bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping OHDSI OMOP Common Data Model and GA4GH Phenopackets for COVID-19 disease epidemics and analytics
Authors: Queralt-Rosinach Núria , Moreno Pablo Alarcón , Callahan Tiffany , Delussu Giovanni , Fraboulet Charlotte , Jacobsen Jules O. B. , Castro Leyla Jael , Kaliyaperumal Rajaram , Kulmanov Maxat , Robinson Peter , Satagopam Venkata , Siapos Anastasios , Touré Vasundra , Welter Danielle
Published: November 2022

The COVID-19 crisis demonstrates a critical requirement for rapid and efficient sharing of data to facilitate the global response to this and future pandemics. Our project aims are to enhance interoperability between health and research data by mapping Phenopackets and OMOP schemas, and representing COVID-19 metadata using the FAIR principles to enable discovery, integration and analysis of genotypic and phenotypic data. Here, we present our outcomes after one week of BioHacking together 17 participants (10 new to the project), from different countries (CH, US and in EU), and continents.
Ling-Gui-Zhu-Gan Decoction Alleviates Cognitive Deficits in Alzheimer’s Disease by Activating the Nuclear Factor-Erythroid Factor 2-Related Factor 2/The Antioxidant Responsive Element Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Jingyuan , Yang Dongqing , Zhao Juan , Ling Yun , Zhou Chunxiang
Published: November 2022

Alzheimer’s disease is a common neurodegenerative disorder. Ling-Gui-Zhu-Gan decoction has anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and immune-regulating effects and is a representative agent for strengthening the spleen and promoting water retention. The present study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanism of Ling-Gui-Zhu-Gan decoction in alleviating Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease in vitro and in vivo models were constructed by exposing SH-SY5Y cells to β-amyloid 1-42 and injecting β-amyloid 1-42 into Sprague-Dawley rats, respectively. The Morris water maze test was used to assess cognitive decline in rats. Cell counting kit-8, flow cytometry analysis, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were conducted to determine cell viability, apoptosis, and inflammation. β-amyloid 1-42 treatment induced SH-SY5Y cell apoptosis, evoked inflammation response and oxidative stress while hindering cell proliferation. Ling-Gui-Zhu-Gan decoction antagonized the effect of β-amyloid 1-42 on SH-SY5Y cells by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/antioxidant response element signaling pathway. In addition, Ling-Gui-Zhu-Gan decoction improved memory and learning abilities and alleviated neuropathologic lesions, inflammation response, and neurotoxicity in Alzheimer’s disease rats in a dose-dependent manner by upregulating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/antioxidant response element pathway. The Ling-Gui-Zhu-Gan decoction improved the spatial learning and memory ability of Alzheimer’s disease rats by upregulating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/antioxidant response element signaling pathway to counteract the imbalance in the body’s oxidative stress levels and the damage caused by neuroinflammation.
Coptisine Reduces the Progression of Cervical Cancer Through Induction of Autophagy
Authors: Zhao Yaping , Gao Xia
Published: November 2022

The regulatory role of coptisine on autophagy in cervical cancer cells (in HcerEpic, HeLa, and SiHa) was examined by assessment of cell viability, colony formation, and apoptosis. Coptisine, in a dose-dependent fashion, significantly inhibited cervical cancer cell viability as measured by cell proliferation, transwell, and TUNEL assays. Coptisine inhibited the levels of p62 and Bcl-2, whilst it promoted the accumulation of Atg5, LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ and Bax. These data taken together suggest that coptisine inhibits the progression of cervical cancer cells by enhancing autophagy through suppression of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. This represents a theoretical foundation for developing novel cervical cancer treatments.
Ligustilide Attenuates Intracerebral Hemorrhage-Induced Cardiac Damage via Nuclear Factor-Kappa B and Nuclear-Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 Pathways
Authors: Dai Chuanyang , Wu Guofeng
Published: November 2022

Ligustilide is a bioactive component of the traditional Chinese herb Angelica sinensis that exhibits analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, neuroprotection, and anti-atherosclerosis pharmacological activities. Herein, the role of ligustilide in intracerebral hemorrhage-induced cardiac damage has been assessed. An autologous blood injection was used to induce intracerebral hemorrhage in CD-1 mice that resulted in an increase in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Intraperitoneal administration of ligustilide reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure, decreased plasma levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline in mice with intracerebral hemorrhage. Also, cardiac injury was observed in mice with intracerebral hemorrhage, as demonstrated by the upregulation of creatine kinase-MB, lactic dehydrogenase, and aspartate transaminase. Moreover, Picrosirius red staining showed cardiac fibrosis in intracerebral hemorrhage mice that was attenuated by ligustilide. Lastly, ligustilide reduced levels of interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and reactive oxygen species in mice with intracerebral hemorrhage. Cardiac apoptosis in mice with intracerebral hemorrhage was also inhibited by ligustilide, as shown by reduced protein expression of phospho-p65, enhanced nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, and heme oxygenase-1 expression.
