Caffeine does not influence persistent inward current contribution to motoneuron firing
- Mackay, Karen, Orssatto, Lucas, Polman, Remco, Van der Pols, Jolieke, Trajano, Gabriel
- Authors: Mackay, Karen , Orssatto, Lucas , Polman, Remco , Van der Pols, Jolieke , Trajano, Gabriel
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Neurophysiology Vol. 130, no. 6 (2023), p. 1529-1540
- Full Text: false
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- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether caffeine consumption would change persistent inward current (PIC) contribution to motoneuron firing at increased contraction intensities and after repetitive sustained maximal contractions. Before and after the consumption of 6 mg·kg-1 of caffeine or placebo, 16 individuals performed isometric triangular-shaped ramp dorsiflexion contractions (to 20% and 40% of peak torque), followed by four maximal contractions sustained until torque production dropped to 60% of maximum, and consecutive 20% triangular-shaped contractions. Tibialis anterior motor unit firing frequencies were analyzed from high-density surface electromyograms. PIC contribution to motor unit firing was estimated by calculating the delta frequency (DF) using the paired motor unit technique. Motoneuron peak firing frequencies at 20% and 40% contractions and total torque-time integral during the repetitive sustained maximal contractions were also assessed. DF increased 0.69 peaks per second (pps) (95% CI ¼ -0.98, -0.405; d ¼ -0.87) from 20% to 40% contraction intensities and reduced 0.85 pps (95% CI ¼ 0.66, 1.05; d ¼ 0.99) after the repetitive sustained maximal contractions, regardless of caffeine consumption. Participants produced 337 Nm·s (95% CI ¼ 49.9, 624; d ¼ 0.63) more torque integral during the repetitive sustained maximal contractions after caffeine consumption. A strong repeated-measures correlation (r ¼ 0.61; 95% CI ¼ 0.49, 0.69) was observed between reductions of DF and peak firing frequencies after the repetitive sustained maximal contractions. PIC contribution to motoneuron firing increases from 20% to 40% contraction intensities, with no effect of caffeine (on rested tibialis anterior). Repetitive sustained maximal contractions reduced PIC contribution to motoneuron firing, regardless of caffeine or placebo consumption, evidencing that changes in intrinsic motoneuron properties contributed to performance loss. Caffeine-attenuated reduction of torque production capacity was unlikely mediated by PICs. © 2023 American Physiological Society. All rights reserved.
Coaches’ use of remote coaching : experiences from paralympic sport
- Taylor, Sarah, Renshaw, Ian, Pinder, Ross, Polman, Remco, Russell, Scott
- Authors: Taylor, Sarah , Renshaw, Ian , Pinder, Ross , Polman, Remco , Russell, Scott
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: International Sport Coaching Journal Vol. 10, no. 3 special issue (2023), p. 316-327
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- Description: Remote coaching via the use of digital technologies has been utilized within Paralympic Sports since 2015 to address challenges experienced by coaches. These technologies have connected coaches and athletes in real time, alleviating time and travel costs. However, very little is known about the experience of coaching in these environments. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the experiences of coaches’ use of remote coaching technologies. Seven coaches from five Paralympic Sports were recruited for this study and participated in semistructured interviews. Additionally, observations were conducted of remote coaching sessions that were part of their regular training schedules. Coaches’ insights highlight that remote technologies created opportunities to increase coach–athlete interactions and positively impact the development of interpersonal relationships. This allowed coaches to explore and exploit newly discovered information from within training environments to aid athletes in skill development. Additionally, remote coaching provided unexpected opportunities for coach development. However, coaches also reported new environmental and logistical challenges which disrupted their usual coaching approach. Overall, remote coaching technologies were perceived as being beneficial despite the challenges experienced. However, future research that looks to understand how to impact coach and athlete development through the online environment is encouraged. © 2023 Human Kinetics, Inc.
- Authors: Taylor, Sarah , Renshaw, Ian , Pinder, Ross , Polman, Remco , Russell, Scott
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: International Sport Coaching Journal Vol. 10, no. 3 special issue (2023), p. 316-327
- Full Text:
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- Description: Remote coaching via the use of digital technologies has been utilized within Paralympic Sports since 2015 to address challenges experienced by coaches. These technologies have connected coaches and athletes in real time, alleviating time and travel costs. However, very little is known about the experience of coaching in these environments. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the experiences of coaches’ use of remote coaching technologies. Seven coaches from five Paralympic Sports were recruited for this study and participated in semistructured interviews. Additionally, observations were conducted of remote coaching sessions that were part of their regular training schedules. Coaches’ insights highlight that remote technologies created opportunities to increase coach–athlete interactions and positively impact the development of interpersonal relationships. This allowed coaches to explore and exploit newly discovered information from within training environments to aid athletes in skill development. Additionally, remote coaching provided unexpected opportunities for coach development. However, coaches also reported new environmental and logistical challenges which disrupted their usual coaching approach. Overall, remote coaching technologies were perceived as being beneficial despite the challenges experienced. However, future research that looks to understand how to impact coach and athlete development through the online environment is encouraged. © 2023 Human Kinetics, Inc.
Coaching and talent development in esports : a theoretical framework and suggestions for future research
- Bubna, Kabir, Trotter, Michael, Watson, Matthew, Polman, Remco
- Authors: Bubna, Kabir , Trotter, Michael , Watson, Matthew , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Frontiers in Psychology Vol. 14, no. (2023), p.
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- Description: Esports is a growing phenomenon that is capturing the attention of individuals worldwide, and has grown to provide professional and lucrative careers for those who reach the upper echelons. One question that arises, is how esports athletes develop the necessary skills required to improve and compete. This perspective piece opens the door to skill acquisition within esports and how research through an ecological approach can benefit researchers and practitioners as they understand the various perception-action couplings and decision-making challenges faced by esports athletes. We will identify and discuss what constraints look like in esports, the role of affordances, and theorize the implementation of a constraints-led approach in contrasting esports genres. As esports is technology-heavy in nature and generally sedentary, the use of eye-tracking technology is argued to represent an effective method to better understand perceptual attunement between individuals and teams. Future research into skill acquisition in esports is needed to develop a clearer picture of what makes the greatest esports player so great, and how newer players can be developed effectively. Copyright © 2023 Bubna, Trotter, Watson and Polman.
