bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 3-dimensional mathematical model to study effects of geometrical parameters on performance of solid oxide fuel cell
Authors: Jha Vikalp , Surasani Vikranth Kumar , Krishnamurthy Balaji
Published: September 2021

A 3D mathematical model is developed to study effects of various geometrical parameters such as cathode to anode thickness ratio, rib width, and channel width under various flow conditions, on the performance of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). These parameters represent the cathode supported configuration of the solid oxide fuel cell. It is observed from simulation results that performance of SOFC fuel cell is increased at higher cathode to anode thickness. Simulation results also showed that for different volumetric flow rates, the current density and fuel cell performance decrease as rib width increases, what is due to higher contact resistance. It is also shown that by increasing the channel width, the fuel cell performance was increased due to increase in the reaction surface area. Simulation results are compared and validated with literature experimental data, showing well agreement.
Security as an Interesting Area of Scientific
Research
Authors: Ścibiorek Zbigniew
Published: September 2021

For every human being, the primary value is the protection of health and life and the desire to live in peace, be safe and be able to pursue their and professional goals. It will become real when the safety that has accompanied people since ancient times is guaranteed. Nowadays, it is not only a problem of a given person; the issues concerning protection and defence of a person against threats, resulting both from natural forces and the effects of human activity, are in the orbit of interest of many institutions.
The present times create conditions for events unfavourable to people and to their safety, which is a timeless and high priority value. In security research, both initial hypotheses and results are formulated with the intention of better understanding threats treated as a relatively autonomous category of social phenomena. Security, as a category of social phenomena, is looked at from many points of view, with the aim of detecting more general mechanisms and regularities of social life, especially in the areas of growing threats and pathologies. The result of the research is not only in-depth knowledge of the causes of threats (diagnosis), but also proposals for changes and improvement of the mechanisms and institutions used to prevent and neutralise threats. In this context, it should be noted that the undertaken research activities shall be aimed at building a safe environment. In order to be highly effective, activities must use achievements of the world of science and act in accordance with this methodology. Interdisciplinary research should skilfully apply social research methods appropriate to the research problem being addressed.
Germany’s Economic Growth In 1950–60 and the Problem of the Country’s Balance of Payments Sustainability
Authors: Klimiuk Zbigniew
Published: September 2021

The 1950s in Germany, especially the period 1953–1958, were later recognised as the ‘golden years of the post-war period’. By the end of this period, most of the war damage had been removed and the economy was in a state of dynamic growth. In the period 1949–59, the average real GDP growth rate was about 7.4% with an average investment rate of 24.2% (in current prices). In the years (1950–53), a massive housing construction programme was carried out that was financed almost in half from public funds. Germany’s economic growth in 1950–60 mainly influenced by investment activities and the growth of exports. During this period, state expenditure did not play a major role in the growth of the West German economy (its share in national income steadily declined during the period in question). A the same time, the share of exports in national income was very high and showed a continuously increasing trend. A long-term growth of exports — affecting constantly the expansion of demand — became an important factor stimulating investment activity, which is the main lever of economic growth. At the same time, unusually strong export activity improved the balance of payments, which showed systematic surpluses. It should also be stressed that private consumption was not a factor driving economic prosperity in West Germany in this period. The share of consumption in Germany’s national income showed a declining trend in favour of investment.
Features of Identification of Hybrid Projects of Public Security Systems and Their Process Management
Authors: Ratushnyi Roman , Tryhuba Anatoliy
Published: September 2021

An analysis of scientific works defining methodologies, methods and models of managing development projects and the functioning of security systems concerning separate branches and territories, as well as approaches to the implementation of hybrid projects of public security systems has been performed. It has been established that there is a need to conduct research on the development of scientific and methodological identification of hybrid projects of public security systems and their management processes. Nine identifying features of hybrid public safety projects are outlined. The proposed characteristics identifying hybrid projects of public security systems are based on their initiation and implementation of management processes. The hierarchical model of the structure of hybrid projects of public security systems is substantiated. It provides for the consideration of hybrid projects of public security systems at three levels which outline the purposeful and continuously managed interaction between individual processes and their elements. It is substantiated that the purposefulness and manageability properties of hybrid projects of public safety systems significantly affect the indicators of their value and underlie the development of tools for determining the value of these projects. Further research requires the development of tools to determine the value of hybrid projects of public safety systems.
Human and Civil Rights and Freedoms
in a State of Natural Disaster and Epidemic Emergency
Authors: Socha Robert , Tavares António
Published: September 2021

