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Background: Male youth soccer players competing at a high level will typically engage in large volumes of soccer training from a young age. However, it is not known whether the high levels of habitual training that these high-performing players are exposed to limit their ability to respond to strength, plyometric or combined training interventions. Objective: The primary aim of our systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the specific effects of strength, plyometric and combined training with active controls (standard soccer training) on the strength, power and speed characteristics of high-level, highly trained young male soccer players. Methods: We performed a literature search across PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science and SPORTDiscus to identify controlled studies that implemented strength, plyometric or combined training in high-level male youth soccer players. Participants were defined as high level or highly trained based on established guidelines related to either competition level or age-related weekly hours spent in soccer training. Studies needed to report at least one outcome of lower body strength, squat jump, countermovement jump, horizontal power, acceleration (0–10 m), speed (15–40 m) or change of direction speed. A meta-analysis was then performed using a random-effects model to determine the magnitude (Hedge's g) of training responses and whether effects differed across modes of training. Results: From an initial return of 5464 papers, n = 34 studies met the inclusion criteria and provided a total sample of n = 1396 high-level male youth soccer players. Strength, plyometric and combined training resulted in improvements in strength, squat and countermovement jump, horizontal power, acceleration, change of direction speed (all p < 0.05; g = 0.73–1.08, moderate) and speed (p < 0.05; g = 0.40–0.59, small). Lower body strength was the only outcome where training mode had a significant effect (p < 0.05), with plyometric training producing small effects (g = 0.27, p < 0.05) compared with moderate effects for strength (g = 1.07, p < 0.05) and combined (g = 0.75, p < 0.05) training. Prediction intervals for overall effects (all training modes combined) showed that the greatest confidence that future training will lead to positive effects was in the squat and countermovement jump, horizontal power and acceleration (prediction intervals = 0.03–1.81). Conclusions: High-level, highly trained male youth soccer players can experience positive gains in indices of strength, power and speed from strength, plyometric and combined training, and the magnitude of gains are mostly similar across modes of training. Based on prediction intervals, there is a good level of certainty that future strength, plyometric and combined training in this population would lead to positive improvements in vertical and horizontal power and sprint acceleration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Varicose veins are a common disorder for which different treatments with varied efficacy have been introduced so far. In this study, we review the results of previous studies to evaluate the efficacy of ClosureFast endovenous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in treating varicose veins. The present study was performed based on the Meta-analysis Of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) protocols, and the results were reported based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guideline. Searches were conducted in all authentic online databases, and the retrieved papers were conducted until March 2021 using Mesh keywords. Study data with the necessary quality to enter the meta-analysis were extracted. Data were analyzed using comprehensive meta-analysis (CMA) software version 2. The cutoff level for significance was determined at 0.05. In total, 36 studies with sample size 7404 procedures were included. Radiofrequency ablation success, recurrence, and recanalization rates in the treatment of varicose veins were estimated to be 95%, 7%, and 3% respectively. The most common complications were bruising 13%, induration 11.6%, edema 8%, ecchymosis 7.4%, and numbness 6.3%. This study showed that the radiofrequency ablation method is a high-performance method with few and often transient complications, and the risk of significant complications in using this method to treat varicose veins is low. More studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of this method compared to other treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hamstrings neuromuscular function is a crucial component of functional movement, and changes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury contribute to risk factors for secondary injury and long-term sequelae. To effectively treat muscular impairments, an accurate understanding of hamstrings neuromuscular function in patients with ACL reconstruction (ACLR) is needed. Objective: A systematic review and meta-analysis were undertaken to describe and quantify hamstrings neuromuscular function in individuals with ACLR compared to controls. Methods: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, and EBSCOhost databases in October of 2020 for studies evaluating the difference between hamstrings electromyography (EMG) between individuals with ACLR and controls. Two independent reviewers assessed each paper for inclusion and quality. Means and standard deviations were extracted from each included study to allow random-effect size (ES) meta-analysis calculations for comparison of results. Results: Thirty-four studies were included for final review. From these, 5 categories of neuromuscular outcomes were