Structured Training Program Research Articles

Limiting Access to Resistance Training Equipment During the Off-Season: The Impact on Collegiate Pitching Metrics.

Gdovin, JR, Hogan, B, and Williams, CC. Limiting access to resistance training equipment during the off-season: the impact on collegiate pitching metrics. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2024-Resistance training has been shown to improve overhead throwing velocity, but it is unknown as to how limiting access to a strength and conditioning facility affects a baseball pitcher's readiness for the spring season. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the influence of an individualized pitching program on pitching metrics during an 8-week fall season in collegiate baseball pitchers without a simultaneous structured strength training program. Twelve National Collegiate Athletic Association Division-I baseball pitchers completed the study and wore a PULSE Throw Workload Monitor to track peak arm slot angle, peak arm velocity, and peak elbow varus torque, while a radar gun measured ball velocity. An 8-week pitching program had subjects throw 30 and 50 maximum effort pitches in the first and eighth week, respectively, while workload increased by 5 maximum effort pitches every 2 weeks. Paired samples t-tests were conducted to compare variables of interest before and after an 8-week fall season with an alpha level set at 0.05. There was no significant difference in peak arm slot angle, peak arm velocity, and peak elbow varus torque (p > 0.05); however, there was a significant decrease in ball velocity (p < 0.001). These data indicate that 8-week pitching programs, not coupled with a resistance training regimen, negatively affect a pitcher's ball velocity. Sport coaches and practitioners should thus make accommodations to access the necessary equipment for a pitching and strength training program to be implemented simultaneously to ensure that pitchers are prepared to perform at an optimal level during the spring season.

Dynamic Capabilities and Competitive Advantage among Listed Commercial Banks in Kenya

Purpose: This study sought to evaluate how dynamic capabilities affect competitive advantage among listed commercial banks, in Kenya. Specifically, the study sought to ascertain how Sensing capability, learning capability, reconfiguration capability and integration capability affects competitive advantage among listed commercial banks, in Kenya. Methodology: This study used Cross-Sectional Research Design since the study focused on quantitative data. The study was carried out in Kenya, covering all the 39 solvent commercial banks in Kenya (Source, CBK 2020),(as of 31st March 2024.The respondents were 1404 functional managers which comprise of five (5) from Human Resource ,five (5) from information Technology ,Ten (10) from Sales and marketing ,five (5) from procurement, and five(5) from risk and compliance. The study used 10% of the target population as the study sample size hence the sample size was 140 respondents comprising of management employees. Data was collected using a self-administered structured questionnaire. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 software was used to analyze the data. Findings: The study concludes that sensing capability has a significant effect on competitive advantage among listed commercial banks, in Kenya. In addition, the study concludes that learning capability has a significant effect on competitive advantage among listed commercial banks, in Kenya. Further, the study concludes that reconfiguration capability has a significant effect on competitive advantage among listed commercial banks, in Kenya. The study also concludes that integration capability has a significant effect on competitive advantage among listed commercial banks, in Kenya. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: Based on the findings, the study recommends that the management of commercial banks in Kenya should implement a comprehensive knowledge management system that encourages continuous professional development and collaboration among employees. By establishing structured training programs, mentorship initiatives, and cross-departmental knowledge sharing, banks can foster a culture of innovation and adaptability.

Physiological adaptations in small-side games combined with speed-endurance training: analyzing heart rate and rate of perceived exertion

