bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MRI Brain Tumour Segmentation Using Multiscale Attention U-Net
Authors: Chen Bonian , He Tao , Wang Weizhuo , Han Yutong , Zhang Jianxin , Bobek Samo , Zabukovsek Simona Sternad
Published: October 2024

Focusing on the problems of failing to make full use of spatial context information and limited local receptive field when U-Net is utilized to solve MRI brain tumour segmentation, a novel 3D multi-scale attention U-Net method, i.e. MAU-Net, is proposed in this paper. Firstly, a Mixed Depth-wise Convolution (MDConv) module is introduced in the encoder and decoder, which leverages various convolution kernels to extract the multi-scale features of brain tumour images, and effectively strengthens the feature expression of the brain tumour lesion region in the up and down sampling. Secondly, a Context Pyramid Module (CPM) combining multi-scale and attention is embedded in the skip connection position to achieve the combination of local feature enhancement at multi-scale with global feature correlation. Finally, MAU-Net adopts Self-ensemble in the decoding process to achieve complementary detailed features of sampled brain tumour images at different scales, thereby further improving segmentation performance. Ablation and comparison experiment results on the publicly available BraTS 2019/2020 datasets well validate its effectiveness. It respectively achieves the Dice Similarity Coefficients (DSC) of 90.6%/90.2%, 82.7%/82.8%, and 77.9%/78.5% on the whole tumour (WT), tumour core (TC) and enhanced tumour (ET) segmentation. Additionally, on the BraTS 2021 training set, the DSC for WT, TC, and ET reached 93.7%, 93.2%, and 88.9%, respectively.
The methodological meaning of the concept of the culture of National Liberation
Authors: Subačius Paulius
Published: October 2024

The main task of this text is to prove two socio-cultural concepts: the culture of accumulation of the national and the culture of national liberation. These concepts are meant to define in all complexity the changes of rhetorical and ideological configurations of fictive literature and social communication of the XIX century in Lithuania. These theoretical constructions have developed after analysing the images of national identity in the Lithuanian poetical texts of the second half of the XIX century. The distinction between the culture of accumulation of the national and the culture of national liberation is presupposed by the opposition of static and dynamics - coming from different interpretations of the model - social reforms and authorities, and person and community. The proposed socio-cultural concepts allow a new systematization of cultural and psychological innovative metamorphoses of national idea, openness to nationalism, and the transformations it induced in the XIX century in Lithuania. The concepts are used to differentiate most general changes in culture, psychology, and awareness and, therefore, particular names or texts cannot be attributed to either. In the works of Antanas Baranauskas we can already find all the main elements of the culture of national liberation. Simonas Daukantas - in the structure discussed - must be seen as the one who carried out the maximal programme of accumulation of the national and the legitimation of the nation.
Z. Ivinskis: the first objective researcher of St. Casimir's life
Authors: Boruta Jonas
Published: October 2024

In the creative legacy of Z. Ivinskis we have a number of works dedicated to Casimir, Lithuania's saint of the 15th century. Apart from his monography "St. Casimir," published in New York in 1955, Z. Ivinskis had published four articles on this theme in the period 1953-58. How do these works of Z. Ivinskis differ from earlier writings dedicated to this theme? The first biography of St. Casimir was written by an Italian bishop, Zacharias Ferreri, already in the first decade of the 16th century. Later, authors—not excepting even the fairly critical and soberly-thinking famous bishop of Samogitia of the 19th century, Motiejus Valančius—merely repeated the poor information gathered by the first biographer. The Polish historian Fr. Papee evaluates the writings of Z. Ferreri and his followers as follows: "How nevertheless poor is the biography written by him! How a living historical personage in it is drowned in the fog of legendary asceticism!"
Z. Ivinskis was the first to use methods of critical modern hagiography to research the biography of St. Casimir and the cause of his canonization. He pointed out that St. Casimir was not only a strong-willed ascetic but also an educated and gifted young man of the Renaissance period who actively took part in the country's government and politics; he was a prince who on certain questions of political life had his views which not always concurred with the political line of the Roman pontiffs. Z. Ivinskis was the first to establish the fact that Pope Leo X had not written the bull that canonized Prince Casimir, and that in 1602 Clement VIII merely legalized his cult as saint. This in no way tarnished the halo of St. Casimir. On the contrary, the research of Z. Ivinskis (and later of P. Rabikauskas) reveals the personality of Prince Casimir as kindred in his ideas to famous Christian politicians of the 20th century, such as Charles de Gaulle, Robert Schuman, and Alcide de Gasperi. At the same time, it confirms the idea of the 2nd Vatican Council that all people, no matter what their duties or profession, are called to perfection and holiness, not excepting even politicians or rulers.
Replicative co-infections with human immunodeficiency virus 1 and 2 as well as hepatitis B and C virus in Ghanaian individuals
Authors: Glyschewski Lynn , Hahn Andreas , Rohde Holger , Lütgehetmann Marc , Feldt Torsten , Sarfo Fred Stephen , Phillips Richard Odame , Dompreh Albert , Asibey Shadrack Osei , Boateng Richard , Weinreich Felix , Frickmann Hagen , Eberhardt Kirsten Alexandra
Published: October 2024

Background

The study assessed replicative human immunodeficiency virus-(HIV-) infection and replicative co-infections as well as molecular determinants of reduced susceptibility towards anti-retroviral therapy in a Ghanaian population of known HIV patients and a control group.

