bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
NINE TEST SCREENING BATTERY – INTRA-RATER RELIABILITY AND SCREENING ON ICELANDIC MALE HANDBALL PLAYERS
Authors: Rafnsson ET , Frohm A , Myklebust G , Bahr R , Valdimarsson Ö , Árnason Á 
Published: March 2014

BackgroundInjuries are common in handball, but little is known about their risk factors. One potential screening test to identify player at risk is the Nine Test Screening Battery (NTSB).ObjectiveTo test the intra-rater reliability of the NTSB and compare the results from NTSB between subgroups in the cohort.DesignTest-retest design used for the intra-rater reliability test of NTSB. Experimental design used for testing senior and national team players.SettingIcelandic male handball players.ParticipantsA total of 50 junior players from 5 clubs participated in the intra-rater reliability test. Also, 115 seniorplayers from 13 of 16 teams in the two highest divisions in Iceland and 26 Icelandic national team players (8 playing abroad), participated.Main outcome of measurementIntra-rater reliability of NTSB. Difference in NTSB scores between subgroups.ResultsThere was a strong intra-rater correlation between the test-retest sessions, ICC: 0.95 T1: 21.6±3.5 (95% CI: 20.7–22.6), T2: 22.0±3.4 (95% CI: 21.0–22.9). The retest had significantly higher total score than the first test (P=.041), indicating some learning effect. No difference was found in total score of NTSB between teams, level of play or different age and height groups. However, goalkeepers had higher total score than other players (P=.001). Observing NTSB separately, junior players had significantly less core stability than senior and national team players (tests 5-7, P≤.006) and more mobility in trunk and shoulders (tests 8-9, P<.001). National team players were stronger in abdominal muscles (test 5, P=.003) and more flexible in active hip flexion (test 4, P=.03) than senior players in division 1 and 2.ConclusionsNTSB seems to be reliable in test-retest, but some learning effect was noticed. Junior players showed less core stability and more trunk and shoulder mobility than senior players.
THE USE OF WHOLE-BODY CRYOSTIMULATION TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF SLEEP IN ATHLETES DURING HIGH LEVEL STANDARD COMPETITIONS
Authors: Bouzigon R , Ravier G , Dugue B , Grappe F 
Published: March 2014

BackgroundThis is a field study realized during basketball preparation tournaments for the European championship 2013 with men and women French team. During these competitions, athletes used Whole-Body Cryostimulation (WBC) exposures to enhance their recovery.ObjectiveThe aim of this work was to investigate the effects of WBC on the quality of sleep (QS) in athletes during the night following the exposure.DesignThe preparation took place during one week in a training camp followed by three international matches in three days (one per day).SettingThe study was performed with high standard level athletes men and women of the basketball French teams.Participants27 basketball players participated fully in the study (12 females, 11 males, age: 25.8±3.5 years; weight: 88.5±15.7 kg; height: 192.5±11.8 cm).Risk factor assessmentThe WBC treatment was 3-min exposure between −110°C and -150°C in the morning or/and in the evening after a training or match session.Main outcome measurementsThe QS was assessed every day before the exposure with a perceptual scale graduated from 1 “bad sleep” to 5 “restful sleep” adapted from Spiegel's questionnaire. The data were analyzed using paired t-test.ResultsAn improvement in the QS was observed in the night following WBC (3.7±0.7vs3.2±0.9, P<.05) compared with what was observed the night without previous WBC.ConclusionsAthletes experienced better sleep quality after WBC exposure. Even if the night duration was short during this period, they expressed they had a deeper, quieter and less disturbed sleep. The improvement of the QS during both competition and heavy training load periods appears of importance to enhance athletes' recovery. Such situation may lead to 1) a better standing of the training load, 2) less fatigue before the matches and 3) a decrease of the injury risks.
THE CHANGE IN LOWER LIMB KINEMATIC AND EMG ACTIVITY OF SPRINTING AFTER SOCCER-SPECIFIC FATIGUE AMONG FEMALE SOCCER PLAYERS
Authors: Chan CK , Yung SH , Liu MW , Chan KM 
Published: March 2014

