Search

The study highlights the critical need to focus on the physical, motor, and technical abilities of female fencing players by developing and testing modern, scientifically-based training methodologies tailored to the specific demands of the sport. The study's objective was to assess the effectiveness of targeted three-dimensional training in enhancing the participants' motor skills and technical performance. Utilizing an experimental design, the study involved forming both experimental and control groups. The sample comprised 16 female fencers from the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences for Girls. After excluding two players during the exploratory phase, the remaining 14 were evenly divided into experimental and control groups, each consisting of seven players. The intervention involved three weekly training sessions for two months, totaling 24 sessions. Pre- and post-intervention tests revealed that three-dimensional training significantly improved motor abilities and technical performance. Keywords: Three-dimensional training, motor abilities, fencing.

The study aimed to identify the impact of a proposed curriculum using an auxiliary educational tool in teaching some offensive skills in fencing to students. It involved the preparation of proposed educational units using the auxiliary tool to teach these skills. The researchers employed the experimental method with a group design appropriate to the research nature, consisting of an experimental group and a control group with pre- and post-tests. The research sample included 28 students, selected intentionally. Group (A), comprising 14 students, served as the experimental sample, while Group (B), also comprising 14 students, served as the control sample. The educational program was implemented over six weeks, with one educational unit per week. The researchers concluded that the use of the proposed method with the educational tool had a positive and significant impact on skill learning.

Background and Study Aim. Optimizing the training process in fencing for athletes of different ages, genders, and levels of preparedness is key to achieving high results without compromising health. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a physical and technical-tactical readiness program for young fencers in mixed age groups. Materials and Methods. The study involved 22 epee fencers, aged between 6 to 17 years. Athletes were divided into two groups by age and level of preparedness: group 1 (10-16 years) and group 2 (6-12 years). The training program lasted for 12 months, including specialized exercises and tests to evaluate progress in physical and technical-tactical readiness. The experiment was conducted in Kharkiv, Ukraine, located in a war zone since February 2022. Requirements of the military administration for ensuring the safety of the experiment participants were met. Results. As a result of the study, both groups showed significant improvement in physical fitness and technical-tactical skills. In group 1, improvements were identified in the "Shuttle Run" and "Standing Long Jump" tests (p < 0.05), while in group 2, there was an alignment among participants in test indicators (p < 0.05). The increase in the level of technical-tactical preparedness and coordination abilities was also confirmed by the improvement in test results (p

Studi purpose. The purpose of this study is to determine the Speed and Accuracy of Attacks on Fencing Athletes when making attacks lacking speed and accuracy so as to make attack techniques not optimal and effective which have an impact on points and endurance. Materials and methods. This research method uses descriptive-quantitative method. The population in this study were 19 Banjarbaru City fencing athletes, and a sample of 6 fencing athletes using purposive sampling technique (athletes who are still active). The research instruments used were the Kuhadja Fencing Test and the Kinovea program version 0.9.5. This study uses descriptive statistical analysis techniques. Results. The results showed that male fencing athletes in Banjarbaru City had the highest Velocity of 3.83 m/s, the lowest Velocity of 2.94 m/s, and the average velocity of 3.39 m/s. while the highest velocity by female fencing athletes was 4.59 m/s, the lowest velocity was 2.99 m/s, and the average velocity was 3.79 m/s. In terms of accuracy, the highest score recorded among male and female fencing players is 9. However, male fencing athletes have a consistent accuracy score of 9 by producing an average accuracy of 9. Female fencing athletes showed a lot of difference in scoring accuracy, scoring from 7 to 9, resulting in an average accuracy of 8.25. Male fencing athletes are in the "excellent" category with a score of 9-10, while 50% of female fencing athletes are in the "Excellent" category and 50% are in the "good" category with a score of 7-8. Conclusions. After the research is done, it can be concluded that the speed and accuracy of attacks on male and female fencing athletes are in the excellent and good categories, from the results of the study it is recommended that fencing sports administrators be able to improve speed and accuracy training in order to get excellent results.

Abstract Background Grazing exclusion is an efficient practice to restore degraded grassland ecosystems by eliminating external disturbances and improving ecosystems’ self-healing capacities, which affects the ecological processes of soil-plant systems. Grassland degradation levels play a critical role in regulating these ecological processes. However, the effects of vegetation and soil states at different degradation stages on grassland ecosystem restoration are not fully understood. To better understand this, desert steppe at three levels of degradation (light, moderate, and heavy degradation) was fenced for 6 years in Inner Mongolia, China. Community characteristics were investigated, and nutrient concentrations of the soil (0–10 cm depth) and dominant plants were measured. Results We found that grazing exclusion increased shoots’ carbon (C) concentrations, C/N, and C/P, but significantly decreased shoots’ nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) concentrations for Stipa breviflora and Cleistogenes songorica. Interestingly, there were no significant differences in nutrient concentrations of these two species among the three degraded desert steppes after grazing exclusion. After grazing exclusion, annual accumulation rates of aboveground C, N, and P pools in the heavily degraded area were the highest, but the aboveground nutrient pools were the lowest among the three degraded grasslands. Similarly, the annual recovery rates of community height, cover, and aboveground biomass in the heavily degraded desert steppe were the highest among the three degraded steppes after grazing exclusion. These results indicate that grazing exclusion is more effective for vegetation restoration in the heavily degraded desert steppe. The soil total carbon, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, available nitrogen, and available phosphorus concentrations in the moderately and heavily degraded desert steppes were significantly decreased after six years of grazing exclusion, whereas these were no changes in the lightly degraded desert steppe. Structural equation model analysis showed that the grassland degradation level mainly altered the community aboveground biomass and aboveground nutrient pool, driving the decrease in soil nutrient concentrations and accelerating nutrient transfer from soil to plant community, especially in the heavily degraded grassland. Conclusions Our study emphasizes the importance of grassland degradation level in ecosystem restoration and provides theoretical guidance for scientific formulation of containment policies.

PURPOSE This study aimed to examine the effects of incorporating Pilates into the training regimen of elite fencers, focusing on enhancing flexibility and alleviating pain commonly experienced in the sport. METHODS Twenty-five collegiate male elite fencers were stratified into two groups: a fencing training group (FT, n=12, age=18.92±1.08, weight=71.78±7.43 kg, body mass index [BMI]=22.32±2.09 kg/m2) and a fencing-Pilates combined training group (FPT, n=13, age=19.92±0.64, weight=70.97±9.14 kg, BMI=22.61±1.71 kg/m2). Evaluations, including body composition; physical fitness factors; shoulder strength; and joint range of motion in the upper extremities, lower extremities, neck, and spine, were conducted before and after 12 weeks of the intervention. Additionally, examinations of pain catastrophizing and anxiety levels during competitive engagements were performed. RESULTS There were no statistical differences in body composition, physical fitness factors, or upper-limb strength between the FT and FPT groups. However, the FPT group exhibited a notable enhancement in shoulder abduction of the upper limb when holding a sword, in contrast to the unchanged metrics observed in the FT group. The positive impact of Pilates-combined treatment on flexibility extended to the neck; waist; and lower extremities, such as hip flexion, hip extension, hip abduction, medial rotation, and ankle dorsi-flexion, coupled with significant improvements in psychological aspects, such as pain relief and related competition anxiety. CONCLUSIONS This study confirmed that Pilates-combined treatment can have a beneficial effect on improving flexibility and pain in fencers, and verified the effectiveness of Pilates as an auxiliary training method for elite fencers.