Methods

Real-time PCRs for HIV-1, HIV-2, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) were run with serum samples from known Ghanaian HIV-patients (n = 975) and control individuals (n = 105). For 108 individuals, HIV-sequence analysis was performed.

Results

Prevalence of replicative HIV-1 infection was 59.8% (583/975) in the known HIV-positive population and 2.9% (3/105) in the controls. Prevalences of replicative HBV-infection were comparable with 3.4% (33/975) in the HIV-positive individuals and 3.8% (4/105) in the controls. HIV-2 and HCV sequences were not recorded. Almost perfect concordance between two compared HIV-1-PCR assays was indicated by Fleiss' Kappa >0.8. Sanger sequencing indicated CRF_02AG, G and A3 as the quantitatively dominating HIV-1 subtypes, a minority of 3.4% CXCR4 tropism and high detection rates of mutations mediating reduced susceptibility towards nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (71.9%, 64/89), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (95.5%, 85/89), protease inhibitors (95.9%, 93/97) and integrase inhibitors (22.4%, 22/98).

Conclusions

The assessment did not suggest HIV-triggered increased replication of HBV and HCV in the investigated Ghanaian population.
Longitudinal trait and state-like differences in the components model of addiction: An illustration through social media addiction and work addiction
Authors: Horváth Zsolt , Kun Bernadette , Király Orsolya , Paksi Borbála , Griffiths Mark D. , Demetrovics Zsolt
Published: October 2024

Background and aims

Conflicting findings have been reported for the longitudinal course of behavioral addictions, especially for social media addiction (SMA) and work addiction (WA). Therefore, evaluating whether these constructs are more trait-like or state-like might be informative. The aim of the present study was to examine the proportion of variance of SMA and WA symptoms (as defined by the components model of addiction) explained by trait and occasion-specific factors in addition to exploring cross-lagged relationships between SMA and WA.

Methods

Young adults from a representative sample who continuously used social media and worked at least 40 hours a week during the first three waves of the Budapest Longitudinal Study were included (N = 1,551; Females: 50.6%; Age: M = 27.7 years [SD = 4.40]). The Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale and the Bergen Work Addiction Scale were administered in all three waves.

Results

A latent state-trait model with a general trait factor was considered for both SMA and WA. Symptomatic variability in SMA was explained approximately equally by trait and state-like factors, while WA-related symptom variability was mostly attributed to state-like factors. SMA negatively predicted WA over time, while WA showed a positive cross-lagged effect on SMA.

