Sports Practice Research Articles

Development and validation of a questionnaire for table tennis teaching in physical education

This study aimed to validate the “Racquet Sports Attitude Scale (RSAS)” questionnaire intended for the educational field. The RSAS is a Spanish instrument developed using the Delphi method and consists of 42 questions divided into five subsections benefits of table tennis (TT), facilitators for the application of TT, barriers to applying tennis table in physical education (PE), difficulties in applying the tennis table as a PE content and positive attitude toward racket sports), designed to evaluate the use and impact of the practice of the racket sports, in particular TT, among PE teachers. The semantic validation process involved a panel of experts (n = 16), followed by an evaluation carried out by a group of teachers from various secondary schools (n = 20). Three studies were conducted, the first of which was descriptive, comparative and correlational, to establish the data’s sociodemographic characteristics. The second was an exploratory factor analysis to confirm the number of dimensions of the questionnaire and its reliability and validity. The last study was a confirmatory factor analysis (to establish the final number of items and their structure. The ordinal alpha values ranged from 0.65 to 0.72, obtaining an average value of 0.70, indicating coherence between the measurement of the items. Chi-square values (X2 = 197.383; p < 0.001; CFI = 0.934; TLI = 0.923 and RMSEA = 0.030), showed that the original 5-factor model and 21 final items prevailed over the one-factor model, obtaining values >0.90. On the other hand, the validation results indicated that the factor structure of the RSAS scale was able to explain 46.72% of the variance (F1 = 13.93%; F2 = 10.97%; F3 = 8.57%; F4 = 6.85%; F5 = 6.38). It can be concluded that the structure of the RSAS is fully confirmed by the statistical analyses derived from the different models of structured equations and confirmatory factor analysis, suggesting that the validated model optimally addresses the data provided and contributes to the validation of the questionnaire under study.

Return-to-sports after conservative treatment of ligamentous elbow dislocations: a monocentric retrospective cohort study. European journal of trauma and emergency surgery.

Ligamentous elbow dislocations often affect young patients with high functional and athletic demands. After reduction and clinical examination of joint stability, further treatment options are, therefore, the subject of controversial debate. In order to be able to advise patients adequately, an assessment of the possible return-to-sport based on experience is necessary. This study examines the medium to long-term return-to-sports after conservative treatment of a ligamentous elbow dislocation. In this clinical study, 42 patients (47.6% female, 52.4% male) who were treated conservatively for a ligamentous elbow dislocation at our clinic were surveyed. Conservative treatment was carried out for at least 6 weeks. Exclusion criteria were concomitant bony lesions requiring surgery, a tendency to dislocate between 30 and 130° of flexion after reduction, a positive apprehension test after reduction, and athletes with medial pop-up/instability and high valgus stress as part of their sporting activities. The Disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH), the sport-DASH and the subjective elbow value (SEV) were tested. The sport-DASH was correlated with gender, age, arm dominance, and the type of sport practiced. Descriptive statistics and significant differences were determined using statistical analyses. The average age was 42.7 years (range 22-75). After an average follow-up after 4.5 years, the mean value of DASH was 2.44 (SD 4.77), the mean value of sports DASH was 4.17 (SD 11.04) and the mean value of SEV was 94.93% (SD 6.40). There were no significant differences in sports DASH depending on gender (p = 0.81), age (p = 0.68), dislocation side in relation to the dominant arm (p = 0.54) or the type of sport practiced (p = 0.94, p = 0.65, p = 0.71). 2 patients (4.8%) underwent surgery after 6 and 8 weeks of conservative treatment due to persistent elbow stiffness. In our patient cohort, a very good return-to-sports after conservative treatment of ligamentous elbow dislocation was demonstrated, taking into account the above exclusion criteria. Factors such as age, gender, the side of the dislocation in relation to the arm dominance, and the type of sport had no influence on the outcome of our study. The data help practitioners to advise patients better when deciding on treatment and the question of a possible return to sport.

