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The human central nervous system (CNS) undergoes tremendous changes from childhood to adulthood and this may affect how individuals at different stages of development learn new skills. Here, we studied motor skill learning in children, adolescents, and young adults to test the prediction that differences in the maturation of different learning mechanisms lead to distinct temporal patterns of motor learning during practice and overnight. We found that overall learning did not differ between children, adolescents, and young adults. However, we demonstrate that adult‐like skill learning is characterized by rapid and large improvements in motor performance during practice (i.e., online) that are susceptible to forgetting and decay over time (i.e., offline). On the other hand, child‐like learning exhibits slower and less pronounced improvements in performance during practice, but these improvements are robust against forgetting and lead to gains in performance overnight without further practice. The different temporal dynamics of motor skill learning suggest an engagement of distinct learning mechanisms in the human CNS during development. In conclusion, adult‐like skill learning mechanisms favor online improvements in motor performance whereas child‐like learning mechanisms favors offline behavioral gains. Research Highlights: Many essential motor skills, like walking, talking, and writing, are acquired during childhood, and it is colloquially thought that children learn better than adults.We investigated dynamics of motor skill learning in children, adolescents, and young adults.Adults displayed substantial improvements during practice that was susceptible to forgetting over time. Children displayed smaller improvements during practice that were resilient against forgetting.The distinct age‐related characteristics of these processes of acquisition and consolidation suggest that skill learning relies on different mechanisms in the immature and mature central nervous system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Treating oral problems with dentist intervention during hospitalisation may improve patients' food intake status. Objectives: This study aimed to clarify whether convalescent rehabilitation ward inpatients in a hospital with hospital dentistry (HHD) had a better diet at discharge than those in a hospital without hospital dentistry (HNHD). Methods: Retrospective observational study including inpatients with dental involvement in a HHD with dentists and dental hygienists and HNHD with dental hygienist and visiting dental service between 1 March and 31 August 2022. Data included age, sex, body mass index (BMI), Functional Independent Measure (FIM) motor and cognitive, Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT) score, Food Intake LEVEL Scale (FILS), whether the FILS ≥8 (indicating that patient eats also a non‐texture‐modified diet), remained and functional tooth numbers and speech language hearing therapist (SLHT) and dentist interventions. Comparisons between the two hospitals and factors that affected the FILS ≥8 were examined. Results: A total of 333 and 89 inpatients were included in the HHD and HNHD groups, respectively. After propensity score matching, the HHD group had a significantly higher rate of FILS ≥8, functional tooth numbers at discharge, and SLHT and dentist intervention rates. The multivariable logistic regression analysis for propensity score matching participants showed that the significant independent variables for FILS ≥8 were age, BMI, FILS, FIM motor (all at admission) and SLHT and dentist interventions. Odds ratio for dentist intervention was 14.46 (95% CI: 4.36–48.01). Conclusions: Dentists are necessary to improve patients' food intake status in convalescent rehabilitation wards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is limited knowledge about the possible long‐term effects on jaw motor function after whiplash trauma. Objectives: The primary aim was to evaluate integrated jaw and head–neck movement amplitudes during jaw function in individuals 2 years after whiplash trauma, compared to controls. The secondary aim was to evaluate changes between the acute stage and a 2‐year follow‐up in terms of jaw and head–neck movement amplitudes during jaw function. Methods: This study included 28 cases exposed to a whiplash trauma 2 years earlier (13 women) and 28 controls (13 women) without previous neck trauma. Head and jaw movement amplitudes were recorded during maximal jaw opening–closing movements using an optoelectronic 3D recording system. For a subpopulation of 12 cases and 15 controls, recordings had also been performed in the acute stage after the whiplash trauma. Jaw and head movement amplitudes were analysed using linear regression with group and sex as independent variables. The subpopulation longitudinal analysis was adjusted for movement amplitudes at baseline. Results: Jaw movement amplitudes were significantly associated with group (coefficient: −0.359: 95% CI: −10.70 to −1.93, p =.006) with smaller amplitudes of jaw movements for whiplash cases. Head movement amplitudes were not associated with group (coefficient: −0.051, 95% CI: −4.81 to 3.20, p =.687). In the longitudinal analysis, both jaw and head movement amplitudes showed significant associations between baseline and the 2‐year follow‐up. Conclusion: The present findings indicate that the effects on jaw function in terms of jaw opening capacity in the acute stage after whiplash trauma do not spontaneously recover. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Everyday social interactions or goal‐directed actions towards objects activate action plans appropriate to their affordances. The spatial compatibility of a stimulus and a response might interfere with the activation of these action plans. In the present study, we examined how framing of interactions affects the interplay between affordance and spatial compatibility effects towards humans and objects in two separate experiments. In a motor priming task designed to simultaneously assess these two effects, participants were presented with interactive hand gestures and objects with a single handle. Participants responded either with their left or right hand according to the colour mask of the stimulus, regardless of the spatial position or the affordance‐related orientation of the stimulus. In Experiment 1, when responses were given by keypresses, we found independent affordance and spatial compatibility effects towards objects. Surprisingly, interactive hand gestures induced a reversed affordance effect, that is, imitative action tendencies. Changing the responses from keypresses to the performance of grasping actions in Experiment 2 drastically altered these findings, resulting in the enhancement of affordance and the elimination of spatial compatibility effects for both human and object interactions. These findings highlight the importance of contextual influences on the emergence of automatic action tendencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a comprehensive review of the literature on modified sports interventions for children and adolescents with disabilities. The review analyzed 12 studies that focused on interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, and other conditions. The interventions aimed to improve motor skills related to sports and promote participation in physical activities. The studies showed moderate levels of evidence and highlighted the main characteristics and structure of the interventions. The article also provides a step-by-step guide for implementing these interventions in clinical practice. Overall, the review suggests that modified sports interventions can lead to improvements in motor skills, physical functions, executive functions, and participation in leisure physical activities. However, further research is needed to explore the effectiveness of these interventions in different populations and outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Self‐determination refers to setting goals and making decisions regarding one's own life with support from others as needed. Research on people with intellectual and developmental disabilities has established the importance of self‐determination for quality of life outcomes, such as increased independence and life satisfaction. However, self‐determination has not been characterised specifically in fragile X syndrome (FXS), the leading inherited cause of intellectual disability. Relative to youth with other forms of intellectual and developmental disabilities, youth with FXS may face exceptional barriers to the development of self‐determined behaviour. In addition to intellectual disability, the FXS behavioural profile is characterised by high rates of autism and anxiety that may further limit opportunities for youth with FXS. The heritable nature of the condition can also yield a distinctive family environment, with siblings and parents also living with fragile X or its associated conditions. Considering these unique challenges, the present study examined self‐determination in young adult males and females with FXS and explored whether factors such as language skills, adaptive behaviour and autism traits were associated with self‐determination capacity and opportunities. Methods: The present study included 9 females and 36 males with FXS between the ages of 17 and 25 years. Caregivers (mothers or fathers) completed the American Institute for Research Self‐Determination Assessment, which is a questionnaire that yields three scores: self‐determination capacity, opportunities for self‐determination at home and opportunities for self‐determination at school. Results: Caregivers endorsed a wide range of self‐determination capacity and opportunities, with ratings for opportunities at home and school exceeding ratings of capacity. Better adaptive behaviour skills were associated with more self‐determination capacity, and the presence of more autism traits was associated with fewer opportunities at school. Conclusions: Results from this study contribute to our understanding of avenues to best support young adults with FXS as they transition to adulthood. Our findings also have implications for practice, such that interventions targeting adaptive behaviours and self‐determination may be an effective approach for promoting autonomy and independence for young adults with FXS. Additionally, caregivers and educators should continue to provide opportunities to practise self‐determination, regardless of their perception of capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Individuals (i.e. children/young adults) with developmental disabilities (DDs) and intellectual disabilities (IDs) often display a variety of physical and motor impairments. It is well known that participation in motor activities can positively impact the development of children's cognitive and social skills. Recently, virtual and digital technologies (e.g. video conferencing applications, virtual reality and video gaming) have been increasingly used to promote better physical/motor outcomes. The efficacy of digital technologies in improving motor outcomes for those with DD/ID varies depending on the technology and population, and the comparative effects of various technologies are unknown. The aim of our study is to conduct a systematic review to