BackgroundImproving prognosis of BC patients has drawn the attention of health care professionals on disease related long-term side effects and on the multiple treatments BC patients must undergo. Despite advances in procedures, surgery still has multiple detrimental effects, including pain, edema, and limited mobility. For this reason, fostering adapted physical activity (APA) and healthy lifestyle (including a balanced diet and weight management) should become an everyday purpose of healthcare professionals. Fencing may be a well-suited activity to counteract fatigue, pain, and limited arm mobility.Method and analysisThe FENICE study is a mono-center, randomized clinical trial targeting women with BC stages I-III within four weeks from BC surgery. Participants in the control arm will receive the usual recommendations based on the good clinical practice guidelines. In the study arm, participants will be treated with the usual clinical and therapeutic recommendations together with APA and correct lifestyle suggestions.ObjectiveThe primary objective of the study is to compare whether implementation of APA and healthy lifestyle in BC patient after surgery will result in an overall improvement of physical and mental status.ConclusionFencing and its early application in postoperative period may represent a feasible strategy to be implemented in the rehabilitation journey of BC patients.Ethics and disseminationThe study protocol FENICE has been approved by an Italian Ethics Committee on May 2023 (R.S 100.23 5th May 2023).

Background and Study Aim. Attention and concentration, fundamental psychological skills, are crucial in situations where the opponent moves rapidly and incessantly. Reaction time is also of paramount importance in winning a game in fencing, which requires both offensive and defensive actions. Understanding the factors that affect reaction time is essential for improving performance. This study aimed to investigate the impact of disruptions in attention and concentration on reaction time in fencing. Material and Methods. Thirty-four healthy male and female fencers participated in two testing sessions. In the initial session, participants filled out a personal information form and took the d2 Attention Test to determine their attention levels. They also completed items representing the concentration disruption subscale of the Sport Anxiety Scale-2 (SAS-2) to measure concentration levels. In the second session, participants underwent the Favero Electronic Fencing Target (EFT-1) test to measure their reaction times. To analyze the obtained data, SPSS 20 was used. The Pearson correlation coefficient between attention, concentration disruption, and participants' reaction times was calculated. Then, linear regression analysis was employed to test whether attention and concentration scores could predict the reaction times. Results. The findings indicated that there is a significant positive relationship between E (r = .603, p < .01), E% (r = .628, p < .01), E1 (r = .584, p < .01), E2 (r = .533, p < .01), and reaction time. Additionally, a significant negative relationship was revealed between concentration performance and reaction times (r = -.456, p < .01). A significant positive correlation was observed between fencers' concentration disruption and reaction times (r = .416, p < .05). Conclusions. Our study results emphasize the importance of attention and concentration in disciplines that require quick reactions. These cognitive factors need to be considered in the development of sports performance.

Over time, numerous developments in digital technology have benefited people, including anthropometric measurements that provide information on an athlete’s ability in sports. The use of digital technology in sports must continue, particularly in the National Sports Committee of Indonesia (Komite Olahraga Nasional Indonesia, KONI) of Bandung City. This study proposed a technique for classifying and identifying fencing athletes’ talents. This work developed a methodology for evaluating sports talent based on anthropometric measurements of athletes’ bodies using the posture detection approach. Fencing and nonfencing athletes in KONI Bandung City were categorized using this talent identification. This study used 36 datasets of body posture images from various skills of the sport. These images were in JPEG or JPG format with a resolution of 3,024 × 4,032 and were acquired using a Canon EOS 1300D camera. This study utilized four points landmarks, which are usually used as measurement components in KONI, to categorize fencing athletes. The four points are shoulder (S), elbow (E), index (I), and hip (H) landmarks. The testing was done using three different dataset settings. According to the test results of all scenarios, scenario 2 had the highest accuracy. This scenario was able to categorize fencing and nonfencing athletes with an accuracy rate of 89% and an average processing time of less than 3 s per image.

Instagram has impacted how athletes present themselves and communicate with their audiences without the need for mass media mediators, such as journalists. Hence, this study explores the opportunities for professional fencers to develop self-presentation and communication strategies on the platform. The methodological approach is based on netnography and content analysis, evaluating the top 10 fencers accounts (FIE). The findings point out how these athletes build their brand by increasing fan engagement and interaction through sharing training videos, competition photos, and personal stories, while also collaborating with sponsors and brands to open up business opportunities and revenue streams.

The aim of the research is to examine the relationship between character structures and mental toughness of high school and university students doing fencing sports. Survey model, one of the quantitative research methods, has been used in the study. The sample of the research consisted of 286 active licensed fencing athletes who have competing in the classifications of the Turkish Fencing Federation and studying at high schools and university. As a data collection tool in the study Personal Information Form, Sport Character Scale (SCS) Sport Mental Toughness Questionnaire (SMTQ) has been used. In the data analysis, independent group t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test, Tukey HSD multiple comparison test, Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient test have been applied. As a result of the research; average of sports character scores of high school and university athletes; gender, age, education level, branch and nationality status variables have found to be significantly different. It has been specified that there wasn’t significant difference in the fencing experience period variable. Mental toughness score averages in sports; gender, age, education level, branch, fencing experience period, nationality status have found to be significantly different. It has been determined that there is a low and moderate positive and significant relationship in some sub-dimensions of the Sports Character Scale and Sport Mental Toughness Questionnaire.

We investigated the influence of advance lunging in fencing from the perspective of velocity and lower limb joint angles to identify how the joint angles contribute to the peak velocity in a lunge with advance (LWA). Fourteen skilled athletes (age: 19.6 ± 0.9 years, height: 171.2 cm ± 5.2 cm, weight: 63.7 kg ± 5.3 kg, and fencing experience: 9.7 ± 3.1 years) participated by performing two types of attacking movements, and data were collected with a 3D movement analysis system. A correlation between the peak velocity of the body center of mass (CoM) in an advance lunge and several joint angle variables (rear hip peak flexion angle (r = 0.63), rear ankle peak dorsiflexion angle (r = −0.66), rear ankle range of motion (r = −0.59), and front hip peak extension angle (r = 0.54)) was revealed. In addition, the joint angle variables that significantly predicted peak CoM velocity during an LWA were the rear knee peak flexion angle (β = 0.542), rear knee peak extension angle (β = −0.537), and front knee peak extension angle (β = −0.460). Our findings suggest that the rear leg hip joint, rear leg ankle joint, and front leg hip joint may control the acceleration generated by an LWA. Furthermore, more flexion of the rear leg knee joint in the early phase of the lunge and greater extension of the rear and front leg knee joints at the end of the lunge phase may help increase peak velocity.

BackgroundAdapted physical activity programs have shown promising results in reducing the physical, social and psychological side effects associated with breast cancer, but the extent to which they can be effectively adopted, implemented and maintained is unclear. The aim of this study is to use the framework to guide the planning and evaluation of programs according to the 5 following keys: Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework to evaluate a fencing program under the French acronym RIPOSTE (Reconstruction, Image de soi, Posture, Oncologie, Santé, Thérapie, Escrime) literally in English (Reconstruction, Self-Image, Posture, Oncology, Health, Therapy, Fencing). This program is an innovative intervention focused on improving the quality of life (QoL) of breast cancer surgery patients through fencing.MethodsA convergent mixed methods pilot study was conducted to preliminary evaluate the different RE-AIM dimension of the pilot program. Twenty-four participants who have just undergone surgery for invasive breast cancer were randomly allocated in two groups: one group started immediately after their inclusion (Early RIPOSTE group) and the other started 3 months following their inclusion (Delayed RIPOSTE group). Participants answered a questionnaire at inclusion and at the end of the program on QoL, shoulder functional capacity, fatigue, anxiety-depression and physical activity.ResultsRIPOSTE program was able to reach mainly young and dynamic participants, attracted by the originality of fencing and keen to improve their physical condition. Regarding effectiveness, our results suggest a trend to the improvement of QoL, shoulder functional capacity, fatigue and anxiety-depression state, even without any significant differences between the Early RIPOSTE group and the Delayed RIPOSTE group.DiscussionsThe cooperation, exchanges and cohesion within the group greatly facilitated the adoption of the program, whereas interruptions during school vacations were the main barriers. The intervention was moderately well implemented and adherence to the protocol was suitable.ConclusionRIPOSTE is an acceptable and effective program for involving breast cancer survivors in physical activity, that needs to be tested at a larger scale to investigate its effectiveness, but has the potential to be transferred and scaled up worldwide.