On 11th March 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared a state of pandemic. In turn, on 21 March 2020, the Minister of Health, by way of a regulation, declared a state of epidemic in the territory of the Republic of Poland. At the same time, the decision resulted in the introduction of many restrictions concerning, inter alia, freedom of movement, assembly and trade. At the same time, discussions started on the constitutionality of the introduced restrictions on civil liberties. Having the above in mind, the aim of this article is to present the correlation in the sphere of limiting or suspending civil liberties in a state of emergency, such as a state of natural disaster, and in “non-emergency” states, such as a state of epidemic threat and a state of pandemic. Although the word “state” appears in the three mentioned legal situations, the state of natural disaster, as one of the three constitutional states of emergency, creates a different legal and socio-political situation than the state of epidemic threat or the state of pandemic. A common feature of the above-mentioned events, however, is that they became a fundamental disruption of the social context of individual and group functioning in connection with the occurrence of a human infectious disease.
PolDrive System in Support
of Implementation of Tasks Performed
by the Polish Police
Authors: Letkiewicz Arkadiusz , Kuczyńska Ewa , Nowicka Izabela , Grześkowiak Angelika
Published: September 2021

n every country, the government strives to ensure that police forces are professionally prepared to carry out their tasks. This concerns equipping police officers with certain knowledge and skills, as well as supporting their performance with the most advanced technologies. One of the most important areas of safety where police have to be professionally prepared is road traffic safety. Appreciating their role, traffic police constitute a separate force in many countries. In Poland, this force is included in the uniformed branch, although its tasks do not differ from the tasks of other forces of this type worldwide. In 2015, the National Police Chief confirmed that it is necessary to support safety in traffic with the help of science. It was demonstrated through accepting the R&D project Development of an Assistance System for Psychological Testing of Police Drivers, no. DOB-BIO7/20/01/2015, realised in a science consortium funded by the National Centre for Research and Development in the amount of PLN 5 546,452.00 in a 7/2014 competition for the realisation of R&D projects in aid of the defence and security of the country. The system developed within the project is designed to serve research concerning subordinate forces, and those supervised by the Minister for Internal Affairs. The aim of this article is to present the existing results of the research related to creating an assistance system for psychological testing of police drivers, including the drivers of police emergency vehicles, in compliance with the current legislation in force in Poland. The system will be implemented as an IT network-based technology that enables direct cooperation with the Police Data Transmission Network (PSTD) (a central server, available from any PSTD-accessible workstation), which is a database designed to independently and safely acquire and store data. The system should allow research without the necessity of using additional equipment other than a properly configured computer. Simultaneously, the system is planned to include a device that calibrates the methodology of measuring driver reaction times. The system should allow for an assessment of intellectual fitness, psychomotor efficiency, and personality.
The Development of E-Learning Tools Used
for Teaching English for Law Enforcement
Authors: Borszéki Judit
Published: September 2021

International (operational and training) activities carried out by law enforcement officers have been accompanied by the growing realisation of the fact that it is essential for those involved in them to communicate efficiently, in one common language, basically English. However, even in the last few years, the gaps between the foreign language skills of the law enforcement professionals and the need for further foreign (mainly English) language training courses have been underlined several times in international professional and legal documents. Also, the fact that specific-purpose English language courses continue to be important content elements of the curricula both of national law enforcement training institutions and the two largest EU agencies involved in the training of police officers, as well as border and coast guards (CEPOL and Frontex), proves that this problem still exists.
Using the qualitative research and providing an overview and evaluation of the most significant e-learning trends and tools used in teaching English for Law Enforcement by CEPOL and Frontex in the last decade, the paper discusses the progress made in this field in terms of both quality and methodology. It presents technical limitations of certain e-learning tools and points to the course developers’ ensuing realisation that the virtual or real presence of the teacher is indispensable in language courses.
Alcoholism as a Threat to Social Security
and the Issue Among Academic Youth
Authors: Bereźnicka Małgorzata
Published: September 2021

The article briefly analyses the problem of alcoholism as a threat to social security, taking into account its prevalence, as well as its impact on physical and mental health and social relations. Firstly, it identifies the harmful effects not only on addicts but also on their families and society as a whole. Secondly, the results of the author’s research on young people’s attitudes towards alcohol and alcoholism have been presented. Finally, conclusions and suggestions have been developed. The study showed that many respondents knew alcoholics, and in some cases, these were close relatives. As far as their own experiences are concerned, they prove to be very diverse. The misuse of alcohol does not seem to be very common among university students, however, the problem exists and calls for some resolutions, e.g.. in aspects such as very young age of their alcohol initiation, problem drinking, binge drinking, or risky behaviours of youth under the influence of alcohol. In addition to many initiatives undertaken as part of preventing and counteracting alcohol-related problems (such as necessary cooperation of some government and local institutions), emphasis should be put on education in this area. This must include home education, starting as early as possible, and complementary school education. Especially the former seems to be the cheapest and the most effective way to deal with the discussed issue. Also, parents should find support at their children’s schools in that area. Furthermore, activities carried out in order to raise social awareness are needed, e.g. through media which have a significant influence on young people.
New Principles of Counteracting Cyberlaundering under the Act of 1 March 2018 on Counteracting Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing
Authors: Jasiński Wiesław
Published: September 2021

