -0.726), 20 m (-0.657) and 30 m sprints (r = -0.823). Moderate inverse correlation were observed between CMJ (r = -0.425 and r = -0.405) and SJ height (r = -0.417 and r = -0.430), and 20 m and 30 m sprint performance, respectively. Multiple linear regression combining KEcon 180° · s-1 and KFcon 180° · s-1 demonstrated that the model was significant for predicting 10 m sprint time (F (2, 8) = 5.886; R 2 = 0.595). The model combining SJ, CMJ and KEcon 180° · s-1 was also significant for predicting 20 and 30 m sprint times (F (3, 7) = 2.475; R 2 = 0.515 and F (3, 7) = 5.282; R 2 = 0.562; respectively). In conclusion, peak torque at higher velocities and vertical jump performance correlates significantly with linear sprint performance (time). For practitioners seeking to improve linear sprint performance in football players, evaluation of high speed strength and vertical jump indices should be undertaken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Picoplankton are central global carbon (C) cycling players and often dominate the ocean plankton communities, especially in low latitudes. Therefore, evaluating picoplankton temporal dynamics is critical to understanding microbial stocks and C fluxes in tropical oceans. However, the lack of studies on low-latitude picoplankton communities translates into a common conception that there is an absence of seasonality. Herein, we studied the temporal variation in abundance (measured by flow cytometry), and carbon flux (taking bacterial production and respiration as proxies) of the picoplanktonic community for the first time, as well as their environmental drivers in a low-latitude (05° 59' 20.7"S 035° 05' 14.6"W) Atlantic coastal station. We performed monthly samplings between February 2013 and August 2016 in a novel microbial observatory - hereafter called the Equatorial Atlantic Microbial Observatory - established on the northeastern Brazilian Atlantic coast. Our results revealed stability in temporal dynamics of picoplankton, despite a considerable inter-annual variation, with some related to the El Niño (ENSO) event in 2015. However, weak environmental relationships found were not enough to explain the variation in picoplankton's abundance, which suggests that other factors such as biological interactions may lead to picoplankton abundance variation over time. Heterotrophic bacteria dominated picoplankton during the entire study period and between photosynthetic counterparts, and Synechococcus showed greater relative importance than picoeukaryotes. These results bring a novel perspective that picoplankton may exhibit more pronounced fluctuations in the tropical region when considering inter-annual intervals, and is increasing prokaryotic contribution to carbon cycling towards the equator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most often-used task constraints in designing small-sided games (SSGs) is the manipulation of pitch size to promote increases or decreases in the relative area per player. Such adjustments cause changes in the acute responses during SSGs. This systematic review with meta-analysis aimed to compare the effects of smaller vs. larger pitch sizes on soccer players' physiological, physical, technical, and tactical responses during SSGs. Comparisons between smaller and larger pitches were not considered based on a specific size, but also between using at least two dimensions in the same comparative study, aiming to understand differences between using smaller and larger (independently of the specific dimensions). The data sources utilized were PubMed, PsycINFO, Scielo, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science. The database search initially yielded 249 titles. From those, 41 articles were eligible for the systematic review and meta-analysis. Results revealed that, compared to smaller pitches, SSGs played on larger pitches induced greater values for heart rate (p < 0.001; ES = 0.50), rate of perceived exertion (p < 0.001; ES = 0.70), total distance (p < 0.001; ES = 1.95), high-speed running (p < 0.001; ES = 1.20), stretch index (p < 0.001; ES = 1.02) and surface area (p < 0.001; ES = 1.54). No significant differences were found between pitch size regarding the numbers of accelerations (p = 0.232; ES = 0.45), decelerations (p = 0.111; ES = 0.85), passes (p = 0.897; ES = 0.02), dribbles (p = 0.823; ES = -0.05), or positional centroid (p = 0.053; ES = 0.56). Larger pitch sizes can be implemented as a meaningful task constraint to increase the internal and external load experienced by soccer players during SSGs, as well as to increase the dispersion of players while acting together. These results were found independent of format and age group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In male professional soccer, changing coaches frequently occurs during a sports season. Although this decision may disrupt players' and teams' development, organizational progress, and financial stability, the administrations still decide to change coaches due to several sportive factors. This study aims to describe a local Portuguese professional soccer team's reality regarding specific factors influencing the decision to dismiss a coach across a sports season and reflect on the decision effect. The sample was composed of three male coaches who managed a professional soccer team during the 2020/2021 season and thirty-six male professional soccer players. Our results showed that the coaches were dismissed after a sequence of unsatisfactory results and the team being in a relegation position. Both new coaches