BackgroundHamstring strain during sprinting is one of the dominant injuries among soccer players, which constitutes 12–16% of all injury. Fatigue is claimed to alter the lower limb mechanism during sprinting, which trigger hamstring strain injury.ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to find out the changes in electromyography and kinematic profile of the lower limb muscles during sprinting after fatigue among female soccer players, hence, to suggest injury prevention strategies. It is hypothesized that the EMG activity of BF and ST decrease after fatigue.DesignProspective observational study.SettingKinematic and electromyographic analysis of sprinting before and after soccer-specific fatigue intervention were measured in an indoor setting.Participants9 semi-professional female soccer players were recruited from 1stdivision club teams.Risk factor assessmentEach subject completed the SAFT90 soccer-specific fatigue protocol that simulates the movement pattern of soccer game.Main outcome measurements20 metres sprint test were done on each subject before and after the SAFT90. EMG activity of biceps femoris (BF), semitendinosus (ST), rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL) and vastus medialis (VM) and lower limb kinematic in sagittal plane were measured between 10 m–20 m during the sprints.ResultsThe sprint time across the pre-test and post-test increased. Significant reduction in stride length and maximum combined hip flexion and knee extension angle were observed in the post-test. The EMG amplitude of BF decreased by 14.3%, and the EMG amplitude of ST increased by 10% in late swing phase across pre-test and post-test.ConclusionsThe reduction in maximum combined hip flexion and knee extension angle indicated that the length of hamstring muscle is shortened after fatigue. The alternation in muscle activation of ST and BF could be a mechanism to reduce the risk of muscle strain of BF during the late swing phase of sprinting after fatigue.
RISK OF INTERVERTEBRAL DISC DAMAGE AFTER PROLONGED SPACE FLIGHT
Authors: Chang D , Sayson JV , Chiang S , Riascos-Castaneda R , Walker K , Lotz JC , Hargens AR 
Published: March 2014

BackgroundBack pain and intervertbral disc (IVD) damage are common problems experienced by astronauts. We hypothesize this is from paraspinal muscle deconditioning, ∼5 cm body lengthening from spinal swelling and straightening, and biochemical tissue changes.ObjectiveExamine morphological changes in the lumbar spine induced by spaceflight.DesignProspective, case series clinical study.SettingWe studied crewmembers from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).ParticipantsRecruitment from International Space Station NASA/European Space Agency/Canadian Space Agency crewmembers, starting 2011. We enrolled 8 NASA crewmembers. One crewmember completed the study. The others are in various stages of testing.Risk factors AssessmentCrew members were studied before and after a ∼180 day mission in the International Space Station.Main outcome measurementsIn pre-flight and post-flight studies of the lumbar spine, evaluate: 1) degenerative changes using MRI, 2) compressibility using an upright MRI backpack loading protocol, 3) spinal kinematics with X-ray videography, 4) visual analog scale pain.ResultsComparing pre-flight and post- flight data, there were 1) increased lumbar IVD heights in the supine position, 2) increased lumbar IVD compressibility in the upright position, 3) decreased flexibility, and 4) increased low back pain post-flight.Figure 1Spinal kinematics (angles in degrees) during flexion/extension. Pre-flight degenerate disks had less motion. Post-flight, all disks had less motion.ConclusionsThe data support the idea that decreased gravitational forces on the IVDs, during prolonged microgravity, increases their water content but decreases proteoglycan. This increases disk degeneration risk on Earth. We have a sample size of one for complete Pre- and Post-Flight testing. It's difficult to make conclusions with this preliminary data. However, the acquired images are very high quality and provide confidence for future tests. The next crewmember returns to Earth for final testing November, 2013. Testing of 4 crewmembers and ongoing recruitment are underway.
THE EFFECTS OF AN INJURY PREVENTION PROGRAM ON LIMB DOMINANCE NEUROMECHANICS
Authors: Cortes N , Greska E , Caswell S , Ambegaonkar J , Onate J 
Published: March 2014