Formation of the readiness of future physical education teachers to organize competitive activities in sports games

This article attempts to reveal the content of the formation of readiness of future physical education teachers to organize competitive activities in sports games. Through the analysis of the literature, it was found that the effectiveness of the activities of future physical education teachers is determined by the coherence of team actions in competitions; the trainer-teacher must have high professionalism (high level of knowledge and skills); the preparation of future physical education teachers to organize competitive activities of students should be carried out at the stage of professional training in higher education institutions; the professional training of future physical education teachers should have a systematic and holistic approach. The analysis of psychological and pedagogical literature and practice helped to develop criteria and indicators of the formation of readiness of future physical education teachers to organize competitive activities in sports games. Cognitive (knowledge about the organization of competitive activities in sports games, students' understanding of the importance of the formation of readiness and personal self-determination); emotional-value (a conscious interest of higher education students to be ready to organize competitive sports activities through the establishment of personal self-determination); voluntary impulse (the readiness of students to take responsibility, to act independently during the organization of competitive sports activities despite doubts (completion of an act); activity (the ability of higher education students to overcome challenges in the process of organizing competitive sports activities, the ability to implement ideas into practical sports activities).

Relationships Between Motor Skills and Academic Achievement: An Exploratory Study on Italian Primary School Children

Several studies in recent decades have investigated the relationship between physical activity and learning, emphasising the role of corporeality as an effective tool for embodying knowledge, as well as skills, motor skills, and life. The aim of this exploratory study is to analyse and interpret the correlations existing between motor competence and school performance in all the disciplines included in the curriculum of primary school. Through non-probability sampling, a sample of 120 Italian children aged 6–10 years was involved. The TGMD-3 test was used to assess gross motor competence, while academic achievement was assessed based on the children’s GPA (grade point average) evaluation. Additional information on extracurricular sports practice was acquired through a questionnaire completed by parents. The Spearman correlation conducted between the children’s TGMD-3 scores (Gross Motor Index, Locomotion, and Ball scaled scores) and the academic achievement showed weak intensity and no statistical significance. In the analysis by sex, only weak and non-significant correlations, mostly of a negative type, were revealed in the group of males. In the group of females, on the other hand, positive, mostly moderate, and statistically significant correlations emerged between GMI and the scaled Ball scores with the learning assessments, except for Physical Education. The results suggest the need to expand studies investigating the quantity and quality of physical education and sports in the formal school context to understand whether, in sharing the educational project, it can promote better school performance and, more generally, more harmonious development of cognitive, motor, and social skills.

Development of Management Model to Promote Dance Sport in Universities

Background and aim: Dance Sport had its significant aesthetic value and the advantages of development to fulfill the specific needs of all-around education in colleges and universities in the future. In recent years, more and more colleges and universities have set up Dance sport in P.E. courses in China. This research aimed to develop a management model to promote dance sports in universities. Methodology: The samples were 252 students and 150 teachers in the three universities located in Jiang Xi City. They were sampling by simple random. The experts for consensus by Delphi were 21 persons and the 11 stakeholders were group discussion by connoisseurship method. The research procedure consisted of 9 experts to interview and collect opinions and suggestions to develop concepts and suggestions. The semi-structured interviewing form, questionnaire to collect data from students and teachers, questionnaire for consensus experts by Delphi, and form to conclude stakeholders’ discussion were used as research tools. Five scholars were experts to validate the questionnaires to collect data from students and teachers and got IOC = 0.90 (.60-1.00), and the questionnaire for Delphi was 0.95 (0.80-1.00). Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and content analysis. Results: 1) Set a plan to drive the dances, and dance sports in universities, schools, and communities, 2) establish a collaborative network within universities and outside universities to run the dance sports promotion model 3) The university should consider putting dances and dance sport into the curriculum, establish the extra curriculum, student practicum in dance and dance sport, and special project for dance athlete students’ admission, teachers’ development in dance teaching and training. 4) Provided various levels of dance and dance sports teaching and practice for students and communities, 5) Organized competitions in universities, inter-university, and open to the community. Conclusion: The management model to promote dance sports in university should be to develop a curriculum by putting dances and dance sports as required course and elective courses both in major physical education and non-major programs. Develop teachers and students to be leaders. Provide dance clubs for students to operate dance activities in the university. Support fund, facility, and equipment. Organize cooperative network among schools, universities, and community. Support schools in teaching and organizing competitions dances and dance sports competitions on campus, an inter-university game open competition to the public.