identified, and studies were grouped accordingly: (1) muscle activation levels (EMG amplitude), (2) co-activation, (3) onset timing, (4) electromechanical delay, and (5) time-to-peak activity. Moderate to strong evidence indicates that individuals with ACLR demonstrate higher hamstrings EMG amplitude (normalized to % maximum voluntary isometric contraction) and hamstrings-to-quadriceps co-activation during gait and stair ambulation compared to controls. In addition, there was moderate evidence of longer electromechanical delay during knee flexion and greater hamstrings-to-quadriceps co-activation during knee extension compared to controls. Conclusions: Greater hamstrings EMG amplitude and co-activation during gait and ambulation tasks and longer electromechanical delay of the hamstrings in individuals with ACLR align with clinical impairments following ACLR and have implications for re-injury risk and long-term joint health, thus warranting attention in rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Colonization with Group B Streptococcus in pregnancy is a major risk factor for neonatal infection. Universal screening for maternal streptococcal colonization and the use of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis has resulted in substantial reductions of neonatal early-onset Group B Streptococcus disease. To achieve the best neonatal outcomes, it is imperative for maternity healthcare providers to adhere to screening and management guidelines. Aim: This literature review uses a systematic approach and aims to provide a synthesis of what is known about compliance with Group B Streptococcus screening protocols in a variety of global settings, including maternity homes, private obstetric practice, and hospital clinical environments. Methods: The review was carried out using electronic databases as well as hand-searching of reference lists. Included papers reported primarily on compliance with Group B Streptococcus screening guidelines, potential factors which influence compliance rates, and implementations and outcomes of interventions. Results: Six international studies have been retained which all focused on adherence to Group B Streptococcus screening guidelines and demonstrated that different factors might have an influence on adherence to GBS screening protocols such as financial aspects and high caesarean section rates. Findings of relatively low compliance rates led to recognizing the need of developing improved strategies for optimising antenatal GBS screening adherence. Conclusion: Adhering to Group B Streptococcus screening guidelines to prevent neonatal infection is crucial. Various factors influence compliance rates such as financial aspects and high proportions of caesarean sections. The implementation of strategies and different forms of education can result in improved compliance rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In recent years, there has been a large expansion in literature pertaining to the game of Australian football (AF). Furthermore, there have been a number of rule changes that are likely to have changed the demands of the game. Based on these advances and changes, it seemed important to conduct a review assessing the scientific literature surrounding the sport.Objective: The review evaluates the match demands of AF, the qualities required for success, and the impact training and competition have on adaptation, injury and fatigue.Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science and Scopus for AF literature was conducted; studies investigating match demands, physical qualities, training practices and injury were included. Weighted means and standard deviations were calculated for match demands and physical and anthropometric profiles across playing standards.Results: A total of 1830 articles were retrieved in the initial search, with 888 removed as duplicates, 626 removed for being non-relevant and a further 152 removed for being AF papers but not relevant to the review. As such, 164 AF papers were included in the review. Due to the intermittent high-intensity nature of match-play, players need a wide range of physical and technical qualities to excel, with speed, aerobic fitness, reactive agility and well-developed lean mass being central to success. Training for AF at the elite level is associated with high workloads, with players engaging in numerous training modalities; even altitude and heat training camps have been utilised by Australian Football League (AFL) teams to further augment fitness improvements. While high chronic workloads can be tolerated and are needed for improving physical qualities, careful planning and monitoring of internal and external workloads is required to minimise sharp spikes in load that are associated with injury.Conclusions: There is a complex interaction between numerous contextual factors that influence the match demands that are discussed in this review. Whilst players must have the physical capacities to cope with the intense physical demands of AF matches, the successful execution of technical skills during match-play is central to success. To develop these skills and attributes, specific and carefully planned and monitored training must be performed over a number of years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Barriers and facilitators affecting the social activities of people with congenital physical and communication disabilities are well documented. However, little is known of their experiences of developing sexual and intimate relationships. This study conducted a systematic review of the literature to address this gap in knowledge. Ten online databases were searched for relevant papers between 1990 and 2014. In addition, hand searches of Augmentative