Ana Filipa Braga Barroso Campos Silva
@ipvc.pt/esdl
Escola Superior de Desporto e Lazer
Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo
EDUCATION
Degree in Sports and Physical Education (ISMAI).
Master in Sports for children and youth (FADE-UP).
PhD in Sports Sciences (FADE-UP).
RESEARCH INTERESTS
The current research interests are: (i) motor control, (ii) youth sports performance, (iii) cognitive performance in sports. She is a coordinator of the Fit4Alz Project granted by the UE 2022.
FUTURE PROJECTS
Fit4Alz
Applications Invited
Scopus Publications
Scopus Publications
Gianpiero Greco, Claudio Centrone, Luca Poli, Ana Filipa Silva, Luca Russo, Stefania Cataldi, Valerio Giustino, and Francesco Fischetti
MDPI AG
Outdoor exercise is beneficial for psychophysical well-being. Limited studies have compared outdoor and virtual reality (VR) indoor physical activities, especially in coastal settings. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the impact of outdoor coastal walking and indoor walking in a VR simulation with a similar environment on physiological and psychological variables in healthy adults. A total of 26 subjects (14 M and 12 F, age 25.2 ± 2.5 years) voluntarily participated in this crossover randomized controlled and counterbalanced study and were allocated under three conditions: VR indoor walking (INVR), outdoor walking (OUT) and standard indoor walking (IN). IN and INVR conditions were performed on a treadmill (speed 4.5 km/h) and the OUT was performed on a seaside pedestrian road. The same outdoor environment was displayed in the visor during the INVR. Heart rate (HRmean/max), physical activity enjoyment (PACES-It) and state of mindfulness for physical activity (SMS-PA) were assessed at the end of each condition. The OUT condition showed significantly greater PACES-It scores and HRmean than IN and INVR (p < 0.001) and greater SMS-PA scores and HRmax than IN (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). No significant differences were found between OUT and INVR regarding HRmax and SMS-PA scores (p > 0.05). Findings suggest that physical activity in an immersive technology may lead to physiological loads comparable to the outdoor environment. OUT is more enjoyable than IN and INVR but exhibits a mindfulness response comparable to INVR. Therefore, INVR could be an alternative to OUT for those who cannot engage in outdoor activities for various reasons.
Francisco Tomás González-Fernández, Ana Filipa Silva, Alfonso Castillo Rodriguez, Wanesa Onetti-Onetti, and Filipe Manuel Clemente
Elsevier BV
Marcin Janusiak, Ana Filipa Silva, Rui Silva, Aleksander Kosendiak, Bartłomiej Bogdański, Małgorzata Smoter, Gibson Praça, and Filipe Clemente
Termedia Sp. z.o.o.
The purpose of this study was three-fold: (i) to compare total distance, high-speed running (HSR) distance, and sprint distance covered per 5-minute epoch by players acting as both starters and substitutes; (ii) to compare the locomotor demands between the moments the players entered the match (45–60, 60–75 and 75–90 minutes); and (iii) to compare the locomotor demands of the players between the variations of the within- and between-playing positions. Twenty-one male professional soccer players competing in the Professional Premier League of one of the European countries were observed over sixteen official matches. The players were monitored during all matches using a Global Navigation Satellite System. The measures collected were total distance (TD; m), distance in HSR, sprint distance, HSR, and sprint counts. Considering the comparisons between the splits over the second half of match play, a significant difference between the starters and the substitutes was observed only for sprint distance in the 90–95 minute split (Z = –2.023; p = 0.043). Moreover, no substantial differences were found between the moment the substitute player entered the match regarding total distance (H = 2.650; p = 0.266), HSR distance (H = 1.738; p = 0.419), and sprint distance (H = 0.048; p = 0.976). However, the comparison of between-playing positions revealed considerable differences in total distance (H = 29.246; p < 0.001), and HSR distance (H = 12.153; p = 0.002) covered by the players acting as starters. In contrast, for substitute players, such differences were reported in HSR distance (H = 27.892; p < 0.001) and sprint distance (H = 15.879; p < 0.001). In conclusion, this study suggests that acting as a starter or a substitute does not significantly affect the intensity of effort except during the last periods of match play. However, the contextual factor of performing in a specific playing position plays a significant role both for starters and substitutes.
José Afonso, Renato Andrade, Sílvia Rocha-Rodrigues, Fábio Yuzo Nakamura, Hugo Sarmento, Sandro R. Freitas, Ana Filipa Silva, Lorenzo Laporta, Maryam Abarghoueinejad, Zeki Akyildiz,et al.