- Authors: Bubna, Kabir , Trotter, Michael , Watson, Matthew , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Frontiers in Psychology Vol. 14, no. (2023), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Esports is a growing phenomenon that is capturing the attention of individuals worldwide, and has grown to provide professional and lucrative careers for those who reach the upper echelons. One question that arises, is how esports athletes develop the necessary skills required to improve and compete. This perspective piece opens the door to skill acquisition within esports and how research through an ecological approach can benefit researchers and practitioners as they understand the various perception-action couplings and decision-making challenges faced by esports athletes. We will identify and discuss what constraints look like in esports, the role of affordances, and theorize the implementation of a constraints-led approach in contrasting esports genres. As esports is technology-heavy in nature and generally sedentary, the use of eye-tracking technology is argued to represent an effective method to better understand perceptual attunement between individuals and teams. Future research into skill acquisition in esports is needed to develop a clearer picture of what makes the greatest esports player so great, and how newer players can be developed effectively. Copyright © 2023 Bubna, Trotter, Watson and Polman.
Effects of α-lactalbumin on strength, fatigue and psychological parameters: a randomised double-blind cross-over study
- Mackay-Phillips, Karen, Orssatto, Lucas, Polman, Remco, Van der Pols, Jolieke, Trajano, Gabriel
- Authors: Mackay-Phillips, Karen , Orssatto, Lucas , Polman, Remco , Van der Pols, Jolieke , Trajano, Gabriel
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: European Journal of Applied Physiology Vol. 123, no. 2 (2023), p. 381-393
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- Description: Purpose: The neurotransmitter serotonin has a strong effect on behaviour and motor control. Regarding motor control, serotonin contributes to the development of fatigue and is also involved in the ability of motor neurones to operate across a large range of forces (gain control). The consumption of tryptophan-rich supplements (such as
- Description: Purpose: The neurotransmitter serotonin has a strong effect on behaviour and motor control. Regarding motor control, serotonin contributes to the development of fatigue and is also involved in the ability of motor neurones to operate across a large range of forces (gain control). The consumption of tryptophan-rich supplements (such as α-lactalbumin) is of interest because this amino acid is the only precursor for brain serotonin synthesis. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effects of α-lactalbumin supplementation on neuromuscular performance. Methods: Using a randomised double-blind cross-over design, 16 healthy participants performed plantar flexor and handgrip maximal voluntary contractions, a 30-s submaximal handgrip contraction, and a plantar flexor fatigue protocol before and 90 min after consuming either 40 g of α-lactalbumin, an isonitrogenous beverage (Zein) or an isocaloric beverage (corn-starch). Sleepiness, mood, and cognition were assessed to evaluate any psychological effects. Results: α-Lactalbumin decreased force steadiness by 25% during the sustained submaximal handgrip contraction (p < 0.01) and induced greater fatigue (15% reduction in total torque–time integral, p = 0.01) during the fatigue protocol. These effects were not observed for the other control beverages. No effects were found for maximal or explosive strength, or psychological measurements. Conclusions: 40 g of α-lactalbumin increased handgrip force variability and reduced performance during fatiguing muscle contractions but did not influence brief maximal contractions or psychological parameters in healthy individuals. These findings support the hypothesis that the consumption of α-lactalbumin can increase motor neurone input–output gain and exacerbate central fatigue during sustained maximal exercise. © 2022, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.
- Authors: Mackay-Phillips, Karen , Orssatto, Lucas , Polman, Remco , Van der Pols, Jolieke , Trajano, Gabriel
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: European Journal of Applied Physiology Vol. 123, no. 2 (2023), p. 381-393
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Purpose: The neurotransmitter serotonin has a strong effect on behaviour and motor control. Regarding motor control, serotonin contributes to the development of fatigue and is also involved in the ability of motor neurones to operate across a large range of forces (gain control). The consumption of tryptophan-rich supplements (such as
- Description: Purpose: The neurotransmitter serotonin has a strong effect on behaviour and motor control. Regarding motor control, serotonin contributes to the development of fatigue and is also involved in the ability of motor neurones to operate across a large range of forces (gain control). The consumption of tryptophan-rich supplements (such as α-lactalbumin) is of interest because this amino acid is the only precursor for brain serotonin synthesis. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effects of α-lactalbumin supplementation on neuromuscular performance. Methods: Using a randomised double-blind cross-over design, 16 healthy participants performed plantar flexor and handgrip maximal voluntary contractions, a 30-s submaximal handgrip contraction, and a plantar flexor fatigue protocol before and 90 min after consuming either 40 g of α-lactalbumin, an isonitrogenous beverage (Zein) or an isocaloric beverage (corn-starch). Sleepiness, mood, and cognition were assessed to evaluate any psychological effects. Results: α-Lactalbumin decreased force steadiness by 25% during the sustained submaximal handgrip contraction (p < 0.01) and induced greater fatigue (15% reduction in total torque–time integral, p = 0.01) during the fatigue protocol. These effects were not observed for the other control beverages. No effects were found for maximal or explosive strength, or psychological measurements. Conclusions: 40 g of α-lactalbumin increased handgrip force variability and reduced performance during fatiguing muscle contractions but did not influence brief maximal contractions or psychological parameters in healthy individuals. These findings support the hypothesis that the consumption of α-lactalbumin can increase motor neurone input–output gain and exacerbate central fatigue during sustained maximal exercise. © 2022, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.
Teaching efficacy of undergraduate PE students what are the key predictors and what can PE educators learn from this?
- Magill, Ceriann, Cronin, Colum, Walsh, Barbara, Polman, Remco, Rudd, James
- Authors: Magill, Ceriann , Cronin, Colum , Walsh, Barbara , Polman, Remco , Rudd, James
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Frontiers in Education Vol. 8, no. (2023), p.
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- Description: IntroductionTeaching efficacy describes the belief in a teacher's ability to promote learning and this belief is an invaluable asset for all teachers. This study examined the contextual influences that predict the teaching efficacy of first-year undergraduate PE students wishing to enter teacher training programs.MethodUsing a mixed methods study design, 168 PE students completed an online questionnaire and 16 of these participants took part in semi-structured focus groups. The data collection procedures investigated students' perceptions of PE teaching efficacy and examined students' awareness of how their involvement in PE or sports influenced their decision to study PE.ResultsTeaching experiences and role model influences were the key predictors of students' perceived PE teaching efficacy.DiscussionsWe recommend that higher education PE programs should facilitate theoretically informed reflective learning opportunities to enable students to understand and make sense of the impact of these key predictors. These opportunities will enable students to understand their starting point in PE teaching efficacy and identify the requirements to develop it. The study extends the existing literature by identifying the key predictors of PE teaching efficacy derived from the acculturation experiences of undergraduate PE students.
