Pontifical University of Salamanca
Recent publications
This study aimed to explore the combined effects of age, pitch size, playing position and tactical formation (TF) on locomotor and physiological load in youth soccer players during small-sided games (SSGs). A total of 32 sub-elite soccer players (U19 = 14; U16 = 18) engaged in various 7-a-side SSGs with distinct spatial dimensions (232 m ² vs 132 m ² per player), TF (1-2-3-1 vs 1-3-1-2) and specific playing positions (CD = central defender; M = midfielder; W = winger; FW = forward). Relative (m·min ⁻¹ ) total distance (TD), high intensity running distance (HIRD), accelerations, decelerations, maximum speed (Speed MAX ), average speed (Speed AVG ), high metabolic load distance (HMLD) and relative heart rate (%HR MAX ) were collected using WIMU PRO™ GPS devices (Hudl, USA). Generalized linear mixed models revealed that U19 players exhibited higher values of TD, Speed MAX and Speed AVG than U16 players (p < 0.05). SSGs conducted in larger pitch size registered higher values of TD, HIRD, HMLD, Speed MAX , and Speed AVG than SSGs with smaller pitch size (p < 0.05). Regarding playing position, M, W and FW had more TD, HIRD and Speed AVG than CD, while W and FW showed higher values of HMLD, accelerations and decelerations distance than CD (p < 0.05). M exhibited the highest relative HR MAX in comparison to other playing positions (p < 0.05). Notably, no effects on locomotor and physiological load emerged concerning different TFs. In conclusion, soccer coaches should consider the effect of the age, pitch size and playing position on the training load when designing SSGs in youth players.
This meta-analysis aimed to compare the acute physiological, physical, and technical demands in soccer players during different sided game formats (1v1 to 10v10). The review included studies on soccer players with a competitive or developmental level, focusing on games with at least one comparison of sided formats. Outcomes assessed included physiological parameters (e.g., heart rate, blood lactate), physical demands (e.g., distance, accelerations), and technical actions (e.g., passes). ROBANS-2 and GRADE were used to evaluate the risk of bias and the certainty of the evidence. The search across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science identified 2545 records, of which 72 studies were included. Meta-analyses found that 2v2 and 3v3 formats were more physiologically intense, showing higher perceived exertion and blood lactate, with 3v3 also having higher heart rates. The 4v4 and 3v3 formats resulted in greater physical demands compared to 2v2, with increased distance covered at various speeds, though differences were minimal beyond 4v4. Smaller formats promoted ball possession, while 3v3 resulted in more successful shots, dribbles, and passes. In conclusion, smaller-sided games (<3v3) were more physiologically demanding, mid-sized formats (>4v4) increased locomotor demands, and smaller formats improved technical skills, although the findings should be interpreted cautiously due to study limitations.
The purpose of this study was to analyze the adequacy of the “Subtle Prejudice Scale towards Disability in the University” for a university environment in Mexico. The theoretical model of this scale, which incorporates the gender dimension, was previously validated in Spain and Costa Rica with good psychometric properties and evidence of construct validity. The application of the scale in a Mexican university sample of 601 participants (83.4% students; 53.1% women and 45.3% men; aged 18 to 82, M = 25 years) confirmed the dimensional structure of the original four-factor model, with good fit indices through exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis and with adequate internal consistency for each dimension: avoidance of contact (ω = 0.81), benevolent idealization (ω = 0.77), excessive demands (ω = 0.73), and sexist amplification of prejudice (ω = 0.77). Relations between the scale dimensions and other variables (participants’ sex, political opinion, and preferred university policies for people with disabilities) were consistent with the current literature: men and right-wing people tend to show higher levels of ableism, which in turn are inversely associated with the supporting of inclusive policies. The results endorse the cultural validity of the scale and its suitability to evaluate ableism in Mexican universities.