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Abstract Background Stretching has garnered significant attention in sports sciences, resulting in numerous studies. However, there is no comprehensive overview on investigation of stretching in healthy athletes. Objectives To perform a systematic scoping review with an evidence gap map of stretching studies in healthy athletes, identify current gaps in the literature, and provide stakeholders with priorities for future research. Methods Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 and PRISMA-ScR guidelines were followed. We included studies comprising healthy athletes exposed to acute and/or chronic stretching interventions. Six databases were searched (CINAHL, EMBASE, PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science) until 1 January 2023. The relevant data were narratively synthesized; quantitative data summaries were provided for key data items. An evidence gap map was developed to offer an overview of the existing research and relevant gaps. Results Of ~ 220,000 screened records, we included 300 trials involving 7080 athletes [mostly males (~ 65% versus ~ 20% female, and ~ 15% unreported) under 36 years of age; tiers 2 and 3 of the Participant Classification Framework] across 43 sports. Sports requiring extreme range of motion (e.g., gymnastics) were underrepresented. Most trials assessed the acute effects of stretching, with chronic effects being scrutinized in less than 20% of trials. Chronic interventions averaged 7.4 ± 5.1 weeks and never exceeded 6 months. Most trials (~ 85%) implemented stretching within the warm-up, with other application timings (e.g., post-exercise) being under-researched. Most trials examined static active stretching (62.3%), followed by dynamic stretching (38.3%) and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching (12.0%), with scarce research on alternative methods (e.g., ballistic stretching). Comparators were mostly limited to passive controls, with ~ 25% of trials including active controls (e.g., strength training). The lower limbs were primarily targeted by interventions (~ 75%). Reporting of dose was heterogeneous in style (e.g., 10 repetitions versus 10 s for dynamic stretching) and completeness of information (i.e., with disparities in the comprehensiveness of the provided information). Most trials (~ 90%) reported performance-related outcomes (mainly strength/power and range of motion); sport-specific outcomes were collected in less than 15% of trials. Biomechanical, physiological, and neural/psychological outcomes were assessed sparsely and heterogeneously; only five trials investigated injury-related outcomes. Conclusions There is room for improvement, with many areas of research on stretching being underexplored and others currently too heterogeneous for reliable comparisons between studies. There is limited representation of elite-level athletes (~ 5% tier 4 and no tier 5) and underpowered sample sizes (≤ 20 participants). Research was biased toward adult male athletes of sports not requiring extreme ranges of motion, and mostly assessed the acute effects of static active stretching and dynamic stretching during the warm-up. Dose–response relationships remain largely underexplored. Outcomes were mostly limited to general performance testing. Injury prevention and other effects of stretching remain poorly investigated. These relevant research gaps should be prioritized by funding policies. Registration OSF project (https://osf.io/6auyj/) and registration (https://osf.io/gu8ya).
Lorena Rodríguez-García, Halil Ibrahim Ceylan, Rui Miguel Silva, Ana Filipa Silva, Amelia Guadalupe-Grau, and Antonio Liñán-González
MDPI AG
The present study aimed to investigate the effects of a 10-week online high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program on body composition and aerobic and aerobic performance in physically sedentary women. A parallel, two-group, longitudinal (pre, post) design was used with physical tests performed before (preintervention) and after (postintervention) the 10-week intervention period. A total of forty-eight healthy and physically sedentary women (defined as an individual who lacks regular exercise or a structured fitness routine) were recruited to participate in this study. The participants were distributed in two groups: the experimental group (EG) with 24 women (mean ± SD: age 21.21 ± 2.15 years; weight: 61.16 ± 8.94 kg; height: 163.96 ± 4.87 cm; body mass index (BMI): 22.69 ± 2.49 kg/m2) and the control group (CG) with another 24 women (mean ± SD: age 20.50 ± 1.29 years; weight: 62.0 ± 6.65 kg; height: 163.92 ± 4.89 cm; body mass index: 23.04 ± 1.74 kg/m2). The EG performed an online HIIT program for 10 weeks, while the CG continued with their daily life routines. The repeated measures ANCOVA indicated a significant effect in the within-group analysis for weight (p = 0.001; d = −0.96) and for BMI (p = 0.001; d = 0.24), with a significant decrease in the experimental group (EG). The control group (CG) did not show any significant decrease in either body weight or BMI. Regarding the maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) values, the EG exhibited a significant improvement (p = 0.001; d = −1.07), whereas the CG did not demonstrate a significant improvement (p = 0.08; d = −0.37). The EG’s power output (W) (p = 0.001; d = −0.50) and power output standardized by body weight (W/kg) (p = 0.001; d = −0.96) were significantly improved. The CG did not show a significant improvement in either power output (W/kg) or power output. Lastly, the within-group analysis with load revealed that the EG significantly improved (p = 0.001; d = −0.50), while CG did not show a significant improvement in load (p = 0.10.; d = −0.10). The present study showed that 10 weeks of HIIT in an online environment during the COVID-19 lockdown significantly improved maximum oxygen consumption and caused weight loss and a significant decrease in body mass index in physically sedentary women. These results suggest that HIIT may be used as a time-efficient strategy to improve body composition and cardio-respiratory fitness in sedentary women.