Discussion and Conclusions

While the symptoms of WA were more state-like, the trait-like effects were stronger in SMA. Situational influences and previous symptom severities might have to be considered in the screening process.
The role of coach-athlete relationship on motivation and sports engagement
Authors: Longakit Jet , Toring-Aque Lyndie , Aque Jr. Felix , Sayson Minerva , Lobo Joseph
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. The relationship between coach and athlete may significantly influence an athlete's experience in sports. Elements such as closeness, commitment, and complementarity are key aspects of this relationship. The current study aimed to examine the association between motivation and athletes' engagement in sports, as mediated by the coach-athlete relationship. Material and Methods. A sample of 408 student-athletes from various universities in Iligan City participated in the study. They completed a set of questionnaires assessing motivation, the coach-athlete relationship, and athlete engagement. The participants were between 18 and 25 years old. The measures used in the study included the Coach-Athlete Relationship Questionnaire (CARTQ), the Sports Motivation Scale (SMS), and the Athletic Engagement Questionnaire (AEQ). Ethical approval was obtained from all participants. Results. The results showed that coach-athlete relationships were characterized by closeness, commitment, and complementarity. These relationships significantly mediated the link between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and athlete engagement in sports. Strong connections between coaches and athletes enhance the positive effect of motivation on engagement. This occurs by fulfilling athletes' psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Conversely, amotivation was negatively associated with engagement through the dimensions of the coach-athlete relationship. Athletes with high levels of amotivation are more likely to disengage. This highlights the need for coaches to foster a supportive environment that reduces negative motivational states. Conclusions. The evidence supports the utilization of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) to better understand the importance of relationship factors in enhancing motivation. This approach leads to long-term engagement in sports. These results offer a more comprehensive view of the delicate dynamics of the coach-athlete relationship and its consequences for motivation and athletic engagement in sports.
Mediating role of self-esteem on university students’ physical activity attitude and frequency
Authors: Pop Cristiana L. , Ciomag Rela V.
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. The health benefits of physical activity are well-known. Despite this, there is an ongoing decline in total physical activity (PA), especially among adolescents and young women. This decline points to the need to find more effective solutions. This study aimed to determine the relationship between physical activity and attitudes toward physical activity, and also between self-esteem body image (as subjective variables) and body mass index (as an objective variable).
Material and Methods. This cross-sectional study measured and investigated 152 female students from various faculties in their first and second years of study at the Bucharest University of Economic Studies. The research utilized direct anthropometrical measurements and several self-reported instruments. These included questionnaires on self-esteem body image, physical activity attitude, and a report on the frequency of physical activity. Self-esteem was assessed using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Body dissatisfaction was evaluated using the Contour Drawing Rating Scale.
Results. The mean Body Mass Index (BMI) value of 20.89 kg/m² indicates a healthy, normal BMI. The mean self-esteem score (31.48) falls within the normal range, but 60% of respondents could not match their actual body shape with their ideal or desired body image. 54% of respondents reported engaging in 30 minutes of physical activity, three times a week, outside the university program. As a result, the mean value of the attitude towards physical activity is slightly positive. 33% of young women's self-esteem is related to physical factors such as body image, frequency of physical activity, and attitude towards physical activity.
Conclusions. The study indicates that targeted physical education programs and consistent, independent physical activity can mitigate the challenges associated with the investigated variables. Moreover, self-esteem significantly mediates the relationship between body image and physical activity frequency, as well as students’ attitudes toward physical activity.
Gait performance changes after ten cervical retractions
Authors: Latour Ewa , Latour Emilia E. , Nowaszczuk Jakub , Arlet Jarosław , Zavatska Lidiya
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. Students are prone to spine overloading, as they often spend prolonged periods in unfavorable postures. They tend to struggle with balancing study time and leisure physical activity. The head and neck regions are particularly rich in proprioceptors. Prolonged forward head posture (protraction) can lead to balance disturbances. This, in turn, affects gait and overall body posture. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a series of corrective active head exercises on gait, a fundamental form of movement, in a group of healthy university students.
Material and Methods. Gait patterns were assessed in 10 healthy male full-time students with an average age of 22.8 years (SD = 1.1). The assessment was based on the regional distribution of plantar pressure across two measurement sessions. One session was conducted before, and one after performing 10 active head retractions. Gait changes were analyzed in ten foot regions for 200 steps of each participant.
Results. After 10 cervical retractions, a decrease in pressure, ground reaction force, contact time, and area values was observed in the 1st metatarsal head (1MTH). Conversely, an increase in these quantities was found in the toes. Additionally, there was a tendency toward a decrease in the contact area of the heel and 3rd metatarsal head (3MTH), along with increased contact time in the midfoot. Performing 10 neck retractions altered gait by inducing heel supination. It also increased hallux involvement in propulsion and widened the base of toe support.
Conclusions. Even a few movements that correct head protraction have an immediate effect on whole-body movement. This effect suggests potential benefits of incorporating neck retractions into physical education programs for students. Even when time-consuming forms of regular exercise are not feasible, performing just a few neck-correcting movements can positively impact overall body movement.
The effect of sports specific warm-up on lower and upper extremity visual response time in female athletes
Authors: Göğebakan Ramazan , Baştürk Dede , Arguz Abdullah , Bayraktar Yasemin , Erkmen Nurtekin , Say Selver
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. Response time is one of the important parameters affecting performance in sports. The aim of this study was to investigate the visual response time of the upper (hand) and lower (foot) extremities after a warm-up activity applied to female football and volleyball players.
Material and Methods. Eleven female football players and eleven volleyball players, aged 19.27 ± 1.93 years, with a height of 164.90 ± 8.07 cm, body weight of 57.00 ± 6.01 kg, and 6.40 ± 2.36 years of sports experience, participated in the study as volunteers. Visual response times for the upper and lower extremities were measured before and after the warm-up protocol. The warm-up began with static stretching exercises for 2 minutes. This was followed by aerobic jogging for 2.5 minutes at a heart rate of approximately 140 beats per minute. After that, activities involving dynamic joint mobility were performed for 5 minutes. Finally, a 2.5-minute, three-stage sport-specific warm-up was completed. In total, the warm-up protocol lasted 17 minutes.