Cognitive assessment instruments with emotional components may be useful to address the limitations of the self-report scales commonly used to assess post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in women victims of domestic violence (IPV). The aim of this study was to develop an Emotional Stroop task designed to identify post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) linked to intimate partner violence (IPV) in Spanish-speaking women. The validation of this test involved a comparative analysis between two groups: a clinical group (n = 50) and a non-clinical group (n = 50) of women with an average age of 38.38 (SD = 12.31; 100% female participants). The study indicates that the clinical group scored significantly higher on the PTSD Symptom Severity Scale (EGS) and lower on the three Stroop tasks compared to the non-clinical group. Notably, there was a significant negative correlation between the results of the modified Stroop tasks and the EGS test. The results show that our adapted Stroop task serves as an efficacious tool for detecting PTSD related to intimate partner violence (IPV) in Spanish-speaking women. Moreover, it has the potential to alleviate the constraints of presently available tools designed for this specific purpose.
Objectives: to assess nurses’ perceptions of nursing activities that contribute to quality of care in France. Methods: descriptive cross-sectional study, between February and August 2020 in France. Sociodemographic characteristics were recorded, and nurses’ perceptions were assessed using F-EPAECQC. Results: the sample comprised 125 female nurses (21-64 years); 52% had only graduate education, and 82.4% had less than 10 years in their care unit. The F-EPAECQC score averaged 75.65 points (range 24-96). Significant associations were found between management experience and quality of care perception (p > 0.012), and between “well-being and self-care” and years of professional exercise in the unit (p > 0.001). A low hospital policies commitment was revealed with a majority of “never” and “sometimes” answers at “nursing care organization”. Conclusions: the results confirmed good French nurses’ perceptions. The statistically significant association between management experience and perceptions of the quality of nursing care activities revealed the importance of this area. Descriptors: Delivery of Health Care; Nurse Manager; Nurses; Quality of Health Care; Total Quality Management
In the last decade, the subject of Physical Education has undergone significant transformations, exploring new teaching alternatives for students to acquire interest and enthusiasm for sport. The main objective of this descriptive study is to bring Touchtennis to schools as an innovative and alternative racket sport, which has attracted interest in the sports field. In terms of methodology, an intervention proposal is presented, designed for the subject of Physical Education, through a methodological sequence, in order to get to know the basic contents of the sport and to improve the physical, psychological, social and emotional components of the student. To date, Touchtennis lacks scientific evidence to support its effects. Consequently, a pedagogical proposal is presented in order to open up a promising field for future research, which could reveal its potential in the educational and sporting sphere. It is therefore essential that, on the basis of this research, empirical tests are carried out to analyse the effect of this sport.
Background: Insomnia significantly impairs healthcare worker (HCW) well-being, particularly amid COVID-19 sequelae and shift work demands. We aimed to assess the prevalence of insomnia among HCWs, identify those needing clinical intervention, analyze shift work as a potential risk factor, and explore associations with COVID-19 sequelae and psychiatric comorbidities. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was administered at the University of Salamanca University Care Complex (CAUSA) from March 2023 to January 2024. Validated scales (Insomnia Severity Index, Patient Health Questionnaire-4, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-2) were used to measure insomnia, depression, and anxiety. Participants scoring ISI ≥ 7 were invited for Occupational Medicine follow-up. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed. Results: Overall, 1121 HCWs participated (mean age 44.59 ± 11.78, 78.3% women). The mean ISI score was 10.5 ± 5.8 (subclinical insomnia), with 22.7% reporting moderate and 3% reporting severe insomnia. Depression and anxiety affected 28.4% and 33% of respondents, respectively. Shift workers had poorer sleep (mean ISI 11.3 ± 0.9 vs. 8.8 ± 0.3, p < 0.001). Individuals reporting COVID-19 sequelae were 3.1 times more likely to have insomnia than those who did not (mean ISI 13.89 ± 5.9 vs. 10.33 ± 5.7, p < 0.001). Over one-quarter reported at least the monthly use of sleep or psychiatric medications. Conclusions: Insomnia remains prevalent among HCWs, influenced by shift work, COVID-19 sequelae, and mental health factors. Targeted, multidisciplinary interventions, e.g., workplace policy changes, mental health programs, and shift schedule adjustments are urgently needed to safeguard well-being, reduce burnout, and maintain quality patient care. Ensuring adequate sleep is central to minimizing errors and preserving professional performance. Future studies should investigate the impact of coordinated workplace strategies to effectively address insomnia.