and Alternative Communication Journal and the Sexuality and Disability Journal were conducted. Fifteen papers were identified and appraised. The thematic coding approach identified six principal themes. However, the content analysis revealed that the majority of the literature focused on the social needs of people with physical and communication disabilities. Despite evidence that people with disabilities are sexually active, there is little focus on the experiences of people with disabilities developing intimacy and expressing sexuality. The few references to sexuality in the relevant literature focused on protection from abuse, though some researchers called for improved counseling on sexuality and relationships, and improved access to sexual health services. Further research is required to focus on practical and theoretical outcomes to enhance social relationships and sexuality, and offer lovers who use AAC real advice in their search for intimacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The adolescent 'growth spurt' results in rapid growth of the skeletal system. It has been theorised that absence of a concomitant increase in muscular adaptations in female athletes may predispose them to an increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Objectives: To determine if sex differences exist in landing biomechanics and postural stability of adolescent athletes; with a further objective of determining if such differences are propagated during adolescence. Data sources: The following databases were searched: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PEDro, PubMed, SPORTDiscus and Web of Science. Research papers were identified by including search terms for neuromuscular control, lower limb and pubertal development. Inclusion Criteria: Studies were required to be written in English; report on biomechanical analyses; include landing or postural control tasks; be cross-sectional or longitudinal; and include healthy adolescent/pubertal subjects. Study Appraisal and Synthesis Methods: A modified version of the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational studies in Epidemiology checklist was used to rate methodological quality. Meta-analyses were performed when more than one study reported on an outcome measure. Results: Sixteen articles were included. The overall methodological quality of evaluated studies was low (mean score = 5.75/10 points). Adolescent females exhibited increased knee valgus with increasing maturity. There was no consensus on sex differences in postural stability. Conclusions: With increasing maturation, females are characterized by increased knee valgus during landing tasks. To date, no research has longitudinally investigated postural stability development during adolescence in females, despite the importance of postural control training in injury prevention programmes. Therefore, further research on this topic is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Soccer is the most popular sport worldwide, with a long history and currently more than 500 million active participants, of whom 300 million are registered football club members. On the basis of scientific findings showing positive fitness and health effects of recreational soccer, FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) introduced the slogan 'Playing football for 45 min twice a week-best prevention of non-communicable diseases' in 2010. Objective: The objective of this paper was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature to determine the effects of recreational soccer on maximal oxygen uptake ( $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ ). Methods: Six electronic databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, CINAHL and Google Scholar) were searched for original research articles. A manual search was performed to cover the areas of recreational soccer, recreational physical activity, recreational small-sided games and $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ using the following key terms, either singly or in combination: recreational small-sided games, recreational football, recreational soccer, street football, street soccer, effect, maximal oxygen uptake, peak oxygen uptake, cardiorespiratory fitness, $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ . The inclusion criteria were divided into four sections: type of study, type of participants, type of interventions and type of outcome measures. Probabilistic magnitude-based inferences for meta-analysed effects were based on standardised thresholds for small, moderate and large changes (0.2, 0.6 and 1.2, respectively) derived from between-subject standard deviations for baseline fitness. Results: Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Mean differences showed that $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ increased by 3.51 mL/kg/min (95 % CI 3.07-4.15) over a recreational soccer training programme in comparison with other training models. The meta-analysed effects of recreational soccer on $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ compared with the controls of no exercise, continuous running and strength training were most likely largely beneficial [effect size (ES) = 1.46; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.91, 2.01; I = 88.35 %], most likely moderately beneficial (ES = 0.68; 95 % CI 0.06, 1.29; I = 69.13 %) and most likely moderately beneficial (ES = 1.08; 95 % CI −0.25, 2.42; I = 71.06 %), respectively. In men and women, the meta-analysed effect was most likely largely beneficial for men (ES = 1.22) and most likely moderately beneficial for women (ES = 0.96) compared with the controls. After 12 weeks of recreational soccer with an intensity of 78-84 % maximal