Search Results (2,223)

This study primarily investigates the influence of safety coaching, psychological contract, and safety knowledge on safety compliance and safety participation among construction workers. Specifically, the research examines the effect of safety formalism on workers’ psychological contract, which in turn influences their safety behaviors on-site. The issue of construction workers not strictly adhering to safety regulations is a topic that has rarely been explored by past researchers of construction safety behavior. To address this, the study collected 99 valid samples and utilized confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to confirm the reliability and validity of the questionnaire. A structural equation model (SEM) was then employed to test the established hypotheses. The research findings confirm, as follows: Safety formalism negatively influences psychological contract. Safety coaching positively influences safety knowledge. Safety knowledge and resilience positively influence both safety compliance and safety participation. Safety compliance positively influences safety participation. Full article

Background: Padel is currently played in more than 150 countries, leading to a substantial increase in performance analysis research in recent years. Examining shot effectiveness (winners vs. errors) provides valuable information for players and coaches to better understand match and competition performance. Objectives: This study aimed to (i) analyze winners, forced errors, unforced errors, and forced error generators according to set results and serving situation; (ii) examine differences in shot types and effectiveness between set-winning and set-losing pairs; and (iii) identify differences in shot types that generate forced errors between set-winning and set-losing pairs. Methods: Data were collected from 41 professional matches (men’s and women’s) available on the World Padel Tour Finland Padel Open website. Descriptive (frequency and percentage) and inferential analyses (chi-square (χ²), Cramer’s V coefficient (Vc), subsequent Z-tests, and corrected standardized residuals (CSR)) were performed. Results: Pairs produced more winners and forced error generators when serving, while forced errors were more frequent when returning. Winning pairs achieved more winners (men: CSR = 7.7; women: CSR = 7.4), whereas losing pairs committed more errors (men: forced errors, CSR = 4.3; unforced errors, CSR = 3.8; women: forced errors, CSR = 4.8; unforced errors, CSR = 2.8). Additionally, winning pairs generated a higher proportion of forced errors (men: 56.5%; women: 60.0%) compared with losing pairs (men: 43.5%; women: 40.0%). Conclusions: These findings are crucial for coaches and players, as they provide insights into sex-specific technical and tactical patterns, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of training design and match preparation strategies. Full article

Background: Attentional focus strategies, including internal, external, and sport-specific cues, can influence muscle strength by modulating motor control. However, their acute effects on maximal isometric back-extensor strength in youth athletes under controlled laboratory conditions remain unclear. Methods: Fourteen youth golfers (15.8 ± 0.5 years) performed maximal voluntary isometric back-extension tasks under nine cueing conditions: three internal, three external, and three golf-specific. The task involved exerting maximal force against a fixed, immovable resistance while maintaining standardized trunk and hip positions to ensure consistent execution. Cueing was delivered verbally in a standardized manner across participants and sessions. Maximal isometric strength was compared across conditions using repeated-measures analyses. Results: Maximal isometric back-extensor strength was significantly (p = 0.004 η_p² = 0.34) lower with internal cues (57.1 ± 16.0 kg) compared with external (68.2 ± 13.0 kg) and golf-specific (68.1 ± 12.5 kg) cues. Specifically, the internal cues ‘engage your glutes and hamstrings’, ‘tighten your core’, and ‘maintain a neutral spine’ produced lower force than all external cues and the golf-specific cue ‘focus on using your lower body to create a stable base for your golf swing’. Among internal cues, ‘engage your glutes and hamstrings’ resulted in the lowest torque. Conclusions: External and certain golf-specific verbal cues acutely enhance maximal isometric back-extensor force more effectively than internal cues in a controlled laboratory setting. While these results inform how attentional focus can modulate acute force output in youth athletes, the task does not replicate the dynamic, rotational nature of the golf swing, and the findings should not be interpreted as direct indicators of golf performance. Future research should explore long-term adaptations and assess transfer to sport-specific, dynamic movements. Full article

This study examines the modernization of the 61-4179 TVZ passenger coach for transporting light automobiles up to 3 tons, addressing the efficiency of multifunctional rail use. The objective was to assess how additional mass–dimensional loading influences strength, load distribution, and the dynamic stability of the vehicle–track system. Finite element simulations in ANSYS Workbench 2021 R2 determined stress distribution, deformations, and safety margins, while multibody dynamics modeling in Universal Mechanism evaluated wheel–rail contact forces, carbody accelerations, and stability coefficients. Field tests on curves with radii of 350 m and 300 m at 60 km/h validated the models. Carbody accelerations were 0.65–0.68 m/s², below the 0.7 m/s² regulatory limit; wheelset attack angles remained under 0.01 rad; and derailment safety coefficients were 1.6–1.8, all meeting international standards. Uniform load distribution maintained stability and suppressed oscillations. However, critical scenarios (wheel wear, extreme flange clearance, higher speeds) produced parameters approaching threshold values. To mitigate risks, clearance adjustment per δ₀ standards, a 1:20 guard-rail inclination, and optimized crossing profiles are proposed. These measures reduced lateral dynamic forces by 12–15% and raised the strength coefficient by 1.2–1.3. The results confirm technical feasibility, operational safety, and extended service life, supporting sustainable multimodal transport development. Full article