- Authors: Magill, Ceriann , Cronin, Colum , Walsh, Barbara , Polman, Remco , Rudd, James
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Frontiers in Education Vol. 8, no. (2023), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: IntroductionTeaching efficacy describes the belief in a teacher's ability to promote learning and this belief is an invaluable asset for all teachers. This study examined the contextual influences that predict the teaching efficacy of first-year undergraduate PE students wishing to enter teacher training programs.MethodUsing a mixed methods study design, 168 PE students completed an online questionnaire and 16 of these participants took part in semi-structured focus groups. The data collection procedures investigated students' perceptions of PE teaching efficacy and examined students' awareness of how their involvement in PE or sports influenced their decision to study PE.ResultsTeaching experiences and role model influences were the key predictors of students' perceived PE teaching efficacy.DiscussionsWe recommend that higher education PE programs should facilitate theoretically informed reflective learning opportunities to enable students to understand and make sense of the impact of these key predictors. These opportunities will enable students to understand their starting point in PE teaching efficacy and identify the requirements to develop it. The study extends the existing literature by identifying the key predictors of PE teaching efficacy derived from the acculturation experiences of undergraduate PE students.
The effectiveness of online mental health first aid training in community rugby : a mixed-methods approach
- Russell, Suzanna, Kelly, Vincent, Polman, Remco, Warren-James, Matthew
- Authors: Russell, Suzanna , Kelly, Vincent , Polman, Remco , Warren-James, Matthew
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health Vol. 20, no. 7 (2023), p.
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- Description: Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training exists to improve supportive behaviours towards peers, increase mental health literacy, and reduce stigma. Community sport clubs have potential to successfully deliver mental health programs. This study investigated the effectiveness of online MHFA training undertaken by members of the rugby community and evaluated the feasibility and usefulness of the online delivery mode and users’ engagement with it. A mixed-methods approach was used to provide depth of understanding through qualitative analysis, combined with quantitative outcomes. Online surveys examining participants’ knowledge and perceptions were administered pre- and post-MHFA training. Significant improvements (p < 0.05) across all assessed domains were observed post- compared to pre-MHFA training. A large effect size was identified in relation to advice giving and sign and symptom identification. A moderate effect size pre- to post-improvement was identified for users’ perceptions of therapy’s effectiveness, the ability of people with severe mental health conditions to recover, and benefit of a healthcare professional. Participants endorsed the MHFA program to improve mental health literacy, advance non-technical skills, and improve confidence. MHFA training can increase the awareness and knowledge of mental health issues in key individuals in community sport clubs and enable them to aid people with mental health concerns. Online MHFA training is associated with improved mental health literacy and may be a suitable and economically sustainable model for community sport. © 2023 by the authors.
- Authors: Russell, Suzanna , Kelly, Vincent , Polman, Remco , Warren-James, Matthew
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health Vol. 20, no. 7 (2023), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training exists to improve supportive behaviours towards peers, increase mental health literacy, and reduce stigma. Community sport clubs have potential to successfully deliver mental health programs. This study investigated the effectiveness of online MHFA training undertaken by members of the rugby community and evaluated the feasibility and usefulness of the online delivery mode and users’ engagement with it. A mixed-methods approach was used to provide depth of understanding through qualitative analysis, combined with quantitative outcomes. Online surveys examining participants’ knowledge and perceptions were administered pre- and post-MHFA training. Significant improvements (p < 0.05) across all assessed domains were observed post- compared to pre-MHFA training. A large effect size was identified in relation to advice giving and sign and symptom identification. A moderate effect size pre- to post-improvement was identified for users’ perceptions of therapy’s effectiveness, the ability of people with severe mental health conditions to recover, and benefit of a healthcare professional. Participants endorsed the MHFA program to improve mental health literacy, advance non-technical skills, and improve confidence. MHFA training can increase the awareness and knowledge of mental health issues in key individuals in community sport clubs and enable them to aid people with mental health concerns. Online MHFA training is associated with improved mental health literacy and may be a suitable and economically sustainable model for community sport. © 2023 by the authors.
The effects of α-lactalbumin supplementation and handgrip contraction on soleus motoneuron excitability
- Mackay-Phillips, Karen, Orssatto, Lucas, Polman, Remco, Van der Pols, Jolieke, Trajano, Gabriel
- Authors: Mackay-Phillips, Karen , Orssatto, Lucas , Polman, Remco , Van der Pols, Jolieke , Trajano, Gabriel
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: European Journal of Applied Physiology Vol. 123, no. 2 (2023), p. 395-404
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Introduction: We tested two strategies that hypothetically increase serotonin availability (
- Description: Introduction: We tested two strategies that hypothetically increase serotonin availability (α-lactalbumin consumption and a remote submaximal handgrip contraction) on estimates of persistent inward currents (PICs) amplitude of soleus muscle in healthy participants. Methods: With a randomised, double-blind, and cross-over design, 13 healthy participants performed triangular-shaped ramp contractions with their plantar flexors (20% of maximal torque), followed by a 30-s handgrip sustained contraction (40% of maximal force) and consecutive repeated triangular-shaped contractions. This was performed before and after the consumption of either 40 g of α-lactalbumin, an isonitrogenous beverage (Zein) or an isocaloric beverage (Corn-starch). Soleus motor units discharge rates were analysed from high-density surface electromyography signals. PICs were estimated by calculating the delta frequency (ΔF) of motor unit train spikes using the paired motor unit technique. Results: ΔF (0.19 pps; p = 0.001; d = 0.30) and peak discharge rate (0.20 pps; p < 0.001; d = 0.37) increased after the handgrip contraction, irrespective of the consumed supplement. No effects of α-lactalbumin were observed. Conclusions: Our results indicate that 40 g of α-lactalbumin was unable to modify intrinsic motoneuron excitability. However, performing a submaximal handgrip contraction before the plantar flexion triangular contraction was capable of increasing ΔF and discharge rates on soleus motor units. These findings highlight the diffused effects of serotonergic input, its effects on motoneuron discharge behaviour, and suggest a cross-effector effect within human motoneurons. © 2022, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature. Erratum: Correction to: The effects of α‑lactalbumin supplementation and handgrip contraction on soleus motoneuron excitability - The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake. The corrected details are given below for your reading. The author’s name Karen Mackay-Phillips was incorrectly written as Karen Mackay Phillips. In section “Overview”, first sentence should read as “The current study was part of an experiment that has been divided in two parts, where some variables are presented in a companion paper (https:// doi. org/ 10. 1007/ s00421- 022- 05103-1).”. © 2022 Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.