heart rate (HR), healthy untrained men improved their $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ by 8-13 %, while untrained elderly participants improved their $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ by 15-18 %. Soccer training for 12-70 weeks in healthy women resulted in an improvement in $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ of 5-16 %. Significant improvements in $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ have been observed in patients with diabetes mellitus, hypertension and prostate cancer. Conclusion: Recreational soccer produces large improvements in $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ compared to strength training and no exercise, regardless of the age, sex and health status of the participants. Furthermore, recreational soccer is better than continuous endurance running, albeit the additional effect is moderate. This kind of physical activity has great potential for enhancing aerobic fitness, and for preventing and treating non-communicable diseases, and is ideal for addressing lack of motivation, a key component in physical (in)activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study design:Systematic reviewObjectives:To determine the effect of respiratory muscle training (RMT) on pulmonary function in tetraplegia.Methods:A comprehensive search of the research literature included MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, ISI Web of Science, PubMed, the relevant Cochrane and clinical trials registers and hand-searching the reference lists of appropriate papers. There was no language restriction. All randomised controlled trials that involved RMT vs control were considered for inclusion. Two reviewers independently selected articles for inclusion, evaluated the methodological quality and extracted data. Additional information was sought from the authors when necessary.Results:Eleven studies (212 participants) were included. A significant benefit of RMT was revealed for five outcomes: vital capacity (mean difference (95% confidence interval))=0.41(0.17-0.64) l, maximal inspiratory pressure=10.66(3.59, 17.72) cmH2O, maximal expiratory pressure=10.31(2.80-17.82) cmH2O, maximum voluntary ventilation=17.51(5.20, 29.81) l min−1 and inspiratory capacity=0.35(0.05, 0.65) l. No effect was found for total lung capacity, peak expiratory flow rate, functional residual capacity, residual volume, expiratory reserve volume or forced expiratory volume in 1 second.Conclusion:RMT increases respiratory strength, function and endurance during the period of training. Further research is needed to determine optimum dosages and duration of effect. This article is based in part on a Cochrane review published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) 2013, DOI:10.1002/14651858.CD008507.pub2. Cochrane reviews are regularly updated as new evidence emerges and in response to feedback, and the CDSR should be consulted for the most recent version of the review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ankle sprain is one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries, yet a contemporary review and meta-analysis of prospective epidemiological studies investigating ankle sprain does not exist. Objective: Our aim is to provide an up-to-date account of the incidence rate and prevalence period of ankle sprain injury unlimited by timeframe or context activity. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analyses of English articles using relevant computerised databases. Search terms included Medical Search Headings for the ankle joint, injury and epidemiology. The following inclusion criteria were used: the study must report epidemiology findings of injuries sustained in an observed sample; the study must report ankle sprain injury with either incidence rate or prevalence period among the surveyed sample, or provide sufficient data from which these figures could be calculated; the study design must be prospective. Independent extraction of articles was performed by two authors using pre-determined data fields. Results: One-hundred and eighty-one prospective epidemiology studies from 144 separate papers were included. The average rating of all the included studies was 6.67/11, based on an adapted version of the STROBE (STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology) guidelines for rating observational studies. 116 studies were considered high quality and 65 were considered low quality. The main findings of the meta-analysis demonstrated a higher incidence of ankle sprain in females compared with males (13.6 vs 6.94 per 1,000 exposures), in children compared with adolescents (2.85 vs 1.94 per 1,000 exposures) and adolescents compared with adults (1.94 vs 0.72 per 1,000 exposures). The sport category with the highest incidence of ankle sprain was indoor/court sports, with a cumulative incidence rate of 7 per 1,000 exposures or 1.37 per 1,000 athlete exposures and 4.9 per 1,000 h. Low-quality studies tended to underestimate the incidence of ankle sprain when compared with high-quality studies (0.54 vs 11.55 per 1,000 exposures). Ankle sprain prevalence period estimates were similar across sub-groups. Lateral ankle sprain was the most commonly observed type of ankle sprain. Conclusions: Females were at a higher risk of sustaining an ankle sprain compared with males and children compared with adolescents and adults, with indoor and court sports the highest risk activity. Studies at a greater risk of bias were more likely to underestimate the risk of ankle sprain. Participants were at a significantly higher risk of sustaining a lateral ankle sprain compared with syndesmotic and medial ankle sprains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]