Background and Study Aim. Monitoring physiological responses during training is crucial for understanding how athletes adapt to various exercise intensities. However, the specific effects of combining Small-Sided Game (SSG) and Speed-Endurance Training (SET) on these parameters require the search for more effective solutions. This study aims to determine the effect of combined SSG and SET on heart rate (HR) and rate of perceived exertion (RPE). Material and Methods. This quantitative research employed an experimental method with a weekly pretest-posttest design. The study population consisted of eighty-two members of the Unesa Soccer Student Activity Unit. A sample of eighteen individuals was selected through simple random sampling. The sample had the following characteristics: age 20±0.69 years, weight 65±9.54 kg, height 165.22±4.31 cm, and BMI 22.82±1.92. Data were collected using the Polar H-10 device, and RPE interviews were conducted ten minutes after each training session. Data analysis was performed using paired sample t-tests and Wilcoxon tests. Results. The results showed a significant difference in HR for pair 1 (p = 0.037), but no significant differences for pair 2 (p = 0.058) or pair 3 (p = 0.076). However, the results for RPE indicated significant differences in pair 1 (p = 0.001), pair 2 (p = 0.004), and pair 3 (p = 0.002). The combination of SSG and SET led to an increase in HR during the first and second weeks. In the third week, HR decreased. RPE increased from the first to the second week. It then stabilized in the third and fourth weeks, indicating a consistent level of effort. The decrease in HR during the third week, despite the same effort level, suggests that the athletes successfully adapted to the training program. Conclusions. The combination of SSG and SET demonstrates potential as an effective training method for improving both physiological performance and adaptation in athletes. These findings offer valuable insights into how athletes respond to structured training programs, providing a foundation for future research and practical applications in sports training. The results contribute to a deeper understanding of the role that specific training combinations play in athlete development and recovery.

Robotic colorectal surgery in Latin America: a systematic review on surgical outcomes.

Robotic approach in colorectal surgery is rapidly gaining interest, particularly in the context of rectal cancer resection. Despite economic barriers, substantial proliferation of robotic colorectal procedures has been observed throughout Latin America. However, there is a lack of data regarding intraoperative and early postoperative outcomes, as well as oncological and long-term results. This systematic review aims to provide an overview of the surgical outcomes of robotic-assisted colorectal approaches across Latin America. A systematic literature search of electronic databases, including PubMed, LILACS, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Scielo, was performed and reported in line with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The main target of the literature search was studies that reported outcomes of colorectal robotic surgery in Latin America. A total of 9,694 published articles were identified from the initial search. Nine thousand six hundred thirty-six publications were excluded after title and abstract review and removal of duplicates. Fifty-eight articles were thoroughly reviewed, and 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. The critical appraisal of study quality (biases risk assessment) was performed according to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Manual for Evidence Synthesis. In general, the overall study quality was poor. Of the 11 studies included in the analysis, ten addressed intraoperative and early postoperative outcomes, seven addressed oncological/pathological outcomes, and just one addressed long-term outcomes. Ten studies evaluated intraoperative and early postoperative outcomes, encompassing a total of 425 patients, the majority of whom were diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Morbidity rates exhibited a range between 0% and 45.9%, while mortality ranged from 0% to 2.5%. Few studies have been published addressing intraoperative, postoperative, pathological, and oncological outcomes of robotic colorectal surgery in this region. Undoubtedly, there are unique challenges not encountered by developed countries, including economic obstacles in establishing structured training programmes and high-quality centres for the development of robotic surgery. Further studies are needed to assess the real extent of robotic surgery in the region and its results. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/, PROSPERO (CRD42023494112).

Knowledge management and knowledge sharing in maintenance department of high-tech industries