WHOQOL-BREF in Measuring Quality of Life Among Sickle Cell Disease Patients with Leg Ulcers.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) presents complex clinical manifestations influenced by genetic, social, environmental, and healthcare access factors as well as socioeconomic status. In this context, sickle cell leg ulcers (SLUs) are a debilitating complication of SCD. We aimed to describe sociodemographic data and evaluate the quality of life (QoL) of SCD patients with and without SLUs. We conducted a cross-sectional study including 13 SCD patients with SLUs and 42 without LUs. Clinical data were obtained by reviewing the medical records, and QoL was assessed with the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Our cohort of patients had a mean age of 34.9 years, with 52.8% male, 52.8% identifying as black, and 41.7% identifying as brown. Most had low income, incomplete education, and high unemployment rates. The social habits and relationships of SCD patients showed varying levels of friendship and family closeness, and the majority of SLU+ patients did not practice sports. We failed to find statistical differences in the WHOQOL-BREF domains between SLU+ and SLU- patients. However, higher income and employment status were associated with improved WHOQOL-BREF domain scores in SCD patients, while vaso-occlusive episodes and female gender were linked to lower scores. Our data reinforce the sociodemographic characteristics of SCD. The physical domain was associated with income, occupation, and vaso-occlusion. The psychological domain was associated with income and occupation. The social relationship domain was associated with occupation and female gender. The environmental domain was associated with vaso-occlusion. The WHOQOL-BREF is a reliable tool to measure QoL in SCD.

Is it possible to talk about violence climate in grassroots sport? A study on the psychosocial adaptations of young athletes.

There is a need for greater scientific attention to research on violence (e.g., insults, intimidation, beatings) in contexts where such behaviors are prevalent. The agonizing win-lose vision that oftentimes is characteristic of sports competition is not understood in the same way in grassroots sports as in professional sports. Although increasingly frequent, the federative systems for young athletes replicate professional competitions, and the agonizing win-lose vision and psychosocial agents that characterize sports competitions do not impact grassroots sports in the same way as in professional sports. The present study aimed to establish a predictive model of the influence of exposure to violence in initiation sports on peer social relations under competitive situations in young athletes. Through a descriptive, non-randomized, and associative study, a sample of 503 young athletes (Mage = 14.76 1 ± 72 years; 54.80% girls) was recollected, belonging to different Spanish sports centres who completed instruments designed to identify their exposure to violence, prosocial and aggressive tendencies among peers, and competitiveness. The results show that increased exposure to violence in sports amplifies those effects that excessive motivation for success and external influences, increases the likelihood of aggressive behaviors in young athletes (mainly in boys), while the emergence of prosocial skills in both boys and girls reduces aggressiveness and exposure to violent behaviors. For this reason, to offer a more than relevant background in reducing the effects of excessive competitiveness in grassroots sport, scientific contributions on the protective efficacy of prosocial tendencies against the emergence of aggressive behavior. In addition, contemplating the sociological analysis of the proliferation of insults, harassment, and violent behavior (e.g., observed behaviors or victimization) experienced in sports at very early ages will allow, in a more applied vision, the convenience of designing more psycho-educational sport practice strategies (e.g., social skills integrated into sports action, fair play) both for young athletes and for those adults who accompany them (e.g., parents, coaches, managers). Addressing the effects of excessive competitiveness and violence in grassroots sports requires a comprehensive approach involving both sociological analysis and applied psycho-educational interventions.

Influence of Extra-Articular Augmentation on Clinical Outcomes and Survival in Patients Undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Pseudorandomized Study.