Hadi Nobari, Filipe Manuel Clemente, Norodin Vali, Ana Filipa Silva, Daniel van den Hoek, and Rodrigo Ramirez-Campillo
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
AbstractThis study aimed to compare the effects of horizontal (HJ) and vertical (VJ)-based plyometric jump training on male semi-professional soccer player's performance (e.g., change-of-direction speed [5-0-5 test]; 10-m, 20-m, and 30-m linear sprint speed). A parallel-study design was conducted. Participants were organized into HJ (n = 10) or VJ (n = 9) during 12 weeks. Measures of athletic performance were obtained in four phases: (i) before and (ii) end of the pre-season, (iii) during (weeks 7th), and (iv) after the intervention. The within-group analysis revealed that both HJ and VJ improved change of direction ($${x}^{2}$$ x 2 = 27.783; p < 0.001 ($${x}^{2}$$ x 2 = 21.635; p < 0.001),), 10-m linear sprint time ($${x}^{2}$$ x 2 = 28.576; p < 0.001), 20-m linear sprint time ($${x}^{2}$$ x 2 = 28.969, p < 0.001), and 30-m linear sprint time ($${x}^{2}$$ x 2 = 26.143; p < 0.001). Similarly, the VJ-group also imposed significant changes on 5-0-5 time, 10-m linear sprint time ($${x}^{2}$$ x 2 = 25.787; p < 0.001), 20-m linear sprint time ($${x}^{2}$$ x 2 = 24.333, p < 0.001), and 30-m linear sprint time ($${x}^{2}$$ x 2 = 22.919; p < 0.001). Between-group analysis revealed no significant differences in any of the assessment moments. HJ and VJ plyometric jump training are effective for improving the change-of-direction and a linear sprint of semi-professional players with no difference between types of intervention.
Jarosław Muracki, Michał Nowak, Adam Kawczyński, Ana Filipa Silva, and Filipe Manuel Clemente
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
AbstractEven though running performance and positional profiles in football are well described, amputee football (AF) has different characteristics of the movement, pitch dimensions, and time played. There is a gap in the scientific literature about positional profiles based on running performance in AF. This study aimed to investigate the differences between positions, the influence of the amputation level or defect of the lower limb (LD), the differences in running performance between halves, and the relationship with the final match result. Thirteen AF National Team players were monitored by Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), tracking 24 official international matches for 17 months. Values of top speed, peak acceleration, peak deceleration, average distance per minute, sprint mean speed, GPS load per minute, inertial load per minute (Gs load/min), number of sprints per minute, and a number of impacts per minute were analyzed for defenders (DEF), midfielders (MID) and forwards (FOR). Additional factors analyzed were amputation level (below the knee, low amputation—LA or over the knee, high amputation—HA or defect of the lower limb—LD) and the match's final result. Midfielders had significantly higher running performance parameters compared to other positions (greater top speed than DEF (+ 0.3 m/s; p < 0.001) and FOR (+ 0.2 m/s; p = 0.045), greater peak acceleration and deceleration than DEF (+ 0.5 m/s2 for both measures; p < 0.001) and FOR (+ 0.4 and + 0.3 m/s2; p < 0.001 and p = 0.036, respectively), greater GPS load/minute than DEF (+ 0.2 load/min; p = 0.001) and FOR (+ 0.3 load/min; p < 0.001), greater Gs load per minute than DEF (+ 2.7 load/min; p < 0.001) and FOR (+ 1.8 load/min; p < 0.001), greater number of impacts per minute than DEF (+ 0.2 n/min; p < 0.001) and FOR (+ 0.2 n/min; p < 0.001). Players with LD had significantly higher running performance than those with LA or HA. In the match's second half, a decrease in running performance was registered. The trend of running more when losing could be observed—AF players had higher running parameters in lost matches, but the differences were not statistically significant. Further research complied with contextual game analysis is needed to assess the running performance of AF players deeply.