PurposeThe competition and competitive advantage among firms in various industries have shifted toward a knowledge-based economy. This is particularly evident in knowledge-intensive industries where a company’s competitive edge relies heavily on its ability to generate and utilize new knowledge solutions. Knowledge management (KM) is essential for all organizations, but it holds greater significance in specific functional units, such as maintenance. Industrial maintenance is a knowledge-intensive field and knowledge sharing (KS) motivation is low due to the tacit and intricate nature of knowledge. Despite these challenges, sharing knowledge between experienced and novice employees is fundamental to industrial maintenance, and much remains to be examined in this area. This study explores how novices' knowledge and KS with other workers can be improved via “Training by Novices” program in industrial maintenance.Design/methodology/approachThis study adopted an action-research approach within a high-tech company’s maintenance department, involving 103 maintenance employees. The research unfolded in three pivotal phases: first, an initial evaluation of KM and KS was carried out; second, training programs by novices aimed at strengthening KS between novices and department members were implemented and third, data were collected to assess changes and facilitate improvement in knowledge exchange and collaboration within the department.FindingsThe study demonstrates that involving novices in training programs as trainers within high-tech industries' maintenance departments enhances KM and KS among all employees. The training programs led to substantial increases in knowledge for novices and experienced workers and fostered a culture of continuous learning. Despite the short training duration, participants' overall knowledge increased, and they found the program effective and expressed willingness to continue, indicating potential for long-term improvements in KS practices.Research limitations/implicationsThis research challenges conventional wisdom regarding KS among novices in industrial maintenance. Showcasing the effectiveness of novices as trainers offers a fresh perspective on enhancing KS practices within knowledge-intensive industries.Practical implicationsThis study provides actionable insights for maintenance managers grappling with KS challenges. Organizations can boost employees' knowledge and KS practices by advocating for structured training programs led by novices, fostering a more collaborative workplace culture.Originality/valueThis study introduces a novel approach by empowering novices to engage actively in KS within industrial maintenance settings. By utilizing novices as trainers, the research demonstrates a practical means of enhancing both their own knowledge and that of their peers. This innovative strategy not only addresses common challenges in KM within maintenance units but also promotes a culture of continuous learning and development. This research offers valuable insights into improving KS practices and fostering a more collaborative organizational culture.

KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF NURSES REGARDING TRACHEOSTOMY CARE

Tracheostomy is a common procedure in critical care settings for patients requiring prolonged ventilation or airway management. Nurses play a crucial role in tracheostomy care, which demands comprehensive knowledge and adherence to evidence-based practices to prevent complications. Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practices of nurses regarding tracheostomy care at Jinnah Hospital Lahore. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2024 to July 2024 at Jinnah Hospital Lahore. A total of [specify sample size, e.g., 150] registered nurses working in different wards and intensive care units (ICUs) were selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, which included sections on demographic information, knowledge, and practices. Knowledge and practice scores were categorized as good, moderate, or poor. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0, employing descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to identify associations between variables. Results: The study revealed that 60% of the nurses had moderate knowledge regarding tracheostomy care, while 25% demonstrated good knowledge, and 15% had poor knowledge. In terms of practice, 54.7% of nurses reported moderate adherence to tracheostomy care protocols, 30% had good practices, and 15.3% demonstrated poor practices. A significant association was found between formal training in tracheostomy care and higher knowledge and practice scores (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: The findings indicate that most nurses possess moderate knowledge and practices concerning tracheostomy care, with notable gaps in training and adherence to standardized protocols. The study highlights the need for structured training programs and continuous professional development to enhance nurses' competency in tracheostomy care and improve patient outcomes.

Does the experience of the endoscopic vein harvester matter to the quality of the vein conduit: A critical thematic literature review.

Coronary artery bypass graft surgery remains the golden standard surgical option for multiple vessel disease. Harvesting the long saphenous vein using endoscopic vein harvesting requires advanced surgical skills dexterity, but the lack of a national standardised training programme allows for variance in the learning curve and the quality of the vein during the learning cycle is unknown. A search of bibliographic databases: CINHAL Plus, Embase, Pubmed and the Cochrane register for randomised controlled trials identified 11 articles eligible for review. The themes emerging were learning curve-associated injuries to the long saphenous vein, intimal wall remodelling of the long saphenous vein and incidence of graft patency rates. Harvesting practitioners with less than 100 cases of experience inflict more conduit injuries leading to endothelial remodelling and narrowed vein grafts at the six-month point resulting in lumen loss. Practitioners with more than 100 cases demonstrated reduced learning curve-related injuries on the conduit. Adopting a formalised structured training programme such as the Manchester Endoscopic Learning Tool has shown to reduce endothelial injury to the long saphenous vein minimising early vein graft failure during the learning cycle.

Learning Curve for Robotic Colorectal Surgery.