6-(Methylsulfinyl) Hexyl Isothiocyanate from Wasabia Japonica for Inflammatory Diseases and Carcinogenesis
Authors: Lin Chih-Hung , Tseng Han-Fang , Lee Chang-Ti , Kuo Chan-Yen
Published: November 2022

6-MSITC (Methylsulfinyl hexyl isothiocyanate) is a bioactive compound found in wasabi that contains anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and antioxidative properties. In this article, we summarize and discuss the current studies on the role of 6-MSITC on inflammatory diseases and carcinogenesis.
FACTOR STRUCTURE FOR PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT AND MOTOR ABILITY OF 9-12-YEAR-OLD MALES TAEKWON-DO ITF ATHLETES
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Neykov Svilen , Ilieva-Sinigerova Silvia ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
Published: November 2022

Taekwon-do requires explosive strength, flexibility, and balance. The problem of defining factor structures and identifying the major factors for physical development and motor ability is of particular importance for the training process. The aim of the present study was to optimize the major factors of physical development and motor ability of 9–12-year-old males Taekwon-Do ITF athletes. Methodology: The study was carried out in March – May 2019. The research was aimed at studying the major indicators of physical development and motor ability of 9–12-year-old males. It was done among 99 Taekwon-Do athletes (n=99, 10.58 ± 1.13 years, 148.06 ± 11.06 cm, 42.77 ± 11.61 kg) from 9 local Taekwon-do clubs in Bulgaria. Athletes were tested along 16 indicators of physical development and 12 indicators of motor ability. Results: There were 3 factors that explained a total of 89.48% of the initial variance in physical development in males of this age. The test battery contained 16 indicators for testing physical development and after performing the factor analysis, the number was optimized to 3. There were 4 factors that explained a total of 69.15 % of the initial variance in motor ability in males of this age. The test battery contained 12 indicators for testing motor ability and after performing the factor analysis, the number was optimized to 4. Conclusion: Optimizing and reducing the number of factors for physical development and motor ability at the age of 9-12 years would improve the training process in taekwondo sports. In this way, coaches’ efforts would be able to target the highest factor weight indicators that would be most affected by the training load applied. Optimizing factors to control athletic achievement would improve athletic performance.
CRITERIA FOR SWITCHING TO INDIVIDUAL TRAINING SESSIONS IN CHESS
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Dimitrova Leyla , Petkova Veneta ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
Published: November 2022

The aim of this research was to establish clear criteria for the readiness of 10-14-year-old chess players to switch from group to individual training sessions and consequently to achieve a higher level in their chess preparation. We assumed that the purposeful application of certain criteria in the educational-training process would lead to selecting players with the necessary actual and potential possibilities to switch to an individual training plan. To analyze the range of sports parameters accelerating young chess players’ progress, we obtained the opinion of 42 leading chess specialists. They were asked to range the suggested eight criteria for switching from group to individual training plan according to their importance: 1. player’s chess rating. 2. results in National tournaments. 3. results in FIDE-rated Open tournaments. 4. efficiency in assignments for self-practice. 5. playing custom positions against Stockfish 14.1. chess engine. 6. results in in-club training tournaments. 7. regular participation in the educational-training process. 8. rating dynamics over the last six months. The results showed that most chess players consider criterion 1 as the most informative, followed by the competencies along criteria 7 and 4. The specialists were not unanimous about the exact arrangement of the leading three indicators. However, they did not attach any importance to criteria 5 and 6.