Results. Volleyball players' upper extremity visual response time did not show significant differences before and after warm-up (Z = -1.561, p = 0.119). Significant differences were found in the upper extremity visual response time of football players before and after warm-up (t = 2.887, p = 0.016). No significant difference was found in the comparison of volleyball and football players' pre-warm-up (t = 1.905, p = 0.071) and post-warm-up (U = 43.000, p = 0.247) two-hand visual response times. A significant difference was found in the comparison of volleyball players' lower extremity visual response times before and after warm-up (Z = -2.674, p = 0.007). No significant difference was found in the comparison of lower extremity visual response times of football players before and after warm-up (t = 2.132, p = 0.059). A significant difference was determined in the comparison of lower extremity visual response times of volleyball and football players before warm-up (t = 3.307, p = 0.004) and after warm-up (U = 20.000, p = 0.008).
Conclusions. The findings highlight the importance of sport-specific warm-up protocols in preparing athletes for optimal performance. Implementing appropriate warm-up strategies can therefore be a key factor in maximizing athletic performance and maintaining long-term physical health in female athletes.
Exploring the physical activity levels of egyptian women with premenstrual syndrome: a preliminary study
Authors: A. Shehata Mai M. , Kamel Dalia M. , Helmy Nisreen A. , Gabr Amir A. , Mohamed Ali Shymaa , El-Shafei Manal A.
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects a significant proportion of women, impacting their daily lives and well-being. The association between physical activity levels, the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and the severity of PMS remains debatable. Therefore, this study aimed to identify physical activity levels among a cohort of Egyptian females with PMS.
Material and Methods. This study included one hundred females with PMS. Physical activity levels, anaerobic power, aerobic capacity, BMI, and dysmenorrhea were investigated. PMS severity was assessed using the Premenstrual Syndrome Scale (PMSS), and the females' physical activity was evaluated using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). The 1-mile submaximal test and the Running-Based Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST) were used to assess aerobic capacity and anaerobic power, respectively.
Results. The findings revealed a significant association between PMS severity and physical activity (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in aerobic capacity among those with mild, moderate, and severe PMS (p > 0.05). There was no significant association between PMS severity and marital status (p > 0.05), whereas there was a significant association with dysmenorrhea (p < 0.05), especially among moderate and severe PMS sufferers. Females with severe PMS had a significantly higher BMI than those with mild PMS (p < 0.05) and those with moderate PMS (p < 0.05). Mild and moderate PMS females showed no significant difference in BMI (p > 0.05).
Conclusions. It can be concluded that physical activity levels and BMI may affect PMS. Therefore, being physically active and maintaining a normal-range BMI might reduce PMS severity.
Comparative analysis of hand dynamometer measurements across different arm positions: implications for rehabilitation and functional assessment
Authors: Bari Mohd Arshad , Parrey Junaid Ahmad , Khan Abdul Qayyum , Ajhar Arish , Singh Shivani
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. Grip strength is a crucial measure of human physical capability, affecting activities from daily tasks to athletic performance. Variations in arm position during grip strength measurement may influence the results, which has significant implications for both rehabilitation and functional assessment. This study explores the impact of different arm positions on grip strength to enhance understanding of human biomechanics and inform rehabilitation and sports training practices.
Material and Methods. Forty right-handed male volunteers (mean age 18.27 ± 0.90 years) participated in the study. Grip strength was measured using a CAMRY Model: EH101 hand dynamometer. Measurements were taken across four arm positions: seated with elbow extension, 90-degree elbow flexion, 90-degree elbow flexion with pronation, and 90-degree elbow flexion with supination. Each position was tested three times. The highest recorded value for each position was used for analysis.
Results. The dominant right hand exhibited higher grip strength across all positions compared to the non-dominant left hand. Significant differences were noted, with the greatest grip strength in the extension position. Statistical analysis using paired t-tests indicated significant differences (p < 0.001) between the right and left hands across all positions. Pearson correlation coefficients highlighted strong relationships between different arm positions. Multiple linear regression analysis showed significant predictors of grip strength variability based on arm position, age, and BMI.
Conclusions. Arm position significantly influences grip strength performance, underscoring the importance of standardized positioning in ergonomics. Standardizing arm position can optimize performance and mitigate injury risks in activities requiring robust grip strength. These findings have practical implications for rehabilitation protocols, sports training programs, and ergonomic assessments. The results emphasize the need for consistency in grip strength evaluations to ensure accurate and reliable results.
The influence of sexual dimorphism on the manifestation of coordination abilities of volleyball players aged 15-17
Authors: Boichuk Roman , Iermakov Sergii , Vypasniak Igor , Nosko Mykola , Nosko Yuliya , Harkusha Sergii , Vaskan Ivan , Grashchenkova Zhanna , Ivanyshyn Iryna
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. Sexual dimorphism plays a crucial role in the design of training programs for athletes. Therefore, understanding the influence of sexual dimorphism on various abilities is essential for optimizing training regimens. The aim of this study is to determine the influence of sexual dimorphism on the manifestation of coordination abilities in young volleyball players aged 15–17.
Material and Methods. Volleyball players aged 15–17 years participated in the study (n=92, training experience – 5–7 years). Fifty of them were girls, and forty-two were boys. Motor tests were used to determine the level of coordination preparedness of the volleyball players. The study assessed kinesthetic differentiation, spatial orientation, reaction, coupling, binding of movements, and balance skills. Statistical data processing was carried out using Microsoft Excel and SPSS programs.
Results. For most of the compared indicators of coordination abilities, there was no significant difference between male and female volleyball players aged 15–17 (p>0.05). In the “Shuttle run with back forward” test, which determined the ability of volleyball players to quickly rebuild motor activity, boys outperformed girls by 5.6% (p<0.05). In the “Sprint test with the given rhythm”, boys significantly outperformed girls by 16.6% (p<0.001). However, control exercises that determined the relative indicators of the above qualities did not show a significant difference. No significant differences (p>0.05) were found in the indicators that characterized the subjects' ability to demonstrate balance in both groups. Girls outperformed boys by 4.2% in terms of sagittal displacement of the center of mass. Comparison of the magnitude of latent periods of simple and complex visual-motor reaction by groups did not reveal significant differences among boys and girls.