Introduction: Recently, the matter of the influence of mental skills on sports skills performance has become very important. The current research aimed to evaluate and compare the mental preparation of the male fencers of the Iranian national team and the elite male fencers of the world.Methods: The current research method was experimental. The statistical population of this research included the fencers of the national teams of Iran, Hungary, America, Russia, France, and Ukraine. The research samples were 58 fencers from selected countries. To measure the mental skills of fencers, the original version of the Ottawa Mental Skills Assessment Tool (OMSAT-3) questionnaire was used. To compare the mental skills of athletes from different countries, the Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) and Bonferroni's post hoc test were used.Results: The results showed that all elite male fencers achieved the highest scores in foundation mental skills including self-confidence, goal setting, and commitment, and the lowest scores were related to refocusing, focusing, and stress control skills. Also, the highest and the lowest scores of mental skills in this research were related to self-confidence and refocusing skills, respectively. Russian fencers scored the highest in all mental skills and Iranian fencers scored the lowest in the stress control skill.Conclusion: Based on the results of the research, fencers have less proficiency in two sub-skills of cognitive psychological and psychosomatic skills compared with the foundation mental skills. The fencers had lower strength in terms of the mental skill of focusing, refocusing, and stress control. Iranian and non-Iranian fencers were weaker in mental skills of stress control and refocusing.

This study was conducted to compare and analyze whether Pilates exercise and yoga exercise help improve the performance of female fencers and prevent injury, and the dynamic balance test (LQ-YBT) and functional movement screening (FMS) test score of the elite adult female fencers were compared and analyzed as evaluation indicators. Participants were randomly classified into Pilates (n = 10) and yoga groups (n = 10), members of which took part in 50 min of exercise (5 min of warm-up, 40 min of main exercise, and 5 min of cool-down) twice weekly for eight weeks. The results obtained from this study were analyzed via independent t-test and 2-way ANOVA. The results were as follows: LQ-YBT measures (reaching distance) increased significantly for both groups, as did FMS scores (deep squat, hurdle step, inline lunge, shoulder mobility, active straight-leg raise, trunk-stability push-up, and rotary stability). These results suggest that Pilates exercise and yoga exercise might be likely effective in improving the performance of adult female fencers and injury prevention by increasing their dynamic balance ability and functional movement.

Subjective measures such as well-being indices may be beneficial to balance fatigue and recovery on the fatigue continuum and awareness of well-being is considered a useful sign for identifying NFOR status. Recovery and neuromuscular fatigue process from training may be delayed because of the eccentric component during a stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) type activities and needs to be well monitored during fencing training and matches. The aim of the study is to investigate training monitoring of elite male fencing athletes aged 15-23 and to examine the variables that affect wellness during intensified training periods. The study includes 16 elite men's saber fencers who train regularly and comprised of 139 data concentrated on training and 6 data engrossed on competitions. These data were examined throughout 2 different time periods and an overall duration. Wellness scores, acute/chronic workload ratio (ACWR) and monotony scores were collected. The main findings of this study, in training loads (AU) a statistically significant difference weren’t observed between periods, but in wellness scores, a significant difference was observed between periods (acute load, p=0.861; hooper index, p=0.003). ACWR (p=0,6103) and monotony (p=0,4810) scores were not observed to be significant predictors of wellness both univariate and multivariate. In summation, This investigation concluded and reinforced the notion that the wellness score is a vital criterion in training and performance monitoring. It was discovered and noted that the continuity of the trainings and the increased intensity of the competition resulted in the wellness score to increase during the second period.

PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the effects of plyometric training (PT) with elastic bands on the physical fitness and isokinetic function in fencing foil athletes. METHODS The study participants were 16 male and female foil fencers aged 20–35 who were selected as the national team in 2019 and classified into the PT with band (PTB) group (n=8) and PT group (n=8). The participants performed PT according to their elastic band status three times a week for four weeks. Both groups participated in the measurement of physical fitness and isokinetic function factors of the knee joint after 0 and 4 weeks. RESULTS Hand grip strength decreased significantly after 4 weeks versus 0 week in both groups (respectively, p

Background and purpose. The success of young athletes depends on many personality characteristics and elements of the training system. The purpose of the study is to identify the most significant special abilities and qualities of young fencers aged 10-12 years old at the initial stage of training. Material and methods. Leading coaches and qualified fencers of sports clubs participated in the study (n=21). The participants were selected according to their rating among Ukrainian specialists, most of whom are representatives of fencing clubs in Kharkiv (Ukraine). A questionnaire containing questions about the main elements of general training of young fencers was used. Results. The main indicators of a fencer's general readiness are: intellectual development (knowledge, skills, abilities); physical development (anthropometric data and psychosomatics); physical qualities; technical readiness; tactical preparedness (understanding, ability, skills). The levels of significance of the specified indicators of the young fencer's personality have been established. The most important indicators are: intellectual skills (95.23%) and skills (90.47%); development of dexterity (61.90%) and speed (42.85%); the fencer's understanding of the purpose of performing technical techniques (71.42%). Conclusions. At the initial stages of training young fencers, it is recommended to pay attention to the special abilities and qualities of young fencers. This approach makes it possible to promote the success of young fencers in sports.

The objective of this study is to determine and interpret the opinions of the fencing referees who are actively involved in the competitions in our country on the issues affecting their development processes. The study group; The Turkish Fencing Federation consists of 80 referees who are on the list of referees with a visa for 2021. An online data collection form was used as a data collection tool in this study, which was structured through the qualitative research method. In the analysis process of the data obtained, the data analysis program called MAXQDA Analyctis Pro (2022) was used. While closed-ended questions were summarized by indicating percentages, the content analysis method was used in the process of analyzing open-ended question and answer reports. The data obtained were visualized with the help of frequency tables and code maps. Finally, some of the opinions of the participants, which were coded, were directly conveyed by interpreting the findings obtained through the tables and code maps. As a result of the research, negative and positive views that affect the development processes of fencing referees in Turkey were categorized. While the issues such as training and development seminars organized for referees, increasing the number of referees' duties, meeting the accommodation and meal expenses of the referees, and improving their wages are among the positive factors; Factors such as the excessive working hours of the referees, the pressure of the coaches and athletes, the low wages, and the lack of sufficient job opportunities were evaluated within the scope of negative effects.

Grassland management affects soil respiration (Rs, consists of heterotrophic respiration and autotrophic respiration) through soil micro-ecological processes, such as hydrothermal, plant root, organic carbon decomposition and microbial activity. Flooding, an irregular phenomenon in grasslands, may strongly regulate the response of soil respiration and its components to grassland management, but the regulatory mechanism remains unclear. We conducted a 3-year experiment by grassland management (fencing and grazing) and flooding conditions (no flooding (NF), short-term flooding (STF) and long-term flooding (LTF)) to study their effects on Rs and its components in a meadow steppe in the Hui River basin of Hulunbuir. We found differences in the patterns of Rs and its components under grassland management and flooding conditions. In 2021–2023, the temporal trends of Rs, heterotrophic respiration (Rh) and autotrophic respiration (Ra) were generally consistent, with peaks occurring on days 190–220, and the peaks of grazing were higher than that of fencing. In NF, Rs of grazed grassland was significantly higher than that of fenced grassland in 2021–2022 (p < 0.05). In STF and LTF, there was no significant difference in Rs between fenced and grazed grassland (p > 0.05). The dependence of Rs on soil temperature (ST) decreased with increasing flooding duration, and the dependence of Rs on ST of grazed grassland was higher than fenced grassland under NF and STF, but there was no difference between fenced grassland and grazed grassland under LTF. In addition, Rh was more sensitive to ST than Ra. This may be due to the different pathways of ST effects on Rs under grazing in different flooding conditions. Our study indicates that the effect of flooding on Rs is the key to the rational use of grassland under future climate change. To reduce regional carbon emissions, we recommend grazing on flooding grassland and fencing on no-flooding grassland.