had a short-term positive impact on team results and players' total distance covered in official matches. In terms of training, there was a decrease in the total distance covered by the players in the weeks following the change of coach, raising the hypothesis that there was a focus on tactical and technical aspects, rather than on the physical work of the team. Also, the change of coach led to a modification in the players most used in official matches in two or three specific positions on the field. Although, changing coaches did not have long-term effects on the team sports results. Therefore, considering the financial effort required and the sportive effects, the decision to change coaches during a season seems questionable. Our findings contribute to the analysis of an event that has become more frequent in our reality, being a topic that still requires further exploration in other local contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small-sided games (SSGs) are widely used in soccer training. However, some of the typical outcomes related to human responses during these games (namely internal and external load) may vary between sessions for similar practice conditions. Thus, the study of intra- and inter-bout variability in response to SSGs is progressively growing. This systematic review aimed to (1) identify studies that have examined the intra-and inter-session bouts' variability levels regarding the internal and external load and technical/tactical outcomes during SSGs and (2) summarize the main evidence. A systematic review of PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. From the 486 studies initially identified, 24 were fully reviewed, and their outcome measures were extracted and analyzed. Sixteen studies analyzed internal load, 13 studies analyzed external load variables, six studies analyzed technical execution, and two studies analyzed tactical behavior. All studies included SSGs with a range number of players between 2 to 14 (1 vs. 1 to 7 vs. 7 SSGs). Internal load and low-speed external load variables presented a low variability, while high variations were reported regarding the technical execution and high-speed external loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has demonstrated that the extra-time (ET) period of soccer negatively impacts recovery. However, it is not known to what extent recovery practices are being adapted by practitioners following ET and where gaps exist between research and practice. Therefore, this study explored soccer practitioner perceptions of recovery practices following ET matches. A total of 72 practitioners from across different levels of soccer and several countries completed a bespoke online survey. Inductive content analysis of the responses identified five higher-order themes: 'conditioning', 'player monitoring', 'recovery practices', 'training', and 'future research directions'. Mixed responses were received in relation to whether practitioners condition players in preparation for ET, though 72% allowed players to return to training based on fatigue markers following this additional 30-min period. Sixty-three (88%) practitioners believed that ET delays the time-course of recovery, with 82% highlighting that practices should be adapted following ET compared with a typical 90-min match. Forty-nine practitioners (68%) reduce training loads and intensities for up to 48 hr post ET matches, though training mostly recommences as 'normal' at 72 hr. Sixty-three (88%) practitioners believed that more research should be conducted on recovery following ET, with 'tracking players physiological and physical responses', 'nutritional interventions to accelerate recovery' and 'changes in acute injury-risk' being the three areas of research that practitioners ranked as most important. These data suggest practitioners and coaches adjust recovery practices following ET matches compared to 90 min. Further research on the efficacy of recovery strategies following ET matches is required to inform applied practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small-sided games (SSGs) are often used in soccer to produce acute physiological and physical responses, while a tactical/technical stimulus is also employed. However, due to some limitations of SSGs, researchers have been testing this method combined with running-based training methods. This systematic review was conducted to assess the effects of combined SSG and running-based methods on soccer players' acute responses and adaptations after training interventions. A systematic review of Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus databases was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The database search initially identified 782 titles. From those, five articles were deemed eligible for the systematic review. The five included studies presented data from training load, reporting inconsistent greater values in combined SSG and running-based methods when compared to SSG-only formats. Considering the adaptations, studies comparing combined SSG and running-based methods with SSG-only methods revealed inconsistent differences in terms of the effects on aerobic performance and sprinting. Combining SSG and running-based methods can increase the acute mechanical load and high-intense running stimuli in players when compared to interventions that use only SSGs. However, the adaptations promoted by both methods are similar, and the differences are unclear. The order of combination (SSG and running-based method) does not seem to impact players' adaptations; however, the frequency of sessions did have a meaningful impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of this study was to analyse the effects of including additional speed and endurance sessions during small-sided games (SSG) training periodization on physical fitness in professional soccer players. Sixteen outfield players (age = 25.6 ± 7.6 years) who competed in the First Division of a European League participated in this study. Players were randomly assigned to perform only the SSG periodization (G-SSG group) or to add endurance and speed training contents to the SSG (ES-SSG group). Before and after the 6-week experimental period, a Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1 (YYIR1) and a 40 m sprinting test were performed. Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was also measured after each training session. The G-SSG group showed a large improvement in the YYIR1 performance (p = 0.018-0.028; ES = 0.521-0.576) after the training programme, whereas no significant changes were observed for the ES-SSG group (p = 0.763-1.000; ES = 0.000-0.014). In addition, no significant differences (p > 0.05, ES = 0.005-361, trivial to small) in sprint performance at 5 and 10 m intervals up to 40 m were observed at post-training in comparison to pre-training evaluation in G-SSG and ES-SSG groups. No significant differences (p > 0.05) between groups were observed at baseline in the YYIR1 test. The 6-week SSG training supported with only six endurance and speed training sessions was no more effective than well-organized SSG alone for improving running endurance in professional soccer players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were 1) to analyse session-to-session variations in different external load measures and 2) to examine differences in within-session intervals across different small-sided game (SSG) formats in professional players. Twenty professional soccer players (mean ± SD; age 28.1 ± 4.6 years, height 176.7 ± 4.9 cm, body mass 72.0 ± 7.8 kg, and body fat 10.3 ± 3.8%) participated in 3v3, 4v4, and 6v6 SSGs under different conditions (i.e., touch limitations and presence of goalkeepers vs. free touch and ball possession drill) over three sessions. Selected external load measures--including total distance (TD), high-intensity running (HIR, distance covered > 14.4 km⋅h-1), high-speed running (HSR, distance covered > 19.8 km⋅ h-1), and mechanical work (MW, accelerations and deceleration > 2.2 m⋅s²)--were recorded using GPS technology during all SSG sessions. Smallto large standardized typical errors were observed in session-to-session variations of selected measures across SSGs. TDmin-1 showed less variability, having a coefficient of variation (CV) of 2.2 to 4.6%, while all other selected external load measures had CV values ranging from 7.2% to 29.4%. Trivial differences were observed between intervals in TDmin-1 and HIRmin-1 for all SSGs, as well as in HSRmin-1 and MWmin-1 for most SSG formats. No reductions or incremental trends in session-to-session variations were observed when employing touch limitations or adding goalkeepers. The increased noise observed in higher speed zones (e.g., high-speed running) suggests a need for more controlled, running-based conditional drills if the aim is greater consistency in these measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study explored the perception of rink-hockey head coaches in relation to the use of performance analysis as a tool to assist training and match preparation, observation and interventions. Seven experienced First Division Portuguese rink-hockey head coaches were included in the study. Semi-structured interviews were carried out and the data were analysed through inductive and deductive content analyses. Several themes emerged from the interviews including "preparation/observation" and "intervention". Rink-hockey head coaches prefer to analyse the opponents themselves to plan training, as well as to assist with tactical preparation and implement within-match strategies. They considered video analysis an important tool to analyse opponents' strengths and weaknesses, with particular focus on the opponent's goalkeeper. Seek to identify qualities and deficiencies in the opponents' team and individual players. Focus the analysis of opponents' teams on the five moments of the game. Training intervention involves the adaption of training exercises, whereby information is communicated during meetings. These data have implications both from a performance and a training practice perspective. Future research should focus on players and goalkeepers' perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cadernos de Saude Publica is the property of Escola Nacional de Saude Publica Sergio Arouca and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study aimed to compare the quantity and quality of tactical actions of high- and low-performing players in two small-sided and conditioned games: (1) standard 3v3 plus goalkeepers, featuring equality for both teams, and; (2) numerical superiority in the offensive phase with two joker players inside the playing field. Fifty-one Under-15 soccer players who performed 8,267 tactical actions were evaluated with the use of the System of Tactical Assessment in Soccer (FUT-SAT). Descriptive statistics, Kolmogorov-Smirnov, t-student, Wilcoxon and Cohen's kappa tests were applied (p < 0.05) using the SPSS, version 20.0. The high-performing players performed more actions inside the centre of play and low-performing players only increased actions