Background: Physical performance in soccer is usually described through isolated indicators such as total distance or sprint frequency, which may overlook the broader structure of match demands. Purpose: This study aimed to identify the latent components of physical performance in professional soccer and to examine how they vary across playing positions. Methods: External load data were collected from 446 outfield players competing in the Turkish first division during the 2021–2022 season, using optical tracking technology. Distances covered at different speed thresholds and maximal speed were analyzed through principal component analysis. Factor scores were compared across positions using non-parametric tests. Results: Three components of physical performance emerged: (1) moderate-intensity running (2–5.5 m/s, inverse to low-speed activity), (2) high-intensity running (>5.5 m/s), and (3) sprint capacity (maximal speed). Central midfielders recorded the highest values in moderate-intensity running, wingers and wing backs excelled in high-intensity running, while sprint capacity was most strongly associated with wingers. Conclusions: The findings provide a more integrated understanding of soccer’s physical demands, moving beyond single indicators to reveal broader performance dimensions. This framework can support coaches, analysts, and scouts in player profiling, training design, and rehabilitation planning, while emphasizing the need for position-specific physical preparation. Full article

Sport psychology research has shown that athletes might experience self-presentation concerns. However, fairly limited work has examined these specific concerns among athletes experiencing an injury, particularly among adolescent populations. Therefore, the purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the nature, precursors, and implications of injured adolescent athletes’ self-presentation concerns. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with female (n = 12) and male (n = 2) competitive adolescent athletes (Mage = 15.1 years) who experienced a variety of serious injuries (e.g., ACL rupture, labrum tear) as a result of competing in various sports. Braun and Clark’s thematic analysis (2006) was used to develop themes pertaining to the nature, precursors, and implications of injury. Findings highlight a range of specific types of self-presentation concerns (e.g., concerns over “faking” an injury, lacking capability, disappointing others), the impact of the closeness of relationships with significant others, key implications (e.g., future sport apprehensions, negative emotions, motivational enhancements), and coping strategies. Results identify factors for targeted interventions aimed at managing self-presentation concerns among injured adolescents. Full article

Background and Objectives: In modern soccer, players frequently perform curved sprinting (CS) actions that combine speed, agility, and neuromuscular control, highlighting the importance of assessing CS performance in youth athletes. This study aimed to investigate age-related differences in CS performance and its relationship with key components of physical fitness—including aerobic capacity, vertical jump height, and agility-based field tests—in U14 and U16 male soccer players. Materials and Methods: A total of 76 registered players participated, evenly divided between the two age groups. Statistical analyses included t-tests, correlation, and regression modeling to determine key predictors of curve-sprint performance. Results: U16 players showed significant between-group differences, with faster CS times on both the good and weak sides (p < 0.001, d = 0.93–1.08), as well as superior performance in the countermovement jump (p < 0.001, d = 1.12), Illinois Agility Test (p < 0.01, d = 0.70), and 5-0-5 change-of-direction (COD) test (p < 0.01, d = 0.74). Significant negative correlations were found between CMJ height and CS times (r = –0.40 to –0.73), indicating that greater explosive power was associated with better CS performance. Moderate to very strong positive correlations were observed between CS and agility measures (r = 0.43 to 0.79), particularly in the U16 group, whereas VO₂max showed no meaningful relationship with CS performance (r = –0.16 to –0.30, p > 0.05). Conclusions: These results suggest that CS may serve as an indicator of neuromuscular power and agility, both of which improve with age. From a practical perspective, regular curve-sprint assessments and multidirectional drills may support talent development by helping coaches monitor neuromuscular efficiency and movement coordination in young players. Full article