Cyberlaundering is a money-laundering mechanism that has been developing since the beginning of this century. Only recently, however, have the detailed rules for preventing this phenomenon been introduced. The Act of 1 March 2018 on Counteracting Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing introduced a number of solutions defining the identification and verification obligations for transactions in cyberspace. Following these changes, it will be necessary to develop the best methods of cooperation between all actors of the cyberlaundering system: obligated institutions, cooperating units and law enforcement agencies. The author draws attention to the national cyberlaundering risk assessment, prepared with the participation of obliged institutions, cooperating units and law enforcement bodies. Its use will affect the collection and sharing of more information useful in the detection process and the timing of detection activities. A specific area of national risk assessment will be cybercrime. The author believes that the detection of crimes in cyberspace should be included in a new legal framework, which would allow the specificity of the digital area to be directly taken into account, without having to resort to often difficult and practically always ambiguous legal interpretations in this regard.
Police Academy in Szczytno, Poland
Authors: Musiał Paweł
Published: September 2021

Traffic accidents are a very common cause of death or disability in people. They usually involve users of various vehicles on the road or pedestrians. They are also among the main problems of public health in Poland. Accidents cause many human tragedies every year. Every day, many people die on Polish roads for many different reasons. The motorcycle season tends to change its time-frame from year to year, taking the form of a year-round. Recklessness, non-compliance with road rules, excessive speed, bad weather conditions and mistakes made by car drivers cause many traffic accidents that involve motorcyclists. They result in severe multi-organ trauma or instant death of the victims. Modern technologies designed to improve the safety of motorcycles as well as the protections used in helmets and protective clothing are helpless in the face of traffic accident mechanisms. The author analyzed the data obtained from the Police Headquarters Road Traffic Department, showing the number of road incidents involving motorcyclists in 2019. The material shows the scale of accidents broken down into causes, number of road incidents in individual months and age of the perpetrators. The references to data from previous years show the problem of accidents on Polish roads and the position of Poland in the European statistics as a country with a high percentage of fatalities in traffic accidents.
The Effectiveness of Basic Resuscitation Activities Carried out by Combat Paramedics of the Police, as Exemplified by Polish Counterterrorist Units
Authors: Zubrzycki Waldemar , Przyjemczak Jarosław , Świeczko-Żurek Beata Świeczko-Żurek
Published: September 2021

The tasks carried out by Police officers are often accompanied by dangerous situations that threaten the life and health of the people involved, the police themselves, and bystanders. It concerns especially counter-terrorism police units whose activities are aimed at terrorists and particularly dangerous criminals, and their course is violent and aggressive. In conjunction with the inability to bring civilian rescue services into the action zone, this results in the need to expand the assault team by including one more specialisation — combat paramedic, having the appropriate knowledge, skills and qualifications, as well as equipment that allows for independent first aid while the operations are underway. A paramedic’s preparation must be versatile, but the key to effective action is the ability to perform basic activities, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation, after the diagnosis of sudden cardiac arrest. The study aims to present the results of research conducted on a fairly unique research sample regarding the effectiveness of indirect heart massage by combat paramedics of police special units and conclusions resulting from empirical research and their comparison with the results of similar studies, in relation to other professional groups. The knowledge and skills acquired during the training quickly become obsolete, requiring systematic consolidation and improvement. Therefore, cyclical repetition of exercises in the area of rescue activities plays a key role in maintaining the required quality of life support. The collected material may be a premise for further research, indicating their potential directions.
Evaluating Factors Affecting the Time Interval Between Propofol Injection and Induction of Electro-convulsion and Relationship Between These Factors and Duration of Convulsion
Authors: Haji Seyed Javadi Alireza , Najafian Ehsan , Kayalha Hamid , Shafikhani Ali Akbar
Published: September 2021