Conclusions. The results of the study indicate the need to implement targeted training programs to address and mitigate gender differences in coordination abilities among young volleyball players. These programs should focus on enhancing specific coordination skills. This approach ensures balanced development. Purposeful sports training can help overcome inherent physiological differences. By doing so, it leverages the benefits of tailored training to promote equality in athletic performance.
Validity and reliability of the physical fitness test instrument for retired martial art athletes
Authors: Nurhidayah Dewi , Prasetyo Yudik , Sutapa Panggung , Agung Nanda Fitri , Setya Mustafa Pinton , Astuti Dwi , Davry Nanda Kadun MT Alienra
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. Developing exercise programs to maintain the fitness and health of retired athletes is crucial as a preventive measure against common health problems in this population. Equally important is the creation of an exercise evaluation tool to assess the effectiveness of these programs. This study aims to test the validity and reliability of a physical fitness test instrument for retired martial arts athletes.
Material and Methods. This study used an evaluation approach with data collected through tests and measurements. A total of 147 subjects participated. For validity testing, there were 35 retired male martial arts athletes and 37 retired female athletes. For reliability testing, there were 36 retired male and 39 retired female martial arts athletes. The instruments used included body mass index (BMI) measurements with digital scales, flexibility measurements with the sit-and-reach test, muscle strength measurements with a leg and back dynamometer, and cardiovascular endurance measurements with the Cooper test. Validity was assessed using a concurrent validity approach. Reliability was tested using the test-retest method. The Pearson product-moment correlation was used for validity analysis, while Cronbach's alpha was used to assess reliability. The JASP software was used for the analysis.
Results. For male athletes, the r-values for each test item exceeded the r-table value of 0.275, confirming the validity of the body mass index (BMI), sit-and-reach test, leg and back dynamometers, and the Cooper test. Similarly, female athletes demonstrated r-values above the r-table value of 0.267, confirming the validity of all test items. The reliability of each item was confirmed by Cronbach’s alpha values, which were above the 0.7 threshold for both male and female athletes. The Cronbach's alpha value for BMI was 0.998 for both male and female athletes, indicating excellent reliability. Other test items, such as flexibility and muscle strength, also showed strong reliability, with Cronbach’s alpha values ranging from 0.742 to 0.985.
Conclusions. The study highlights the importance of developing valid and reliable instruments to assess the physical fitness of retired martial arts athletes. Such instruments are essential for monitoring the effectiveness of training programs aimed at maintaining the health and fitness of retired athletes. The findings of this research confirm the value of structured fitness tests. These tests effectively evaluate key physical components such as body composition, flexibility, muscle strength, and cardiovascular endurance.
The effectiveness of the physical education curriculum following the Sports Club model on the physical development of high school students in Vietnam
Authors: Tran Tu , Do Cuong , Ha Tien
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. The physical development of high school students is often hindered by the limitations of traditional physical education programs, which may not fully engage students or promote balanced physical growth. In light of these concerns, the need to explore alternative educational models that can enhance students' physical development has become evident. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the potential effectiveness of a physical education curriculum following the Sports Club model in improving the physical development of high school students.
Material and Methods. A total of 84 female 10th-grade students participated in the study. They were divided into two groups: an experimental group of 42 students following the Sports Club model and a control group of 42 students following the current physical education curriculum. The experiment lasted for 17 weeks. Both groups completed initial and final physical fitness tests. These tests included the 30-second sit-up test (to assess core strength), the 30-meter sprint test (to measure speed), the 4 × 10-meter shuttle run test (to evaluate agility), the standing long jump test (to measure explosive leg power), and the 5-minute running field test (to assess endurance).
Results. The female students in the experimental group demonstrated greater physical development compared to the control group in all five assessment tests. The experimental group showed the most significant improvement in the 30-second sit-up test, with a growth rate of 26.71%. The lowest growth was observed in the 5-minute running field test, at 9.92%. In contrast, the control group showed its highest improvement in the 30-second sit-up test, with a growth rate of 9.44%. However, there was minimal to no improvement in the 4 × 10-meter shuttle run and the 5-minute running field test for the control group.
Conclusions. The Sports Club model improved students' physical fitness more effectively compared to the current curriculum, offering greater benefits in all tested areas. It is recommended that teachers further integrate and refine the implementation of the Sports Club model in future physical education programs to enhance teaching effectiveness.
Attack efficiency in first league men’s volleyball for playing positions, according to the value level of the teams
Authors: Mocanu George Danut , Harabagiu Neculai , Parvu Carmen
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Purpose. The attack is a crucial technical element in scoring points in volleyball. This research aims to identify differences in attack efficiency and errors based on the value level of teams in the competitive system, considering different playing positions.
Material and Methods. The analysis included 86 attacking players from the rosters of 12 teams in the men’s domestic first league. The distribution by positions was as follows: 37 outside hitters, 19 opposites, and 30 middle blockers. Statisticians from each team recorded the data using Data Volley software during three championship matches. For each player, the following parameters were interpreted: Attack Efficiency (E%), Error% (=), Blocked Attack% (/), Poor% (-), Blocked but Recovered% (!), Positive% (+), and Winning% (#). Attack efficiency was analyzed for each playing position across top teams (positions 1-4 in the final ranking), mid-level teams (positions 5-8), and lower-level teams (positions 9-12).
Results. Across all three playing positions, top teams demonstrate higher percentages in attack efficiency, winning executions, and positive outcomes compared to average and lower-level teams. Top and average teams also have lower percentages of errors in attack executions. For the outside hitter position, no statistically significant superiority is observed between top and middle teams for any attack variable, indicating a balance in player performance. In the opposite hitter position, top and middle-level players show higher attack efficiency and direct point scores (Winning). They also have lower poor execution rates, despite the lack of statistical confirmation for superiority in many attack variables. Among all positions, top middle blockers exhibit a clear superiority over low-level teams across all attack variables.
Conclusions.  The findings of the study highlight the critical role of team value level in influencing attack efficiency and execution quality across different playing positions in volleyball. The results underscore the importance of strategic differentiation in training and game planning. This is especially crucial for teams aiming to optimize their performance. Coaches and trainers should focus on tailored approaches that address the specific strengths and weaknesses of each playing position. They should also consider the overall team value level in their strategies. This approach could lead to improved competitive outcomes and a more effective utilization of player potential across all levels of competition.