Halil İbrahim Ceylan, Mehmet Ertuğrul Öztürk, Deniz Öztürk, Ana Filipa Silva, Mevlüt Albayrak, Özcan Saygın, Özgür Eken, Filipe Manuel Clemente, and Hadi Nobari
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
AbstractThis study aimed to examine the acute effects of moderate-intensity aerobic and high-intensity interval exercise protocols on Asprosin and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) levels in inactive normal weight and obese individuals. A total of 20 male individuals aged 18–65 years, ten normal weight (NW) (Body Mass Index (BMI): 18.5–24.99 kg/m2) and 10 obese (Ob) (BMI: 24.99–35.00 kg/m2) participated in this study, voluntarily. Moderate aerobic exercise (AE) (main circuit 30 min, between 40 and 59% of Heart Rate Reserve: HRR) and High-Intensity Interval exercise (HIIE) running protocols (main circuit 20 min, between 75 and 90% of the HRR for 1 min*10 times, and 1-min active rest at 30% of the HRR) was applied to the volunteer participants in the morning hours (08.00–10.00 a.m.), following the night fasting (at least 8–10 h) for at least 3 days between each other. Blood samples were collected from the participants before and immediately after each exercise protocol, and serum asprosin and BDNF hormone levels were determined by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay” method. Basal serum asprosin was found to be significantly higher in the Ob group compared to the NW group (p < .001), while the basal serum BDNF hormone was found to be lower (p < 0.05). It was observed that the serum asprosin level of both groups decreased significantly after both AE and HIIE protocols (p < 0.05). In addition, there was a significantly higher decrease in serum asprosin level in the Ob group compared to the NW group after HIIE protocol. For the Ob group, serum BDNF level increased considerably after HIIE protocol compared to AE protocol (p < 0.05). Serum asprosin was found to be higher in the Ob group, while the serum BDNF was found to be lower. In addition, the acute exercises of different intensity significantly affected hormones that regulate appetite metabolism. In particular, it was observed that the HIIE protocol had a greater effect on the regulation of appetite (hunger-satiety) in the Ob group. This result can be taken into account when planning training programs for these individuals.
Francisco Tomás González-Fernández, Gabriel Delgado-García, Jesús Siquier Coll, Ana Filipa Silva, Hadi Nobari, and Filipe Manuel Clemente
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
AbstractThe aim of this study was to analyze the relationships among physical cognitive ability, academic performance, and physical fitness regarding age and sex in a group of 187 students (53.48% male, 46.52% female) from one town of Norwest of Jaén, Andalusia (Spain), aged between 9 and 15 years old (M = 11.97, SD = 1.99). The D2 attention test was used in order to analyze selective attention and concentration. Physical fitness, reflected on maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), was evaluated using the 6 min Walking Test (6MWT). The analysis taken indicated a significant relationship between physical fitness level, attention, and concentration, as in the general sample looking at sex (finding differences between boys and girls in some DA score in almost all age categories [p < 0.05]) and at age category (finding some differences between the younger age category groups and the older age category groups in some DA scores (p < 0.05), not finding any significant interaction between sex and age category (p > 0.05). In sum, the present study revealed that students with better aerobic fitness can present better-processed elements and smaller omission errors. Moreover, girls and older students seem to present better cognitive functioning scores than boys and younger. Our findings suggest that more research is necessary to elucidate the cognitive function between ages, sexes, and physical fitness and anthropometry levels of students.
Ricardo Franco Lima, Ana Filipa Silva, Sérgio Matos, Henrique de Oliveira Castro, André Rebelo, Filipe Manuel Clemente, and Hadi Nobari
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
AbstractThe purpose of this study was to use an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to analyze variations in the jump outcomes concerning weekly training days, and the dependencies between the number of jumps per minute and the jump height. An experimental research design was adopted across three weeks of the final play-off of a volleyball championship. Through an IMU, the external load of seven male elite volleyball athletes of a top rating team from Portuguese 1st Division (age: 30.5 ± 3.5 years; height: 200.2 ± 6.3 cm; body mass: 93.0 ± 8.1 kg; BMI: 23.1 ± 2.3 kg/m2) was monitored. Repeated measures ANOVA was executed to compare the outcomes between training days. It was observed a similar density of jumps during the week. However, when comparing MD-1 to MD-2, a more significant average number of jumps per minute was observed in MD-1 (1.3 ± 0.2 vs. 1.0 ± 0.2). Additionally, a positive, large and significant correlation was registered between the number of jumps and the height of the jump. Those results highlight the benefits of the specific training, leading to greater stimulation and improvement, in a game-like context, of the stretching-shortening cycle, observed in every jump action in volleyball.