PURPOSE This study aimed to analyze the difference between scores and loss of world-class fencing sabre players. METHODS A total of 78 match videos and 1969 points of international competition over 3 years were analyzed for the nine major competitors of the national fencing team (Males = 5, Females = 4). The characteristics of each skill, body section and location according to the score were analyzed by dividing them into male and female groups. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS ver. 25.0. RESULTS First, in the situation analysis according to the men's sabre score, attack skills were the most common in the winning situation (447 points, 73%) and in the situation of losing points (389 points, 72%); however, the difference was not significant. In the analysis of the piste location according to the score, B4 was the most common appearing 254 times (41.5%) in the scoring situation and A4, 243 (45%) times in the losing situation, with a significant difference (p < 0.001). Second, in the situation analysis according to the women’s sabre score, 315 attacks (70.6%) were found in the winning situation and 277 (74.7%) in the losing situation; however, the difference was not significant. In the analysis of the scoring body part, the Sixte area scored the highest with 121 points (27.1%), and the arm area lost the most points with 105 points (28.3%); however, the difference was not significant. In the analysis of the piste location according to the score, A4 was the most common in, appearing 179 times (40.1%) in the scoring situation, and 182 times (48.8%) in the losing situation, with no significant difference at the p < 0.001 level. CONCLUSIONS In the men's game, there were many scored points in B4 and many lost points in A4. In the women's game, there were many scored points and lost points in A4; therefore, the difference in goals and losses according to the piste position was confirmed. These results suggest that it is possible to infer the game management patterns of world sabre players and the flow of world fencing.

The objective of this study is to measure and construe the opinions of the parents of athletes who are actively participating in competitions in our country and who are licensed by the Turkish Fencing Federation for the 2019-2020 season, regarding the organizations to be planned and the issues to be paid attention, within the scope of the Covid-19 normalization steps. The study group comprises 410 parents in total who take place on the list of licensed athlete parents of the Turkish Fencing Federation in 2019-2020. An online data collection form was used as a data collection tool in this study, which was structured through the qualitative research method. The survey form, which was drawn up by the researcher by taking expert opinion, consisting of a total of nine questions, and devised to learn the opinions of the participants on the subject matter of the study, includes multiple-choice and open-ended question types. In this study conducted in collaboration with the Turkish Fencing Federation, the respondents answered the questionnaire online via the website of the respective federation and took part in the study voluntarily. Consent regarding the study was presented in the “Remarks'' section of the form to the participants for approval. In the analysis process of the data obtained, the data analysis program called MAXQDA Analytics Pro 2018 (Release 18.2.4) (Professional Data Analysis Software for Qualitative and Mixed Methods) was used. While closed-ended questions were summarized by indicating percentages, the content analysis method was used in the process of analyzing open-ended question and answer reports. The data obtained were visualized with the help of frequency tables and code maps. Finally, some of the opinions of the participants, which were coded, were directly conveyed by interpreting the findings obtained through the tables and code maps. For this study, an approval was received from the Ethics Committee for Non-Invasive Clinical Research of the School of Sport Sciences of Seljuk University. It was determined as a result of the study that the Covid-19 pandemic that poses impacts on the entire world affects the attitudes of parents of athletes to participate in organizations. In the activities planned to be organized, the sub-codes like attending without an audience, open-air competitions, provision of spaciousness and ventilation means in the selection of a competition hall, and risk approval notification are classified. In addition, arrangements for the priorities of the parents of athletes in the organizations to be held within the scope of the Covid-19 normalization steps of the respective federation were ensured by presenting the Turkish Fencing Federation with the report drawn up as a result of the study.

Background and Aim Food and sports supplements are used by athletes all over the world, and correct and optimal consumption improves performance and prevents sports injuries. In this regard, creatine and ginseng supplements can be effective on physiological indicators and sports performance. Therefore, considering that no research has been done on the use of these supplements on blood indicators on fencers. The present study compares the effect of creatine and ginseng supplements on blood ammonia, HDL, LDL and homocysteine indices of the male players of the Iranian Epe fencing team. Methods & Materials In the present study, 14 male players of the Epe national fencing team were divided into two creatine supplement groups (7 people) and ginseng supplement group (7 people). Subjects in two groups performed their normal exercises with the team during the research, and on the day before the measurement, after a specific activity in a sitting position, blood was taken from the arm vein of the subjects by a specialist. The statistical significance difference was determined at the level of P ≥ 0.05 and ANCOVA test was used to determine the differences between groups and the data was analyzed by SPSS software, version 25. Ethical Considerations This article was approved by the Ethics Committee of Islamic Azad University, Shahrood Branch (Code: IR.IAU.SHAHROOD.REC.1400.073). Results The results showed that after six weeks, there is a significant difference between the creatine and ginseng groups in the blood indices of ammonia, LDL, HDL and homocysteine (P≥0.05). so that the average of creatine supplement group in ammonia, LDL, HDL and homocysteine index in terms of mg/dL respectively (2.56±0.83, 1.16±0.33, 7.45±0.48, 8.89±0.18) and Gensing group (2.05±0.29, 1.46±0.78, 8.11±0.27, 7.63±0.45). Conclusion The results showed that there is a significant difference in the average of blood ammonia, HDL, LDL and hemocytin between the creatine supplement group and the ginseng supplement group. Therefore, the role of ginseng supplement in reducing blood ammonia and homocysteine and in increasing HDL was more than that of creatine supplement, and the role of creatine supplement in reducing LDL was more than that of ginseng supplement. So it can be concluded that the role of ginseng supplement in the changes of blood ammonia, homocysteine and HDL is more than the role of creatine supplement.

Abstract Understanding the behavioral ecology of wildlife that experiences negative interactions with humans and the outcome of any wildlife management intervention is essential. In the Cape Peninsula, South Africa, chacma baboons (Papio ursinus) search for anthropogenic food sources in both urban and agricultural areas. In response, the city of Cape Town and private farmers employ “rangers” to keep baboons within the Table Mountain National Park. In this study, we investigated the success of rangers' intervention in keeping baboons in their natural habitat. Based on our findings in year one, we recommended adjustments to the rangers' management strategy in year two. We recommended improved consensus of actions toward baboons (that is, when/where to herd them), and the construction of a baboon‐proof fence around one of the farms that provided a corridor to urban areas. During the 2 months following recommendations, these interventions combined resulted in a significant reduction in the time baboons spent in both urban and agricultural land. Our case study illustrates the importance of integrating research findings into ongoing management actions to improve both human livelihoods and baboon conservation through an adaptive management framework. We expect similar approaches to be beneficial in a wide range of species and contexts.

Habitats of large herbivores have shrunk owing to the expansion of human activities. Consequently, wild herbivores frequently venture into adjacent farmlands to forage for crops. As a result, farmers use fences to prevent these herbivores from foraging. A dynamic game exists between whether farmers choose to set up fences and whether herbivores choose to venture into farmlands. This study established an evolutionary game model between farmers and herbivorous species. The effects of different factors on the game process were studied using model simulations to provide theoretical guidance for the conservation and management of herbivore species. Model simulations showed that food resources in herbivore habitats are key to protecting their populations. Therefore, management needs to restore and protect herbivore habitats, and in cases of extreme food shortages, herbivores should be artificially fed. Simultaneously, herbivores need to obtain certain food supplements from outside their habitats when food resources are scarce. Therefore, subsidies should be provided to farmers close to herbivore habitats to encourage them to use fences that allow a certain number of herbivores to pass through. In addition, increasing the buffer zone between herbivore habitats and farmland has positive implications for the conservation of large herbivore populations.