- Authors: Mackay-Phillips, Karen , Orssatto, Lucas , Polman, Remco , Van der Pols, Jolieke , Trajano, Gabriel
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: European Journal of Applied Physiology Vol. 123, no. 2 (2023), p. 395-404
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Introduction: We tested two strategies that hypothetically increase serotonin availability (
- Description: Introduction: We tested two strategies that hypothetically increase serotonin availability (α-lactalbumin consumption and a remote submaximal handgrip contraction) on estimates of persistent inward currents (PICs) amplitude of soleus muscle in healthy participants. Methods: With a randomised, double-blind, and cross-over design, 13 healthy participants performed triangular-shaped ramp contractions with their plantar flexors (20% of maximal torque), followed by a 30-s handgrip sustained contraction (40% of maximal force) and consecutive repeated triangular-shaped contractions. This was performed before and after the consumption of either 40 g of α-lactalbumin, an isonitrogenous beverage (Zein) or an isocaloric beverage (Corn-starch). Soleus motor units discharge rates were analysed from high-density surface electromyography signals. PICs were estimated by calculating the delta frequency (ΔF) of motor unit train spikes using the paired motor unit technique. Results: ΔF (0.19 pps; p = 0.001; d = 0.30) and peak discharge rate (0.20 pps; p < 0.001; d = 0.37) increased after the handgrip contraction, irrespective of the consumed supplement. No effects of α-lactalbumin were observed. Conclusions: Our results indicate that 40 g of α-lactalbumin was unable to modify intrinsic motoneuron excitability. However, performing a submaximal handgrip contraction before the plantar flexion triangular contraction was capable of increasing ΔF and discharge rates on soleus motor units. These findings highlight the diffused effects of serotonergic input, its effects on motoneuron discharge behaviour, and suggest a cross-effector effect within human motoneurons. © 2022, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature. Erratum: Correction to: The effects of α‑lactalbumin supplementation and handgrip contraction on soleus motoneuron excitability - The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake. The corrected details are given below for your reading. The author’s name Karen Mackay-Phillips was incorrectly written as Karen Mackay Phillips. In section “Overview”, first sentence should read as “The current study was part of an experiment that has been divided in two parts, where some variables are presented in a companion paper (https:// doi. org/ 10. 1007/ s00421- 022- 05103-1).”. © 2022 Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.
- Poulus, Dylan, Bennett, Kyle, Swann, Christian, Moyle, Gene, Polman, Remco
- Authors: Poulus, Dylan , Bennett, Kyle , Swann, Christian , Moyle, Gene , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Psychology of Sport and Exercise Vol. 69, no. (2023), p.
- Full Text: false
- Reviewed:
- Description: Objective: This study aimed to develop, and pilot esports-adapted coping effectiveness training (E-CET) and measure its influence on coping effectiveness (global and specific), subjective performance, mental health (psychological distress and wellbeing), and resilience. Design: Five elite male League of Legends players competing in the League of Legends Circuit Oceania participated in a mixed methods research design. The effects of E-CET were measured using a within-subjects quasi-experimental design (i.e., pre-to-post, no control group). To measure the effects of E-CET on specific stressors, a longitudinal diary design was used. Method: Players participated in a 2-h session of E-CET and a 45-min follow-up workshop. The 2-h workshop delivered content on two conceptual areas: (1) developing awareness of the stress and coping process; and (2) how to cope with stress. Players completed pre-intervention, post-intervention, and follow-up measures and twice-weekly stress journals. Results: E-CET led to increases in players' perceived coping effectiveness and subjective performance, but there were no changes in psychological distress, psychological wellbeing, and resilience. However, the results indicate some positive signs for future coping interventions with League of Legends players and iterations of E-CET. Conclusion: The E-CET program appears to provide an opportunity to improve performance and mental health for esports players. © 2023 Elsevier Ltd
Undertaking the personal tutoring role with sports students at a United Kingdom university
- Hayman, Rick, Coyles, Andy, Wharton, Karl, Borkoles, Erika, Polman, Remco
- Authors: Hayman, Rick , Coyles, Andy , Wharton, Karl , Borkoles, Erika , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Further and Higher Education Vol. 47, no. 3 (2023), p. 297-310
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- Description: Personal tutoring is renowned for the positive role it can play in supporting student satisfaction, engagement and attainment outcomes in higher education. Surprisingly though, few studies have specifically investigated the demands of this role from the perspective of the personal tutor. Through the theoretical lens of Role Theory, this study explored university tutors’ experiences of their personal tutoring role within a sport educational setting at a United Kingdom university. All data was collected through face-to-face semi structured qualitative interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. Key findings were the negative impact of personal tutoring on participants role multiplicity, intra-role accumulation and role identity. Most participants viewed the role as being time consuming, emotionally challenging and one they would prefer not to undertake (role multiplicity), feeling under qualified and ill-equipped in assisting their tutees because of the increasingly serious and complex nature of non-academic related issues presented (intra-role accumulation). Several lacked confidence and interest in the role, finding it to be stressful and instead favouring greater research responsibilities within their workloads (role identity). The collective findings provide academic colleagues and senior university management teams with evidence to inform future institutional policies and practices. This will help ensure personal tutors working across multiple disciplines and academic levels fully understand what the role is, the demands they are likely to encounter, the continued professional development required to facilitate and support the role and how the role should be better recognised in academic promotion criteria. Study limitations and future research avenues are discussed. © 2022 UCU.
- Authors: Hayman, Rick , Coyles, Andy , Wharton, Karl , Borkoles, Erika , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Further and Higher Education Vol. 47, no. 3 (2023), p. 297-310
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Personal tutoring is renowned for the positive role it can play in supporting student satisfaction, engagement and attainment outcomes in higher education. Surprisingly though, few studies have specifically investigated the demands of this role from the perspective of the personal tutor. Through the theoretical lens of Role Theory, this study explored university tutors’ experiences of their personal tutoring role within a sport educational setting at a United Kingdom university. All data was collected through face-to-face semi structured qualitative interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. Key findings were the negative impact of personal tutoring on participants role multiplicity, intra-role accumulation and role identity. Most participants viewed the role as being time consuming, emotionally challenging and one they would prefer not to undertake (role multiplicity), feeling under qualified and ill-equipped in assisting their tutees because of the increasingly serious and complex nature of non-academic related issues presented (intra-role accumulation). Several lacked confidence and interest in the role, finding it to be stressful and instead favouring greater research responsibilities within their workloads (role identity). The collective findings provide academic colleagues and senior university management teams with evidence to inform future institutional policies and practices. This will help ensure personal tutors working across multiple disciplines and academic levels fully understand what the role is, the demands they are likely to encounter, the continued professional development required to facilitate and support the role and how the role should be better recognised in academic promotion criteria. Study limitations and future research avenues are discussed. © 2022 UCU.