Background: Current evidence on the effect of anesthetic-ECT time interval (AETI) is controversial. This study aimed to investigate the factors affecting the time interval between propofol injection and electro-convulsion induction and the relationship between these factors and the duration of convulsion. Methods: In this study, 102 patients (616 sessions of ECT) were studied. Demographic and clinical data (age, gender, receiving or not receiving medications that affected the seizure threshold, the total number of ECT sessions, clinical severity of admission scores, clinical diagnosis, propofol dose, seizure duration, and AETI) were collected in special forms and analyzed by appropriate statistical methods. Results: Sessions with long-term AETI had longer seizure time than sessions with short-term AETI (33.47 ± 8.46 vs. 28.68 ± 9.74, P value < 0.05). The duration of seizures was significantly longer in the group with long AETI in sessions 1, 2, and 4 than in the other group (P value < 0.05). There was a significant relationship between the duration of seizures and propofol dose, AETI, and receiving drugs effective in the seizure threshold (P value < 0.05). Conclusions: The results showed that increasing AETI and injecting a lower dose of propofol to induce anesthesia would increase the duration of seizures. Also, taking medications that would affect the seizure threshold reduces the duration of seizures.
Effect of Propolis Aqueous Extract on Antimicrobial Activity and Flexural Strength of Conventional and Highly Viscose Glass Ionomer
Authors: Biria Mina , Torabzadeh Hassan , Sheikh-Al-Eslamian Seyedeh Mahsa , Rostami-Fishomi Niloofar , Mokhber Dezfuli Maede
Published: September 2021

Background: This study aimed to assess the effect of adding propolis to glass-ionomer cements (GICs) on their antimicrobial and physical properties. Methods: For the evaluation of the antimicrobial properties of conventional (Fuji II) and high-viscous (Fuji IX) GICs containing propolis, 120 glass-ionomer disks with the dimensions of 10 × 2 mm were prepared in three groups of control, 25% propolis, and 50% propolis. Then, these GICs were placed in the Streptococcus mutans culture media. After 24 h of incubation, the inhibition zone diameters of the disks were recorded. For the evaluation of flexural strength, 30 samples (six groups of 5) with the dimensions of 2 × 2 × 25 mm were prepared and measured by a universal testing machine. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and SPSS software (version 21.0) were used for statistical analysis and ensuring normal data distribution. One-way analysis of variance was used for comparing the mean values of the groups, and Tukey’s HSD test was used for pairwise comparison of the groups. The duration of the study setup was 9 months. Results: An inhibition zone was not observed in any of the study groups. There was no significant difference between the flexural strength values of the three groups of the Fuji IX (P = 0.905) and also between the three groups of the Fuji II (P = 0.096). However, the Fuji IX samples had higher flexural strength values than the Fuji II glass-ionomer specimens (P < 0.001). Conclusions: The addition of different concentrations of propolis aqueous extract to conventional and high-viscous GICs did not have a significant effect on their antimicrobial properties and flexural strength.
Constructivism in Action: A Dynamic Group Process in Defining and Applying Principles of Social Justice
Authors: Suri Tanupreet , Woolson Leslie , Trott Arianna , Apodaca Marty , Brammer M. Kathryn , Daniel Dèsa Karye , Lacen Diane , Chávez Thomas A.
Published: September 2021

As a part of a Multicultural course, students in a doctoral program at a university in the Southwest worked together to synthesize a definition of social justice. The constructivist process implemented in this educational experience represented social justice in action, through co-construction of shared meaning. This definition, centered on Iris Young’s (2004) Five Faces of Oppression, resulted in the following: Social justice is addressing oppression, violence, exploitation, marginalization, powerlessness, and cultural imperialism through counselors’ efforts and advocacy, while promoting a critical perspective of the culture of silence. Social Justice is an active, effective change on micro- and macro-levels to alter social systems and institutions, whereby improving human rights and access to resources. Social justice is actively engaging in education, advocacy, critical thinking, systemic change, and client empowerment in order to diffuse mechanisms of oppression for the purpose of assisting clients in reaching their human potential.
Development and Implementation of a Bilingual Counseling Certificate Program
Authors: Interiano-Shiverdecker Claudia , Robertson Derek , Zambrano Elias , Morgan Ashley , Cantu Contreras Jacqueline
Published: September 2021

The ever-growing population of Spanish-speakers in the United States increases the need for counselors to provide services in languages other than English. Yet, very few counselor education programs offer training specifically aimed at providing bilingual counseling services. The authors introduce important elements of bilingual counseling training and describe the implementation of these features into a certificate designed to train competent, bilingual clinical mental health and school counselors. Implications for counseling pedagogy, practice, supervision, and research are discussed.
Matching Variables with the Appropriate Statistical Tests in Counseling Research
Authors: Flinn Ryan E. , Kalkbrenner Michael T.
Published: September 2021