With the increasing adoption of robotic surgery in clinical practice, institutions intending to adopt this technology should understand the learning curve in order to develop strategies to help its surgeons and operating theater teams overcome it in a safe manner without compromising on patient care. Various statistical methods exist for the analysis of learning curves, of which a cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis is more commonly described in the literature. Variables used for analysis can be classified into measures of the surgical process (e.g., operative time and pathological quality) and measures of patient outcome (e.g., postoperative complications). Heterogeneity exists in how performance thresholds are defined during the interpretation of learning curves. Factors that influence the learning curve include prior surgical experience in colorectal surgery, being in a mature robotic surgical unit, case mix and case complexity, robotic surgical simulation, spending time as a bedside first assistant, and being in a structured training program with proctorship.

Plant Chromosome and Karyotype Analysis Training for High School/MA/Equivalent Teachers in Samarinda and its Surrounding Areas

Increasing biology teachers’ comprehension of the principles of geneticsis attainable through the implementation of specialized training sessions focused onchromosome and karyotype analysis. In this training, 21 high school biology teachersfrom Samarinda and Nears participated in a structured training program encompassingthree stages. In the initial phase, participants were provided with materials on thefundamental aspects of genetics. Subsequently, in the second phase, hands-ontraining was imparted, focusing on acquiring skills in plant chromosome preparationtechniques. Lastly, the third stage concentrated on refining skills to constructchromosome karyotyping. Completing all stages was required for participants,followed by submitting evaluation forms for assessment by the committee. Theevaluation outcomes revealed that 84.30% of participants regarded the presentationand assistance provided by principal lecturer and assistants as highly commendable.At the same time, the remaining respondents expressed satisfaction with the qualityand adequacy of the training. This comprehensive training effectively equippedparticipants with specialized chromosome and karyotype analysis skills, and theparticipants notably absorbed the training materials. The anticipated outcome ofenhanced teacher understanding, specifically in the knowledge of inheritance andchromosome biology, was to stimulate heightened levels of student engagement andlearning interest within the biology classroom.

Current status, challenges, and future directions of laparoscopic training in young surgeons: a nationwide survey in China

BackgroundWith the rapid advancement of technology, minimally invasive surgery, particularly laparoscopic surgery, has made significant progress in the field of surgery. Despite the advantages of laparoscopic surgery, a systematic training system for laparoscopic procedures is lacking in Chinese postgraduate medical education. Our study aims to explore the prevalence of laparoscopic training among resident and attending physicians in China and to assess the current state of training programs.MethodsA 10-item questionnaire was distributed to 1,750 resident and attending physicians specializing in surgery across China, with 1,324 valid responses (75.7% response rate). The survey focused on demographics, training curriculum content, and feedback on training effectiveness. Data analysis was conducted using Microsoft Excel and IBM SPSS.ResultsAmong the 1,324 respondents, 30.7% reported receiving laparoscopic training, primarily at the attending physician stage. Only 4% of resident physicians and 14% of attending physicians could independently perform complex laparoscopic surgeries. Most respondents (76.6%) could only assist in surgeries. The majority expressed a desire for more frequent and longer training sessions, with suture training being identified as the most beneficial.ConclusionsThis study underscores the critical need for comprehensive laparoscopic training in China. Early, frequent, and structured training programs are essential for developing proficient laparoscopic surgeons. Future initiatives should focus on expanding access to training at all levels of medical education, ensuring continuous skill development and improved surgical care quality.

Impact of Massage Gun on Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) in Soccer Players

This study aims to determine the effect of using massage gun media on RPE (Rated Perceived Exertion) in soccer players. The method used is an experimental approach with a one-group pretest-posttest model design. The research instrument used is RPE. The population of this study consisted of 30 athletes from Persib Bandung Academy who were around sixteen years old and attended intensive training four times a week. Using a purposive sampling approach, 18 athletes were selected as research subjects. To determine the RPE scale, subjects underwent high-intensity training using the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test. After the exercise, a 15-minute massage was performed using a massage gun, and then RPE was measured again. The results of data analysis showed that the massage method using a massage gun had a significant impact on reducing RPE, with a value of p=0.000. This indicates that the use of massage guns can significantly reduce the fatigue level of athletes after intensive training. In conclusion, a massage gun effectively reduces fatigue as measured by RPE. Nevertheless, improving the quality of research is still needed by increasing the number of participants and developing a more structured training program both in time and day.