IntroductionAnimal movements are influenced by landscape features; disturbances to the landscape can alter movements, dispersal, and ultimately connectivity among populations. Faster or longer movements adjacent to a localized disturbance or within disturbed areas could indicate reduced habitat quality whereas slower or shorter movements and reduced movements may indicate greater availability of resources. The Mojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is a threatened species that is challenged by anthropogenic disturbances.MethodsWe studied tortoise movements using Global Positioning System (GPS) loggers at multiple sites in the Mojave Desert of Nevada and California. Tortoises at our sites encountered localized, linear human infrastructure, including paved roads, dirt roads, and fences, as well as landscape-scale disturbances [wildfire, off highway vehicle use (OHV), livestock grazing area]. We fit two-state (moving and encamped) Hidden Markov models to GPS logger data to infer how tortoise movement behavior relates to anthropogenic and natural features.ResultsWe found that temporal covariates, individual-level random effects (intercepts), and sex best explained state transition probability in all sites. We compared relationships between tortoise movement and linear disturbances, which varied depending on site and context. Tortoises made longer movements within the OHV recreation area, near most dirt roads, and near a low-traffic paved road, indicating that tortoises avoid these habitat disturbances. Conversely, tortoises made shorter movements in areas of higher slope and near highways, suggesting that these features may restrict movement or provide resources that result in prolonged use (e.g., forage or drinking locations). Tortoises that encountered fences around utility-scale solar installations were more active and made longer movements near fences, indicative of pacing behavior.DiscussionThese results provide insight into how different disturbances alter tortoise movement behavior and modify tortoise habitat use, providing information that can be used to manage tortoise habitat.

Fencing and the art of combat in general can bring you to think of an argument, a serious conversation between two individuals or two groups. Conversely, intellectual disputes and discursive exchanges can be compared to actual duels with the difference that questions, answers, and reasoning replace gestures, defences, and attacks. This rather simplistic vision deserves to be questioned in regard to the medieval and Renaissance periods, in particular from the written productions resulting from the theorisation and the inscription of these two forms of interaction: the scholastic dispute and the art of fencing. This article aims to make the link between the mechanism of the scholastic dispute, which has existed since the Middle Ages and which persists in the Renaissance, and the world of the art of medieval and early modern combat, which is materialised through the treatises of fencing and wrestling written by educated masters-at-arms as well as the practice of public fencing competitions.

The aim of this study is to determine whether the social structural characteristics of high school and university students who participate in fencing are related to their collective efficacy and goal orientation. This study uses a descriptive (survey) research model based on quantitative observation. The research is limited to fencing athletes who are active in licensed, high school, and university education in 2020-2021 Academic Year. Task and Ego Orientation in Sport Questionnaire (TEOSQ), which was developed by Duda (8) to measure the goal orientation of fencing athletes participating in the study, was adapted for Turkish athletes by Toros (24), Collective Efficacy Scale (CES), which was developed by Riggs et al. (19) to measure their collective efficacies adapted for Turkish athletes by Öcel (18) and the socio-demographic information form were used to measure the characteristics of social structure. In the analysis, independent samples t-test, Pearson Correlation test, one-way analysis of variance test (Anova), Tukey post hoc test, and Tamhane's post hoc test were performed. As a result of the research, it was determined that there was no significant difference between the collective proficiency levels of the athletes according to gender, being a national athlete, educational status of their parents, duration of continuing fencing and family income. It was determined that there was a significant difference according to the number of cases. It has been determined that there is no significant difference between the goal orientation and sub-dimensions of the athletes according to gender, age, educational status, whether there are other licensed fencing athletes in the family, whether they are national athletes, duration of fencing, number of siblings and family income. While no significant relationship was found between collective efficacy and goal orientation and its sub-dimensions in male athletes and athletes over the age of 14, a significant relationship was found between collective efficacy and ego orientation in female athletes. While a significant relationship was found between goal orientation and its sub-dimensions, and between ego orientation and goal orientation in athletes aged 16 and older, no significant relationship was found between task and ego orientations in athletes aged 14-15.

Background and Study Aim. Plyometric training is one of the most preferred methods for athletic performance improvement. This study was designed to measure the effect of 8 weeks of additional plyometric training on jump performance, lower extremity asymmetry, speed, and agility performances of adolescent fencers. Material and Methods. This study was carried out with 26 fencers who participated in national competitions. The fencers were randomly divided into plyometric training (PLY, n = 14) and the control (n = 12) group. The PLY group did plyometric training 3 days per week for 8 weeks in addition to their fencing training. The control group only continued their fencing training. All participants performed countermovement jumps (CMJ), pro-agility, 0-5-m, 5-15–m, 0-15-m sprints, and asymmetry tests before and after 8 weeks. Results. Statistically significant differences were found in CMJ, (p = 0.001), pro-agility (p = 0.001), and 0-5-m (p = 0.036), 5-15-m (p = 0.018), and 0-15-m (p = 0.001) sprint results in the PLY group. However, asymmetry contact time and asymmetry flight time values did not show statistical differences. In addition, group x time interactions of CMJ (p < 0.001), pro-agility (p = 0.001), and 0-5-m (p = 0.015) and 5-15-m (p = 0.009) sprint tests were also found statistically significant. Conclusions. Thus, it can be said that plyometric training contributes positively to the jumping, agility, and speed of fencers. Adolescent fencers and their trainers may be advised to focus on additional plyometric training programs. However, individual differences and training experience should also be taken into account in the determination of plyometric programs.

The objective of this study is to measure and construe the opinions of the coaches and referees who are actively participating in fencing competitions in our country and who are licensed by the Turkish Fencing Federation (TFF) for the year of 2020, regarding the organizations to be planned and the issues to be paid attention, within the scope of the Covid-19 normalization steps. An online data collection form was used as a data collection tool in this study, which was structured through the qualitative research method. In the analysis process of the data obtained, the data analysis program called MAXQDA was used. While closed-ended questions were summarized by indicating percentages, the content analysis method was used in the process of analyzing open-ended question and answer reports. The data obtained were visualized with the help of frequency tables and code maps. Finally, some of the opinions of the participants, which were coded, were directly conveyed by interpreting the findings obtained through the tables and code maps. It was determined as a result of the study that the Covid-19 pandemic that poses impacts on the entire world affects the attitudes of fencing coaches and referees to participate in organizations. In the activities planned to be organized, the sub-codes like attending without an audience, open-air competitions, provision of spaciousness and ventilation means in the selection of a competition hall, and risk approval notification are classified.

Background and Study Aim. Training of motor actions of young athletes requires consideration the peculiarities of the sensitive period of their development. An important component of the training program is the use of training tools that do not harm the health of young athletes. The purpose of the study is to identify the dynamics of physical training and provide an assessment of technical and tactical techniques of fencers (sword) aged 9-11 years under the influence of the author's program. Material and methods. The study involved young fencers (n = 20; age 9-11 years). The study lasted one academic year. The training was held in the gym of the children's and youth sports school "Wave" (Kharkiv, Ukraine). Athletes were divided into two uniform groups: control group (n = 10) and experimental group (n = 10). Classes were held according to the author's program 4 times a week for 2 hours. A survey of trainers of trainers (n = 12) and experienced fencers (n = 30) was conducted. Parents of children agreed to participate in the study. The following tests were used: “Standing Long Jump Test (Broad Jump), cm”; “4x9 m Shuttle test, sec.”; "Hits into the target, 30 sec. points"; "Simulation exercises of a simple fencing combination, sec.". The program "Microsoft Excel" Data Analysis, SPSS was used. The level of reliability is selected p

Fencing is an essential measure for the rehabilitation and conservation of grasslands on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. However, its construction could change the distribution and migration of wildlife, thus affecting the integrity of the ecological networks for local wild animal movement. It is of great significance to quantify the potential impact of fencing on ecological network connectivity associated with land-use changes at regional scale. In this study, taking the northern Tibetan Plateau as the study area, we explored the ecological network change using circuit theory approach under different scenarios at county scale. Among them, this study set up four different scenarios according to the economic growth rate, population growth rate and the sustainable development of society and environment. The results showed that: 1) with increased grazing intensity and enhanced human activities from 1990 to 2015, the grasslands of the northern Tibetan Plateau were greatly degraded, most of which was converted into the barren land, and the conversion proportion was as high as 90.84%, which lead to a decreasing trend of the current density of ecological network in most counties and deterioration of ecological connectivity; 2) fencing construction has reduced regional current density, while fencing intensity is positively correlated with current density loss at county scale. Among them, the counties with serious current density loss were distributed in the northwest and southeast regions. The maximum loss ratio is 39.23%; 3) under four different future land use scenarios, coordinated economic, social and environmental development will have a positive effect on the ecological network. The results of the study have important ecological significance for developing reasonable conservation measures for grassland restoration, protecting wildlife, and maintaining regional ecological balance.