Quantitative research literacy, including matching variables with the appropriate statistical tests, is a key element in counselor education and preparation. Counselor educators are tasked with teaching quantitative research and statistics, which counselors-in-training tend to find anxiety-producing. Authors aimed to provide a succinct overview of matching variables with appropriate statistical tests and provide strategies counselor educators can use to enhance their pedagogy.
Working Alliance as a Mediator between Supervisory Styles and Supervisee Satisfaction
Authors: Li Dan , Duys David K. , Liu Yanhong
Published: September 2021

To answer the research question whether there is a mediation effect of the supervisory working alliance between supervisory styles and supervisee satisfaction, we developed a mediation model and tested this hypothesized mediation effect with a sample of 111 participants that was comprised of master’s and doctoral counselor trainees and counseling practitioners recruited from several counseling professional networks. Results indicated a statistically significant indirect effect of supervisory styles on supervisee satisfaction through the supervisory working alliance. Specifically, when supervisees rated higher on a mixture of three supervisory styles, they were more likely to report a stronger working alliance with their supervisors; this alliance, in turn, contributed to their higher levels of satisfaction with supervision. These findings also speak to the importance of maintaining a flexible, balanced approach in supervision, and shed light on how both supervisors and supervisees can contribute to the supervisory working alliance so as to enhance supervisee satisfaction.
School Counseling Interns’ Lived Experiences Addressing Social Determinants of Health
Authors: Gantt Alexandra C. , Johnson Kaprea F. , Preston Judith W. , Suggs Brittany G. , Cannedy Megan
Published: September 2021

This phenomenological study explores school counselors in training (SCITs’) experiences addressing social determinants of health (SDOH), the leading causes of educational and wellness inequities. Interviews with eight SCITs revealed three core themes: (1) professional identity conflict between awareness, skills, and action; (2) social justice knowledge to practice gap; and (3) recommendations for knowledge to practice gap resolution. Themes explained participant preparedness for responding to disparities. Participants were aware of challenges related to SDOH, though struggled with addressing those challenges due to lack of preparation or perceived role constraints. Participants also experienced difficulty practically applying their understanding of social justice theory to SDOH-related challenges. The researchers noted various recommendations for how SDOH may be addressed in the counselor education curriculum and in practice.
Using Flipgrid Discussions to Increase School Counseling Students’ Cultural Competence in the Online Classroom
Authors: Cole Rebekah F.
Published: September 2021

This pre-test/post-test quasi-experimental design study investigated the use of Flipgrid to increase school counseling students’ cultural competence, which was measured by the Global Perspectives Inventory (GPI). Student participants in the experimental group utilized Flipgrid to engage in cultural discussions while participants in the control group utilized Blackboard discussion boards. An independent samples and paired-samples t-test were used to analyze the participants’ scores in the experimental and control groups. The statistically significant findings of the paired samples t-test suggest the effectiveness of utilizing Flipgrid in order to increase students’ cultural competence in the online learning environment. The study’s implications for teaching and research are discussed.
Improvement in performance of carbon-based perovskite solar cells by adding 1, 8-diiodooctane into hole transport layer 3-hexylthiophene
Authors: Li Jia-Sen , Liang Chun-Jun , Ji Chao , Gong Hong-Kang , Song Qi , Zhang Hui-Min , Liu Ning ,   Key Laboratory of Luminescence and Optical Information Ministry of Education, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing 100044, China
Published: September 2021