Analysis of the relationship between upper body speed capacity and lower body strength of elite handball players specialized in winger position
Authors: Mihaila Ion , Gavriloaia Răzvan - Andrei , Stancu Maura , Mihai Ilie , Manole Carmen , Acsinte Alexandru , Popescu Daniela - Corina
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. The physical demands of the winger position in elite handball require a unique combination of upper body speed and lower body strength. Therefore, identifying the optimal relationship between these two physical characteristics could improve performance for players in this role. This study aims to analyze the relationship between upper body speed capacity and lower body strength in elite handball players specializing in the winger position.
Material and Methods. The study included 16 elite handball players specializing in the winger position from various teams in the National Handball League (Liga Zimbrilor). Four of these players were members of the Dinamo Bucharest team. Tests for evaluating the explosive strength of the lower limbs included the Squat Jump (SJ), Counter Movement Jump (CMJ), Counter Movement Jump with Free Arms (CMJb), and the maximum strength test (1RM) in squats. Specific technical training tests included triangular movement, a 30-meter sprint, and long-distance handball throws, focusing on speed and execution technique. Data analysis was conducted using KyPlot 6.0 software. Statistical indicators included median, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, and non-parametric Spearman correlation tests. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Results. The results show no statistically significant differences in lower limb strength between high-performance handball players (HPHP) and those specialized in the winger position (PSW) across various jump and squat tests (p > 0.05). The Countermovement Jump (CMJ) test approached statistical significance (p = 0.084), while the CMJ with free arms (CMJb) and squat strength test did not show significant differences (p = 0.231 and p = 0.789, respectively). In the specific fitness tests, no significant differences were observed in the Triangle Movement test (p = 0.826), the 30-meter sprint (p = 0.404), or the handball throw test (p = 0.147). Correlation analysis indicated that squats and CMJb had positive correlations with improved performance in speed and distance tests, while CMJ showed a negative correlation with technical performance in agility tests.
Conclusions. The findings suggest that lower limb strength and technical fitness are similar between elite handball players, regardless of specialization. This supports a unified training approach across player roles. However, targeted exercises like squats and CMJb may enhance specific performance aspects. These exercises improve dynamic strength and stability, which can benefit wingers' technical execution and speed.
Enhancing respiratory function through Yoga and Pilates in women aged 45-50
Authors: Tyshchenko Valeria , Bosenko Anatolii , Kozak Yevhen , Denysovets Anatolii , Atamanyuk Svitlana , Veritov Oleksandr , Ruda Iryna
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. Respiratory function in women aged 45-50 often declines due to natural physiological changes associated with aging. These changes include reduced lung elasticity, decreased diaphragm efficiency, and a general reduction in physical activity. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of a combined yoga and Pilates program on respiratory function in women aged 45-50.
Material and Methods. The study involved 38 women with an average age of 47.7 ± 2.5 years. A pedagogical experiment was conducted over six months. The experimental group (n=19) participated in a training regimen focused on improving respiratory function through a combination of yoga and Pilates. The control group (n=19) followed a yoga-based training program. Both groups completed an equal number of sessions—72 in total. The external respiratory function of the participants was assessed using spirometry at two key points: at the beginning of the study and after six months.
Results. The comparison of respiratory function indicators between the experimental and control groups after 6 months of training revealed significant differences across most parameters. The actual value of Vital Capacity was significantly greater in the experimental group compared to the control group by 0.17 L (p < 0.01), forced vital capacity by 0.30 L (p < 0.01), forced expiratory volume by 0.19 L (p < 0.01), peak expiratory flow by 0.23 L/sec (p < 0.01), maximum expiratory flow at 25% of Forced Vital Capacity by 0.96 L/sec (p < 0.001), maximum expiratory flow at 50% of Forced Vital Capacity by 0.59 L/sec (p < 0.001), expiratory reserve volume by 0.47 L (p < 0.001), and maximal voluntary ventilation by 17.00 L/min (p < 0.001).
Conclusions. The combined Yoga and Pilates training regimen was more effective in improving external respiratory function than Yoga alone. This result highlights the benefits of an integrated approach to respiratory health for women aged 45-50. The study demonstrates the potential advantages of combining different types of exercise to counteract age-related declines in respiratory function. Such programs could play a significant role in promoting overall well-being in this age group.
The effects of hybrid physical activity program on various motor skills in primary school children
Authors: Bayburtlu Mehmet Batın , Genç Ayça , Ünal Fatma
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. Physical activity in children is fundamental to the development of motor skills. Despite its importance, physical activity programs do not fully address the needs of this age group. This study examined the effects of a hybrid physical activity program on specific motor skills in primary school children.
Material and Methods. A quantitative single-group pretest-posttest model was used in this study. The research group included 34 voluntary students, with 19 boys and 15 girls, all in the 3rd and 4th grades of primary school. Participants followed a hybrid physical activity program developed by the researcher. The program lasted for 8 weeks, with sessions conducted 3 days a week face-to-face and 4 days a week at home. Home sessions involved parental support through the Moodle system, using educational videos or visual games. Each session lasted one hour and was supervised by an expert trainer. Motor competence data were collected using the second version of the "Test of Gross Motor Development-2" (TGMD-2), known for its reliability and validity. The data were analyzed using the SPSS 26.0 statistical package, with a significance level set at p<0.05.
Results. The study's findings showed significant differences in some sub-skills and total raw scores of the locomotor and object control tests between boys and girls (p < 0.05). Significant differences were also found between the 8- and 9-year-old groups in sub-skills and total raw scores (p < 0.05). Additionally, a significant difference was observed in certain sub-skills and total raw score assessments between the 3rd and 4th grades (p < 0.05).
Conclusions. The hybrid physical activity program proved to be an effective approach for enhancing motor skills in primary school children. The findings highlight the importance of tailored physical activity programs that consider individual characteristics such as age, gender, and grade level. Implementing such programs in both school and home settings can promote more comprehensive motor development in children.
Позиціонуючий напівавтоматичний телескопічний завантажувальний рукав з вбудованою аспірацією TS-300
Authors: Аgricon Аgricon
Published: October 2024