outside the centre of play. Playing with jokers also made the high-performing players increase the total amount of offensive and defensive tactical actions whilst the low-performing players only performed more defensive tactical actions. It was concluded that high-performing players adapt better their positions and their movements on situational demands of the game, performing more offensive and defensive actions closer to the ball carrier. On the other hand, low-performing players performed more actions in spaces further from the centre of play, in both the offensive and defensive phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous epidemiological studies have shown the existence of a relationship between exercise and a reduced risk of different types of cancer. In vitro studies have identified a direct effect of exercise-conditioned human serum on cancer cell lines of the lung, breast, prostate, and colon. The aim of this systematic review with meta-analysis (SRM) was to estimate the magnitude of the effect that exercise-conditioned human serum produced on the viability of human cancer cell cultures. The design followed the PRISMA guidelines and the TREND statement to assess the quality of information (QoI) in each study. Nine in vitro studies were included in the SRM, involving a total of nine cancer cell lines and serum from 244 individuals from different countries, including namely healthy sedentary individuals, at risk of prostate cancer individuals and cancer patients, with ages ranging from 18 to 73 years. The impact of acute exercise-conditioned human serum on the viability of cancer cell cultures was analysed by a variety of assays, using pre-exercise human serum for comparison purposes. Globally, cultures of cancer cell lines exposed to human serum conditioned by acute exercise of various intensities exhibited a reduced viability, when compared with control cultures, with an overall effect size (ES) of -1.126 (95% CI; -1.300 to -0.952; p < 0.001). When the analysis only included human serum conditioned by acute high-intensity exercise, the effect became more pronounced (ES -1.350; -1.522 to -1.179 (95% CI); p < 0.001). These results are in line with the hypothesis that changes in human serum induced by exercise might play a role in the beneficial effects of physical activity in cancer prevention and management and that these effects depend on exercise intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decision-making in soccer is considered an important factor for soccer players achieve high-performance level. Studies in several sports indicated that tactical decision-making skills are necessary for skilful performance. We aimed to analyse whether soccer players with different levels of decision-making skills can be differentiated based on their engagement in various types and amounts of soccer activities during their development. The sample comprised 149 Brazilian youth male soccer players (M = 14.9, SD = 1.6 years). We examined the type and amount of soccer activities that contributed to distinguish players with different levels of offensive and defensive decision-making skills. Players' tactical decision-making skills were assessed with an objective video-based test (TacticUP® video test for soccer). We used a retrospective questionnaire to collect information about previous participation in different soccer developmental activities. The main activities that differentiated high/low skill groups in the macrostructure activities were: i) team practice; and in the microstructure: ii) collective tactics; and iii) "high decision-making opportunities". We concluded that previous soccer developmental activities discriminate youth soccer players with different levels of decision-making skills. The main activities that differentiated high/low groups were: 1) team practice; 2) collective tactics in team practice, and; 3) "high decision-making opportunities" in team practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to analyse the performance of professional rink hockey goalkeepers and ascertain whether this is influenced by the opposition's offensive play. A sample of 40 matches, including 1713 shots on goal from the Portuguese First Division (2016/2017) was analysed using Chi-square and logistic regression analysis. The results suggest that goalkeepers are more effective in the first half versus the second half (odds ratio [OR] = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.06–1.82; p = 0.017) of matches. Goalkeeping performance was also lower in the direct free-hits (OR = 0.22; 95% CI: 0.13–0.38; p < 0.001) and penalties (OR = 0.12; 95% CI: 0.06–0.22; p < 0.001), when compared with indirect free-hits. The technique most used by rink hockey goalkeepers to save shots at goal is the "knee on the floor". Observations demonstrate that when attacks commence in the oppositions defensive area, teams are 55% more likely to score and shots at the upper zones of the goal have a higher probability of being successful. These findings could assist coaches and researchers in understanding current goalkeeping performance in relation to offensive patterns of play in rink hockey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper was to analyse expert futsal coaches process of decision-making from preparation to competitive moments. Ten expert and professional coaches' (M = 46,9 ± 7,93 years old andM= 15,4 ± 7,22 years of coaching experience) from different countries were interviewed using asemi-structured interview (quantitative and qualitative) with two different goals: (1) evaluate the preparation for decision-making moment during the game; (2) classifying the importance of different game related points for decision-making during match moment. The data analysis was processed through combination of deductive and inductive methods through software QSR NVivo 11. The results revealed that coaches' share similar ideas when preparing their teams. Coaches focus first their attention on their own team identity and frame andsecond on opposition team behaviour and frame. It was also possible to identify clear coaching behavioural signs possible to be structured as cues and guiding lines for their decision-making process and actions before and during competitive moments. Such information can be important for the development of most appropriated coaching education curriculums according to game demands specificities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Microalgae have been widely used in ecotoxicological studies in order to evaluate the impacts of heavy metals in aquatic ecosystems. However, there are few studies that analyze the effects of metals in an integrative way on photosynthetic apparatus of freshwater microalgae in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and biochemical composition. Therefore, this study aimed to assess cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) toxicity using synchronously physiological and biochemical endpoints, specially detecting lipidic classes for the very first time during Cd and Pb-exposure to Raphidocelis subcapitata. Here we show that analyzing the algae growth, the IC50–72 h for Cd was 0.04 µM and for Pb was 0.78 µM. In general, the Cd affected the biochemical parameters more, leading to an increase in total lipid content (7.2-fold), total carbohydrates (3.5-fold) and ROS production (3.7-fold). The higher production of lipids and carbohydrates during Cd-exposure probably acted as a defense mechanism, helping to reduce the extent of damage caused by the metal in the photosynthetic apparatus. For Pb, the physiological parameters were more sensitive, which resulted in changes of chlorophyll a synthesis and a reduction of both efficiency of oxygen-evolving complex and quantum yields. Besides that, we observed changes in the lipid class composition during Cd and Pb-exposure, suggesting these analyses as great biomarkers to assess metal toxicity mechanisms in ecological risk assessments. Thereby, here we demonstrate the importance of using multiple endpoints in ecotoxicological studies in order to obtain a better understanding of the mechanisms of metal toxicity to R. subcapitata. Highlights • IC50–72 h for growth inhibition were 0.04 µM to Cd and 0.78 µM to Pb. • For Cd, ROS production was the main mode of action. • For Pb, damage to photosynthetic apparatus was the main toxicity mechanism. • Lipidic classes were great biomarkers to assess Cd and Pb toxicity mechanisms. • Pb increased more FFA, ALC and HC levels. Cd increased more FFA, ST and TAG levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper was to systematically review and organise the literature on soccer SSGs, in order to ascertain the most frequently researched topics, characterise the methodologies employed, and systematise the evolution of the related research areas. A systematic review of Web of Science, Pubmed and SPORTDiscus databases was performed according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines. The following keywords were used: football and soccer, with each one associated with the terms: “small sided games”, SSG, “drill-based training”, “small sided”, “conditioned games” and “position games”. The search returned 394 records. After screening against set criteria, a total of 77 manuscripts were fully reviewed. The most common topics of analysis were (1) pitch area; (2) player number: (a) with/without a goalkeeper; (b) with floater(s) in/outside the pitch; (3) goal: (a) goal vs. scoring zone; (b) number of goals; (c) size of goals; (4) rules modification/task constraints (a) no. of ball touches; (b) offside rule; (c) others; (4) training regimen; (5) coach encouragement. This review provides valuable information on the complex relationship between technical, tactical and physiological interactions in SSGs and how the manipulation of these types of variables can improve the soccer training process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In aquatic environments, organisms are often exposed to mixtures of several pesticides. In this study, the effects of carbofuran and diuron and their mixtures on the microalgae Raphidocelis subcapitata were investigated. For this purpose, toxicity tests were performed with the single compounds (active ingredients and commercial formulations) and their combinations (only active ingredients). According to the results, the toxicity of active ingredients and their commercial formulations to R. subcapitata was similar. In the single exposures, both carbofuran and diuron inhibited significantly the R. subcapitata growth and caused physiological (chlorophyll a content) and morphological (complexity and cell size) changes in cells, as captured by flow cytometry single-cell properties. Regarding the mixture toxicity tests, data fitted to both reference models, concentration addition (CA) and independent action (IA), and evidenced significant deviations. After the CA fitting, dose-ratio dependent deviation had the best fit to the data, demonstrating synergism caused mainly by diuron and antagonism caused mainly by carbofuran. After fitting the IA model, a synergistic