Background and Objectives: Up to 27% of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction cases result in a residual positive pivot shift sign, indicating anteroposterior and rotational instability. This instability can compromise returning to sports and increase the risk of further injuries. The biomechanical role of the anterolateral ligament (ALL) in controlling internal knee rotation is well known. However, there are no clinical trials comparing isolated ACL repairs to those combined with ALL reconstruction. Our objective is to compare the results of these techniques, with a primary focus on assessing knee stability and graft survival, to provide evidence for optimizing surgical approaches, particularly for athletes and physically active individuals. Materials and Methods: An observational study using paired score matching as a method of pseudo-randomization was conducted. Subjects were divided into an ACL group and an ACL+ALL group. Demographic and clinical variables were collected, as well as those related to complications and survival. Results: A total of 236 patients were included, which was reduced to 74 ACL and 37 ACL+ALL after pseudo-randomization, resulting in preoperatively comparable groups. During follow-up, differences in favor of ALL reinforcement were found on the pivot shift test (p = 0.007). No differences were found with regard to the Lachman test (p = 0.201), the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) knee score (p = 0.169), the IKDC subjective score (p = 0.095), intensity of pain (p = 0.928), or complications (p = 0.529). Nor were differences found in the limb symmetry index; the single hop test (p = 0.710); the triple hop test (p = 0.653); the crossover hop test (p = 0.682); the 6 meter timed hop test (p = 0.360); the normalized Y-balance test (YBT) (p = 0.459 anterior; p = 0.898 posterolateral; and p = 0.211 posteromedial directions); or the limb symmetry index of the composite YBT (p = 0.488). There were no differences either with respect to return to sports practice (p = 0.723) or survival (p = 0.798). Conclusions: Patients treated by means of the ACL+ALL technique obtained higher rotational stability, as measured by the pivot shift test, than those subjected to an isolated ACL repair. No differences were found with respect to Lachman test, complications, IKDC, pain, or survival.

Sports and Sustainable Development: A Systematic Review of Their Contribution to the SDGs and Public Health

This systematic review aims to explore the role of sports in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a special focus on SDG 3, which pertains to health and well-being. It seeks to analyze how sports can prevent non-communicable diseases, promote mental and physical health, and offer constructive alternatives for addiction prevention and treatment. A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA-NMA 2020 guidelines. The research question was formulated using the PICO framework. Databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct were searched using appropriate keywords and Boolean operators. Eligibility criteria were applied to select relevant studies, which were then assessed for quality using CASPe and GRADE systems. The review identified that sports significantly contribute to the achievement of multiple SDGs, notably SDG 3, by enhancing physical and mental health, reducing non-communicable diseases, and promoting well-being. From the analysis of the reviewed articles, which include these aspects, it is concluded that sport significantly impacts sustainable development and can be a powerful tool to address public health and social problems. Sports also play a vital role in economic growth, social inclusion, and gender equality. However, challenges such as inequitable access to sports facilities, gender disparities, and environmental impacts of sports activities were highlighted. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the multifaceted impact of sports on sustainable development, emphasizing its potential to address health and social challenges. It offers evidence-based insights and practical recommendations for integrating sports into sustainable development strategies, highlighting the need for inclusive and environmentally responsible sports policies and practices.

Differences in Arrhythmia Detection Between Harvard Step Test and Maximal Exercise Testing in a Paediatric Sports Population.

Sport practice may elevate the risk of cardiovascular events, including sudden cardiac death, in athletes with undiagnosed heart conditions. In Italy, pre-participation screening includes a resting ECG and either the Harvard Step Test (HST) or maximal exercise testing (MET), but the relative efficacy of the latter two tests for detecting arrhythmias and heart conditions remains unclear. This study examined 511 paediatric athletes (8-18 years, 76.3% male) without known cardiovascular, renal, or endocrine diseases. All athletes underwent both HST and MET within 30 days. Absolute data and data relative to theoretical peak heart rates, arrhythmias (supraventricular and ventricular) and cardiovascular diagnoses were collected. HST resulted in a lower peak heart rate than MET (181.1 ± 9.8 vs. 187.5 ± 8.1 bpm, p < 0.001), but led to the detection of more supraventricular (18.6% vs. 13.1%, p < 0.001) and ventricular (30.5% vs. 22.7%, p < 0.001) arrhythmias, clustering during recovery (p = 0.014). This pattern was significant in males but not females. Among athletes diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases (22.3%), HST identified more ventricular arrhythmias (26.3% vs. 18.4%, p = 0.05), recovery-phase arrhythmias (20.2% vs. 14.0%, p = 0.035), and polymorphic arrhythmias (6.1% vs. 1.8%, p = 0.025). HST detects arrhythmias more effectively than MET in young male athletes, especially during recovery. More ventricular arrhythmias were highlighted even in athletes with cardiovascular conditions.

Interpersonal Perfectionism and Perceived Control's Influence on the Continuity of Sports Practice in Adolescents.