Validation of the interpersonal regulation questionnaire in sports : measuring emotion regulation via social processes and interactions
- Britton, Darren, Polman, Remco
- Authors: Britton, Darren , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology Vol. 21, no. 5 (2023), p. 857-868
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Emotions and emotion regulation within athletic populations have been explored and examined by researchers and practitioners for many years. However, no research within the field of sport psychology has utilised a quantifiable measure of sportspeople’s tendency to use, and perceived efficacy of, interpersonal strategies (i.e., regulating one’s own emotions via social interactions). The present study, therefore, aimed to examine the Interpersonal Regulation Questionnaire (IRQ; Williams et al. [2018]. Interpersonal emotion regulation: Implications for affiliation, perceived support, relationships, and well-being. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 115(2), 224. https://doi.org/10.1037/pspi0000132) for use within sporting contexts. Two hundred and sixty-two sportspeople completed the IRQ along with measures of perceived social support, life satisfaction, and mental toughness. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed the IRQ to have good model fit to its 4-factor structure and good internal reliability. IRQ scores were associated with greater perceived availability of social support and subjective wellbeing. However, IRQ scores did not correlate with self-reported mental toughness. These results provided support for use of the IRQ as a measure for sportspeople’s trait level of interpersonal emotion regulation. © 2022 International Society of Sport Psychology.
- Authors: Britton, Darren , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology Vol. 21, no. 5 (2023), p. 857-868
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Emotions and emotion regulation within athletic populations have been explored and examined by researchers and practitioners for many years. However, no research within the field of sport psychology has utilised a quantifiable measure of sportspeople’s tendency to use, and perceived efficacy of, interpersonal strategies (i.e., regulating one’s own emotions via social interactions). The present study, therefore, aimed to examine the Interpersonal Regulation Questionnaire (IRQ; Williams et al. [2018]. Interpersonal emotion regulation: Implications for affiliation, perceived support, relationships, and well-being. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 115(2), 224. https://doi.org/10.1037/pspi0000132) for use within sporting contexts. Two hundred and sixty-two sportspeople completed the IRQ along with measures of perceived social support, life satisfaction, and mental toughness. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed the IRQ to have good model fit to its 4-factor structure and good internal reliability. IRQ scores were associated with greater perceived availability of social support and subjective wellbeing. However, IRQ scores did not correlate with self-reported mental toughness. These results provided support for use of the IRQ as a measure for sportspeople’s trait level of interpersonal emotion regulation. © 2022 International Society of Sport Psychology.
A narrative review of the current state of extended reality technology and how it can be utilised in sport
- Le Noury, Peter, Polman, Remco, Maloney, Michael, Gorman, Adam
- Authors: Le Noury, Peter , Polman, Remco , Maloney, Michael , Gorman, Adam
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: Sports Medicine Vol. 52, no. 7 (2022), p. 1473-1489
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Extended reality is an umbrella term used to describe three computer-generated technologies including virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality. Extended reality is an emerging technology that has been utilised in many high-performance domains including psychology, medicine and the military, with the aim of enhancing perceptual-cognitive skills and motor skills. However, the use of extended reality in sport, particularly at the elite level, has only recently started to receive attention. While the growth of extended reality technology continues to accelerate at a rapid rate, empirical evidence aimed at understanding how these devices can best be applied in high-performance sport has not followed suit. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to provide clarity for high-performance sport organisations, researchers, sport scientists, coaches and athletes about the current state of extended reality technology and how it has been utilised in sport. In doing so, we first define and give examples of the types of extended reality technology including virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality that are available at the present time. Second, we detail how skill acquisition principles underpinned by the theoretical framework of ecological dynamics can be used to help inform the design and assessment of extended reality training tools. Third, we describe how extended reality has been utilised in sport, including how extended reality tools have been assessed for their level of representativeness, and the effectiveness of extended reality training interventions for improving perceptual-cognitive skills and motor skills. Finally, we discuss the future utilisation of extended reality in sport, including the key learnings that can be drawn from other domains, future research directions, practical applications and areas for consideration related to the use of extended reality for training skills in sport. © 2022, The Author(s).
- Authors: Le Noury, Peter , Polman, Remco , Maloney, Michael , Gorman, Adam
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: Sports Medicine Vol. 52, no. 7 (2022), p. 1473-1489
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- Description: Extended reality is an umbrella term used to describe three computer-generated technologies including virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality. Extended reality is an emerging technology that has been utilised in many high-performance domains including psychology, medicine and the military, with the aim of enhancing perceptual-cognitive skills and motor skills. However, the use of extended reality in sport, particularly at the elite level, has only recently started to receive attention. While the growth of extended reality technology continues to accelerate at a rapid rate, empirical evidence aimed at understanding how these devices can best be applied in high-performance sport has not followed suit. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to provide clarity for high-performance sport organisations, researchers, sport scientists, coaches and athletes about the current state of extended reality technology and how it has been utilised in sport. In doing so, we first define and give examples of the types of extended reality technology including virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality that are available at the present time. Second, we detail how skill acquisition principles underpinned by the theoretical framework of ecological dynamics can be used to help inform the design and assessment of extended reality training tools. Third, we describe how extended reality has been utilised in sport, including how extended reality tools have been assessed for their level of representativeness, and the effectiveness of extended reality training interventions for improving perceptual-cognitive skills and motor skills. Finally, we discuss the future utilisation of extended reality in sport, including the key learnings that can be drawn from other domains, future research directions, practical applications and areas for consideration related to the use of extended reality for training skills in sport. © 2022, The Author(s).
A qualitative analysis of the perceived determinants of success in elite esports athletes
- Poulus, Dylan, Coulter, Tristan, Trotter, Michael, Polman, Remco
- Authors: Poulus, Dylan , Coulter, Tristan , Trotter, Michael , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Sports Sciences Vol. 40, no. 7 (2022), p. 742-753
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- Description: The current study aimed to qualitatively investigate the perceived determinants of success in professional esports athletes. Guided by the bioecological model (Bronfenbrenner & Morris, 2006), thematic analysis was used to explore elite esports athletes’ perceptions of success determinants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven elite esports athletes. The interviews were used to investigate players’ psychology when playing well, training in elite esports, and working in esports teams. Deductive and inductive analyses were conducted to capture the core themes of success in esports within the bioecological model. When playing well, elite esports athletes experienced high levels of confidence, uninterrupted focus, and flow states. Elite esport athletes use mental strategies to help regulate their emotions and remain mindful in the presence of “tilt”. Furthermore, breathing techniques and tactical breaks were used when players felt nervous or when trying to “reset” from a stressful situation. When working in elite esport teams, players reported using strategies to improve team cohesion and that the biggest challenge was interpersonal disagreements. The results contribute to the growing body of literature highlighting the psychological similarities between elite esports and traditional sports athletes and serve as an index for future research into high-performance in esports. © 2021 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.