HTL-free carbon-based perovskite solar (PSCs) batteries have the advantages of low cost, simple preparation steps, and high stability, and have broad application prospects. However, the direct contact between the carbon electrode and the active layer causes the photoelectric conversion efficiency of the device to be generally lower than that of other metal electrode perovskite solar cells. Therefore, it is necessary to add a hole-transport layer between the perovskite layer and the electrode to improve the charge transport efficiency and optimize the performance. Poly(3-hexylthiophene) has excellent photoelectric properties and is regarded as one of the suitable hole transport materials for perovskite solar cells. In this paper, P3HT is used as the hole transport layer of the device. Compared with the traditional organic hole-transport layer Spiro-OMeTAD, the P3HT has the advantages of low cost and easy manufacture. However, in the current devices with using P3HT as the hole transport layer, due to the characteristics of the surface morphology and molecular ordering of the P3HT film, the carrier mobility in the film itself is low, resulting in unsatisfactory device performance. Studies have shown that the surface morphology and molecular arrangement of the P3HT film can be changed by doping, and the migration rate of charge-carriers inside the film can be accelerated, thereby improving the photovoltaic performance of the solar cell. In this paper, a printing process is used to print carbon paste on the hole transport layer as the electrode of the device, and spin coating is used to prepare the transport layer. And through the method of doping 1,8-diiodooctane (DIO) in P3HT to optimize the device performance, the photoelectric conversion efficiency of the carbon-based perovskite solar cell is improved, the mobility of holes is improved, and the transportation of electrons is blocked. The reduced interface recombination, the improved interface contact between the carbon electrode and the device, the increased short-circuit current Jsc and the fill factor FF lead the photoelectric conversion efficiency of the device to increase from 14.06% to 15.11%. We test the light stability of the device under the 1000-h continuous illumination in a nitrogen atmosphere, and the conversion efficiency of the device remains above 98%, indicating that the addition of DIO into P3HT improves not only the photoelectric conversion efficiency of the device, but also the stability.
Dual band Analog - Electromagnetic Induced Transparency of Bright-Bright Mode Coupling on Metamaterial
Authors: 宁仁霞  , 黄旺  , 王菲  , 孙剑  , 焦铮
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a metamaterial structure with a double-layer split square ring and a double C-shaped structure is designed, which has dual-band electromagnetically induced transparency effects in the terahertz band. This structure has transmission peaks at 1.438 THz and 1.699 THz. Through the analysis of the surface current distribution, the reasons for the dual-band electromagnetically induced transparency are discussed. The effect of the designed metamaterial on the transmission window when the opening size of the open square ring and the distance of the double C-shaped structure and the incident angle are changed is studied. At the incident angle, the transmission spectrum of the designed material changes greatly, showing high sensitivity to angle. The research results show that the structure has potential application prospects in angle sensors and other fields.
Single-molecule imaging reveals the concerted release of myosin from regulated thin filaments
Authors: Smith Quentin M , Inchingolo Alessio V , Mihailescu Madalina-Daniela , Dai Hongsheng , Kad Neil M
Published: September 2021

Regulated thin filaments (RTFs) tightly control striated muscle contraction through calcium binding to troponin, which enables tropomyosin to expose myosin-binding sites on actin. Myosin binding holds tropomyosin in an open position, exposing more myosin-binding sites on actin, leading to cooperative activation. At lower calcium levels, troponin and tropomyosin turn off the thin filament; however, this is antagonised by the high local concentration of myosin, questioning how the thin filament relaxes. To provide molecular details of deactivation, we used single-molecule imaging of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged myosin-S1 (S1-GFP) to follow the activation of RTF tightropes. In sub-maximal activation conditions, RTFs are not fully active, enabling direct observation of deactivation in real time. We observed that myosin binding occurs in a stochastic step-wise fashion; however, an unexpectedly large probability of multiple contemporaneous detachments is observed. This suggests that deactivation of the thin filament is a coordinated active process.
Squat Jump Movement Onset Thresholds Influence on Kinetics and Kinematics
Authors: Donahue Paul T , M Hill Christopher , J Wilson Samuel , C Williams Charles , C Garner John
Published: September 2021

Background of Study: Differing movement onset thresholds have been used when analyzing the squat jump movement from force-time data obtained from a force platform. This makes comparisons difficult between investigations as this will impact the amount of the force-time curve that is analyzed. Objective: Thus, study examined the effect onset threshold had on kinetic and kinematic variables used in the assessment of the squat jump. Methods: Using a within-subject study design, fifteen recreational trained males performed three trials of squat jumps on a force platform. Each trial was analyzed using one of five different onset thresholds (2.5% SW, 5% SW, 10% SW, 20N, 5SD). Force, velocity, and power, as well as time to peak force, velocity, power and jump height were calculated using the vertical force data obtain from the force plate. Reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients and coefficients of variation. A one-way ANOVA was used to examine the impact of onset thresholds on all variables of interest. Results: The use of 10% SW and 5SD met minimum reliability criteria for all variables. Temporal related variables were impact to the greatest extent by differing thresholds with large (d > 1.20) significant differences. 10% SW showed the highest mean values of force, velocity, and power. Conclusions: The use of 5SD of the weighting phase is recommended as this showed high level of both absolute and relative reliability in addition to preserving a large portion of the force – time curve to be used in the analysis.
The Effect of a Lower Body Positive Pressure Supported Treadmill Exercise Regime on Systemic Biomarkers of Inflammation and Cartilage Degradation in Individuals with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Cornish Stephen , Peeler Jason
Published: September 2021