STUDY OF COORDINATION ABILITIES AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO ANTICIPATION IN ATHLETES
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Varbanov Ilia , Brestnichki Georgi ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
Published: November 2022

Coordination abilities are a set of human properties manifested in the training process and in competitive activity, which determines the success in the management of motor actions of different coordination levels (Lyach, 2002). According to Anochin (1979), an anticipation is a particular form of “overtaking reflection”, in which the image of the result of the action of its actual appearance (occurrence) is formed in the mind of man. Based on this statement, we will try to improve the performance of athletes. Improving the results by choosing the right action according to the feedback received after the first attempt and focusing attention and actions on rational and pragmatic implementation, which we expect to improve results and reduce repetitions in the study of new actions. In our view, a way to achieve this goal would be through work to improve the anticipation capabilities of athletes. The problem of anticipation in sports games is of utmost importance for achieving victory in the completion between offender and defender. Coordination of movements is related to coordination with objects, people, animals, and machines, the behavior and movement of which are often unpredictable (Videv, 2015). In turn, anticipation produces skill-actions (respectively, counteractions) that are confidently carried out within a fraction of a second, called “improvisation”, which is significantly increased by targeted multi-year preparation from childhood (7-8 years). Based on everything so far mentioned, we decided to test the coordination abilities of athletes and, at the same time, see how they would act in subsequent situations similar to the previous one to improve their performance by applying their anticipation skills. Our results point to our assertion that creating an image of your work and bringing anticipation actions into the implementation of performance, in this case, the implementation of various coordination exercises, would improve the performance of athletes.
ANALYSIS OF THE TECHNICAL ACTIONS OF WRESTLING COMPETITORS, EUROPEAN CHAMPIONS FROM WARSAW - POLAND 2021
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Iliev Iliya , Borisova Boryana ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT The effectiveness of a given technique is the most expedient way to achieve high athletic performance. The technique is defined as a relatively indivisible and integral expression of sports training, which is characterized by specific quantitative and qualitative characteristics for the rationality and content of the movement. The study aimed to determine and analyze the technical actions of the champions, as well as their basic crown holds, grips, and movements (in contact and from a distance) on the mat of the European Wrestling Championships for Women, Warsaw - Poland 2021 in the categories 50 kg, 53 kg, and 76 kg. Methods: 3 female athletes were analyzed in the study. Their ages ranged from 28 to 31 years, and the average age of the studied group was 29 years. The sports career of the female athletes lasted 22 years (± 3 years). Video analyses by category were performed using the Internet platforms YouTube and UWW of female athletes to analyze the technical actions. In the results obtained, a basic crown holds, grips and movements (in contact and from a distance) on the mat were revealed that would be useful to freestyle wrestling professionals.
STUDY OF STRENGTH TRAINING IN FEMALE 400 m SPRINT EVENT IN AGE ASPECT
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Dimova Iva
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT Studying the different aspects of 400 m sports preparation is a key factor for the proper development of sports results. Strength training is one of the main pillars of sprint running. The object of the study is sports training of athletes in the 400 m sprint, and in particular strength training. The subject is the content and volume of the annual preparation for different age groups. We used the following methods: sports-pedagogical and technical-tactical analysis of athletes; interviews with coaches and athletes; Case-study analysis; Mathematical and statistical methods. A total of 58 macrocycles were analyzed: 16 macrocycles for under 18 years, 20 macrocycles for under 20 years, 22 macrocycles for women. We made a classification of the used exercises according to the main factors of sports achievement. We found a difference in the variety of exercises applied for different age groups. Girls under 18 years have a larger set of auxiliary exercises for strength training compared to women who have less variety but increased tonnage in weight training. We established minimum, maximum and average volume values of the various means in macro-, meso- and microcycles, according to age groups. In conclusion, we can note the lack of current scientific and methodological developments related to the selection and application of a specific volume of different means during stages of sports preparation, motivated us to bring out our study and represent relevant information for the volume and diversity of used athletic means. The dynamic development of track and field preparation has to constantly update, change and improve. The study of preparation variations that are known to be successful and efficient brings valuable theoretical information that can be used in the future. Systematization of data from the practice and indication of the basic volumetric parameters of training means for strength training in the 400 m run, will help for more purposeful preparation.
EFFECTS OF ROWING TRAINING PROTOCOLS ON SINGLE-HANDED DINGHY SAILORS
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Bahchevanski Stoyan
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of rowing training protocols on general physical preparation of single-handed dinghy sailors from Bulgaria. The sample of this study consisted of twenty-four Bulgarian sailors who participated in the 2021 Bulgarian National Sailing Championships. There are 10 Laser sailors, 6 Laser Radial sailors, and 8 Finn sailors aged 21.5±3. During the preparation period, all the athletes performed 5 sessions weekly, each session (50-60 min) and one short burst session for 8 weeks of functional training with a focus on general physical preparation - training on general endurance. The overall physical fitness was evaluated with a test battery including Anthropometry, Flexibility test (sit-and-reach), Power test (vertical jump), Strength tests (back squat and bench press), Strength endurance test (pull-up), Anaerobic capacity (40-second sprint test) and Aerobic capacity (4000 m test). It should be noted that all competitors improved their results in all the tests. The results showed that using Indoor Rowing Ergometer for functional training for eight weeks has a positive influence on general endurance for single-handed dinghy sailors. Compared with the pre-test, significant improvements were observed in the post-test in anaerobic capacity (40-second sprint test), aerobic capacity (4000 m test), and 4 min test, with p 0.05 performances in all studied sailors. This fact proved that the use of an Indoor Rowing Ergometer is suitable for increasing the level of athletes’ functional abilities.