- Authors: Poulus, Dylan , Coulter, Tristan , Trotter, Michael , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Sports Sciences Vol. 40, no. 7 (2022), p. 742-753
- Full Text:
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- Description: The current study aimed to qualitatively investigate the perceived determinants of success in professional esports athletes. Guided by the bioecological model (Bronfenbrenner & Morris, 2006), thematic analysis was used to explore elite esports athletes’ perceptions of success determinants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven elite esports athletes. The interviews were used to investigate players’ psychology when playing well, training in elite esports, and working in esports teams. Deductive and inductive analyses were conducted to capture the core themes of success in esports within the bioecological model. When playing well, elite esports athletes experienced high levels of confidence, uninterrupted focus, and flow states. Elite esport athletes use mental strategies to help regulate their emotions and remain mindful in the presence of “tilt”. Furthermore, breathing techniques and tactical breaks were used when players felt nervous or when trying to “reset” from a stressful situation. When working in elite esport teams, players reported using strategies to improve team cohesion and that the biggest challenge was interpersonal disagreements. The results contribute to the growing body of literature highlighting the psychological similarities between elite esports and traditional sports athletes and serve as an index for future research into high-performance in esports. © 2021 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.
Aging and driving : a comparison of driving performance between older and younger drivers in an on-road driving test
- Robertsen, Rolf, Lorås, Havard, Polman, Remco, Simsekoglu, Ozlem, Sigmundsson, Hermundur
- Authors: Robertsen, Rolf , Lorås, Havard , Polman, Remco , Simsekoglu, Ozlem , Sigmundsson, Hermundur
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: SAGE Open Vol. 12, no. 2 (2022), p.
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- Description: It is important to examine changes in driving performance and driver behavior with increasing age to improve road safety. The main purpose of this study was to explore if there were any differences in a group of young drivers (n = 36, Mage = 32) and a group of elderly drivers (n = 40, Mage = 72) on driving performance and driving skills on a number of driving tasks. An on-road driving test was conducted using a fixed 25-km route lasting approximately 30 minutes. Expert examiners assessed the participants’ driving skills and performance using assessment form measuring seven categories: car handling, observation/overview, signaling, positioning, speed adaption/risk, traffic flow/assessing gaps, and give way/traffic flow. Younger drivers reported significantly longer annual mileage (mean = 24,719 km) than older drivers (mean = 12,750 km). There were no significant group differences on self-reported number of accidents the last 3 years, driving frequency, or self-assessment scores. Independent sample t-test results show that compared to older drivers, the younger drivers scored significantly higher on 4 out of totally 32 category items in the assessment form. Two of them were in category total scores; car handling total score and speed adaption/risk total score, the other two were subcategory scores; use of controls and following traffic flow. The results indicate that aging itself and/or potential negative age-related decline in certain functions important for safe driving do effect driving performance, but less than expected and commonly assumed. One plausible explanation is that older drivers use compensatory actions related to factors like maturity and a behavioral adaptation to overcome difficulties in driving. © The Author(s) 2022.
- Authors: Robertsen, Rolf , Lorås, Havard , Polman, Remco , Simsekoglu, Ozlem , Sigmundsson, Hermundur
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: SAGE Open Vol. 12, no. 2 (2022), p.
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- Description: It is important to examine changes in driving performance and driver behavior with increasing age to improve road safety. The main purpose of this study was to explore if there were any differences in a group of young drivers (n = 36, Mage = 32) and a group of elderly drivers (n = 40, Mage = 72) on driving performance and driving skills on a number of driving tasks. An on-road driving test was conducted using a fixed 25-km route lasting approximately 30 minutes. Expert examiners assessed the participants’ driving skills and performance using assessment form measuring seven categories: car handling, observation/overview, signaling, positioning, speed adaption/risk, traffic flow/assessing gaps, and give way/traffic flow. Younger drivers reported significantly longer annual mileage (mean = 24,719 km) than older drivers (mean = 12,750 km). There were no significant group differences on self-reported number of accidents the last 3 years, driving frequency, or self-assessment scores. Independent sample t-test results show that compared to older drivers, the younger drivers scored significantly higher on 4 out of totally 32 category items in the assessment form. Two of them were in category total scores; car handling total score and speed adaption/risk total score, the other two were subcategory scores; use of controls and following traffic flow. The results indicate that aging itself and/or potential negative age-related decline in certain functions important for safe driving do effect driving performance, but less than expected and commonly assumed. One plausible explanation is that older drivers use compensatory actions related to factors like maturity and a behavioral adaptation to overcome difficulties in driving. © The Author(s) 2022.
Examining the impact of school esports program participation on student health and psychological development
- Trotter, Michael, Coulter, Tristan, Davis, Paul, Poulus, Dylan, Polman, Remco
- Authors: Trotter, Michael , Coulter, Tristan , Davis, Paul , Poulus, Dylan , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Frontiers in Psychology Vol. 12, no. (2022), p.
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- Description: This study examined the influence of 7 high school esports developmental programs on student self-regulation, growth mindset, positive youth development (PYD), perceived general health and physical activity (PA), and sport behaviour. A total of 188 students (male n = 120; female n = 68) originally participated (89 enrolled in an esports program in their school and 99 acted as aged-matched controls), with 58 participants (n = 19 esports group; n = 39 controls) completing both pre- and post-program information. At baseline, no significant differences were found between youth e-athletes and their aged-matched controls. The analysis for the observation period showed a significant interaction effect for the PYD confidence scale, with post-hoc comparisons showing a significant decrease in the control group from pre- to post assessment whereas the esports group remained the same. Time main effects showed a decrease in the self-regulation motivation factor, PYD connection factor and PA for all participants. Overall, this study showed that students enrolled in their respective school esports program did not differ from those who did not in self-regulation, growth mindset, PYD, perceived health and PA, and sport behaviour. It was likely that all participants showed a decrease in motivation, connection, and PA due to COVID19 lockdown during the study period. This study is the first to investigate the longitudinal impact of student involvement in high school esports and showed that esports participation did not have a negative impact on any health or psychological factors. Copyright © 2022 Trotter, Coulter, Davis, Poulus and Polman.