BackgroundDespite numerous injury prevention programs (IPP), the incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in athletics remains high. Few IPP have quantified biomechanical changes in the dominant and non-dominant leg.ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of an IPP on lower extremity (LE) biomechanics between dominant and non-dominant limb during an unanticipated sidestep cutting task (USCT).DesignQuasi-experimental.SettingCollegiate soccer players.Participants14 athletes (19.1±1.0 years, 1.67±0.05 m, 63.6±6.0 kg) free from any LE injury six months prior to and throughout the study, and with team physician clearance to practice and play participated in the study.Risk factor assessmentA 3-D motion-capture system quantified LE biomechanics pre and post IPP during an USCT. Participants completed 3 USCT trials bilaterally. The IPP integrated agility and plyometric drills into normal team training during a 10-week off-season period. The IPP emphasized maximum effort and power while maintaining proper body angles and force attenuation during landing, as well as during acceleration and jumping.Main outcome measurementsHip (HF) and knee flexion (KF) and abduction angles(°) and moments (Nm/kgm) were measured at initial contact [IC] and peak stance [PS]. Repeated measures ANOVAs assessed the effects of training and leg dominance.ResultsAt IC, KF decreased on the dominant side post-IPP (Pre: -26±8, Post: −19±8, p=0.045). Knee adductor moment decreased post-IPP on dominant side (Pre: 0.11±0.11, Post: −0.01±0.10, P=.012), but the non-dominant side increased post-IPP (Pre: 0.04±0.12, Post: 0.09±0.11, P=.012). HF decreased for both sides post-IPP (P=.006), whereas hip flexor moment increased (P=.025). At PS, HF decreased post-IPP (P=.0017) regardless of side. No other differences were noted.ConclusionsAfter a 10-week IPP, participants decreased knee and hip flexion angles regardless of limb dominance. Our participants exhibited similar movement patterns between the dominant and non-dominant leg. Our findings also suggest that when IPP drills focus on power and body posture, its effectiveness to alter neuromechanics relative to non-contact ACL injury risk factors remains questionable and warrants further investigation.
PREPARING FOOTBALL REFEREE TO MANAGE CONFLICT
Authors: Dell C , Rhind D , Misia G 
Published: March 2014

BackgroundThe number of football referees in the United Kingdom has significantly declined over recent years (The F.A, 2011).ObjectivePrevious research has indicate that conflict is an importnat factor in referees leaving the game and impact on their personal health and wellbeing (Dell, Rhind & Gervis, 2013). This study evaluates a training programme which aims to develop referee's ability to manage conflict during matches. It is intended that this research will inform The F.A.'s drive to retain referees.DesignMixed methods design with two groups used.SettingThe aims of the workshop were for the individuals to develop self-awareness of their own referee behaviour; to use conflict management stratergies to help them referee more effectively and to enhance their practical refereeing skills.ParticipantsTrainee referees participated in this study; Group A (experimental) and Group B (control). Both genders were represented (Group A M=19 F=1/Group B M=18 F=2) aged from 14->55 years of age.InterventionGroup A undertook a new specifically designed conflict managment and resolution workshop for referees as part of their basic referee training course. Group B completed the normal training programme.Main outcome measurementsBoth groups completed a pre-workshop questionaire based on their training and how they felt they had dealt with conflict during their 6 training games as a referee. The questionaire employed both likert-type scales and qualitative questions. Upon completion of the training programme both groups completed a post-workshop questionaire.ResultsResults from the post-workshop questionnaires for Group A indicate a significant imporvement in their ability to manage conflict relative to Group B. The significance for Group A in managing conflict was still present 3 months later.ConclusionsThis workshop has had a direct impact on how referees deal with and handle conflict.
POSTURAL STABILITY DURING THE TRANSITION FROM DOUBLE-LEG STANCE TO SINGLE-LEG STANCE IN ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTED SUBJECTS
Authors: Dingenen B , Janssens L , Claes S , Bellemans J , Staes F 
Published: March 2014