Rui Barboza-Neto, Hadi Nobari, Felipe J. Aidar, Paulo Francisco Almeida-Neto, Ana Filipa Silva, Radamés Maciel Vítor Medeiros, Filipe Manuel Clemente, Victor Sabino de Queiros, Dihogo Gama de Matos, Luiz Felipe da Silva,et al.
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Abstract Background Relative age effect (RAE) is a concept related to the possible advantage that older athletes would have over younger ones within the same category. Although many studies have approached this subject in individual sports, there are few clippings by events within the sport. More detailed analyses are necessary for a better understanding of how RAE behaves in sports, especially in athletics, the subject of this study. The objective of this study was to analyze the RAE on speed in track and field events as a whole, separating the flat races from the hurdles races. Methods The Brazilian Ranking of Brazilian Athletics Confederation was used for data analysis, and the sample was composed of the 50 best-placed marks in the ranking of speed events in athletics in the categories Under(U)-16 and U-18 (female and male). Statistical analysis was calculated by chi-square, and the effect size was checked by Cramer’s V. Likelihood-ratio test (L-Ratio) assessed the probability of the RAE occurring in the total sample and by age groups. Results In the total sample the results pointed to the emergence of RAE in males in both categories (U-16: p < 0.001; V: 0.13; L-Ratio: 3.64, U-18: p < 0.001; V: 0.13; L-Ratio: 3.80), whereas in females no such effect was found in any category (U-16: p = 0.6; V: 0.09; L-Ratio: 0.09, U-18: p = 0.6; V: 0.07; L-Ratio: 0.12). When the results were separated by type of event, there was only a RAE in the shallow event in the U-18 female category (p = 0.3; V: 0.11; L-Ratio: 8.72). Conclusion The results allow us to conclude that there is a RAE in the speed trials of Brazilian athletics in the U16 and U18 categories for men, while this effect appears only in the shallow trials of the U18 category for women, indicating that the RAE has incidence when there is more participation and competition in the sport.
Artur Avelino Birk Preissler, Pedro Schons, Filipe Manuel Clemente, Guilherme Droescher de Vargas, Lucas Moraes Klein, Ana Filipa Silva, Hadi Nobari, and Luiz Fernando Martins Kruel
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
AbstractThe evolution of female soccer is related to the increase in high-intensity actions and choosing the abilities that best characterize the players' performance. Determining the capabilities that best describe the players' performance becomes essential for coaches and technical staff to obtain the results more efficiently within the competitive calendar. Thus, the study aimed to analyze the correlations between performance in the 20-m sprint tests with and without the ball and the Zigzag 20-m change-of-direction (COD) test without the ball in professional female soccer players. Thirty-three high-level professional female soccer players performed the 20-m sprint tests without a ball, 20-m sprint tests with the ball, and the Zigzag 20-m COD test without the ball. The shortest time obtained in the three trials was used for each test. The fastest time in the three trials was used for each test to calculate the average test speed. The Pearson product–moment correlation test was applied to analyze the correlation between the performance in the tests. Pearson's product–moment correlation test was used to analyze the correlation between the performance in the trials, with a significance level of α < 0.05. The average speed in the 20-m sprint tests with ball showed very large and significant correlations with the speed in the Zigzag 20-m COD test (r = 0.822; p < 0.001; 95% CI = 0.666 to 0.909). The 20-m sprint tests with ball and 20-m sprint tests without ball showed moderate, positive and significant correlation (r = 0.363; p = 0.038; 95% CI = 0.023–0.628). The tests of 20-m sprint tests without ball and Zigzag 20-m COD test also showed moderate, positive and significant correlation (r = 0.415; p = 0.016; 95% CI = 0.084–0.664). The female–female soccer players with a better ability to change direction may also have a better technical ability to drive the ball at high speed. However, they will not necessarily be the fastest in the linear sprint without the ball. Coaches and technical staff may choose to perform tests seeking efficiency and practicality, especially in a congested competitive period.