comprehensively examine the quantitative and qualitative results of current studies reporting the efficacy of digitally based motor interventions on motor outcomes in individuals with DD/ID. Methods: Literature published from 1900 to 2024 was searched in four health sciences databases: PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus and CINAHL. Articles that examined the effects of gross motor/physical activity training using technologies such as exergaming (i.e. exercise through video gaming such as the Wii and Xbox Kinect), virtual reality or telehealth video conferencing applications (i.e. Zoom, Webex or mobile health apps) on the standardised or game‐specific gross motor performance of individuals with DD/ID diagnoses that do not typically experience significant walking challenges using experimental or quasi‐experimental study designs were included. Thirty relevant articles were retrieved from a search of the databases PubMed (914), PsycINFO (1201), Scopus (1910) and CINAHL (948). Results: Our quantitative synthesis of this published literature suggests strong and consistent evidence of small‐to‐large improvements in motor skill performance following digital movement interventions. Conclusions: Our review supports the use of digital motor interventions to support motor skill performance in individuals with DD without ID. Digital technologies can provide a more engaging option for therapists to promote motor skill development in individuals with DD or for caregivers to use as an adjunct to skilled therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Method Results Interpretation To investigate the impact of cerebellar haemorrhage (CBH) and atrophy in infants born extremely preterm with intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) on neurodevelopment at 2 years of age.This retrospective case–control study included infants born at less than 28 weeks' gestation with IVH over a 10‐year period. CBH, along with the assessment of cerebellar size, using magnetic resonance imaging, were studied. The impact of injuries on neurodevelopmental outcome at 2 years' corrected age was conducted, using multivariable regression analysis for comprehensive evaluation.In a cohort of 103 patients, 69 (67.0%) showed CBH with a median grade of 1 (interquartile range = 0–3). At the corrected age of 2 years, CBH was significantly associated with impaired cognitive and motor outcome. CBH emerged as an independent predictor of poor cognitive and motor development, as well as cerebral palsy. Cerebellar atrophy, affecting 30 (29.1%) infants, was linked to a significantly worse outcome across all domains. Conversely, an increase in cerebellar size was correlated with improved motor development.Infants born extremely preterm with IVH and concomitant CBH exhibited significant cognitive and motor impairment. The severity of developmental delay correlated with the grade of CBH. These findings hold potential to support the prediction of long‐term outcome and parental counselling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) commonly show specific cognitive deficits in addition to a severe muscle impairment caused by the absence of dystrophin expression in skeletal muscle. These cognitive deficits have been related to the absence of dystrophin in specific regions of the central nervous system, notably cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs). Dystrophin has recently been involved in GABAA receptors clustering at postsynaptic densities, and its absence, by disrupting this clustering, leads to decreased inhibitory input to PC. We performed an in vivo electrophysiological study of the dystrophin‐deficient muscular dystrophy X‐linked (mdx) mouse model of DMD to compare PC firing and local field potential (LFP) in alert mdx and control C57Bl/10 mice. We found that the absence of dystrophin is associated with altered PC firing and the emergence of fast (~160–200 Hz) LFP oscillations in the cerebellar cortex of alert mdx mice. These abnormalities were not related to the disrupted expression of calcium‐binding proteins in cerebellar PC. We also demonstrate that cerebellar long‐term depression is altered in alert mdx mice. Finally, mdx mice displayed a force weakness, mild impairment of motor coordination and balance during behavioural tests. These findings demonstrate the existence of cerebellar dysfunction in mdx mice. A similar cerebellar dysfunction may contribute to the cognitive deficits observed in patients with DMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objectives Materials and Methods Results Conclusions The increase of bilateral cochlear implantation (CI) in recent years has made it essential to comprehend the effects of CI on otolith function. This study aimed to investigate the development of gross motor and otolith function in patients with inner ear malformations (IEMs) using vestibular‐evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs).Overall, 78 patients with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) (age 5.7 ± 4.1 years) were divided into two groups based on the presence (IEM group, n = 39) or absence (control group, n = 39) of IEMs. VEMP testing was performed both before and 1–3 months after CI, and the evaluation of gross motor development was carried out.The mean ages for achieving head control and independent walking were delayed in the IEM group compared with the control group (p = 0.02). The preoperative cervical VEMP (cVEMP) and ocular VEMP (oVEMP) response rates were higher in the control group (60% and 86.95%) than in the IEM group (57.69% and 74.35%) (p < 0.05). Additionally, abnormal cVEMP was associated with delayed acquisition of independent walking (p = 0.017). Saccular