BackgroundDespite recent advances in rehabilitation and secondary prevention strategies after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), re-injury rates remain high and long-term outcomes are often disappointing. Deficits in postural stability are shown to be important.ObjectiveTo evaluate postural stability during the transition from double-leg stance to single-leg stance in ACLR and non-injured control subjects.DesignCross-sectional (retrospective).SettingControlled laboratory study.Participants20 ACLR subjects (15 females, 5 males), 23.1±13.9 months after ACLR and fully returned to their pre-injury sport, and 20 non-injured control subjects (15 females, 5 males) participated in the study. Both groups were matched for age, gender, weight, height and activity level. All ACL injuries were caused by a non-contact injury mechanism.Risk factor assessmentA transition task from double-leg stance to single-leg stance with eyes closed was performed while standing on a single force plate. Movement speed was standardized. Both legs of each subject were tested.Main outcome measurementsSpatiotemporal center of pressure outcomes were compared between groups and between legs within the same group. Significance was set at P<.05.ResultsThe ACLR group showed a significant increased postural sway after the new stability point during single-leg stance (P=.005). No significant different postural stability outcomes were found between legs in both groups (P>.05).ConclusionsDespite the full return to sport, ACLR subjects showed a decreased ability to overcome the postural perturbation created by the transitional movement. These postural stability deficits may leave the lower extremity more vulnerable to ACL re-injury and/or other long-term problems after ACLR. Whether these deficits are a result or a pre-existing risk factor of the initial ACL injury remains unclear. The lack of bilateral differences in the ACLR group may imply that secondary prevention strategies should not only focus on the ACLR leg, but also on the non-ACLR leg.
CARDIOVASCULAR SCREENING IN NCAA ATHLETES: FINDINGS FROM A MULTICENTER ECG-INCLUSIVE PROGRAM
Authors: Asif I , Hadley D , Harmon K , Owens D , Prutkin J , Salerno J , Drezner J 
Published: March 2014

BackgroundThe optimal pre-participation screening strategy in competitive athletes is debated.ObjectiveTo evaluate the accuracy of cardiovascular screening in NCAA athletes using a standardized history, physical exam (PE), and electrocardiogram (ECG).DesignProspective multi-center trial.SettingCompetitive US collegiate athletes from 17 schools.Participants3 284 athletes (56% male; 73% Caucasian; 15% African-American; mean age 19.8 years) from 17 sports were screened from July 2012 to October 2013.Assessment of risk factorsScreening included a standardized history and PE based on recommendations from the American Heart Association (AHA), and a resting 12-lead ECG interpreted using 2013 international consensus standards (Seattle Criteria).Main outcome measurementsAbnormalities detected by history, PE, and ECG.Results1 022 (31.1%) athletes had>1 positive history response with SOB (11.6%%), syncope/near-syncope (11.0%), and exertional chest pain (6.5%) most common. PE was abnormal in 72 (2.2%) athletes. Overall, 123 (3.7%) ECGs were classified as abnormal (67.5% male, 32.5% female). The rate of abnormal ECGs was higher in men compared to women (4.5% vs 2.6%), African-Americans compared to Caucasians (5.3% vs. 3.6%), and most common in basketball players. A total of 133 ECG abnormalities were detected, including Q waves 36.8%, T wave inversion 22.6%, left axis deviation 9.8%, ST depression 7.5%, ventricular pre-excitation 6.8%, PVCs 5.3%, left atrial enlargement 4.5%, right ventricular hypertrophy 3.0%, prolonged QRS 2.3%, and prolonged QTc 1.5%. Eleven (0.3%) potentially lethal cardiac disorders were discovered. All 11 had abnormal ECGs, and only 2 cases had abnormal history or PE.ConclusionsThe current AHA strategy for pre-participation screening generates a high number of false-positive responses in college athletes. ECG screening using modern standards for interpretation provides a low and acceptable rate of abnormal findings and greatly increases the identification of serious cardiac disorders in US collegiate athletes.
FROM CONTENT TO CONTEXT: THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE FOOTYFIRST PROGRAM TO PREVENT LOWER LIMB INJURIES IN COMMUNITY AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALL
Authors: Donaldson A , Lloyd D , Young W , Barbery G , Cook J , Gabbe B , Finch CF 
Published: March 2014