Fábio Flôres, Denise Soares, Virgínia Teixeira, Clandio Timm Marques, Nuno Casanova, Renata Willig, Joana Lourenço, Priscila Marconcin, Ana Filipa and Rafael Oliveira
MRE Press
The purpose of this study was two-fold: (i) to analyze the relationship between motor competence (i.e., a person’s ability to be proficient in different gross motor skills) and the rating of perceived exertion (RPE), which represents the physiological and psychological responses during training, in young adults, and (ii) to compare RPE between participants with high and low motor competence. Forty-eight male young adults (22.01 ± 2.43 years) participated in this study. Participants were randomly divided into several teams of three players to perform a small-sided game for 25 min (Goalkeeper+ 2 × 2 + Goalkeeper) in which the RPE was collected. Then, motor competence was assessed through six tests assessing three main components: stability (Jumping Sideways and Shifting Platforms); locomotor (Standing Long Jump and Shuttle Run), and manipulative (Velocity of Ball Kicking and Throwing). Motor competence was negatively associated with RPE (r = −0.64; p < 0.001). Moreover, locomotor, stability, and manipulative components were negatively associated with RPE (all, p < 0.05). Furthermore, upon comparing groups with low and high levels of motor competence, we observed significantly higher RPE values (p < 0.001; d = 0.32) in the low motor competence group. The findings from this study suggest that individuals with higher levels of motor competence may report a lower RPE during exercise. This information is valuable for coaches as improving levels of motor competence may potentially lead to increases in on-field performance.
Piotr Makar, Adam Kawczyński, Rui Miguel Silva, Mehmet Yildiz, Ana Filipa Silva, and Zeki Akyildiz
Elsevier BV
Ricardo Martín-Moya, Ana Filipa Silva, Filipe Manuel Clemente, and Francisco Tomás González-Fernández
Elsevier BV
Hadi Nobari, Ana Filipa Silva, Norodin Vali, and Filipe Manuel Clemente
SAGE Publications
Most of the research combining small-sided games (SSGs) with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is using the short or long forms of HIIT. However, other types of HIIT as repeated sprint training (RST) could enhance different stimuli. The purpose of the current research was to analyze the within- and between-group variations of physical fitness and body composition of two combined training interventions: (i) SSGs combined with a short high intensity interval training (sHIIT); and (ii) SSGs combined with a RST. This study followed a randomized parallel study design. Twenty-eight youth soccer players (age: 17.3 ± 0.5) belong to the same team were assigned equally to two intervention groups: SSG + sHIIT versus SSG + RST. Training intervention lasted 4 weeks, with a 2-session/week frequency. The players were tested twice, once before and after the intervention with the following tests: skinfolds (fat mass); Sargent jump test (SJT); standing long jump; sprinting time at 10-, 20-, or 30-m; 5-0-5 for time and deficit; 30-15 intermittent fitness test (30-15IFT) based on the final velocity, and repeated sprint ability (RAST) for peak, minimum, average power, and fatigue index. A mixed analysis of variance was conducted to considering factor × time effect. Between-group analysis revealed no significant differences at baseline and post-intervention period for fat mass, sprinting time at 10-, 20-, and 30-m, change-of-direction (COD) time and deficit, SJT and standing long jump, final velocity at 30-15IFT and RAST peak, average power, and fatigue index ( p > 0.05). Within-group analysis revealed that both groups significantly reduced fat mass ( p ≤ 0.001), SJT ( p ≤ 0.001), standing long jump ( p ≤ 0.001), sprint time at 10- and 20-m ( p ≤ 0.001), 30-m ( p = 0.002), COD time ( p ≤ 0.001) and deficit ( p < 0.05), RAST average ( p < 0.05), and final velocity 30-15IFT ( p ≤ 0.001). Only SSG + RST had significant improvements on COD deficit and peak power ( p < 0.05). The result of the current research suggests that either SSG + sHIIT or SSG + RST are effective for improving physical fitness in youth soccer players, with a multiple beneficial effect on locomotor profile, speed and COD, jumping performance and repeated sprint ability.