deviation represented the best fit for the diuron and carbofuran mixtures. In general, the two reference models indicated the occurrence of synergism in the mixtures of these compounds, especially when diuron was the dominant chemical in the combinations. The increased toxicity caused by the mixture of these pesticides could pose a greater environmental risk for phytoplankton. Thus, exposure to diuron and carbofuran mixtures must also be considered in risk assessments, since the combination of these compounds may result in more severe effects on algae population growth than single exposures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Portuguesa de Ciências do Desporto is the property of Universidade do Porto, Faculdade de Desporto and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different air particle abrasion (APA) protocols--with variations in particle types, duration of application, and the distance between the device tip and the ceramic-- on the surface roughness (SR) of zirconia-based ceramic (yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal [Y-TZP]) and the shear bond strength (SBS) between Y-TZP and resin cement. In total, 135 sintered Y-TZP blocks were polished and divided into 9 groups according to 3 factors: particle (alumina vs alumina coated with silica), duration (5 vs 10 seconds), and distance (contact vs 10 mm away). All 3 factors significantly influenced the SR values between the experimental groups and the control group. For SBS, only the particle type was a statistically significant factor. Results showed that air particle abrasion with silica-coated alumina resulted in higher SBS, even though the SR values associated with those groups were not the highest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide, the prevalence of child obesity is increasing, which is the cause of great preoccupation for governments and health politics developers. The purpose of this study was to examine differences of ability and body image perceptions related to weight status in children and adolescents and explore them as correlates of BMI. Two thousand five hundred and sixty nine adolescents participated in the study (1303 boys, 1266 girls; M age=13.3±2.4 years). The students were questioned about perceptions of abili ty and body image, and the body mass index was calculated. Findings revealed that overweight participants felt less athletic, agile, fast and fit and had overall lower self-image perception than normal weight participants; regardless of the age, perceptions of elegance and body mass decreased significantly with increasing BMI. Taking in consideration the dangers of overweight related to the perception of body image, it is important to start to develop effective intervention programs that combine physical activity and psychological support, exploring the benefits of strength training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Portuguese Journal of Public Health / Revista Portuguesa de Saúde Pública is the property of Revista Portuguesa de Saúde Pública - Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Cuadernos de Psicología del Deporte is the property of Cuadernos de Psicologia del Deporte and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Cadernos de Saude Publica is the property of Escola Nacional de Saude Publica Sergio Arouca and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Excellence is the result of a long-term investment and from a successful interaction between a range of contributory factors. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize the journey of a group of world-class elite athletes from the sport of orienteering, in order to identify the important factors and conditions that may influence and determine the development and maintenance of excellence in orienteering. This research focused on a group of 5 elite athletes whom placed in the top 10 places in the International Orienteering Federation (IOF) world ranking in 2013. The methodology used has focused on life histories, the data were collected through semi-structured interviews and then analysed using content analysis. Results showed the interviewees recognised that excellence is a goal to achieve, in which the performance of excellence is complemented by the development of a set of skills related to the personal formation. It was also identified that sporting diversification is the basic principle on which is based the entire development process, which is organized into three structural stages: i) initiation, characterised by a strong investment in the free and deliberate game; ii) development, expressed in a greater investment in orienteering and structured training; iii) improvement, which is distinguished as an almost exclusive commitment to this sport. Throughout the development process, this group of athletes recognise the need to possess a set of characteristics and skills such as professionalism, dedication and commitment to orienteering. We also identified a number of decisive aspects for the development of excellence, which is the context in which this process occurs, in particular the influence of family, friends and peers as well as the socio-cultural dynamics of a country. Final key themes that emerged are the aspects of affective-emotional nature, where feelings of happiness, wellbeing and passion for this sport act as modellers and influencing elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cultura, Ciencia y Deporte is the property of Cultura, Ciencia y Deporte and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)