MODIFICATION OF THE METHODOLOGY FOR INITIAL TRAINING IN ALPINE SKIING TECHNIQUE
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Zgurovski Krastyo , Simeonov Svetoslav ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Todorov Deyan ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT The present work, based on a dialogue between the methodological experience of leading training systems in initial skiing training, modern alpine ski equipment, data from balance studies in laboratory conditions, etc., gave us a reason to experiment with a new methodological approach to build initial alpine skiing skills. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a modified methodology for the formation of beginning alpine skiing skills in National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski” (NSA) snow sports courses. Tasks were set to conceptually follow the design as well as the subject and object of the study. Some of the methods used are pedagogical experiments and statistical measurements. The evaluation system is refined by deriving additional criteria to objectify the expert evaluation. In the pedagogical experiment with static reliability, the positively modified methodology of initial training in the alpine skiing technique was evaluated. In the new methodological approach, the alpine skiing skills coordinated with vertical movements are not taught. The presented results demonstrate the effectiveness of the modified training in terms of the acquisition of basic alpine skiing skills; adaptation to ski equipment, stance, balance, ski pointing and control, speed control, errors, etc.
STUDENTS‘ ASSESSMENT CRITERIA FOR THE COMPONENT EVALUATION FROM OTHER PARTICIPATIONS
Authors:   South-Western University “Neofit Rilski”,  Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria, Rumenov Yanko
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT By implementing the new system of physical ability assessment of students, the development and publication of books, dissertations, and scientific articles by some authors related to the assessment of sport-technical skills in a particular sport, the last of the three components of the evaluation of physical education and sport somehow remained in the background, while the importance of it in the formation of the grade in percentage is the same as that for the assessment of physical ability-25%. This report is concerned with this component: assessment of other participants, as we have formulated 5 criteria and indicators with a maximum of five points that students can receive for each one. We equate each point to 1%, i.e. 25% in total for the 5 criteria, which are one part of the three-component system for forming the grade. We approbated them in a natural practical environment, with 245 students from two schools participating in the study. The surveyed students were from grades from all three educational stages. At the beginning of the school year, the teachers were introduced to the developed criteria, and during the first school term, they expertly monitored the students‘ performance. At the end of the school term, when forming a termly assessment, pupils were assessed based on the criteria developed. Analyzing the results obtained for the criteria related to class work, activity, effort, and willingness during the lesson, we could observe that motivation to participate in class, willingness, and effort were shown by the classes of the primary stage. With each grade, especially in the high school stage, this desire and motivation, unfortunately, decreases, with most of them not showing the necessary activity in the lesson. Results for all criteria are presented in tabular and percentage terms, with specific implications for practice. The criteria outlined would make the assessment more objective and set and deserved. They will motivate students to exert more effort, be more active, participate in competitions and wear appropriate sports clothing in class.
CHANGES IN THE MANIFESTATION OF THE MOTOR ABILITY SPEED IN BOYS AT THE LOWER SECONDARY STAGE OF PRIMARY EDUCATION
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Nancheva Dilyana , Naydenova Korneliya ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT Tracking the changes and peculiarities in the manifestation of motor abilities in school age is one of the prerequisites that determine the effectiveness of the learning process. Effective learning, in turn, is a leading goal of modern education. In this sense, tracking and identifying peculiarities and changes in the manifestation of motor abilities is an enduring issue in the theory and practice of physical education. On the basis of the above, we set as the aim of the present study to identify the peculiarities in the manifestation of the motor ability speed in pupils at the lower secondary stage of primary education. In order to achieve this aim, we set ourselves the following tasks: 1. Reading about the problem in scientific sources. 2. Processing the results of the 30-meter-race test of the boys. 3. Revealing the impact peculiarities of the speed performance of schoolboys in the aspect of age. We fulfilled our study tasks by processing the achievements of the boys aged 10 - 14, who participated in the 30-meter-race test. We applied a variance and comparative statistical analysis which allowed us to specify the impact peculiarities of the motor ability in its age aspect. After processing and analyzing the results of the study, we found a lot of changes in the speed performance of 10-14 years old schoolboys. In this regard, it is significant to note the changes recorded within one school year, which had the appropriate level of reliability to allow us to formulate recommendations for the work of teachers of „Physical Education and Sport“.