Based on the theory of planned behavior, the objective was to test a theoretical model that explains the intention to continue practicing sports among adolescents currently involved in sports practice in Mexicali based on factors that generate perceived social pressure to be perfect (perceived descriptive norm) and that lead to internal factors of perceived control (perceived competence, general self-concept, and enjoyment). A battery of questionnaires that measured the study variables was applied to 195 adolescent athletes of both sexes. The causal model with observed variables rejected part of the hypothesis since the athletes' perception that their parents impose high performance expectations on them and that they criticize them when these expectations are not achieved was not associated with the athletes' perceived competence. Meanwhile, perceived coach pressure was positively associated with perceived competence, suggesting that it may be adaptive. This also suggests that perceived competence favors the intention to continue practicing sports both directly and indirectly through self-concept and enjoyment. In conclusion, boys involved in sports will have the intention to continue practicing if they perceive that their closest social references demand that they be perfect in the sport and when they perceive themselves to be able to do it effectively. Meanwhile, girls will have the intention to continue in sports practice if, in addition, they have a better general self-concept and enjoy the activity. Therefore, an important task for coaches, in order to encourage the continuation of sport in adolescents, is to promote the perception of qualities, skills and abilities toward sport.

Interest in Sports and Sports Betting

There has been a worldwide growth in sports betting activity, in part due to the widespread use of the Internet. The objective of this research is to make a joint analysis of the probabilities of offline and online sports gambling participation, focusing on their association with sport-related variables. To this aim, we estimate a bivariate probit model of online and offline sports betting using the 2022 Spanish Survey of Sporting Habits, a cross-sectional database representative of the Spanish population (sample size: 10,267 observations). In general, interest in sports and sports practice are correlated with sports betting. Moreover, people who play sports and, in particular, those who play football, have a higher probability of betting offline. In the case of online betting, all sport-related variables are statistically significant but sports participation. Another noteworthy result is the positive correlation in the random terms of the probabilities of offline and online sports betting.

EFFECTIVENESS OF WHOLE BODY VIBRATION ON QUADRICEPS STRENGTH AND VERTICAL JUMP IN HEALTHY ATHLETES: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction: whole body vibration (WBV) is currently a training method increasingly used as an adjunct in sports to improve strength performance in various sports. Being a muscle training widely used for demanding sports practices of athletes who are physically well prepared for better performances. In addition, the literature shows that physical training with aerobic and resistance exercises promotes an improvement in the regenerative capacity of the athlete. However, the literature does not present systematic review studies on the effect of WBV on muscle strength in athletes. Objective: This review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of WBV on muscle strength and vertical jump in healthy athletes. Method: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials which had used WBV compared to usual exercises in athletes of different modalities and having the assessment of muscle strength and vertical jump as outcomes. This study was conducted using PubMed/Medline, SciELO, LILACS, CINAHL and PEDro databases, without language or year restrictions. The search terms used were: ‘athletes’, ‘muscle strength’, ‘resistance training’, ‘muscle contraction’, ‘strength’, ‘clinical trial’ and ‘whole body vibration’. Risk of bias (RoB 2.0) and evidence quality (GRADE) were evaluated. Results: Three clinical trials participated in the review, which presented a varied risk of bias and low quality of evidence. The WBV program for athletes increased muscle strength; however, no effects were verified for the vertical jump height. Conclusion: The studies evaluated in this review show that training with WBV was effective in increasing muscle strength in athletes, especially when associated with other conventional training; however, no changes were observed for the vertical jump height. The studies showed a variable risk of bias and low evidence quality.

Analysis of lipid profile before and after a simulated Brazilian jiu-jitsu para-sport fight: Multiple case analysis.

Analysis of energy pathways is useful in helping to understand adaptations to specific sports practices, which vary according to the type of effort and individual characteristics of the athletes. In this sense, this study aimed to describe the physiological changes related to lipid markers in amputee athletes who practice para-sport jiu-jitsu. This is an observational study, which included three male amputee athletes, aged between 41 and 46 years old and with more than 24 months of experience at a professional level. The collection procedures included the verification of anthropometric measurements (body mass and height), handgrip strength, body fat and lipid profile, before and after a simulated para-sport jiu-jitsu fight. The main results of the study refer to elevations in the values of total lipids (13.2%); total cholesterol (11.8%); and phospholipids (7.7%) in the three participants. The findings of other indices had more discrepant results, ranging from 14% (very low density lipoprotein and triacylglycerol) to 65% (high density lipoprotein). In addition, a high percentage of body fat was observed among the participants. The data presented require attention, since understanding metabolic demands is crucial to provide favorable conditions for sports practice at safe levels and expected sports performance.