Skeletal muscle dysfunction is a major systemic manifestation of COPD that shapes symptoms, exercise tolerance and mortality. Current evidence can be integrated within a Damage–Regeneration–Remodeling framework linking mechanics and biology to clinical phenotypes. Pulmonary hyperinflation and chest wall geometry chronically load the diaphragm and other respiratory muscles in COPD, whereas inactivity and exacerbation-related disuse underload locomotor muscles. Across muscle compartments, oxidative/nitrosative stress, activation of proteolytic pathways, mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum stress, microvascular limitations, neuromuscular junction instability, and myosteatosis degrade muscle quality. The diaphragm adapts with a fast-to-slow fiber shift, greater oxidative capacity, and sarcomere foreshortening, improving endurance, whereas limb muscles show atrophy, a glycolytic shift, reduced oxidative enzymes, extracellular matrix accrual, and fat infiltration. Translational levers that address these mechanisms include: (I) Reduce damage: bronchodilation, lung-volume reduction, oxygen, non-invasive ventilation, early mobilization, pulmonary rehabilitation, neuromuscular stimulation, and corticosteroid stewardship; (II) Enable regeneration: progressive resistance plus high-intensity/heavy-load endurance training; adequate protein and vitamin-D intake, and endocrine correction; and (III) Steer remodeling: increase physical activity (with/without coaching/telecoaching), functional assessment and CT or MRI monitoring, inspiratory-muscle training, and phenotype-guided adjuncts in selected cases. This framework clarifies why lung deflation strategies benefit inspiratory mechanics, whereas limb recovery requires behavioral and metabolic interventions layered onto systemic optimization. Full article

Trail running is a demanding endurance sport where performance prediction models often rely on laboratory testing or pre-race data, limiting their practical application. This study presents a real-time predictive model for marathon and ultra-trail races, based on variables recorded during the race, including uphill/downhill pace-times, terrain difficulty coefficients, and partial rankings. A total of 947 runners from the ‘Trail Valle de Tena’ event (Spain) were analyzed to develop equations that estimate total race time using only the first third of the race. The model incorporates weighted time (WT_n), pacing variability (WTV_n,n+2), and checkpoint percentile rank (CPR_n), showing strong predictive power (adjusted R² > 0.95) across sexes and race modalities. These variables reflect the runner’s ability to both overcome elevation and maintain consistent pacing, offering insights into fatigue management and performance optimization. The model enables coaches and athletes to monitor race progression, adjust strategies in real time, and potentially reduce injury risk through better control of effort intensity. Unlike laboratory-based models, this approach is fully applicable in field conditions and does not require prior testing. Further validation in similar endurance events is recommended to confirm its utility as a practical tool for training and competition planning. Full article

An integrated physiological model would be useful for monitoring internal load in functional fitness, including formats like CrossFit and Hyrox. Traditional performance metrics often neglect internal strain, energy system engagement, and neuromuscular fatigue, central to these modalities. Oxygen uptake kinetics, metabolic profiling, heart rate and heart rate variability monitoring, and neuromuscular fatigue assessment can be employed for load monitoring. Breath-by-breath oxygen uptake analysis characterizes aerobic activation and recovery. Metabolic stress is estimated via indirect calorimetry and capillary blood lactate to quantify oxidative, glycolytic, and phosphagen contributions. Heart rate is tracked continuously to assess session intensity, while heart rate variability provides insights into autonomic recovery. Neuromuscular fatigue can be assessed via countermovement jump performance, offering sensitive measures of recovery and training tolerance. Portable tools such as the Cosmed K5™, Lactate Pro 2, heart rate sensors, and force platforms support real-time monitoring in training and competitions. Rather than advocating for the continuous use of advanced tools, the model promotes strategic integration of high-precision methods for research, and practical, low-cost alternatives (e.g., heart rate monitoring, session rating of perceived exertion, or jump analysis apps) for day-to-day coaching. This approach enables early detection of maladaptation, supports individualized training adjustments, and improves safety and performance outcomes. Ultimately, this framework bridges physiological science and real-world practice, providing value across both applied and research settings. Full article

Argumentation is a key competence (as emphasized by the European Union) for lifelong learning and democratic participation. Written argumentation is a challenging task for students, and to date, no study has investigated the impact of a combined teaching approach of debating and SRSD writing lessons on written argumentation skills. This study addresses this gap by linking debating and SRSD writing lessons for the first time in grade 9 classrooms, employing a debating format and the Self-Regulated Strategy Development (SRSD) approach. We aimed to assess the impact of the combination of debating and SRSD writing lessons on the quality of students’ argumentative writing, examining text quality across school types (higher and lower academic track) and intervention sequences (debating–SRSD and SRSD–debating). This quasi-experimental study included 357 ninth-grade students from six rural and urban German schools, split between higher (57.9%) and lower (42.1%) academic tracks. Over four measurement points, the students participated in randomized debating or SRSD-based writing lessons, each comprising six 90-minute sessions conducted by trained coaches from the research team. Text quality was measured through standardized writing tasks and the double-blinded rating of text and language pragmatics quality on a six-point scale. Both interventions improved text quality, with significant gains observed in the post-tests, and gains were especially visible for lower-track students. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of linking debating and SRSD writing lessons in improving writing skills. Our findings support the inclusion of debating as a motivational precursor to writing, emphasizing adaptability in teaching strategies to accommodate diverse student needs. We recommend confirming these findings and informing broader curricular reforms in further research. Full article