CHANGES IN THE LEVEL AND TYPE OF STUDENTS’ PHYSICAL ACTIVITY BEFORE AND DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Boncheva Maria
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT The current study aims to reveal the changes in the levels of physical activity before and during COVID-19 pandemic among students in 8th to 12th grade. A total of 160 Bulgarian students took part in the study (98 girls – 60%; 62 boys – 40%), with an average age of 16 years. The following methods were used to achieve the set goals: scientific literature review, designing a questionnaire and statistical data analysis with the SPSS software. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used for the descriptive statistics, frequencies and revealing significant correlations and differences according to different factors of the subjects in the study. A structured questionnaire was created, which was distributed through the social networks. The obtained results allowed for revealing the main type of physical activity performed before and during the pandemic among the students. The most common physical activity before the pandemic period is the participation in the Physical Education and Sport classes with 51%, and during COVID-19 is the possibility to perform some physical exercises indoors at home – 65%. The study has revealed that after the alleviation of the restrictive measures, a large portion of the students would increase the time for sport and physical activity (54%).
INFLUENCE OF OLYMPIC WEIGHTLIFTING TRAINING ON MOTOR ABILITIES IN CHILDREN
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Panayotov Valentin , Yankova Neli ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT Introduction. One of the main goals of the Olympic weightlifting training process is to ensure a healthy motor training regime. Those activities are aimed at achieving tangible positive effects on the body, as well as providing adequate conditions for the physical development of trainees. Preparation under professional coaching in sports clubs guarantees the achievement of good sports performance. Methodology. The goal of this study is to identify the changes that occur in the physical performance of children (boys), under the influence of specialized training with the means of Olympic weightlifting. Eighteen (18) weightlifters aged 13 participated in the experiment. The study was conducted in two stages: the baseline data were collected in June 2020, and the final measurements were in June 2022. Results. Based on the results, we can conclude that the structured, specialized Olympic weightlifting training protocol positively affects explosive strength of lower limbs, speed, and flexibility in 13-year-old children. Discussion and conclusions. Habitual Olympic weightlifting training is not a very popular activity among children. It is generally considered risky and not appropriate for youngsters. However, our results painted a different picture, and based on them and our practical experience, in our opinion, if the methodology is properly modified, Olympic weightlifting is a powerful tool for the development of motor abilities in children.
SOME ASPECTS OF IN-PERSON AND ONLINE PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND SPORT
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Kostova Nadezhda
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT It is an indisputable fact that the Covid 19 pandemic at the beginning of 2020 negatively impacted the life and health of people and changed the social, public, and economic situation around the world. The education system was also strongly affected and suffered a great number of changes. The measures taken for social isolation lead to a general reorganization of the education process. The lessons in physical education and sport - a compulsory subject of students’ general education also had to be transformed in the emergency situation. The direct form of interaction between the teacher and the students during in-person lessons (the traditional style) had to be reorganized in an online form. Because of the specificity of the subject, namely the motor-cognitive activities of the students during the physical education and sports lessons, learning new knowledge and developing motor skills and habits in an online environment proved to be a great challenge both for students and teachers. Aim of the study: The aim of the present study is to reveal some basic aspects of in-person and online learning in the school subject of physical education and sport. Methods of the scientific study: The following methods for gathering empirical information were applied in the realization of the aim of the study – system approach, content approach, and SWOT analysis. Results of the study: A theoretical model was developed for the achievement of the aim of the study, specifying some aspects of face-to-face and online education. An attempt to compare and analyze the peculiarities of face-to-face and online education is made; the advantages and disadvantages of traditional and online classes in physical education and sports at secondary school are presented. Conclusions: The results from the present study can be used as a basis for future experimental work concerning traditional (in-person) and online education with a focus on the effectiveness of the learning process in physical education and sport and its strategic optimization.