Guardians of the Game: UV-Specific Skin Cancer Prevention by Coaches in Outdoor Sports.

Due to the global rise in UV radiation, the prevalence of skin cancer is increasing significantly, with outdoor athletes being identified as a particularly vulnerable population group. This nationwide, cross-sectional study was conducted among adult coaches from the 10 largest outdoor sports associations in Germany. Their applied prevention measures and the potential for further improvement in prevention were evaluated by guideline based scores (range [0-100]). Additionally, sport-, coach-, and club-specific variables were analysed and barriers that prevent comprehensive UV prevention were identified. The UV prevention practice of the 1200 participating coaches averaged 53.43 ± 16.37 [0.00-95.31], while the potential UV prevention options were assessed at a comparatively higher value of 58.82 ± 17.53 [0-100]. Notably, the proper use of sunscreen emerged as the most neglected preventive measure. Coaches identified the greatest potential for improvement in sunscreen renewal, water-resistant sun protection products and sunglasses. The study also revealed significant differences in UV protection practices between different sports, with soccer, tennis, and swimming exhibiting the most pronounced deficits. Factors such as coach qualification and experience, as well as club size and the size of training groups influenced the level of UV protection implemented. Many coaches cited various implementation obstacles such as fixed training times and resource constraints. The study highlights specific areas for improvement in UV protection practices in outdoor sports, considering differences on sport, coach, and club levels. The significant number of active athletes in these sports underscores the public health importance of addressing UV protection in this field.

Self-Regulated Learning Assessment in Young Soccer Players: Beyond Competitive Levels.

Trecroci, A, Cavaggioni, L, Rossi, A, Bongiovanni, T, Invernizzi, PL, Formenti, D, and Longo, S. Self-regulated learning assessment in young soccer players: beyond competitive levels. J Strength Cond Res 39(1): e56-e61, 2025-This study explores self-regulated learning (SRL) among young soccer players, transcending the traditional focus on competitive levels. One hundred twenty-four soccer players of regional and provincial levels from under 14 to under 17 age groups voluntarily participated in the study and were combined into a single group. A median-split method based on total time performance was used to separate players into low performers (LPs) and high performers (HPs) from a 90° change of direction dribbling test. The self-regulation of learning-self-report scale for sport practice (SRL-SRS-SP) with a 5-factor solution (planning, reflection, effort, self-efficacy, and self-supervision) and 31 items was used. The score was based on a 1-5 Likert scale. The level of significance was set at p -value < 0.05. The SRL-SRS-SP total score by HP players differed significantly from that of LP players ( p = 0.015). Regarding each subscale, HP players showed significantly higher scores than LP players ( p = 0.011) for planning, whereas no differences were observed for the remaining factors ( p ≥ 0.05). The main observation of this study revealed that HP soccer players had a greater level of engagement in the learning process with a remarkable ability to plan for specific improvement than LP peers. This suggests that the competitive level might not be the sole determinant of differences in SRL. Therefore, strength and conditioning coaches should emphasize metacognitive and motivational components because of their crucial role in enhancing technical and physical performance.

Influence of Sleep Quality and Duration on the Intensity and Duration of Physical Activity: A Study Among Moroccan High School Students

This research aims to explore the relationships between sleep quality and duration and their influence on the intensity and duration of physical activity among Moroccan high school students.A sample of 400 students (both boys and girls) enrolled in secondary schools during the 2023-2024 academic year in the Fès-Meknès region was randomly recruited. A validated self-administered questionnaire was used to assess levels of sports practice and sedentary behaviors among participants.This study showed a positive correlation between levels of sports practice and sleep duration. Participants with higher levels of sports practice demonstrated a significant positive association with both sleep duration and quality.The results suggest that an increase in sports practice may improve sleep quality. However, it is important to consider other factors to enhance overall sleep quality.