Introduction: The assessment and comparison of the precision and frequency of movement in épée fencers representing various sport classes, and the determination of the influence of three-year symmetrical and unilateral training on dynamic asymmetry. Material and Methods: The research was conducted in 60 female épée fencers, who were divided into four groups according to the sport class they represent (n= 15). In group I there were medalists of the World and European Championships, in group II - medalist of the Polish Championships. Group III and IV consisted of players who achieved successes at the Warsaw Championships. After three years of symmetrical training, the tests were repeated in groups III and IV. The tests were carried out using the Vienna Test System with the aid of the Motor Performance Series device (S2 test), which allows the assessment of coordination skills in terms of fine motor skills. Results: In the conducted research, significant differences in the asymmetry of the upper limbs in the aiming and tapping tests were found in all data groups. The differences in the tests obtained with the dominant and non-dominant upper limb confirm the greatest dynamic asymmetry in the female fencers from the Masters Class. After three years of symmetrical training in the experimental group and unilateral training in the control group, statistically significant differences were observed in all the trials performed with the dominant and non-dominant upper limb. However, in the experimental group of épée fencers, the dynamic asymmetry in the aiming indicators was lower than in the control group. Conclusions: Dynamic asymmetry in terms of the precision and frequency of movement was recorded in all studied groups. High-class épée fencers were characterized by the most significant difference between the results obtained with the dominant and non-dominant upper limbs, which is the result of long-term unilateral training. The three-year symmetrical training conducted in the experimental group had a positive effect on the precision and frequency of movement, however, it did not prevent the occurrence of dynamic asymmetry in the participants. The unilateral training used in the control group further increased the asymmetry of movement in the sportswomen.

The ergogenic effects of caffeine are well documented, yet despite the potential benefits of supplementation, there is a lack of understanding of caffeine habits and supplementation within fencing. British fencers (n = 136) completed a Web-based questionnaire, exploring self-reported caffeine consumption, reasons for use and education. Fencers (94.1%) habitually consumed caffeine, primarily due to the taste of the products (93.8%). Respondents ingested 183.4 ± 137.5 mg of caffeine daily, with a significant difference between age groups (p < 0.05). Many respondents (30.1%) consumed caffeine 60 mins prior/during fencing training and/or competition with the main reason highlighted as cognitive performance enhancement. Respondents ingested 140.8 ± 104.6 mg of caffeine during training/competition, mainly as energy drinks, bars, and powders. Education on caffeine supplementation was low (25.7%), with significant associations between age groups (p < 0.05). Evidence implies caffeine toxicity has been experienced by 35% of fencers, highlighting the need for education on caffeine consumption. To conclude there is evidence of caffeine supplementation in fencing, primarily to magnify cognitive performance. However, there is a requirement for targeted education on caffeine supplementation to fencers, so that negative side effects and potential anti-doping infringements can be avoided.

PURPOSE This study aims to help improve performance by comparing and analyzing the kinematic variables for each upper and lower extremities segment when two groups of players attack the national women’s fencing players in a match situation. METHODS This study divided the movement time, movement time ratio, Fente step length change, angle factor at each event, and velocity factor of the fencing point of a sword at each event into the Olympic medalists’ group (Group A) and the international competition winners group (Group B) during the fencing Marche Fente. An independent t-test was performed for each factor, and the results were compared. RESULTS As a result, the difference between the two groups in movement time was statistically significant in the front of the foot in the velocity factor. However, no statistical significance was found between the two groups in the front angle of the trunk, the elbow angle, and the knee angle. CONCLUSIONS This indicates that group A and group B are both outstanding players with the best performance, so they are similar in the details of the movements except for the very slight difference in time and velocity. Therefore, the average of the result values of the joint angle will be a feedback index for fencing beginners or education subjects who are now starting to fencing.

Background and Study Aim. The aim of the research is to investigate the efficiency of designed complexes of training exercises aimed to improve the coordination abilities of qualified athletes in fencing. Material and Methods. 22 qualified athletes specializing in fencing aged from 15 to 18 took part in the research. The study design included the sequential pedagogical experiment that was realized through the several stages. At the first stage, the preliminary testing of the athletes’ coordination abilities (n=22) was conducted. During the preliminary testing the following tests were applied: jumps to the line; shuttle run (4x9 m.); T-test, straight touch from en-garde position to the target of 10 cm in diameter from close range (10 attempts); straight lunge attack from en-garde position to the target of 10 cm (10 attempts). At the second stage of the pedagogical experiment two complexes of exercises aimed at developing the coordination abilities of the athletes were applied for 3 months. The experimental complexes of exercises were used twice a week. At the third stage, the efficiency of experimental complexes aimed at the developing of coordination abilities of qualified athletes in fencing was checked through a control testing. The Statistica 10 software created by the StatSoft Company was used for statistical processing of data. Results. It was established that during the process of coordination abilities development, the greatest attention should be given to the athletes’ ability to control timing, spatial and physical parameters of moves and moves consistency. To improve the process of developing the coordination abilities of the qualified athletes in fencing two complexes of training exercises were developed. The results of the pedagogical experiment confirmed the statistical differences in the levels of the athletes’ coordination abilities manifestation before and after using experimental training complexes (p

Background: Fencing is one of many sports that are held in major sports events, both nationally and internationally. Fencing also has a high risk of injury, and knee injury is the most common injury site according to the authors' observations. Even so, studies on knee injuries in fencing athletes are very scarce, especially in Indonesia.Aim: To ascertain the prevalence of knee injuries and its intrinsic risk profile in fencing athletes at East Java Puslatda (regional training center).Material and Methods: The method used in this study was descriptive observational based on athletes’ health screening data, which were obtained from Sport Clinic Dr. Soetomo Academic General Hospital and athletes’ fitness data obtained from KONI.Results: This research involved14 fencing athletes that were active in the East Java regional training center. Out of the 14 athletes who were included in this study, it was found that 1 athlete (7.1%) had a knee injury and 13 athletes (92.9%) had no knee injury. The athlete who had injured was a senior overweight female, had history of knee injury, average VO2max, normal knee ROM and alignment, and did 1-2 times leg strengthening exercises every week.Conclusion: The prevalence of knee injuries in fencing athletes at East Java regionaltraining center is 1 in 14 athletes.

Success in fencing is gained by making quick decisions and acting quickly during the bout. This study aimed to determine the body composition of fencers competing in the U 10-12 age categories and to examine the relationship between the 30-m speed test (30-m ST) and the 7-m repeat lunge ability test (7-m RLAT). Thirty-eight sabre fencers (female: 25 and male: 13) participated in the study. The anthropometric properties of the participants were determined, then the 30-m ST and the 7-m RLAT, a specific test for fencing, were performed. The differences between sexes were evaluated using the Mann-Whitney U test because the data were not distributed normally, and Spearman correlation analysis was performed to determine the relationship between performance tests. When the results of the study were examined, there was no significant difference between the sexes in the physical characteristics and performance tests of the athletes (p gt;0.05). Also, when all fencers were evaluated together, a significant relationship was found between the 30-m ST and the 7-m RLAT (rs(36)=0.526, p=0.001). When the sexes were examined separately, a significant relationship was found between the 30-m ST and the 7-m RLAT only in the male group (rs(23)=0.659, p lt;0.001). The 7-m RLAT can be used instead of or in addition to anaerobic power and speed tests for performance measurement in fencers.