Effects of different drop height training on lower limb explosive, anaerobic power, and change of direction performance in Chinese elite female wrestler

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to explore the effects of an 8-week drop jump (DJ) training program at varying heights on lower limb strength, anaerobic power, and change of direction (CoD) abilities in elite female Chinese wrestlers. MethodsThe drop jump (DJ) training program was conducted at varying heights of 20, 40, 60, and 80 cm. The study involved 40 elite female wrestlers who were divided into five groups respectively: Control, DJ20, DJ40, DJ60, and DJ80. Participants engaged in an 8-week structured training program that incorporated drop jumps at the assigned heights for each group. ResultsThe results demonstrated significant enhancements in explosive strength and anaerobic power, particularly with DJ40 to DJ60 (d = −2.48 to −5.54), and in CoD performance across all DJ groups (d = 1.07 to 5.25), showcasing a dose-response effect. ConclusionsOptimal training effects for lower limb strength and power were found at drop jump heights of 40–60 cm, while heights of 60–80 cm yielded the most significant improvements in CoD performance. This highlights the specificity of DJ training heights in enhancing athletic performance among elite female wrestlers.

Detailed analysis of learning phases and outcomes in robotic and endoscopic thyroidectomy

BackgroundThyroid surgery has undergone significant transformation with the introduction of minimally invasive techniques, particularly robotic and endoscopic thyroidectomy. These advancements offer improved precision and faster recovery but also present unique challenges. This study aims to compare the learning curves, operational efficiencies, and patient outcomes of robotic versus endoscopic thyroidectomy.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted, analyzing 258 robotic (da Vinci) and 214 endoscopic thyroidectomy cases. Key metrics such as operation duration, drainage volume, lymph node dissection outcomes, and hypoparathyroidism incidence were assessed to understand surgical learning curves and efficiency.ResultsRobotic thyroidectomy showed a longer learning curve with initially longer operation times and higher drainage volumes but superior lymph node dissection outcomes. Both techniques were safe, with no permanent hypoparathyroidism or recurrent laryngeal nerve damage reported. The study delineated four distinct stages in the robotic and endoscopic surgery learning curve, each marked by specific improvements in proficiency. Endoscopic thyroidectomy displayed a shorter learning curve, leading to quicker operational efficiency gains.ConclusionRobotic and endoscopic thyroidectomies are viable minimally invasive approaches, each with its learning curves and efficiency metrics. Despite initial challenges and a longer learning period for robotic surgery, its benefits in complex dissections may justify specialized training. Structured training programs tailored to each technique are crucial for improving outcomes and efficiency. Future research should focus on optimizing training protocols and increasing accessibility to these technologies, enhancing patient care in thyroid surgery.

The (im)possible mission of language teacher educators in Germany: Identity formation, development, and practice in institutionalised settings

AbstractResearch on language teacher identity and its development has shown that it can be crucial for teacher education to understand how identity development takes place. The few findings to date on language teacher educators and their identities show individual negotiation processes and antinomies, particularly due to transitions from teacher to teacher educator, the parallel roles of researcher and teacher educator, and so on. The project presented here examines the language teacher educator identities of 12 professionals within a highly structured training program in Germany through narrative inquiry as a means to allow for the reconstruction of biographies, identities, and practices. The narratives illustrate the normative settings of the structured system, such as set curricular guidelines, which can rarely be fulfilled by the teacher trainees, a lack of trust and professional relationship, or the struggle of the teacher educators between advisor on the one hand and evaluator on the other. The results provide implications and recommendations for other institutionalised settings in which language teacher educators work.