BackgroundDeveloping injury prevention programs for community sport is challenging. The injury issues and interventions must be grounded in science and be both meaningful to, and implementable by, those involved in community sport.ObjectiveThis presentation will detail the multi-stage iterative process used to develop FootyFirst, a community-Australian Football (AF) specific lower limb injury prevention program.DesignThe scientific literature, clinical experience, expert and end-user consultations, community trials, theory-informed discussion, and graphic design and editorial expertise, were combined to develop FootyFirst.SettingCommunity-AF.ResultsLower limb injuries were identified as the major injury concern and it was established that a combination of balance and control, eccentric hamstring, plyometric and strength exercises could be efficacious in preventing such injuries. The multi-disciplinary research team used evidence from the scientific literature, clinical experience and knowledge of the community-AF context in an iterative process to create and trial the exercises and progressions that were included in the first draft of FootyFirst. This draft was further refined through a Delphi process in which AF-specific lower limb injury prevention experts agreed on the appropriateness of including the proposed exercises in FootyFirst. Potential end-user groups (community-AF players, coaches, fitness coaches, sports trainers and administrators) provided feedback about the fit between FootyFirst and the implementation context including potential barriers and facilitators to widespread program adoption and implementation. Trials of FootyFirst were conducted to ensure it could be understood and delivered by community-AF coaches and completed by players. The research team then reviewed the entire program during discussions focused around the Diffusion of Innovations principles of relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability and observability before expert graphic designers and editors were engaged to develop FootyFirst resources.ConclusionsThe content-to-context process detailed in this presentation was successfully used to develop FootyFirst, an evidence-informed, expert-endorsed, context-specific community-AF lower limb injury prevention program.
SCREENING FOR SUDDEN CARDIAC DEATH IN ATHLETES: THE PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF BEING DIAGNOSED WITH POTENTIALLY LETHAL DISEASE
Authors: Asif I , Price D , Fisher L , Zakrajsek R , Raabe J , Bejar M , Larsen L , Rao A , Harmon K , Drezner J 
Published: March 2014

BackgroundThe purpose of cardiovascular screening in athletes is the identification of disorders at risk for sudden cardiac death. No study has assessed the experiences of athletes diagnosed with a serious cardiovascular condition.ObjectiveTo determine the psychological impact of young athletes who are diagnosed with a potentially lethal cardiac condition.DesignSemi-structured interview.SettingYoung competitive US Athletes.Participants25 athletes (52% male, 80% Caucasian, median age 17.7) previously diagnosed (>6 months) with potentially lethal cardiac conditions (5 HCM, 8 WPW, 4 LQTS, 3 ASD, 2 SVT, 3 other) voluntarily participated.Assessment of risk factorsAthletes shared reactions and experiences regarding diagnosis, lifestyle implications, coping strategies, major concerns, and overall impact on psychosocial functioning.Main outcome measurementsAudio interviews were transcribed and analyzed using consensual qualitative research (CQR) to identify themes and sub-themes.ResultsAthletes recalled anxiety, confusion, denial, and shock shortly after diagnosis. Disqualified collegiate athletes described prolonged emotional impact due to identity change, and had mixed emotions regarding participation in team activities in another role. Disqualified high school athletes were more accepting of their condition and chose to participate in lower intensity sports. Those undergoing simple corrective procedures depicted mentally overcoming their diagnosis quickly with little impact on daily life; however, individuals with cardiomyopathy or channelopathy had persistent reminders such as taking daily medication, monitoring HR during activity, and ensuring the presence of onsite defibrillators in case of cardiac arrest. Only a minority of athletes described emotional support mechanisms from medical programs. Diagnosis often led to new life purposes such as mentoring or coaching. Despite its impact, all athletes were appreciative and would undergo advanced cardiovascular screening again.ConclusionsCollege athletes and those with cardiac conditions requiring disqualification from sport are at greater risk of adverse psychological consequences. Improved support mechanisms from medical programs are needed to assist athletes diagnosed with a serious cardiac disorder.