The objective of the research was to analyze and comment on the sportive identities of the star, young and great athletes actively participated in competitions in our country, became involved among the first 16 athletes in formal classifications (in their own categories) of Turkey Fencing Federation between 2016-2017, and attended in the Big National Team Camp held in the county Antalya/Alanya between the dates of 18-29/8/2016 and the Star-Young Europe Championship Preparation Camp held in the province Ankara between the dates of 18-26/2/2017. The research group consisted of 64 athletes invited to the relevant national team camps in the 2016-2017 season. Based on the survey model, within the relevant study, Athletic Identity Scale which was developed by Brewer and Cornelius (2001), and also validated and made reliable in Turkish by Çetinkaya (2015), was used. In evaluation of data and estimation of values, the SPSS 16.0 statistical package program was utilized. Data was summarized with averages and standard deviations. Since data showed a normal distribution, independence group t-test for pair comparisons, One Way Variance Analysis (anova) for multiple comparisons were preferred. In this study, scale reliability coefficient was calculated as .74. The significance level was regarded as 0.05 in this study. As a result of the research; it was concluded that there were no significant differences in the average points from the Athletic Identity Scale in accordance with the gender variable; there was a significant difference in favour of the participants, aged 15-18, graduating from high school and below in accordance with the age and education background variable among 64 athletes invited to the relevant national team camps in the 2016-2017 season.

Abstract Net‐wire fencing built to confine livestock is common on rangelands in the Southwestern USA, yet the impacts of livestock fencing on wildlife are largely unknown. Many wildlife species cross beneath fences at defined crossing locations because they prefer to crawl underneath rather than jump over fences. Animals occasionally become entangled jumping or climbing over fences, leading to injury or death. More commonly, repeated crossings under net‐wire fencing by large animals lead to fence damage, though the damage is often tolerated by landowners until the openings affect the ability to enclose livestock. The usage, placement, characteristics, and passage rates of fence crossings beneath net‐wire fencing are poorly understood. We monitored 20 randomly selected fence crossings on net‐wire livestock fencing across two study sites on rangelands in South Texas, USA, from April 2018 to March 2019. We assessed the characteristics of fence‐crossing locations (openings beneath the fence created by animals to aid in crossing) and quantified crossing rates and the probability of crossing by all species of animals via trail cameras. We documented 10,889 attempted crossing events, with 58% (n = 6271) successful. Overall, 15 species of medium‐ and large‐size mammals and turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) contributed to crossing events. Crossing locations received 3–4 crossing attempts per day on average, but the number of attempts and probability of successful crossing varied by location and fence condition. The probability of crossing attempts was most consistently influenced by the opening size of the crossing and season; as crossing size (opening) increased, the probability of successful crossing significantly increased for all species. Peaks in crossing activity corresponded with species' daily and seasonal movements and activity. The density and size of fence‐crossing locations were dependent on fence maintenance and not associated with vegetation communities or habitat variables. However, crossing locations were often re‐established in the same locations after fence repairs. This is one of the few studies to monitor how all animal species present interacted with net‐wire livestock fencing in rangelands. Our results will help land managers understand the impact of net‐wire livestock fencing on animal movement.

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to analyze the consumption of sports supplements (SS) in competitive level fencers and compare differences based on sex and competitive level (international and national). Methods A total of 49 fencers (18 men and 31 women) of national (n = 16) and international (n = 33) level completed a questionnaire with questions about SS consumption and the possible repercussions on health and / or sports performance. The results were analyzed based on the different categorizations established by the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), as well as by sex and level of competence to which the participants belonged to. Results 46.9% of fencers have consumed SS with the main motivation being performance improvement (34.2%). Medical doctors were the individuals who were more likely to advise men to consume SS (50.0% vs 5.6%; OR = 3.29 [1.50–7.20]). Friends were most likely to advise women (38.9% vs 8.3%; OR = 1.75 [1.05–2.93]). The most consumed SS were sport drinks (44.9%), vitamin C (43.4%), sport bars (38.8%), and caffeine (28.6%). In regards to the SS categories, it was observed differences in the interaction level·sex in medical supplements (p = 0.017). In addition, there was a higher prevalence of whey protein consumption in women (25.8% vs 0%; p = 0.020) and iron consumption in men (33% vs 6.5%; p = 0.039). Conclusions The prevalence of SS use in fencers is within the values previously reported in athletes of the same competitive level. There were no differences by sex and competitive level in the total consumption of SS, nor in each of the groups of level of evidence, being sport drinks, bars and caffeine the most consumed SS.

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of mindfulness and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on psychological factors such as injury anxiety and performance improvement. There are models of the relationship between psychological factors and injury showing that stress, anxiety and worry can limit cognition, increase muscle tension, increase distractibility and lose focus. Finding a way to reduce anxiety and improve performance is important for professional athletes. This study was conducted in the form of an experiment involving two experimental groups (mindfulness training group and electrostimulation group) and a control group with a pretest-posttest design. The statistical sample of this study consists of 36 volunteers who participated in this study. The statistical population of this study was all elite fencers who had at least third place in Tehran province in their record. Anxiety inventory questionnaire prepared by Cassidy (2006) and sports performance questionnaire prepared by Charbonio (2001) were used to measure injury anxiety and performance. Data were measured with descriptive statistics to show the mean and standard deviation of the data, and inferential statistical tests through paired t-tests and Fisher’s tests to show the differences between groups, using SPSS-25 software. The results showed that mindfulness and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) had a significant effect on the pretest in both performance and anxiety variables by paired t-tests. By Fisher’s test, the variables of injury anxiety in the two groups of mindfulness and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) showed no significant difference. In this study, it can be concluded that both mindfulness and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation had a significant effect on these variables and that mindfulness is a suitable, inexpensive and accessible way for athletes to access it.

This study investigates the visual activity of fencers in conditions resembling official competitions. Previous research in experimental conditions has shown that experts focus on specific areas of the torso and the armed arm to control movement initiation. Eight right-handed fencers (epee: two males, one female; foil: one male; sabre: two males, two females) participated in a simulated competition, wearing an eye tracker during one bout. The findings showed that the main fixation in foil and sabre is the upper torso, while in epee, it is the lower torso. In epee and sabre, the upper torso is viewed about 50% of the time, with three other areas also observed, while in foil, the fixation is totally directed to the upper torso. Additionally, two new areas of interest were identified: the score machine and an area involving fixations other than the opponent. The study found no direct link between visual activity and performance. The visual search strategy varies among weapons, with foil using a gaze anchor or foveal spot and epee and sabre utilizing a visual pivot due to the discipline’s inherent rules. The study also emphasizes that competition-like conditions can disrupt visual activity with external stimuli, possibly affecting performance.

Background and Study Aim. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many athletes to interrupt their regular training programme. The change-of-direction performance is a highly critical parameter for fencing. This study aims to investigate the effects of the detraining process caused by the COVID-19 pandemic on the change-of-direction performance of fencers. Material and Methods. The study sample comprised 15 fencers (11 males, 4 females) who were competitors in the U17-20 age categories (mean age: 15.75±1.51 years; height: 170.30±7.68 cm; weight: 65.16±10.83 kg) in Turkey. All participants were high school students. Branch-specific change-of-direction tests (4-2-2-4-m shuttle and 7-m repeat lunge ability) were measured in the middle of the competition season and after the detraining period. The detraining period lasted 31 weeks due to the pandemic process. Results. The results showed that participants were slower in the post 7-m repeat lunge ability test (23.32±2.21 sec.) compared with the pre-test (22.38±1.58 sec.) and participants were slower in the post 4-2-2-4-m shuttle test (6.43±0.54 sec.) compared with the pre-test (5.84±0.33 sec.) (p

The current pandemic has seen the need to adorn public spaces with varied signage, sometimes almost spontaneous or, on the contrary, very elaborate, inviting us to respect distances and spaces specific to each person: what might seem obvious to us, however, refers to a long history of the notation of movement, on the ground or on the page. By comparing a few elements of current signage with a corpus of fencing and dance manuals, or even military treatises, the aim is to grasp the stakes of the visualization of this grid, intermediate and mediator of our relations, which isolates us together in a progressive process of incorporation of images and signs.