Purpose: It is well established that the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the incidence of depressive symptoms in the general population. So far, there are no studies analyzing how this pandemic has affected the prescription of antidepressants. Methods: We retrospectively estimated the incidence of new cases of depression by analyzing new prescriptions of antidepressive agents over a period of 6 years distributed in three periods of 2 years each: pre-pandemic, pandemic, and post-pandemic, running from March 2018 to February 2024. This research was conducted in a healthcare area with 130,000 individuals in Spain. Results: New prescriptions for antidepressants increased significantly during the pandemic and even more in the post-pandemic period, with the increase being greater in women than in men. During the pandemic period, the increased prescription for antidepressants was specifically due to an increase among people under 20 years of age, while in the post-pandemic period, the increase has occurred in all age groups. In the subgroup analysis, we found that the pandemic period exclusively affected the number of women aged 40 or under who were prescribed a new antidepressant, while in the post-pandemic period, there has been a significant increase in the number of both male and female patients with a new antidepressant in all age groups compared to the two previous periods, except in young men aged up to 20 years. Conclusions: Our study highlights the importance of addressing the mental health of the population in parallel with addressing physical problems and adapting health systems accordingly.
This chapter addresses the need to rethink the EU-LAC relations in the face of a world experiencing a reconfiguration of the world order caused by the global leadership dispute between old, new, and emerging powers. The digital age results from an “Industry 4.0” led by Big Tech Companies, whose economic capacity is superior to main large economies. These companies are de facto new geopolitical actors, and as a result, we have a Global Tech Governance, where Nation States are losing relevance. The EU-LAC Digital Alliance offers the opportunity to rethink the role of the EU and LAC regions in the international system and global governance future, as “global actors” or “global observers”. The EU-LAC interregionalism, focusing on digital affairs, can contribute to defending the rules-based global order. At the same time, both regions can create an interregionalism 4.0 for global governance 4.0.
This paper aims to provide small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) owned by families with a simple, achievable technical methodology for the assessment of sustainable mobility alternatives, in particular, the purchase of electric vehicles (EVs) and photovoltaic (PV) systems. By adopting a comprehensive comparative analysis approach, this research aims to empower SMEs to make highly informed decisions concerning the choice of vehicles and energy systems that provide strategic and sustainable value. Based on a quantitative analysis linked to the total costs over ten years, and considering the different types of vehicles (electric, hybrid, and combustion) and the integration of PV systems, practical formulas are used to calculate the total cost of ownership (TCO), energy consumption, and CO2 emissions. The results show that adopting electric vehicles, especially those complemented by photovoltaic systems with storage for night-time charging, can significantly reduce operating costs and carbon emissions, generating economic and environmental value. This study provides an accessible and applicable approach to the context of family SMEs, facilitating the analysis and choice of mobility options based on simple and commercially available data. By focusing on value creation through informed and strategic decisions, this work offers a relevant contribution to the competitiveness and sustainability of SMEs, promoting the adoption of sustainable mobility technologies in an integrated and effective manner.
Technological developments and innovations in regulatory pathways have meant medicinal products are increasingly associated with substantial clinical and economic uncertainties at launch. This has increased the focus on continuous evidence generation to assess the real‐world value of new medicines post‐launch. This paper examines Post‐Launch Evidence Generation (PLEG) systems in France, Spain, and England, drawing on insights from a series of multistakeholder roundtables hosted by RWE4Decisions. These discussions provided a platform to compare national approaches to PLEG considering PLEG planning and operationalization. The roundtable events included presentations by representatives of the HTA bodies and payers in France, Spain, and England, an industry response, and multistakeholder discussions. The events highlighted that while there are differences in the products to which PLEG is applied and the way it is operationalized, there are many common challenges experienced across systems and by all stakeholders. First, there is a recognition that evidentiary needs must be anticipated earlier to avoid PLEG where possible and better plan for PLEG where needed. Second, there is a need to streamline data collection. This includes trying to make greater use of existing data sources vs. primary data collection, prioritizing collection of a small number of outcomes that directly address key uncertainties, and by improving international collaborations to streamline data collection and evidence generation across borders. Our findings suggest value in improving scientific advice processes and international collaboration to discuss key data gaps early and ensure efficient and effective evidence collection that improves the speed and quality of reimbursement and pricing decisions.