Piotr Makar, Ana Filipa Silva, Rafael Oliveira, Marcin Janusiak, Przemysław Parus, Małgorzata Smoter, and Filipe Manuel Clemente
SAGE Publications
This study aimed to compare the agreement of total distance (TD), high-speed running (HSR) distance, and sprint distance during 16 official soccer matches between a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and an optical-tracking system. A total of 24 male soccer players, who are actively participating in the Polish Ekstraklasa professional league, were included in the analysis conducted during official competitions. The players were systematically monitored using Catapult GNSS (10-Hz, S7) and Tracab optical-tracking system (25-Hz, ChyronHego). TD, HSR distance, sprint distance, HSR count (HSRC), and sprint count (SC) were collected. The data were extracted in 5-min epochs. A statistical approach was employed to visually examine the relationship between the systems based on the same measure. Additionally, R2 was utilized as a metric to quantify the proportion of variance accounted for by a variable. To assess agreement, Bland–Altman plots were visually inspected. The data from both systems were compared using the estimates derived from the intraclass correlation (ICC) test and Pearson product–moment correlation. Finally, a paired t-test was employed to compare the measurements obtained from both systems. The interaction between Catapult and Tracab systems revealed an R2 of 0.717 for TD, 0.512 for HSR distance, 0.647 for sprint distance, 0.349 for HSRC, and 0.261 for SC. The ICC values for absolute agreement between the systems were excellent for TD (ICC = 0.974) and good for HSR distance (ICC = 0.766), sprint distance (ICC = 0.822). The ICC values were not good for HSRCs (ICC = 0.659) and SCs (ICC = 0.640). t-test revealed significant differences between Catapult and Tracab for TD ( p < 0.001; d = −0.084), HSR distance ( p < 0.001; d = −0.481), sprint distance ( p < 0.001; d = −0.513), HSRC ( p < 0.001; d = −0.558), and SC ( p < 0.001; d = −0.334). Although both systems present acceptable agreement in TD, they may not be perfectly interchangeable, which sports scientists and coaches must consider when using them.
Rui Silva, Helena Colom, Joana Bicker, Anabela Almeida, Ana Silva, Francisco Sales, Isabel Santana, Amílcar Falcão, and Ana Fortuna
MDPI AG
Perampanel is a promising antiepileptic drug (AED) for refractory epilepsy treatment due to its innovative mechanism of action. This study aimed to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) model to be further used in initial dose optimization of perampanel in patients diagnosed with refractory epilepsy. A total of seventy-two plasma concentrations of perampanel obtained from forty-four patients were analyzed through a population pharmacokinetic approach by means of nonlinear mixed effects modeling (NONMEM). A one-compartment model with first-order elimination best described the pharmacokinetic profiles of perampanel. Interpatient variability (IPV) was entered on clearance (CL), while the residual error (RE) was modeled as proportional. The presence of enzyme-inducing AEDs (EIAEDs) and body mass index (BMI) were found as significant covariates for CL and volume of distribution (V), respectively. The mean (relative standard error) estimates for CL and V of the final model were 0.419 L/h (5.56%) and 29.50 (6.41%), respectively. IPV was 30.84% and the proportional RE was 6.44%. Internal validation demonstrated an acceptable predictive performance of the final model. A reliable population pharmacokinetic model was successfully developed, and it is the first enrolling real-life adults diagnosed with refractory epilepsy.
Denise Soares, Joana Lourenço, Ana Filipa Silva, and Fábio Flôres
Korean Society of Exercise Physiology
PURPOSE: Shot-put is a complex ballistic movement that involves segments’ translational and rotational motions. Its goal is to release the shot at maximum forward velocity (strength) at an angle of approximately 40º (rotation). Considering the adapted shot-put, those two components could be more limited in action. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the correlations among the one-repetition maximum (1RM) test in the bench press (BP1RM) and trunk rotation (TR1RM) and the throwing distance of the adapted shotput and body composition (Fat mass and Fat-free mass [FFM]), and the throwing distance of the adapted shot-put (TD) and 1RM results.METHODS: Eighteen non-professional athletes were evaluated, and their anthropometric data were obtained (bio-impedance measurements). Afterward, the participants performed the BP1RM and TR1RM exercises. Finally, they performed the adapted shot-put in similar conditions as the official competitions, where three trials of ASP were performed, and the best of these trials were assessed.RESULTS: The results showed a significant relationship between the throwing distance and 1RM results for both exercises (BP1RM (<i>p</i>=.040) and TR1RM (<i>p</i>=.002)) and with the amount of FFM (<i>p</i>=.045). Concerning FFM relationships, the results showed a positive relationship with both 1RM exercises (BP1RM (<i>p</i>=.034) and TR1RM (<i>p</i>=.003)). The Fat Mass results demonstrated an inverse correlation only with BP1RM (<i>p</i>=.035).CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that physical preparation, including BP1RM and TR1RM exercises, are fundamental to improving adapted shot-put performance. This showed preliminary indicators of which variables may influence the adapted shot-put that might help coaches and athletes to improve their performance. Nevertheless, those results should be carefully considered since the movement evaluated was very complex, especially when performed by participants unfamiliar with them, and because the same analysis included both sexes.