THE FORMATIVE ROLE OF ACTIVE SPORTS ACTIVITY FOR THE MORAL STATUS OF ADOLESCENTS
Authors:   Tracian University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, Zheleva-Terzieva Donka
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT The general goal of family and educational environment is to prepare the rising generation for public practice by gaining social experience and building a moral culture of behavior. Although they are different, both institutions are responsible for the upbringing of children. Part of the extracurricular work in physical education and sport are also sports activities organized and conducted by sports clubs in a certain type of sport. The article conducts a study on the impact of training and sports competition activities on the formation of morally responsible behavior in adolescent football players. Certain indicators are derived from each criterion being analyzed in order to determine the moral status of the contestants. The methods of pedagogical research discourse, inquiry, and expert evaluation, applied to two age groups (total respondents – 280 competitors, 22 coaches, 18 referees, and 4 football delegates) during the football championship 7 of the 2021/22 sports competition year in Stara Zagora region. The opinion of the coaches and delegates, the actions of the referees regarding disciplinary control, the behavior of the players before the start, during, and after the end of football matches, numbering 300, have been examined. The statistical methods for processing empirical data for the purpose of analyzing and presenting the results of the study are variational, cor-relational, comparative, and descriptive analyses, Van der Waerden test, and processing of textual information from matches played. The results obtained found positive and statistically analyzed changes in the behavior of the contestants according to the criteria and indicators studied and prove the formative impact of active sports activity on the moral culture of the personality. The inquiry analysis carried out by place of residence shows that the research effect on the behavior of contestants has greater values for those living in larger cities.
MODERN PRACTICE AND METHODS FOR INTEGRATION THROUGH GOLF
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Yordanov Sasho , Yordanov Petyr ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Zdravkov Ivaylo ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT Summary: Introduction: Modern developed and civilized society is based on the principles of democracy, humanism, and pluralism. In his social center stands the person - the person with individual rights, duties, and responsibilities. People are born different, unique, with individual desires, opportunities, dreams, and interests, but with equal rights in society. Equality and the absence of any discrimination is a fundamental principle in advanced civil societies and social systems. Methodology: In the research process, we have applied: informational research, document analysis, and historical analysis, conclusions, based on personal experience, monitoring, synthesis, and theoretical analysis. Results: Based on this pilot study have been created practical recommendation for integration through golf. Discussion: The results obtained suggest that golf can successfully enhance integration processes in society, as well as improve the social inclusion of all social groups at risk. Golf has immense potential for combating youth unemployment, provoking and developing the various social knowledge, skills, and competences that everyone needs, regardless of their social status, gender, race, or ethnicity. Conclusion: It is of the utmost importance for society to continue to work on the topic by promoting and guaranteeing greater impact on problems and solutions in this area, promoting good practices for integration and social inclusion.
IMPACT OF DISTANCE LEARNING IN AN ONLINE ENVIRONMENT ON PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE IN HIGH SCHOOL BOYS
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Simeonova Daniela , Shalev Andrey ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT One of the tasks of physical education in the different grades of the Bulgarian school is the purposeful development of motor skills and achieving an optimal level of physical activity for every age group. The COVID-19 pandemic forced a change in the way students are taught and the conduct of their physical education classes. In this regard, the aim of our research is to reveal the impact of one year of training in an online environment on the physical fitness of high school students. To achieve this goal, we conducted our research twice (at the beginning and end of the 2021/2022 school year) and tested 39 students (boys) from the “Peter Beron” high school for foreign language teaching - the city of Montana. We conducted the research through the national system for evaluating the physical fitness of students, which includes the tests of running 30 meters, long jump from a place with both feet, throwing a solid ball, running 200 meters shuttle run, and T-test. We applied a variation and comparative analysis to the data from the two tests. Results showed a positive change in the following tests: throwing a solid ball, long jump from a place with both feet, and the 200m shuttle run. In the other two tests, there was no improvement in results.
INTERDISCIPLINARY TRAINING METHODOLOGY IMPACT ON MOTOR QUALITIES OF SCHOOL BOYS
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Borisov Lyubomir
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT The interdisciplinary approach encourages students to put into practice the new knowledge and skills they have acquired in the course of their education in different school subjects. It helps them develop abilities to find content and functional connections between processes and phenomena studied in different school disciplines. The present study aimed to establish the effect of the interdisciplinary methodology applied in the subject of Physical Education and Sport on the development of motor skills of boys in the second grade at primary school. The object of the study was the level of improvement of the motor skills of school boys in the second grade. The experimental group included 8 boys from the Primary School “Otez Paisii” in the town of Knezha, Bulgaria, where the new interdisciplinary methodology was implemented. The control group using the traditional education methods included 14 boys from the 120 Primary School “G.S. Rakovski” in Sofia, Bulgaria. The experimental methodology was applied for a period of two school years. The students were tested twice in this period; the first was in September 2020, and the second was in May 2022. The interdisciplinary methodology was specially developed to involve several school subjects – Physical Education and Sport, Bulgarian Language and Literature, Mathematics, English Language, Man and Society, and Man and Nature. The compulsory course program in Physical Education and Sport contains adapted educational content from the other school subjects, grounded on meaningful connections with them. The following tests were used to evaluate the students’ motor skills: 30-meter run, standing long jump (with a two-footed take-off), throwing a solid ball - 1 kg, 200-meter shuttle run, Т-test, sit-ups, depth of bending, and frequency of knocking. After processing the acquired test results, it was established that the methodology used for interdisciplinary education in Physical Education and Sport was very efficient in developing the motor skills of ten-year-old boys.
