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OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to compare the risk factors associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in elite soccer and taekwondo players by examining landing error scoring system (LESS) scores and limb symmetry index (LSI). METHODS A total of 20 male athletes (10 soccer players and 10 taekwondo players) were evaluated. Participants completed a drop-landing task, and their landing mechanics were evaluated using the LESS. Muscle activation was measured with surface electrodes placed on the rectus femoris and biceps femoris. LSI values were calculated as a percentage based on muscle activation data, using the ratio of the nondominant limb to the dominant limb, to assess asymmetry. RESULTS Significant differences were observed between the two groups in knee valgus angle at initial contact (p=0.005), knee joint displacement (p=0.024), and overall impression (p=0.011). Notably, the soccer players demonstrated a significantly higher LESS score (total score, p=0.024) compared to the taekwondo players. However, no significant differences in LSI were found between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that elite male soccer players may benefit from targeted interventions, such as neuromuscular control training, to enhance joint stability and correct landing mechanics, compared to taekwondo players.

OBJECTIVES This study examined the effects of clubbell exercises in a pitcher training program on the range of motion (ROM), muscle function, and its subsequent influence on pitching velocity. Additionally, this study aimed to develop an optimal training program to prevent injury while improving pitcher performance. METHODS Eighteen pitchers were included and equally divided into clubbell exercise and control groups. Clubbell training was conducted through 60-minute sessions twice a week for 12 weeks. Internal/external rotational (IR/ER) ROM, IR/ER muscle strength, muscle endurance, muscle power, and pitching velocity were measured before and after the intervention. RESULTS The IR (p = 0.051) and total ROM (TROM; p = 0.05) of the throwing arm decreased in the control group but increased in the clubbell exercise group, with an observed tendency of interaction. In the non-throwing arm, the ER ROM was significantly different between the two groups (p

Objectives Several studies have reported that weighted baseball (WB) training is effective in improving ball speed; however, the weight of the ball suitable for training remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the changes in muscle activity during pitching using 5- to12-oz WBs and to provide basic data for training programs to improve pitching speed. Methods The subjects of this study were 10 overhand pitchers who had more than 5 years of experience. Muscle activity was measured and analyzed at 70–85% of throwing baseball maximum effort (TBME) during soft toss (ST) and TBME was evaluated using electromyography. Results As the ball weight increased, muscle activity also increased in all pitching phases. Muscle activity was higher during ST with WBs heavier than 10 or 11oz than during TBME, indicating that the loads on the shoulder and elbow joint muscles increased. Conversely, muscle activity during ST with 5- to 7-oz WBs was lower than that during TBME, although phase and muscle group differences were observed. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that training with 8- to 10-oz WBs could increase muscle strength and activity, although the effect may vary with fitness level and muscle strength.

Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) is a sleep-related movement disorder characterized by involuntary, rhythmic limb movements during sleep. While PLMD itself is not considered life-threatening, its association with certain underlying health conditions raises concerns about mortality risks. PLMD has been found to be associated with cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and cardiovascular disease. The fragmented sleep caused by the repetitive limb movements and associated arousals may contribute to sympathetic activation, chronic sleep disruption, sleep deprivation, and subsequent cardiovascular problems, which can increase mortality risks. The comorbidities and health factors commonly associated with PLMD, such as obesity, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease, may also contribute to increased mortality risks. PLMD is often observed alongside other neurological disorders, including restless legs syndrome (RLS) and Parkinson's disease. The presence of PLMD in these conditions may exacerbate the underlying health issues and potentially contribute to higher mortality rates. Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms linking PLMD to mortality risks and to develop targeted interventions that address these risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Hepatitis E outbreaks are a serious public health concern in the world. The pilots or air traffic controllers can be incapacitated by severe hepatitis symptoms. If the symptoms of acute hepatitis do not improve, it is not suitable for aviation duties. In this study, we compare of incidence status of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections, and epidemic aspects between South Korea (from here on, 'Korea') and Japan. Methods: The raw data on confirmed of HEV infection cases were obtained from the National Notified Disease Surveillance System of Korea Diseases Control and Prevention Agency, the Ministry of Health and Welfare in Korea, and the National Epidemiological surveillance of Infectious Diseases surveillance system, administered by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases in Japan. Statistically significant differences between the epidemiological aspects and risk factors were determined using the Pearson's chi-squared test or paired t-test. All data analyses were performed in Microsoft Excel 2010 (Microsoft, Redmond, WA, USA). Results: There were 191 cases of HEV infected cases with a prevalence rate (PR) of 0.37 per 100,000 populations of Korea in 2020. During the same year in Japan, there were 454 cases with a PR of 0.36. When compared, there is statistically none significantly differences. Moreover, both PR per 100,000 populations of HEV infections in habitat of two countries were compared, in the provinces (0.39) of Korea were much higher than that in capital city of Seoul (0.27; P<0.01), but that in Japan were capital city of Tokyo (0.84) was higher than that of the provinces (0.30; P<0.01). Male to female morbidity ratio was 1.65 and 3.78 in Korea and Japan, respectively. The distribution by the age adjusted groups were similar in Korea and Japan that the total cases occurred in the over 40-years-old age bracket, clearly showing a higher incidence in the elderly. Conclusion: We believed that the HEV are a zoonotic virus, and human occurs mainly through the fecal contamination of water and consumption of contaminated meat from infected animals. In addition, HEV infection can be a problem for pilots and air traffic controllers as well, requiring further investigation and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]