The financing of sports in some European Union countries

In Romania, the financing of sports, particularly sports clubs, is predominantly sourced from public funds (whether from the state, county, or local budgets), depending on the regulations in force. This research focuses on the study of European and national sports policies and the various forms of financing for sports clubs. Sport is a fundamental human right, recognized by major international organizations and addressed by European sports policy, which has been gradually implemented over decades. Every society needs to prepare to acknowledge sport as a right for every individual. Generally, in most European countries, societal preparation for sports practice is more intensive and varied compared to Romania. In Romania, reforms in the sports sector lag significantly behind those in other countries and fall short of Romanian expectations regarding sports. Additionally, financial resources are often insufficient. The legislation needs to be revised, addressing both the methods of financing and the sources of these funds. Increased involvement from both the private sector and the government is necessary; otherwise, the quality of sports will deteriorate, and those excelling in sports may choose to compete in other countries or clubs where conditions and financial support are more favorable. Compared to the situation in Romania, the synthesis of sports club financing across different European countries reveals a significant disparity. Most European countries have recognized that sport is a key driver of economic development and have longestablished programs to support and develop community sports initiatives.

Высокая тактильная чувствительность подошвы у спортсменов способствует повышению устойчивости вертикальной позы в сложных сенсорных условиях

The aim of the work is to investigate the relationship between the postural stability and the threshold of tactile sensitivity (TTS) of the sole of the feet in athletes of different specializations. The study involved athletes of different types (n=33) and non-training students (n=19). Material and methods. The stability of the vertical pose was determined in standing on a stabiloplatform with open (EO) and closed (EC) eyes, as well as in a stance on a movable see-saw using stabilometry. The threshold of tactile sensitivity were determined using a set of Semmes-Weinstein nylon monofilaments (Fabrication Enterprises. USA) in a relaxed lying position. Results. The average TTS of the right and left feet in athletes was lower (≈ -33.2%, p &lt; 0.01) than in non-athletes. The area of oscillation (ELS) of the center of pressure of the feet in a conventional stance with EO and EC, as well as on a see-saw with EC movable in the sagittal plane, did not differ between groups. However, the TTS of the right foot was positively correlated in the general group with the ELS in standing on the see-saw with EC. Conclusions. High tactile sensitivity does not have a positive effect on the regulation of posture in normal standing conditions, but it helps to increase postural stability in more difficult sensory conditions. In the practice of sports with high requirements for maintaining postural balance, it is necessary to pay attention to the condition of the skin of the foot, as an important sensory zone that ensures the regulation of balance.

Patient-Reported Outcomes in Children Undergoing the Modified Green Procedure for Treating Sprengel's Deformity: Results from a Multicentric Study.

Sprengel's Deformity (SD) is a rare condition of the shoulder girdle, appearing as the principal congenital anomaly of the shoulder in paediatric patients. The aim of this study is to document the combined experience of two paediatric orthopaedic departments in managing SD using the modified Green Procedure, with a specific emphasis on the clinical and functional outcomes reported by patients; Methods: from June 2010 to February 2023, 42 shoulders in 40 paediatric patients were surgically treated for SD at two paediatric orthopaedic departments. All patients were treated using the modified Green Procedure with or without clavicle osteotomy. To better evaluate the deformity, the Cavendish's classification for aesthetic appearance and the Rigault's classification for radiological aspect were used, while movements of abduction and flexion were quantified to assess shoulder mobility. Several dedicated questionnaires such as QuickDASH, the Shoulder Pain Index and the Shoulder Disability Index (SPADI) and finally the UCLA Shoulder Scale were submitted to assess the quality of life of the subjects and the ability to practice certain activities, including work and sports. Complications were evaluated according to the modified Clavien-Dindo-Sink classification; Results: The mean follow-up was 5 years (range, 1.0-13.6). Clavicular osteotomy, performed in 15 patients, improved post-operative abduction by a mean of 25° (95% CI: 11-39°; p = 0.001). Three patients had complications (7.1%), with two requiring re-operation. At follow-up, 67.5% of patients had a qDASH score < 7, highlighting excellent functional outcomes. Shoulder function showed moderate correlation with pre- and post-operative flexion. The SPADI and UCLASS scores indicated significant improvement, with 70.0% reporting high satisfaction. Factors like sex, associated anomalies, and surgical technique did not impact patient-reported outcomes or satisfaction; Conclusions: The modified Green's technique has proven to be a safe procedure with a low rate of complications and satisfactory clinical and functional patient-reported outcomes.