TRENDS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF GENERAL PHYSICAL TRAINING IN 14-16 YEARS OLD STUDENTS
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Zlatev Boyan , Andonov Hristo ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Andonov Stoyan ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT Introduction: The motor abilities of a person are realized in certain movements, which are distinguished by their quantitative and qualitative characteristics. Sports development from childhood to adulthood depends on the rational combination of the main aspects of sports training: physical, sports-technical, and psychological training. The aim of the study is to determine the level of general physical training in 14-16-year-old students and to identify some trends in the development of adolescents in 21 high school “Hristo Botev”. Material and methods: Information research, sports-pedagogical testing, mathematical-statistical methods, analysis, and synthesis. Results: A total of 135 boys and girls aged between 14 and 16 from 21 „Hristo Botev“ high school of Sofia were examined. Of these, 75 are boys and 60 are girls. In both sexes, the mean values and the variability of the results were determined. Conclusions: It was found that with increasing age, the explosive power of the lower extremities improves significantly. Confirmation of this are the results of the test “Jump length from a place”. On the other hand, we have a large variation in the strength capabilities of the lower and upper limbs of the studied students.
THE MAIN RISKS AND THREATS RELATED TO THE ORGANIZATION AND CONDUCT OF SPORTING EVENTS
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Zdravkov Ivaylo , Dochevska Yoanna ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT Since ancient times, the sport has been a symbol of peace, unity, and strength of the human spirit and physical endurance. Sport is an essential component of the life of modern societies. Major sporting events attract the interest of many people from all over the world. This report analyses the main risks and threats related to the organization and conduct of sporting events. The sports incidents are of different natures and could be caused by different factors - bloody terrorist attacks against sportsmen and the public, violence caused by hooligans, or casualties caused by construction demolition or similar incidents. How one prepares, responds, and recovers to mitigate the consequences of emergencies at sports events is a matter of how one prepares, responds, and recovers. Sport managers need to be aware of risk assessment methodologies to detect threats, identify vulnerabilities, and reduce consequences. Information gathered through this process is extremely valuable for enhancing security measures.
NEW TREND IN COMPETENCE FRAMEWORK FOR SPORTS MANAGERS
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Pirina Maria Grazia
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT To achieve the objectives of empowering female sports managers through an up-skill process related to marketing, communication, & visibility strategies, Germany & Italy realized comprehensive research about the current needs of sports managers in communication/ marketing skills. This study aims to determine the profiles of the sports managers in each country and their level of sport management competencies. The descriptive-comparative research design, & descriptive statistics were used, such as mean, mode, standard deviation, & frequency count, in describing the respondents’ profiles. In contrast, a t-test was used to compare the level of competencies of sports managers in each country by sex and One-Way ANOVA for age group, the number of years of experience, & their educational level. Intensive training learning was emphasized in developing the sports management competencies of female sports managers in Germany & Italy. Based on the data for Germany, it was found that there aren’t significant differences between different genders in Germany in the 25 sections making up the questionnaire. It can be noted that there was greater importance to sections on marketing, legal foundation, risk management, & conflict management. Barriers preventing bigger benefits were also identified. For Italy, there are no big differences between males & females. Females attach lesser importance to financial management, human resources, time management, & decision-making. The study reveals intensive training through non-formal education is an effective intervention program to enhance the sports management competencies of female sports managers. Trainers delivering projects in Germany & Italy have paramount importance in developing & improving the management competencies of female sports managers. The methodology should be continuously used as a new strategy to advance the competencies of female sports managers to attract more financial resources & to improve the visibility of female teams.