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) has been linked to a chronic low-grade inflammatory response and altered metabolic activity of articular cartilage. Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the effectiveness of a 12-week (3 times/week) lower body positive pressure (LBPP) treadmill walking regime on knee pain and systemic biomarkers of inflammation and cartilage degradation. Methods: Sixteen overweight (BMI > 25 kg/m2) knee OA patients were randomized to a LBPP treadmill walking exercise group (N = 7) or non-exercise control group (N = 9). Baseline and 12-week follow-up assessments evaluated the following dependent variables: acute knee pain during full weight bearing treadmill walking; inflammatory biomarkers (C-reactive protein, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, s100A8/A9, and tumor necrosis factor-α), and catabolic metabolism of articular cartilage (sCOMP). Results: Knee pain at baseline and follow-up remained unchanged for the non-exercise control group (P > 0.05). However, knee pain for the LBPP exercise group was significantly decreased at follow-up (P ≤ 0.05). No differences in the biomarkers of inflammation and cartilage degradation were observed for between and within group comparisons (all P > 0.05). Conclusions: Data suggested that the LBPP supported walking regime could be effectively used to promote regular weight bearing exercise without exacerbation of knee joint pain and did not increase levels of systemic inflammation or catabolic activity of articular cartilage in overweight knee OA patients. This pilot investigation offers important insight regarding the potential role that the LBPP technology could play in facilitating investigations examining the disease modifying effect of exercise on knee OA pathogenesis.
Mechanical Interaction Within Badminton Forehand Shot Technique: A Review Paper
Authors: Syazwan Ramli Alif Syamim , Tengku Kamalden Tengku Fadilah , Sharir Raihana , Haizi Harith Hazreen , Hanafi Marsyita , Gasibat Qais , Samsudin Shamsulariffin
Published: September 2021

Background: The performance outcome model in qualitative technique analysis can determine the mechanical interactions between a performance outcome and the factors that yield such results in sports techniques. Very little attention has been received for badminton forehand shots for such model work, considering the significance of this technical skill as fundamental to play badminton and as important offensive shots. Objective: This study proposes a performance outcome model that associates performance criteria and relevant mechanical variables in the badminton forehand shot technique. Methods: Literature review provided the basis of model development. The Literature research in this paper was conducted in the following databases; PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar Medline, Pedro, and Cinahl. An additional search (including relevant grey literature) was also done on the internet through ResearchGate. Relevant literature research related to the keywords such as biomechanics of badminton, badminton forehand shot, biomechanical analysis, badminton performance, racquet sports, performance indicators, technique analysis and technique models were included and reviewed. Results: The results managed to present a synthesis of the literature review and provided constructive discussions as a basis to propose a performance outcome model that illustrates mechanical interactions that contribute to badminton forehand and shot technique performance. Conclusions: This model manages to find mechanical relationships and allows for a better grasp of understanding the association between performance criteria and mechanics in the badminton forehand shot technique, which is bases on the kinetic chain principle through the body segmental coordination.
The Effect of Endurance Exercise Modality on Markers of Fatigue
Authors: Moorea Andrew R. , Hutchinsona Jasmin C. , Wintera Christa R. , Daltona Paul C. , Paolonea Vincent J.
Published: September 2021

Background: Exercise power output, and resulting fatigue, is regulated based on central and peripheral sensory input. Whether exercise mode, specifically, contributes to this regulation remains unexplored. Objective: This study was designed to determine if differences in markers of fatigue would be present during two time trials of similar duration and intensity, as a result of exercise mode (cycling and rowing). Method: In a randomized crossover design, nine subjects completed the two 7-min time trials, on different days. Exercise power output, heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, and blood lactate measurements were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVAs. Results: There was a significant interaction between mode and time for power output (p =.02), but no significant differences between matched time points were observed for any of the dependent variables used to assess fatigue (p >.05). Conclusion: Similar levels of heart rate, perceived exertion, and blood lactate for time trials on different modes, but with the same duration and directed intensity, suggest that in a laboratory environment, exercise is regulated more by physiological disturbance and sensory cues than by exercise mode. These findings support the sensory tolerance limit of exercise fatigue.
The Role of Eccentric Training and Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) to Improve Quadriceps Muscle Strength, and Function in Post ACL Repair: A Case Report
Authors: Tatiya Dhiraj , Chitapure Tajuddin , Shaikh Amreen , Jaju Ankita
Published: September 2021