This study had two objectives: (i) to analyze the between-position differences in training:match load ratios and (ii) to test the relationships between the weekly training and match demands of male professional football players over a season. A cohort study lasting 43 weeks was performed. Nineteen professional football players (age: 27.5 ± 4.6 years old) used a 15-Hz global positioning system (GPS) unit integrating a 100-Hz tri-axial accelerometer. Total distance (TD), metabolic power average (MPA), new body load (NBL), accelerations (ACC), and decelerations (DEC) were considered. The training:match ratio was obtained for all the external load measures. Significant between-position differences were found only for DEC. Moderate correlations between the weekly training and match demands were found for NBL (r = 0.343 (0.19; 0.48); p < 0.008) and DEC (r = 0.472 (0.327; 0.595); p < 0.001). Moderate correlations between the mean training intensity and match demands of the same week were found for NBL (r = 0.454 (0.313; 0.575); p < 0.001) and DEC (r = 0.451 (0.304; 0.577); p < 0.001). This study did not show significant position differences for the overall training:match ratios. Significant position differences were revealed for left-back players compared to all other positions. Fullbacks performed four times more DEC during training sessions than during matches. It was revealed small to moderate associations between both the volume and intensity of the overall external load measures and their respective match running demands. However, such correlations are too weak to suggest a cause-and-effect relationship.
Rafael Luiz Mesquita Souza, Felipe J. Aidar, Rodrigo Villar, Gianpiero Greco, Leonardo dos Santos, Luca Poli, Jefferson Lima de Santana, Roberto Carvutto, Dihogo Gama de Matos, Georgian Badicu,et al.
Elsevier BV
Fábio Saraiva Flôres, Joana Lourenço, Lucy Phan, Simon Jacobs, Renata Matheus Willig, Priscila Ellen Pinto Marconcin, Nuno Casanova, Denise Soares, Filipe Manuel Clemente, and Ana Filipa Silva
MDPI AG
This study’s aim was two-fold: (i) to test the intra-session reliability of the one-leg balance activity test; and (ii) to assess the influence of age on reaction time (RT) and the differences between dominant and non-dominant feet. Fifty young soccer players with an average age of 12.4 ± 1.8 years were divided into two groups: younger soccer players (n = 26; 11.6 ± 0.9 years) and older soccer players (n = 24; 14.2 ± 0.8 years). Each group then completed four trials (two with each leg) of the one-leg balance activity (OLBA) to evaluate RT under a single-leg stance. Mean RT and the number of hits were calculated, and the best trial was also selected. T-tests and Pearson correlations were performed for statistical analysis. Values for RT were lower, and the number of hits was higher while standing on the non-dominant foot (p = 0.01). MANOVA revealed that the “Dominant Leg” factor did not affect the multivariate composite (Pillai Trace = 0.05; F(4, 43) = 0.565; p = 0.689; Partial ETA Squared = 0.050; Observed Power = 0.174). The “Age” factor did not present an effect on the multivariate composite (Pillai Trace = 0.104; F(4, 43) = 1.243; p = 0.307; Partial ETA Squared = 0.104; Observed Power = 0.355). The results of the present investigation demonstrate that RT may be lower while standing on the non-dominant foot.
Jarosław Muracki, Maria Zadarko-Domaradzka, Emilian Zadarko, Małgorzata Smoter, Ana Filipa Silva, and Ewa Kruszyńska
University of Szczecin
The Covid-19 pandemic brought consequences for many aspects of people’s lives all over the world, such as lockdown, social distancing and reduced accessibility to sports and recreational facilities. The aim of this study was to assess mental state, physical well-being, and motivation to exercise among Polish students of Physical Education and other fields of study, considering their gender, place of living and financial situation. The study involved 1424 students from different universities in Poland. Two questionnaires were used – the EMI-2 to measure motivation to exercise and an original questionnaire to assess daily physical activity, physical and mental well-being. While 31.7% of the students assessed their access to recreational facilities as very poor,71.8% of them rated their financial situation to be average or quite good. Over one-third of the students declared that both their physical and mental well-being (nearly 37% and 33% respectively) were very poor. Among all analyzed motivating factors to exercise, positive health, appearance and strength and endurance were classified as the most important. The importance of different motivating factors differed between the Physical Education students and those of other faculties. To conclude, physical and mental well-being of Polish students during the pandemic was poor. The main reasons were very poor access to recreational facilities, too much time spent in a sitting or lying position daily and insufficient physical activity.