STUDY OF VIOLENCE AMONG BASKETBALL FANS IN BULGARIA
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Draganov Georgi , Sandanski Ivan ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Slavchev Ivan ,   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT Basketball in Bulgaria has the image of an “intellectual” sport. The lack of serious incidents of violence among fans in the National Championship is the reason for the absence of a definition of the phenomenon as an important issue on the political agenda of the institutions. However, there are some cases of violence caused by “migrating” football fans in basketball. The main objective of the empirical study was to identify the main factors and causes of aggressive and violent behavior during the national championship games. A structured thematic survey among 704 basketball fans from nine of the top basketball teams was conducted. The main criterion for respondent selection in the survey sample is he or she has attended at least 30 percent of the home games of the team they support. Among the leading reasons for visiting basketball games of the favorite team stand out: meeting the needs of leisure and entertainment (66%), the love of basketball (56%), building up and maintaining social relationships with friends (45%), the attractive team play (41%). As it becomes clear, visits to basketball games are dictated by social and cultural reasons (mostly value- and consumer orientated). Typical for basketball fans in Bulgaria is their interest mainly in team sports, as only 56% attend basketball games. Leading causes for the manifestation of aggressive/ violent behavior on behalf of the fans most often are sought in external factors such as referees’ decisions (68%); provocations by rival fans (51%) and excessive alcohol use (45%). The identified causes fall among the group of situational, related to the specific context of the match, and not related to structural, political or cultural-determining factors. Main participants and a reason for aggressive behavior are not always the traditional audience, but often this is due to parents of adolescent athletes, coaches, and players of certain teams. The study also provides practical guidelines for policy interventions.
THE OLYMPIC FLAME THROUGH BULGARIA – 1936
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Vitanova Emiliya
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT The topic of this report is related to introducing information about the Olympic flame’s passing through Bulgaria in 1936. Our country takes a significant place in the development of the international Olympic movement. Since it participated in the first modern Olympic Games, our country has persisted in establishing the Olympic values in society through the gymnastics movement, the Bulgarian Olympic Committee activities, and other prominent sports people’s activities. An important feature related to Bulgarian sport’s involvement in the Olympic idea and the Olympic movement was our active participation in organizing the first carrying of the Olympic flame. This study aims to reveal new information on the topic. The research encompasses several major areas for collecting information – foreign literary sources research (13 sources); a survey of all publications by Bulgarian researchers-historians in the field of sport and the Olympic movement in Bulgaria (11 sources); a review of all preserved Bulgarian periodicals since 1936 (74 articles found), review of the „Olympia Zeitung“since 1936 (8 articles found) and review of Greek newspapers since 1936 (4 articles found). Methodologically, all the information found in scientific or popular publications was systematized by using content analysis, comparative analysis, and critical analysis. The keywords used to search for information on the topic were: Olympic Flame, Olympic Flame Torch, Olympic Games 1936, and Olympic symbols. For the aim of the research we used data retrieved from Journal of Olympic History, Journal of the History of Sport, International Olympic Academy, Olympic Review, www.academia.edu, as well as books and publications pre-served in the historical archive of National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, the Central National Archive, the Regional archives, and the regional history museums in the towns where the Olympic flame went through. In the unfavorable material and economic conditions in the 1930s our country created an excellent organization and turned this event into one of the most important social-cultural phenomena, which influenced the new perception about the role and significance of the Olympic Games and amateur sport.
ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF LUMBAR SPINAL MANIPULATION IN PATIENTS WITH MECHANICAL LOW BACK PAIN
Authors:   National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Popov Nikolay
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT The article aims to evaluate the functional impact of manipulation/mobilization of the lumbar region in patients with mechanical low back pain (MLBP). The survey was conducted with 23 patients (12 male and 11 female) with subacute MLBP, mean age 42,8 (32-50 y.o.). They respond to the criterion for application of spinal mobilization techniques and have not been treated with any other kind of treatment by that time. The patients were assessed at the beginning of every treatment session with the Shober test and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) with a six-week follow-up. Every patient has four visits in the first two weeks and one final visit after six weeks. Methods. Techniques for high-velocity, low-amplitude spinal manipulation of the lumbar region were used to treat the patients. First rotations, then posterior-anterior glidings were assessed on every level and applied in the region of hypo mobility. Results. There has been significant improvement in the symptoms of MBP in 21 (91.30%). In the rest of them, there was no benefit from the lumbar manipulation, and they were treated with lower thoracic spine mobilization techniques. Maximum benefit has been recorded after the first and second treatment sessions. Most often, rotational mobility has been affected, and rotational mobilization has been of more benefit. Conclusion. The hypo mobility of the lumbar region is the main source for MBP in patients that meet the criterion for application of spinal manipulation. That is why we strongly recommend functional assessment and treatment of the lumbar segmental mobility in every case of MBP with impact onto posterior-anterior thrust techniques.