- Authors: Trotter, Michael , Coulter, Tristan , Davis, Paul , Poulus, Dylan , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Frontiers in Psychology Vol. 12, no. (2022), p.
- Full Text:
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- Description: This study examined the influence of 7 high school esports developmental programs on student self-regulation, growth mindset, positive youth development (PYD), perceived general health and physical activity (PA), and sport behaviour. A total of 188 students (male n = 120; female n = 68) originally participated (89 enrolled in an esports program in their school and 99 acted as aged-matched controls), with 58 participants (n = 19 esports group; n = 39 controls) completing both pre- and post-program information. At baseline, no significant differences were found between youth e-athletes and their aged-matched controls. The analysis for the observation period showed a significant interaction effect for the PYD confidence scale, with post-hoc comparisons showing a significant decrease in the control group from pre- to post assessment whereas the esports group remained the same. Time main effects showed a decrease in the self-regulation motivation factor, PYD connection factor and PA for all participants. Overall, this study showed that students enrolled in their respective school esports program did not differ from those who did not in self-regulation, growth mindset, PYD, perceived health and PA, and sport behaviour. It was likely that all participants showed a decrease in motivation, connection, and PA due to COVID19 lockdown during the study period. This study is the first to investigate the longitudinal impact of student involvement in high school esports and showed that esports participation did not have a negative impact on any health or psychological factors. Copyright © 2022 Trotter, Coulter, Davis, Poulus and Polman.
Home advantage and LBW decisions : the contribution of umpiring to the home-ground (dis)advantage in cricket
- Adie, Joshua, Renshaw, Ian, Polman, Remco, Mann, David
- Authors: Adie, Joshua , Renshaw, Ian , Polman, Remco , Mann, David
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport Vol. 25, no. 6 (2022), p. 520-523
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- Description: Objectives: This study aimed to determine whether elite cricket umpires' decisions contribute to home advantage via leg-before-wicket decisions. Design: Leg-before-wicket decisions (n = 4971) from actual elite level cricket matches in Australia between 2009 and 2016 were analysed using a binomial logistic regression to predict the umpires' leg-before-wicket decisions. Methods: Regressions were performed to determine whether the batter's team (home or away) influenced the likelihood that the umpire would give them out leg-before-wicket. Results: We found no evidence of home advantage in umpires' leg-before-wicket decisions. In fact, we found evidence that umpires in some instances disadvantage the home team. Conclusions: We suggest that the increased professionalism of sports officials, and the scrutiny they are placed under, may lead umpires to reduce or even overcompensate for any existing biases in their decision making. © 2022 Sports Medicine Australia
- Authors: Adie, Joshua , Renshaw, Ian , Polman, Remco , Mann, David
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport Vol. 25, no. 6 (2022), p. 520-523
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- Description: Objectives: This study aimed to determine whether elite cricket umpires' decisions contribute to home advantage via leg-before-wicket decisions. Design: Leg-before-wicket decisions (n = 4971) from actual elite level cricket matches in Australia between 2009 and 2016 were analysed using a binomial logistic regression to predict the umpires' leg-before-wicket decisions. Methods: Regressions were performed to determine whether the batter's team (home or away) influenced the likelihood that the umpire would give them out leg-before-wicket. Results: We found no evidence of home advantage in umpires' leg-before-wicket decisions. In fact, we found evidence that umpires in some instances disadvantage the home team. Conclusions: We suggest that the increased professionalism of sports officials, and the scrutiny they are placed under, may lead umpires to reduce or even overcompensate for any existing biases in their decision making. © 2022 Sports Medicine Australia
- Poulus, Dylan, Coulter, Tristan, Trotter, Michael, Polman, Remco
- Authors: Poulus, Dylan , Coulter, Tristan , Trotter, Michael , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Psychology of Sport and Exercise Vol. 60, no. (2022), p.
- Full Text: false
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- Description: Objective: The current study aimed to longitudinally examine the stressors, stress appraisal, coping, and coping effectiveness experienced by elite esports athletes. Design: Six elite male League of Legends (LoL) athletes, competing in the Oceanic Challenger Series (OCS), completed diaries over the 2020 competitive season (87 days). Method: Athletes completed weekly diaries after three events: solo training, team training, and competitive matches. Each diary collected data on the stressors experienced, stressor intensity and threat/challenge perception (appraisal), coping strategies used, and perceived coping effectiveness. Results: General performance, outcome, critical moment performance, and teammate mistakes accounted for 55% of the stressors reported. More stressors were reported in competitive diaries than in training diaries. Competitive stressors were rated as being more intense than training stressors. There were no differences in overall challenge and threat perception, but performance stressors were more likely to be perceived as a challenge, and teammate stressors were more likely to be perceived as a threat. Problem-focused coping (PFC) was the most frequently employed coping strategy. PFC and emotion-focused coping (EFC) strategies were perceived as more effective at reducing stress than avoidance coping (AC). Conclusions: Elite LoL athletes experienced a small number of reoccurring stressors over an 87-day competitive period. Athletes reported more stressors around competitive matches and perceived competitive stressors as more intense than team and solo training stressors. Similarly to traditional sports athletes, PFC strategies were the most frequently employed and, PFC and EFC were rated as being more effective than AC. © 2021 Elsevier Ltd
- Adie, Joshua, Renshaw, Ian, Polman, Remco, Mann, David
- Authors: Adie, Joshua , Renshaw, Ian , Polman, Remco , Mann, David
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Psychology of Sport and Exercise Vol. 60, no. (2022), p.
- Full Text: false
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- Description: Objectives: Previous studies have shown that sport officials’ decisions can be impacted by biases associated with expectations. The aim of this study was to determine whether elite cricket umpires’ decisions are also influenced by expectations associated with batter skill. Methods: LBW decisions (n = 5578) from actual elite level cricket matches in Australia between 2009 and 2016 were analysed in a multi-level binomial logistic regression paradigm. In our first model, we predicted the likelihood that an umpire will answer ‘out’ for batters in the top order (1–4), middle order (5–7), and low order (8-11). In our second model, we controlled for the correctness of a decision. Results: Umpires were more likely to respond ‘out’ as the batting order progressed, however this did not appear to be due to biased decision-making. Instead, as batting order progressed, batters were more likely to actually be ‘out’. Conclusions: Cricket umpires do not seem to be impacted by expectation bias associated with batting order. This study highlights the importance of controlling for the correctness of a decision when exploring bias in sport officials’ decisions. © 2022
Perceived stressors experienced by competitive Esports athletes
- Poulus, Dylan, Coulter, Tristan, Trotter, Michael, Polman, Remco
- Authors: Poulus, Dylan , Coulter, Tristan , Trotter, Michael , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: International Journal of Esports Vol. 1, no. 1 (2021), p.