The adoption of wearable sensors for precision training has accelerated in recent years, yet most studies and reviews remain device- or feasibility-centric and lack a field-ready decision framework. This review organizes wearable sensing across four monitoring dimensions—physiological, kinematic, biochemical, and dynamic—and maps them onto three training pillars: physical, technical, and tactical. From the perspectives of athletes and coaches, we operationalize quality control, threshold, and feedback loop to translate measurement into action. We critically appraise key limitations, including signal robustness under high-intensity motion, inter-individual variability and limited model generalizability, cross-device data fusion and latency, battery life and wearability, privacy and data ownership, and limited accessibility beyond elite settings. Looking ahead, we advocate a shift from mere multidimensional measurement to a verifiable, reusable, and deployable precision-training ecosystem that delivers actionable metrics and clear decision support for practitioners. Full article

This paper presents the design and implementation of a vision-based score detection system tailored for smart IoT basketball applications. The proposed architecture leverages a compact, low-cost device comprising a high-resolution overhead camera and a Raspberry Pi 5 microprocessor equipped with a hardware accelerator for real-time object detection. The detection pipeline integrates convolutional neural networks (YOLO-based) and custom preprocessing techniques to localize the basketball hoop and track the ball trajectory. A scoring event is confirmed when the ball enters the defined scoring zone with downward motion over multiple frames, effectively reducing false positives caused by occlusions, multiple balls, or irregular shot directions. The system is part of a scalable IoT analytics platform known as Koško, which provides real-time statistics, leaderboards, and user engagement tools through a web-based interface. Field tests were conducted using data collected from various public and school courts across Niš, Serbia, resulting in a robust and adaptable solution for automated basketball score monitoring in both indoor and outdoor environments. The methodology supports edge computing, multilingual deployment, and integration with smart coaching and analytics systems. Full article

Female participation in NCAA athletics has grown significantly since the passage of Title IX—the 1972 U.S. federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational programs and activities receiving federal funding—yet much of the existing research continues to focus on male athletes, leaving important gaps in our understanding of women’s experiences in collegiate sports. One underexamined area with important public health implications is the role of coach–athlete relationships in shaping female athletes’ mental health, access to resources, and overall collegiate experience. This exploratory study draws on in-depth interviews with 19 former female NCAA athletes to examine how their relationships with coaches influenced their athletic careers, mental health, and perceptions of support. Participants represented a range of sports and competitive levels, allowing for variation in experiences across contexts. Findings reveal that coach–athlete relationships are not only central to performance and motivation but also serve as key sources of emotional, social, and material support—or, in some cases, stress and disengagement. The quality and impact of these relationships were shaped by competitive pressures, team dynamics, and institutional expectations. This study underscores the importance of relational context in understanding the broader landscape of female NCAA athletes’ experiences and suggests that coach–athlete dynamics merit greater attention in both research and athletic program development. These findings underscore the relevance of coach–athlete dynamics as a public health concern, particularly in relation to mental health and emotional well-being in competitive sports environments. Supporting healthier relational cultures in collegiate athletics is essential for promoting positive health outcomes among female student-athletes. Full article

This study analysed how tactical systems and match outcomes influence micro-level passing network metrics across playing positions in a professional football team competing in the Portuguese First Division during the 2020–2021 season. It examined how structural variation affects Degree Centrality, Degree Prestige, and Proximity Prestige across tactical systems (1-4-1-4-1, 1-4-3-3, 1-3-4-3) and outcomes (win, loss, draw) in different positions. Data from 28 league matches were used, with adjacency matrices constructed from teammate interactions. Players were grouped into six positions: goalkeepers, fullbacks, central defenders, central midfielders, wingers, and strikers. One-way ANOVA revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) across positions, tactical systems, and match outcomes. Central defenders consistently showed higher values of Degree Centrality and Degree Prestige across most systems and outcomes, highlighting their structural importance. In contrast, strikers and wingers displayed greater Proximity Prestige in the 1-4-3-3 and 1-3-4-3, reflecting their offensive positioning. Match outcome analysis indicated that wingers had significantly higher Degree Prestige in won matches compared to losses. Overall, results show that micro-level network metrics vary meaningfully by position and context, underscoring the importance of interpreting them cautiously. Despite the novelty of this study, focusing on the initial tactical systems without capturing within-match adjustments may condition the generality of the results. Coaches and practitioners should account for tactical and outcome-related variations when applying network analysis to optimise team dynamics. Full article