Напівавтоматичний телескопічний завантажувальний рукав з вбудованою аспірацією TS-300 представляє собою рухому конструкцію, яка здатна позиціонувати як по горизонту в право та ліво, і вертикально з верхньої точки до низу, початкової точки завантаження.
Evaluation on the ecological philosophy of traditional Chinese agriculture and rural sustainable development
Authors: Cui Shuilian
Published: October 2024

Abstract: China’s traditional agricultural ecological philosophy, rooted in principles like intensive planting and diversified management, has historically minimized the ecological impact of agriculture. This study explores their application in rural sustainable development, providing theoretical insights and policy recommendations to balance economic growth and environmental conservation. The excellent ecological tradition of intensive planting, the combination of utilization and cultivation, and the diversified management passed down for thousands of years have played a very good role in alleviating the damage of agricultural farming to the ecological environment. Applying these concepts to the sustainable development of rural areas can balance rural economic development and environmental protection, regulate land use, maintain ecological balance and, finally, achieve harmonious coexistence. By analyzing China’s traditional agricultural ecological philosophy, this study identifies valuable ideological resources and provides methodological guidance for promoting sustainable rural development. It proposes strategies to balance economic growth with environmental protection, thereby ensuring the long-term ecological balance and harmonious coexistence in rural areas.
Experimental investigation on mechanical property analysis of long and short fiber glass
Authors: Wagh Pratiksha H. , Kudal Hari N. , Seikh A. H. , Fouly Ahmed , Pandey Krishna Kant
Published: October 2024