Background: A 19-year-old man presented with right knee pain while bearing weight on the right leg and difficulty bending the right knee. He was diagnosed with a complete -tear of the anterior cruciate ligament. After ACL reconstruction this individual was referred to physical therapy treatment. Objective: To investigate if neuroscience pain education, and eccentric training, have any therapeutic significance in post-ACL reconstructive patients. Method: After assessment, the first day of the first week, introduced a treatment protocol consisting of basic range of motion (ROM) and isometric exercises for three sets of 10–30 sec hold. From first to fourth week eccentric exercises along with pain neuroscience education (PNE) sessions were given on alternate days, with three sessions for PNE and eccentric exercises until fourth week. Result: As shown in this study, treatment with a combination of PNE and eccentric training results in improved quadriceps muscle strength, range of motion, and overall function. Conclusion: This report suggested that PNE in conjunction with eccentric exercise has clinical merit. Clinical implication of study is examining the effectiveness of this approach should be conducted in the form of well-designed, clinical studies.
Lower limb compression garments do not influence dynamic and static balance performance in young males
Authors: J Washington Nathan , J Clothier Peter , MacMahon Clare , Mudie Kurt , S Graham Kenneth , A Steel Kylie
Published: September 2021

Background: Some studies show that wearing compression garments (CGs) improves balance performance. However, the overall evidence supporting their use for balance improvement is inconclusive. Objective: This study aimed to further explore the effect of CGs on balance. Method: Using a cross sectional within subjects repeated measures design fourteen participants (27 ± 3 years) completed three trials for each of four balance tests, under three conditions: compression garment, no garment, and sham. Subjective performance and garment rating scores were also collected following each test condition. A repeated-measures analysis of variance was performed to compare derived variables between conditions for each balance test. Results: No significant differences were found across conditions or tests for either balance performance or subjective measures. Conclusions: This study demonstrated CGs did not influence dynamic or static balance performance in healthy young males. Further, in contrast to other research this study did not demonstrate an effect of compression garments on dynamic or static balance in healthy young males. However, it remains that CGs may provide benefit in other populations including those with balance and movement deficit disorders.
Fear of COVID-19 Effects on University Student’s Health Behaviours: The FRESH Study
Authors: Grande Madison , Doyle-Baker Patricia
Published: September 2021

Background: The imposed stay-at-home restrictions with the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic disrupted daily routines and impacted some population groups more than others. One such group included university students who were forced to adapt to online classes reducing face to face interactions. The uncertainty associated with this change may have created a sense of anxiety and fear towards the virus. Objective: The objective of this study was to measure the level of fear associated with COVID-19 in Canadian undergrad university students and the influence fear may have on their health-related behaviours during an ongoing pandemic. Methods: Students enrolled in four large universities in the province of Alberta were invited to complete an online Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) from January 4th to February 15th, 2021. Results: Undergraduate students (n=680; 73.4% female) with a mean age of 23 (SD 5) years had an average FCV-19 score of 17.1 (SD 6.1) out of 35. Many students (60%) categorized their fear in the moderate range and females were more likely to have a higher FCV-19 score (p<.05) than males. Increases in alcohol and substance use, sleeping and eating behaviours were significantly associated (p<.05) with higher FCV-19 scores (p=.047; p=.000; p=.000). Most student’s smoking behaviour (80.5%) remained the same, however physical activity decreased. Conclusion: In summary, students showed a moderate level of fear associated with COVID-19 during the pandemic, and those with greater levels of fear reported more negative heath behaviour choices. These results highlight that continued restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic continue to negatively impact student’s health behaviours.
Content Validity of Circuit Training Program and Its Effects on The Aerobic Endurance of Wheelchair Tennis Athletes
Authors: Dwi Yulianto Wahyu , Sumaryanti - , Yudhistira Dewangga
Published: September 2021

Background: “Exercise is an activity to improve technical and physical competence of athletes”, most sports require an excellent physical aspect to win. Aerobic endurance is an essential point in the preparation of a wheelchair tennis training program. Aim: This research is to validate the circuit training program and test the exercise program on the aerobic endurance of wheelchair tennis athletes. Method: This research is development research with qualitative and quantitative approaches. Participants are wheelchair tennis athletes with ten males and four females, height 156-167± cm, weight 50-70± kg, age 31-35. Participants in the program validation were seven nationally licensed physical fitness trainers. The first stage qualitatively examines documents in articles, ebooks, textbooks to design the program. The second stage quantitatively applies the Delphi technique to assess the prepared training program. The third stage analyzes the assessment results with the content validity ratio formula and, the fourth stage tests the exercise program for six weeks. The instrument used is a multistage fitness test. Results: It has been found that the assessment items from seven experts show the content validity ratio value is 1.00, so it can be categorized as having good content validity. It has been found the mean posttest (N=14, M=249.14, SD=16.033) and posttest (N=14, M=241.71, SD=17.166). It has been found that hypothesis testing using paired samples t-test analysis (p=0.000<0.05). Conclusion: the circuit training exercise program has good validity, then based on the effectiveness test, there is an increase in the aerobic endurance of wheelchair tennis athletes.