(1) Background: Physical education at school is not able to meet the need for physical activity and sport (PA and S) established by international organizations, making it necessary to implement its practice outside school hours. This study aimed to find out the reasons for practicing, abandoning, and never having practiced PA and S outside school hours among students of Primary Education (PE) and Secondary Education (SE) in Cantabria (Spain). (2) Overall, 1038 students participated (349 from PE and 689 from SE), consisting of 512 boys and 526 girls between 10 and 17 years old (M = 12.92; SD = 1.92). They completed an ad hoc questionnaire with 21 questions about reasons for practicing (12 items), abandoning (3 items), and never having practiced PA and S (6 items) between the months of May and June 2024. (3) Results: As for active students, boys argue that they do so because of the influence of friends (p = 0.024), search for excitement (p = 0.002), liking PA and S (p = 0.022), and entertainment (p = 0.001). In PE, compared to SE, the most important factors are excitement (p < 0.001), health (p = 0.005), and liking PA and S (p = 0.022). Students who abandon PA and S do so because of the competitive environment (p = 0.001), with boys predominating. SE students highlight reluctance and laziness (p < 0.001) and the loss of liking PA and S (p = 0.013). Students who have never practiced PA and S do so because they do not find any sport motivating (p = 0.047) and because of reluctance and laziness (p = 0.018), especially among girls. In SE, the differences appear due to reluctance and laziness (p = 0.009) and because friends do not practice PA and S (p = 0.049). (4) Conclusions: Boys prioritize emotional and competency aspects, while girls focus on social aspects and happiness. PE students tend to participate in sports for fun and to improve their skills, while SE students tend to show reluctance and laziness and a loss of interest in PA and S.
There has been growing interest in understanding the injury profiles of young female soccer players due to their increasing participation in the sport and the unique risk factors they face. This narrative review examines the incidence, mechanisms, and location of injuries in this population, alongside the primary risk factors and effective preventive strategies. Injury incidence is higher during matches than in training sessions, with contact injuries dominating in games and non-contact injuries prevailing in practice. Knee and ankle injuries are the most prevalent, with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries being particularly concerning due to their frequency and long-term impact. The interplay of intrinsic factors, such as hormonal fluctuations, anatomical characteristics, and biomechanics, with extrinsic factors like training load, surface type, and footwear significantly influences injury risk. Prevention programs, particularly those combining neuromuscular, balance, and strength training, demonstrate high efficacy, provided that adherence is maintained. Moreover, fostering awareness among players, coaches, and stakeholders about psychosocial factors and menstrual health further enhances injury prevention. Tailored strategies addressing the specific needs of young female soccer players are crucial to ensuring their safety, optimizing performance, and supporting their long-term athletic development.
Introduction Despite advances in inclusive policies and social awareness, the participation of people with disabilities (PwD) in mainstream sports remains limited due to numerous barriers. This systematic review seeks to identify and critically analyse the main obstacles hindering equitable participation of PwD in conventional sports, while proposing evidence-based strategies to overcome these challenges. Methods Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted on Web of Science and SCOPUS databases, covering studies published between 2000 and 2024. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 17 studies were selected for analysis. Results The findings highlight major barriers, including insufficient training for coaches and sports club managers, negative and discriminatory attitudes, an entrenched ableist mindset, limited access to information, and a lack of accessible facilities. These factors collectively impede the active participation of PwD in sports. Discussion To overcome these challenges, a coordinated approach is essential, encompassing attitude transformation, targeted training for sports personnel, the implementation of inclusive policies, economic incentives, and enhanced communication strategies. Additional recommendations include integrating universal design principles into sports facilities, establishing support networks and fostering a cultural shift in societal perceptions of disability. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO (CRD42024544589).
The Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS) is a widely used self-report measure of subjective well-being, but studies of its measurement invariance across a large number of nations remain limited. Here, we utilised the Body Image in Nature (BINS) dataset–with data collected between 2020 and 2022 –to assess measurement invariance of the SWLS across 65 nations, 40 languages, gender identities, and age groups (N = 56,968). All participants completed the SWLS under largely uniform conditions. Multi-group confirmatory factor analysis indicated that configural and metric invariance was upheld across all nations, languages, gender identities, and age groups, suggesting that the unidimensional SWLS model has universal applicability. Full scalar invariance was achieved across gender identities and age groups. Based on alignment optimisation methods, partial scalar invariance was achieved across all but three national groups and across all languages represented in the BINS. There were large differences in latent SWLS means across nations and languages, but negligible-to-small differences across gender identities and age groups. Across nations, greater life satisfaction was significantly associated with greater financial security and being in a committed relationship or married. The results of this study suggest that the SWLS largely assesses a common unidimensional construct of life satisfaction irrespective of respondent characteristics (i.e., national group, gender identities, and age group) or survey presentation (i.e., survey language). This has important implications for the assessment of life satisfaction across nations and provides information that will be useful for practitioners aiming to promote subjective well-being internationally.
This systematic review presents a critical analysis of advanced machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) approaches for predicting the remaining useful life (RUL) of electric vehicle (EV) batteries. Conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and using a novel adaptation of the Downs and Black (D&B) scale, this study evaluates 89 research papers and provides insights into the evolving landscape of RUL estimation. Our analysis reveals an evolving landscape of methodological approaches, with different techniques showing distinct capabilities in capturing complex degradation patterns in EV batteries. While recent years have seen increased adoption of DL methods, the effectiveness of different approaches varies significantly based on application context and data characteristics. However, we also uncover critical challenges, including a lack of standardized evaluation metrics, prevalent overfitting problems, and limited dataset sizes, that hinder the field’s progress. To address these, we propose a comprehensive set of evaluation metrics and emphasize the need for larger and more diverse datasets. The review introduces an innovative clustering approach that provides a nuanced understanding of research trends and methodological gaps. In addition, we discuss the ethical implications of DL in RUL estimation, addressing concerns about privacy and algorithmic bias. By synthesizing current knowledge, identifying key research directions, and suggesting methodological improvements, this review serves as a central guide for researchers and practitioners in the rapidly evolving field of EV battery management. It not only contributes to the advancement of RUL estimation techniques but also sets a new standard for conducting systematic reviews in technology-driven fields, paving the way for more sustainable and efficient EV technologies.
Background Self‐compassion is an essential component of self‐care. Recognizing it as a nursing diagnosis can promote interventions to address Inadequate Self‐Compassion. Aim This study aims to clinically validate the new NANDA‐I diagnosis (00325) Inadequate Self‐Compassion. Methodology A mixed‐methods study was conducted, combining quantitative and qualitative methods. A descriptive, cross‐sectional, and prospective study was planned. Participants: We used the Self‐Compassion Scale (SCS) to identify individuals with Inadequate Self‐Compassion among nursing students. Subsequently, we conducted a group interview with these individuals, stratified by academic year of the nursing degree. Results The group interview followed the structure of the new NANDA‐I diagnosis, with diagnostic items serving as variables for analyzing qualitative data. The study revealed that nursing students commonly experience Inadequate Self‐Compassion. Group interviews with participants who reported low self‐compassion validated the diagnostic items of the new Inadequate Self‐Compassion diagnosis. Conclusion The study validates the new NANDA‐I diagnosis of 00325 Inadequate Self‐Compassion clinically. Implications for nursing practice The present study raises the level of diagnostic evidence from level 2.1. Conceptual validity to level 2.3.1a. Qualitative validity, increasing the strength of the evidence for diagnostic validity.
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885 members
Ruben Perez-Elvira
  • Facultad de Psicología
Fermín J. González-Melado
  • Practical Theology
Vidal Alonso
  • Departamento de Ingeniería Informática (Escuela Superior de Ingeniería y Arquitectura)
Montserrat Mateos-Sánchez
  • Facultad de Informática
A. Fermoso García
  • Facultad de Informática
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Salamanca, Spain