- Full Text: false
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- Description: Aim: The present study explored the sources of stress experienced by competitive esports athletes. Methods and results: Cross-sectional survey. Participants were 270 esports athletes, ranked in the top 40% (determined by in-game rank) of one of five major esports: Rainbow Six: Siege, Overwatch, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, League of Legends, and Defence of the Ancients 2. Participants reported a stressor they had recently encountered as part of a stress appraisal measure (1). 11 sources of stress reported by traditional sports athletes were reported by esports athletes (2). Furthermore, four novel esports specific stressors were identified: Technical issues, balancing life commitments, anti-social behaviour, and critical moment performance. Similar to traditional sports, teammate stressors (53.7%) and performance stressors (26.9%) were reported by 79.2% of participants. Finally, esports athletes in the 99 – 100th percentile reported more performance-related stressors than teammate stressors, whereas esports athletes in the 90 – 99th, 80 – 90th, 70 – 80th, and 60 – 70th reported more teammate-related stressors than performance stressors. Conclusions: Results from this study could inform the development of psychological interventions for competitive esports athletes.
Reliability of the ICECAP-O quality of life scale with community-dwelling people with dementia
- Bibi, Iram, Polman, Remco, Nyman, Samuel
- Authors: Bibi, Iram , Polman, Remco , Nyman, Samuel
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine Vol. 8, no. (2022), p.
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- Description: Currently, measures of quality of life used with older people with dementia (PWD) are mainly health related. Health is not an actual attribute of but a means to attain quality of life. The Investigating Choice Experiments for the Preferences of Older People - CAPability index (ICECAP-O) measures attributes of quality of life. While its construct validity has been tested with PWD, no study has yet published data on the reliability of this scale used directly with PWD. In this study, we tested the external (test-retest) reliability of the ICECAP-O with 54 community-dwelling older PWD from the south of England. The ICECAP-O had acceptable test-retest reliability (r =.68, p <.01 and r =.56, p <.01 for raw and tariff scores, respectively). This suggests that the ICECAP-O is both a reliable and valid measure of quality of life for use directly with community-dwelling PWD. © The Author(s) 2022.
- Authors: Bibi, Iram , Polman, Remco , Nyman, Samuel
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine Vol. 8, no. (2022), p.
- Full Text:
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- Description: Currently, measures of quality of life used with older people with dementia (PWD) are mainly health related. Health is not an actual attribute of but a means to attain quality of life. The Investigating Choice Experiments for the Preferences of Older People - CAPability index (ICECAP-O) measures attributes of quality of life. While its construct validity has been tested with PWD, no study has yet published data on the reliability of this scale used directly with PWD. In this study, we tested the external (test-retest) reliability of the ICECAP-O with 54 community-dwelling older PWD from the south of England. The ICECAP-O had acceptable test-retest reliability (r =.68, p <.01 and r =.56, p <.01 for raw and tariff scores, respectively). This suggests that the ICECAP-O is both a reliable and valid measure of quality of life for use directly with community-dwelling PWD. © The Author(s) 2022.
Short-term effect of additional daily dietary fibre intake on appetite, satiety, gastrointestinal comfort, acceptability, and feasibility
- Borkoles, Erika, Krastins, Digby, van der Pols, Jolieke, Sims, Paul, Polman, Remco
- Authors: Borkoles, Erika , Krastins, Digby , van der Pols, Jolieke , Sims, Paul , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Nutrients Vol. 14, no. 19 (2022), p.
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- Description: Background: There is evidence that high-fibre diets have significant health benefits, although the effect of increasing fibre on individuals’ appetite, satiety, and gastrointestinal comfort is not well established, nor is its acceptability and feasibility. Methods: This mixed-methods feasibility randomised control trial included 38 participants allocated to one of three conditions: FibreMAX (two daily servings of 25 g of BARLEYmax®), FibreGRAD (two daily servings with the amount of fibre gradually increased), and Control (two daily servings totalling 25 g of placebo product). Participants completed a food diary at baseline. The Hunger and Fullness Questionnaire and questions regarding gastrointestinal response were completed at baseline and at the end of each week. Participants completed the acceptability of intervention measure and engaged in a semi-structured interview, following trial completion. Results: The qualitative data suggested that increased fibre influenced appetite and fullness perceptions. Baseline fibre consumption and the method of increased fibre increase did not influence our findings. The qualitative results also indicated that the fibre intake was perceived as beneficial to well-being; it influenced feelings of hunger and caused some minor acute gastrointestinal symptoms that dissipated after a short adaption period. Conclusion: This study suggests that increasing fibre intake through BARLEYmax® is a safe intervention that is acceptable to participants. © 2022 by the authors.
- Authors: Borkoles, Erika , Krastins, Digby , van der Pols, Jolieke , Sims, Paul , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Nutrients Vol. 14, no. 19 (2022), p.
- Full Text:
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- Description: Background: There is evidence that high-fibre diets have significant health benefits, although the effect of increasing fibre on individuals’ appetite, satiety, and gastrointestinal comfort is not well established, nor is its acceptability and feasibility. Methods: This mixed-methods feasibility randomised control trial included 38 participants allocated to one of three conditions: FibreMAX (two daily servings of 25 g of BARLEYmax®), FibreGRAD (two daily servings with the amount of fibre gradually increased), and Control (two daily servings totalling 25 g of placebo product). Participants completed a food diary at baseline. The Hunger and Fullness Questionnaire and questions regarding gastrointestinal response were completed at baseline and at the end of each week. Participants completed the acceptability of intervention measure and engaged in a semi-structured interview, following trial completion. Results: The qualitative data suggested that increased fibre influenced appetite and fullness perceptions. Baseline fibre consumption and the method of increased fibre increase did not influence our findings. The qualitative results also indicated that the fibre intake was perceived as beneficial to well-being; it influenced feelings of hunger and caused some minor acute gastrointestinal symptoms that dissipated after a short adaption period. Conclusion: This study suggests that increasing fibre intake through BARLEYmax® is a safe intervention that is acceptable to participants. © 2022 by the authors.