Experts and different companies are always attempting to use composites in place of traditional materials to build designs that are more robust, lighter, and more corrosion resistant possess other necessary qualities. Composites are being utilized in a growing number of products and applications. Increasing enterprise performance requirements, such as aerospace, automobiles, and other frameworks, require broader mechanical and hands-on testing. Mechanical test equipment has been developed using many of the equipment created to provide different ways to test composites based on the properties of the material and its expected end use. This article details various strategies for testing composites of composition (0.6 wt.% cobalt and fiberglass) for application to excavator engine hoods. Long glass fiber tensile and flexural strength were available at 97.22 and 120.28 N/mm2, respectively, while tensile and flexural strength of the reinforced short fiber were combined found at 94.12 and 110.23 N/mm2. Also, the energy absorbed by long fiber is 7.21 kg, which is more than the short fiber (i.e. 5 kg). In addition, this article offers a source of information on these test methods that enable composites to be assessed at a high degree to obtain satisfactory results in terms of tension and impact.
Okuduğu Anlama için Tanımlanmış Bilişsel Düzeyler Nelerdir? Geniş Ölçekli Ölçme Uygulamalarının Okuduğunu Anlama Çerçevelerine Dayalı Bir İnceleme
Authors: Kula Kartal Seval
Published: October 2024

Bu araştırmanın amacı uluslararası okuduğunu anlama çerçevelerinin öğretmenler ve öğrenciler tarafından öğrenme, öğretim, ölçme ve geribildirim süreçlerinde kullanılabilecek açık ve özet bir sentezini ortaya koymaktır. Bu amaç doğrultusunda National Assessment of Educational Progress [NAEP], Programme for International Student Assessment [PISA], Progress in International Reading Literacy Study [PIRLS]) okuduğunu anlama çerçevelerine göre okuduğunu anlamanın tanımları ve tanımlarda yıllar içinde gerçekleşen değişimler incelenmiştir. İnceleme sonucunda çerçevelerde açıkça ifade edilmiş bilgileri hatırlama, yorumlama ve bütünleştirme ile yansıtma ve değerlendirme bilişsel düzeylerinin ortak biçimde yer aldığı bulunmuştur. Bu üç düzey tüm çerçevelerde en baştan beri varlığını sürdürmektedir. Bu bulgu öğretmenlerin sınıf içinde öğrencileri okudukları metinlerde bu üç bilişsel düzeyde düşünmelerini sağlayacak çeşitlikte soru ve görevler kullanmaları gerektiğine işaret etmektedir. Ayrıca, çerçevelerde yapılan güncellemelerde okuduğunu anlamanın tanımında meydana gelen önemli iki değişikliğin olduğu görülmüştür. Bunlardan biri okunanlardan anlaşılan bilgilerin bir problemi çözmek, bir yazı ya da konuşma gibi ürün oluşturmak gibi amaçlarla kullanılması ve uygulanmasına karşılık gelen yeni bir bilişsel düzeyin eklenmesidir. Bir diğeri de dijital ortamlarda sıklıkla birden fazla metne dayalı okumalarda kullanılan okuduğunu anlama becerilerini göz önünde bulunduran güncellemelerin yapılmasıdır. Araştırma kapsamında geniş ölçekli ölçme uygulamalarının okuduğunu anlama çerçeveleri üzerinde yürütülen inceleme okuduğunu anlamanın tanımının ve dolayısıyla ölçülmesinde kullanılan görev ve soruların yıllar içinde değişim gösterdiğini ortaya koymuştur.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Schizophrenia Patients
Authors: Jang Moonyoung , Kim Minah , Park Sunghyun , Kwon Jun Soo
Published: October 2024

In schizophrenia, while antipsychotic medications are the primary treatment, auditory hallucinations may sometimes persist despite pharmacotherapy, and negative symptoms and cognitive impairments often show a limited response to these medications. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has emerged as a promising adjunctive treatment, capable of modulating neuronal activity in targeted brain regions. Low-frequency repetitive TMS (rTMS) directed at the left temporoparietal cortex has demonstrated efficacy in reducing auditory hallucinations. In addressing negative symptoms, high-frequency rTMS applied to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex has shown some effectiveness, though outcomes can vary. Innovative techniques, including theta burst stimulation and personalized approaches utilizing neuroimaging, are currently under investigation to further enhance the therapeutic potential of TMS. This review examines the application of TMS in the treatment of schizophrenia, emphasizing the necessity of ongoing research to refine and optimize its efficacy across diverse symptom domains.