DEVELOPMENT OF THE ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CURRICULUM CONSIDERING ACADEMIC AND PRACTICAL BALANCE

This study investigates the development of the Islamic Religious Education (PAI) curriculum with a focus on achieving a balance between academic and practical components. The primary objective is to create a curriculum model that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, thereby fostering a comprehensive understanding and real-world skills among students. The research methodology includes qualitative analysis through interviews and observations, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the current PAI curriculum. Key findings suggest that an effective implementation of a balanced curriculum requires meticulous planning, continuous professional development for educators, sufficient resources, and ongoing evaluation. The proposed curriculum model encompasses essential elements such as detailed theoretical instruction, interactive practical activities, and regular assessments to ensure both relevance and efficacy. Furthermore, strategies for successful implementation are highlighted, including stakeholder involvement, structured training programs, and systematic resource allocation. The study's contribution lies in its practical recommendations for educators and policymakers, aimed at enhancing the quality of Islamic Religious Education. By addressing the identified challenges and providing actionable strategies, this research supports the development of a more balanced and effective PAI curriculum, ultimately benefiting the holistic development of students and the educational system as a whole.

O28 EVALUATE THE IMPACT OF STRUCTURED TRAINING COURSE ON HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS OF LIFESTYLE MODIFICATIONS FOR HYPERTENSION MANAGEMENT

Background: This study explores how structured training program enhances healthcare professionals’ awareness of lifestyle modifications for hypertension. Assessing its impact on both knowledge and patient guidance, with an aim to improve healthcare delivery by equipping professionals with informed strategies for lifestyle modification. Design and Methods: A quasi-experimental design was employed with sample size of 750 HCPs. The Hypertension Knowledge-Level Scale (HK-LS), a modified questionnaire based on guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), was utilized to assess participants’ understanding of hypertension, knowledge of lifestyle modification, and clinical practice. A 12-week online course comprising seven modules was delivered to the HCPs, followed by pre- and post-tests to measure changes in knowledge regarding lifestyle modifications. Results: The analysis revealed a substantial increase in HCPs knowledge levels post-intervention compared to pre-intervention regarding hypertension (t = 4.90, p = 0.001), lifestyle modification (t = 3.62, p = 0.001), and their proficiency in offering lifestyle advice to patients (t = 3.56, p = 0.001). In addition to these positive outcomes among HCPs, the intervention also highlighted significant gender disparities in attendance and outcomes among participants. Females exhibited a higher attendance rate of 75% compared to males, with consequent improvements in practice, while males showed a more substantial enhancement in knowledge levels post-intervention. These findings underscore the importance of addressing gender-specific barriers to improvement, such as socio-cultural factors for females and preconceived notions for males, to optimize the effectiveness of future interventions in promoting healthier behaviors and outcomes. Conclusions: Structured training programs are imperative for enhancing HCPs’ knowledge of lifestyle modification, particularly in the context of hypertension, as a crucial component of primary prevention strategies. This signifies the effectiveness of the structured training program in enhancing HCPs’ comprehension of hypertension management and their ability to guide patients toward adopting healthier lifestyles.

How to advance from minimally invasive coronary artery bypass grafting to totally endoscopic coronary bypass grafting: challenges in Europe versus United States of America.

Robotic coronary and intra-cardiac surgery has been available for more than 25 years. In this period, multiple studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of robotic surgery over conventional open surgery. Throughout the years, technical developments have enabled us to perform totally endoscopic coronary artery bypass (TECAB) grafting. But these techniques remained in the hands of a small group of pioneers because of a lack of structured training programs and the absence of long-term results at that time. Currently, a renewed interest and a wide dispersion of robotic platforms, thanks to use of robotics in other disciplines, has led to an exponential increase in robotic cardiac centers both in Europe and USA. Nonetheless, this increase was slowed down in Europe as a result of the uncertainty introduced by the implementation of a revised regulatory framework for medical devices [Regulation 2017/745, 'Medical Device Regulation' ('MDR')]. The MDR was introduced with the goal of increasing patient safety and supporting innovation. Implementing the MDR has proven to be exceptionally challenging and risks to the supply of essential devices have been identified. Changes to both regulatory and market dynamics led to a circumstance where the only available robotic platform for cardiac surgery decided to cease marketing of essential accessories for conducting surgery. This resulted in the disappearance of dedicated tools such as the Endowrist stabilizer, essential for TECAB, and the atrial retractor which is essential for intra-cardiac surgery. In the mean-time, further clinical evidence was published demonstrating the superiority of robotic cardiac surgery over other minimally invasive approaches. This has demonstrated the need to better define the clinical evidence requirements for regulatory purposes to ensure that dedicated tools for evidence-based interventions in robotic coronary surgery remain available such that TECAB can continue in Europe.