The objective of this study is to measure and interpret the burnout levels of the fencing referees who act in the fencing contests in our country as referees actively. The study group is constituted by the 60 referees with varying refereeing levels taking place on the Certified Referees List 2018 of the Turkish fencing Federation. The Maslach Burnout Inventory developed by Maslach and Jackson (1981) and adapted into Turkish conducting a study on its reliability and validity by Ergin (1992) was used in this study conducted on the basis of the survey model. In the evaluation of the data and determination of the calculated values, SPSS 16.0 statistics package program was used. The data was summarized by providing the percentages, averages, and standard deviations. As the data distributed normally, an independent group t test was used for the pairwise cluster comparisons and One way Variance Analysis (ANOVA) was used for the multiple cluster comparisons. Tukey HSD multiple comparison test was conducted to determine the significant differences as a result of the ANOVA. The scale reliability coefficient was calculated as .82 and significance level was taken into account as 0.05 in this study. In conclusion, it was observed that the variables of ages, income and education statuses, sportsperson ship background, and material revenues obtained from acting as referees did not differentiate statistically and statistically significant differences were determined in terms of the variables of refereeing experience period, refereeing level, and the number of the annually received assignments, in the personal success subcategory.

The Research aims at: 1. To reveal the difference between the tribal and pre-test groups of the first experimental group in the special Kinetic abilities in foil fencing. 2. To reveal the difference between the two tests of the tribal and the second experimental group in the special Kinetic abilities in foil fencing. 3. Revealing the difference between the two experimental groups in the dimensional test of the special Kinetic abilities of the foil fencing. Search procedures: 1. The researchers used the experimental method to suit the nature of the research. 2. The research sample consisted of players practicing the fencing game, which were divided into two experimental groups in the same way as the corresponding pairs with (7) players in each group. 3. The special Kinetic abilities and tests were determined and selected through the analysis of content and opinions of experts. 4. The training curriculum was implemented on the sample of the study which lasted (8) weeks and with (3) units per week, after which the tests were carried out to determine the level in the Kinetic abilities of the special bidders. 5. Use researcher tests and measurements to collect data. 6.Used the researchers (arithmetic mean, standard deviation, T test for independent samples, T test for associated samples, percentage, evolution rate, torsion coefficient, and difference coefficient) Conclusions: The interval training using the time range (3, 4, 5) seconds has led to the development of all the special Kinetic abilities of fencing. The interval training using the time range (6, 8, 10) seconds has led to the development of all the Kinetic abilities of fencing. The interval training using both the two-time (3,4,5) seconds and (6, 8, 10) seconds has led to an equal development of all the special Kinetic abilities of fencing. The effectiveness of training interval in the development of the special Kinetic abilities of fencing that fall under the time of the first part of the first region (peak capacity, sustaining the peak capacity) of the Phosphagen system (ATP-PC).

Research purpose: To study the features of left-handed and right-handed fencers’ competitive activity, to justify the tendency of increasing the representation of left-handed fencers in the international sports arena and to substantiate the need to take into account the functional asymmetry of fencers in the initial stages of sports training. Material and Methods. 54 international competitions and 2,395 athletes were studied. The survey was attended by 25 coaches. The study of individual profiles of asymmetry involved 9 qualified fencers. During the research, the following methods were used: analysis of scientific and methodological literature and materials from the Internet, analysis of competition protocols and video analysis, sociological methods of research, pedagogical observation, pedagogical testing, methods of mathematical statistics. Results. Among the features of competitive activity of fencers with different leading extremities are: increase in the number of various attacks and counterattacks of the right-handed athletes and widespread use of complex and more varied technical and tactical actions, while the speed of performing techniques and actions can be reduced due to the lack of competitive practice with left-handed athletes; left-handed athletes’ widespread use of simple attacks without transference with high speed. The number of left-handed fencers from 2002-2003 to 2016-2017 sports seasons increased by 48 athletes. Today, they are between 12 and 42% in the first 50 world rankings. The largest number is in teams of Russia, Italy, the USA, and China. Of the 146 left-handed athletes, 45% (66 people) represent Russia, Italy, the USA, and China in the top ten. Cases of incorrect orientation of fencers’ training were identified. This determines the relevance of accounting for functional asymmetry at the initial stages of training. Conclusions. The features of duel between the fencers with dominant right and left extremities, tendency to increase the number of left-handed fencers in the international sports arena from 2002 to 2017 were determined. Fencers’ individual profiles of asymmetry were studied, cases of incorrect orientation of athletes’ training were identified.

IntroductionEven if indications for mastectomy have been progressively reduced in loco-regional breast cancer (BC) treatment, the harmful effects of surgery are still numerous and can impact physical and psychological wellbeing of women. The RIPOSTE (Reconstruction, self-Image, Posture, Oncology, “Santé”-Health, Therapy, “Escrime”-Fencing) program aimed to propose adapted fencing to patients with BC. This study aims to investigate the effect and conditions of effectiveness of the RIPOSTE program.Methods and analysisThis is a prospective randomized controlled trial including 24 patients with invasive BC who have just undergone surgery. The study will be proposed to the patient and if interested, the patient will be referred to a sports physician for a medico-sportive evaluation. At the end the evaluation, if the patient meets the inclusion criteria, she will be randomly assigned to one of the 2 groups based on a 1:1 principle: Early RIPOSTE group (receive one fencing session per week for 3 months immediately after their inclusion), Delayed RIPOSTE group (receive one fencing session per week for 3 months but within the 3 months following their inclusion). Patients will be included for 6 months with 3 follow-up times (0, 3, and 6 months) by a sport physician. The primary outcome is the evolution of quality of life score. Secondary outcomes are disability score, fatigue, anxiety-depression, cost-effectiveness and process evaluation.Ethics and disseminationThe study protocol has been approved by a French ethics committee (CPP Sud Méditerranée IV, N°ID-RCB: 2020-A01916-33). Results will be submitted for publication, at scientific conferences and through press releases.Trial RegistrationNCT04627714.

Land reclamation and grassland management are important land utilization pattern for effective use and restoration of alkali-saline land in agriculture-pasture transition regions. These large-scale land cover/land use changes (LCLUC) could impose profound and divergent impacts on terrestrial carbon (C) and H2O cycling, hence require precise assessment of ecosystem CO2 uptake and water use differences due to specific land use of the same climate/soil landscape. We initiated clustered eddy covariance flux-tower observations and C/H2O fluxes analysis of 4 adjacent representative land cover and grassland managements types on alkali-saline Songnen Plain, including fenced meadow (as reference land use), clipped meadow, degraded alkali-saline land and paddy field in 2018–2019. Results showed that differences in land use influenced the magnitude and temporal variation of net ecosystem productivity (NEP) and evapotranspiration (ET). Compared to fenced meadow, paddy field increased growing season C uptake by 63.3% and ET by 35.4%, while degraded alkali-saline land and clipped meadow decreased C uptake by 43.0% and 30.6%, and ET by 32.1% and 3.2%. Degraded alkali-saline land barely sequestrate C in dry year, whereas paddy field is least sensitive to inter-annual precipitation variation. Growing season C uptake was advanced in clipped meadow due to increased surface temperature, while monthly ET peaked early at May in paddy field. Agricultural use and specific grassland management also caused large differences in ET partitioning. Fenced meadow had greater ET partitioned into transpiration (69%) than clipped meadow (58%), degraded alkali-saline land and paddy field (41% and 34%, respectively). Water use efficiency appeared greater in clipped meadow and degraded alkali-saline land than in fenced meadow, and responded differently to abiotic factors. Overall, large-scale LCLUC has exerted significant influence on terrestrial C/H2O balances and physical responses in alkali-saline Songnen Plain.