Impact of Team Sports Participation on Social Skills Development in Youth

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of team sports participation on social skills development in youth. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study indicated that engaging in team sports fosters various interpersonal skills such as communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution. These activities provide a structured environment where young individuals learn to work collaboratively towards common goals, enhancing their ability to function within a group. Team sports also offer opportunities for social interaction and bonding, which can improve self-esteem and the ability to form meaningful relationships. Additionally, the need to adhere to rules and respect teammates and opponents promotes discipline and ethical behavior. Overall, participation in team sports is associated with improved social competence, making it a valuable tool for social development in y Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social learning theory, social identity theory and constructivist learning theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the impact of team sports participation on social skills development in youth. Coaches and sports organizations should develop structured training programs that specifically include social skills training. Policymakers should support and fund community sports programs that emphasize team participation as a means to develop social skills.

Shifting the Paradigm in Workforce Diversity: Prioritizing an Inclusive Environment in Graduate Medical Education.

A diverse physician workforce is important to achieving the goal of health equity. Recruitment efforts are often the focus of graduate medical education (GME) workforce diversity efforts. However, to achieve the goal of workforce diversity, a foundation of inclusivity is essential to address the experiences of trainees whose race and ethnicity are underrepresented in medicine (UIM).Professional identity formation (PIF) describes the process through which trainees integrate their personal and professional identities as they learn to not only act but feel like they belong in their professional role. The concept of PIF provides a framework to consider how GME leaders can intentionally address inclusivity in training programs. The process of PIF is influenced by many factors including trainees' clinical and non-clinical experiences, their treatment by others, as well as the training program's structure, policy, and physical environment. The authors describe these factors influencing PIF, then through the lens of PIF, describe approaches that programs and institutions have taken to address inclusivity by investing in the workforce, disrupting the hidden curriculum, revisiting policies and procedures, and examining the physical environment.The authors encourage programs, institutions, and the greater GME community to leverage each learning environment's unique strengths and root out challenges to enhance inclusivity for UIM trainees.

"Effect of Progressive Structured Neuromuscular Training Program on Balance, Performance and Injury Risk Prediction in Amateur Futsal Team Players: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial"

"Neuromuscular training improves neuromuscular control and balance, consequently enhancing joint stability. This study aims to assess the impact of a structured neuromuscular training program on balance and performance among university amateur male futsal team players and to analyze biomechanical factors pertinent to injury risk assessments. Thirty athletes aged between 18 and 25, participating in the university male futsal team, will be enrolled in this study. At the outset, all athletes will undergo evaluation using the Korebalance® System, Countermovement Jump, Running-Based Anaerobic Sprint Test, Shot on Goal Test, Sit and Reach Test, Shuttle, Y Balance-Lower Quadrant, and The Tuck Jump test. Subsequently, they will maintain their regular training regimen of classical training twice a week for eight weeks and undergo reassessment using the same battery of tests after 8 weeks of period. Following this initial phase, the athletes will be randomly assigned to two groups: Control Group (n = 15) and Neuromuscular Training Group (n = 15). The Control Group (CG) will continue with their classical futsal training twice a week for eight weeks, while the Neuromuscular Training Group (NMEG) will engage in progressive structured neuromuscular training in addition to their regular futsal training, also twice a week for eight weeks. At the conclusion of the eight-week intervention period, both groups will undergo reevaluation using the same assessment methods. The study commenced in October 2023 and is anticipated to conclude by August 2024. It is anticipated that the integration of progressive structured neuromuscular training into futsal team training programs will yield positive outcomes."