and utricular functions after CI were lost by 40% and 31.75%, respectively, in patients who elicited preoperative VEMPs waveform (n = 25).Among SNHL patients, balance development is more delayed in patients of IEMs than in patients without IEMs. The cVEMP and oVEMP waveforms differed greatly between the two groups. The otolith‐vestibular nerve conduction pathway can be affected by CI, potentially leading to otolith function impairment. Therefore, it is essential to assess otolith and balance functions before CI, and this evaluation should be considered an integral part of clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of oral frailty was first proposed in Japan in 2014 by the “Joint Working Committee on Oral Frailty,” consisting of three academic societies—the Japan Geriatrics Society, the Japanese Society of Gerodontology, and the Japanese Association on Sarcopenia and Frailty—to enhance public understanding of oral frailty. Oral frailty is a state between robust oral function (a “healthy mouth”) and its decline, characterized by slight declines in oral function, including tooth loss and difficulties in eating and communicating, which increase the risk of impaired oral functional capacity but can be reversed with proper intervention and treatment. Oral frailty can be assessed using the Oral Frailty 5‐item Checklist (OF‐5) without the need for a dental health professional. Oral frailty is defined as having at least two of the following components: (i) fewer teeth, (ii) difficulty chewing, (iii) difficulty swallowing, (iv) dry mouth, and (v) low articulatory oral motor skills. Approximately 40% of community‐dwelling older adults have oral frailty. Oral frailty is associated with poor dietary variety, social isolation, physical frailty, disability, and mortality. This statement introduces the concept and definition of oral frailty, a new assessment tool (OF‐5), and concept diagrams for healthcare professionals and the general public. These tools aim to promote public awareness and facilitate collaboration between medical and dental healthcare providers. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; ••: ••–••. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objectives Method Results Conclusions When re‐learning a motor skill, practicing a variety of treatment targets promotes error processing and the exploration of motor control strategies, which initially disrupts accuracy during training (motor performance), but ultimately enhances generalization, retention, and transfer (motor learning). Cough skill training (CST) is feasible and efficacious to improve cough strength; however, previous studies have used the same practice target during training.Our goal was to examine the impact of CST with variable practice on motor performance, motor learning, and respiratory system adaptations.The study was a prospective three‐visit single group design. Twenty individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) and concomitant dysphagia and dystussia completed two sessions of CST involving three randomized practice targets. Cough, lung volume, and airway clearance outcomes were assessed before and after treatment sessions with long‐term retention evaluated after 1 month.Peak expiratory flow rate improved after CST with variable practice for voluntary single (β = 0.35 L/s) and sequential (β = 0.22 L/s) cough, which were maintained after 1 month without treatment. The ability to expel material from the upper airway demonstrated a small magnitude of improvement (β = −1.87%). During CST, participants altered lung volume based on the treatment target and lung volume decreased during reflex cough after completing CST.Individuals with PD demonstrated improvements in several aspects of motor learning after two sessions of CST with variable practice. Increasing lung volume may not be an implicit strategy to upregulate voluntary cough strength in this treatment paradigm. The findings support the need for larger investigations exploring the potential benefits of this CST approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objective Methods Results Conclusion More than 60% of paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia (PKD) cases are of uncertain variants.The aim was to elucidate novel genetic contribution to PKD.A total of 476 probands with uncertain genetic causes were enrolled for whole‐exome sequencing. A method of case–control analysis was applied to identify the candidate genes. Whole‐cell patch‐clamp recording was applied to verify the electrophysiological impact of the identified variants. A mouse model with cerebellar heterozygous knockout of the candidate gene was developed via adeno‐associated virus injection, and dystonia‐like phenotype inducement and rotarod tests were performed. In vivo multiunit electrical recording was applied to investigate the change in neural excitability in knockout mice.Heterozygous variants of potassium inwardly rectifying channel subfamily J member 10 (KCNJ10) clustered in PKD patients were compared with those in the control groups. Fifteen variants were detected in 16 of 522 probands (frequency = 3.07%). Patients with KCNJ10 variants tended to have a milder manifestation compared to those with PRRT2 (proline‐rich transmembrane protein 2) variants. KCNJ10 variants partially altered the transmembrane location of inwardly rectifying potassium channel 4.1 (Kir4.1). The Kcnj10 expression is consistent with the natural course of PKD. Variants resulted in different degrees of reduction in cell Kir4.1 currents, and mice with heterozygous conditional knockout of Kcnj10 in the cerebellum presented dystonic posture, together with poor motor coordination and motor learning ability in rotarod tests. The firing rate of deep cerebellar nuclei was significantly elevated in Kcnj10‐cKO mice.We identified heterozygous variants of KCNJ10 in PKD. Impaired function of Kir4.1 might lead to abnormal neuronal excitability, which attributed to PKD. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition resulting from the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. Impaired manual dexterity and cognitive impairment are common symptoms and are often associated with recurrent adverse events in this population. Objective: To verify the association between cognitive performance and manual dexterity in people with PD. Methods: This is a cross‐sectional observational study, with 29 participants, who underwent cognitive and manual dexterity assessments, and the following tools were used: Trail Making Test, box and block test (BBT), Learning Test of Rey and Nine Hole Peg Test. Descriptive statistics for clinical and demographic data were performed using mean and standard deviation, and data normality was assessed using the Shapiro–Wilk test. Spearman's nonparametric test was used to determine the correlation between variables. Results: Our findings revealed significant associations between cognitive performance and manual dexterity. The nine‐hole peg test positively correlated with TMT—Part A and Part B, establishing a relationship between manual dexterity and cognitive functions such as attention and mental flexibility. On the other hand, BBT showed an inverse relationship with TMT—Part B, indicating that longer time on this task was associated with lower manual dexterity. Conclusion: Fine manual dexterity had a significant correlation with visual search skills and motor speed, while gross motor dexterity had a negative correlation with cognitive skills. No significant results were demonstrated regarding the interaction between manual dexterity and memory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: The article's significance lies in the substantial rise in the risk of developing Parkinson's disease (PD), necessitating the exploration of various approaches to rehabilitation and medical treatment. The purpose of the article is to detect the direct effect of physiotherapy for patients with PD and to identify how it helps in slowing down cardio‐pulmonary failure, improving the posture, balance, bradykinesia and tremor. Methods: The research utilised clinical data from 407 PD patients aged 30–100 years at the Central Polyclinic of Durrës, spanning 2011–2022, and included a systematic literature review and statistical analysis comparing physiotherapy outcomes with European Union standards. Results: The research demonstrates the efficiency of physiotherapy in the short and long term in the treatment of PD for patients and medical personnel. All information can be used to increase the functional abilities of patients and minimise complications after physiotherapy and to estimate the effectiveness of different exercises in delaying PD. Older adults, particularly those aged 71–80, are most affected by PD, with males more likely to be diagnosed. Physiotherapy rehabilitation improves motor symptoms, posture, and balance in 30‐80‐year‐olds, but its effectiveness declines with age. Advanced rehabilitation methods in Italy lead to better outcomes, suggesting the potential for improvement in Durres disease. Conclusions: The study emphasises the need for improved rehabilitation strategies for older patients by recommending tailored programs, advanced methods, standardisation, training, and long‐term monitoring. Further research should concentrate on the long‐term sustainability of physiotherapy benefits, the development of targeted interventions for older patients, and the integration of innovative therapeutic approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the effects of video feedback (VF) as a stand‐alone intervention and video modeling plus video feedback (VMVF) for improving soccer players' static ball control skills. Research has suggested that VF alone and VMVF produce substantial improvements for young athlete's skills, though no studies have compared the two. Therefore, we used a multiple‐baseline‐across‐participants design with embedded alternating treatments to compare VF and VMVF. Two 10‐year‐old female soccer players and one 9‐year‐old male soccer player participated. The first author implemented the VF and VMVF training procedures and assessed the same three target behaviors across participants. The results suggested that VF and VMVF produced similar increases in performance for two of three participants and that VMVF produced slightly greater increases for one participant. In addition, both interventions were effective at substantially improving ball control skills from baseline levels and relative to a control skill. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oral and social problems can exacerbate long‐term care. Understanding the relationship between social aspects and oral hypofunction can help identify high‐risk factors for long‐term care. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the social aspects of oral hypofunction among medical outpatients. Methods: This retrospective cross‐sectional study included patients who visited an outpatient clinic for frailty. The oral function was assessed using seven items: oral hygiene, occlusal force, masticatory function, tongue‐lip motor function, tongue pressure, oral dryness and swallowing function. Participants with three or more functional declines were classified as having 'oral hypofunction'. Social aspects were assessed using 21 items in four categories: general resources, basic social needs, social resources and social behaviours/activities. We analysed the relationship between oral hypofunction and each social aspect. Results: A total of 316 participants (age 78.5 ± 6.4 years) were included, and 128 (41%) had oral hypofunction. Participants with oral hypofunction were significantly more likely to have limited education, require long‐term care, not use transportation, depend on others for shopping, not participate in events, lack association membership and not engage in charity or volunteer work. After logistic regression analysis, 'long‐term care' and 'no association membership' remained significantly associated with oral hypofunction (odds ratios 2.3, 2.3; 95% CI 1.1–5.0, 1.1–4.7, respectively). Conclusion: Participants with oral hypofunction faced challenges in 'general resources' and 'social behaviour/activities', which were linked to oral function issues. Future longitudinal studies are necessary to further investigate this relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It can be challenging to perform activities of daily living in patients with chronic neck pain. As the severity of the pain increases, the quality of the movements decreases. Not only the neck, but also the shoulder, elbow, grip strength and psychomotor skills are affected by these pains. Objective: In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effect of neck pain on grip strength and psychomotor skills in adults diagnosed with chronic neck pain. Methods: A cross‐sectional study was conducted to examine the effect of pain on grip strength and psychomotor skills in patients with chronic neck pain. This study was planned to be carried out between October 2019 and May 2020 at the Private Yaşam Medical Center in Adana, with the official permission of the institution manager, but this period was carried out between October 2019 and November 2020 due to the fact that sufficient number of patients could not be reached due to the COVID‐19 global epidemic. A total of 80 individuals, including 40 control and 40 patients, were included in the study. Forty adult patients who applied to the clinic with a diagnosis of chronic neck pain and 40 healthy adults without a diagnosis of chronic neck pain were included in the study. Conducted with 80 adults between the age of 19 and 74 years old. Individuals were divided into Group 1—control group (n = 40) and Group 2—patient group (n = 40). Information such as age, height, body weight and occupation of the groups were noted. Visual analogue scale and Neck Disability Index were applied to both the groups; hand grip strength with a Jamar hydraulic hand dynamometer, finger lateral grip strength with a pinchmeter and psychomotor skills with the Purdue Pegboard test were evaluated. Results: In the study, hand grip strength (p <.05), finger lateral grip strength (p <.05), psychomotor skills (p <.01) showed a statistically significant decrease in the patient group compared to the control group. Conclusion: It is thought that in addition to the routine treatments for neck pain in the treatment plan of patients with chronic neck pain, exercises to improve the functionality and psychomotor skills in daily living activities can be included in the direction of increasing the grip strength and will guide future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Joint action theorizing implies that any coordinated behaviour that induces co‐representation with a partner should increase social identification, especially when the associated actions require a high degree of coordination and are experienced as being performed effectively. The current research provides a first test of this new theoretical prediction for complementary (rather than synchronous) joint actions. In each of two pre‐registered experiments establishing a novel paradigm, participants performed a digital joystick task with a joint performance goal with three different partners. The task varied in coordination requirements across partners. In Experiment 1, results showed that when task segments were discrete between partners, they identified less as a group than when they had to coordinate their behaviour. Surprisingly, although constant coordination increased co‐representation relative to intermittent coordination, it did not correspondingly increase social identification. However, performance correlated positively with identification; as performance was worse when participants had to coordinate, this may explain the results. Experiment 2 showed that performance is causally linked to identification when coordination is necessary. Taken together, our results suggest that experiencing effective coordination leads to greater social identification. In general, paradigms capable of examining the perceptual and motor aspects of collective behaviour may offer a new perspective on social identification in general and the performance‐identification link in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One marker of expertise in sport is athletes' ability to anticipate future events. In the 4 × 100 m relay, these anticipation skills are an essential asset for initiating their run at the right time. However, no study has focused on describing the underlying perceptual‐motor processes involved. Virtual reality provides powerful tools to describe and understand these processes, overcoming the drastic constraints encountered in the real world. Nineteen athletes from the French national teams were immersed in a digital replica of the Stade de France and confronted with digital twins of potential partners based on motion capture. Their task was to initiate their run exactly when their virtual partner passed over a go‐mark placed on the ground. The timing of different body motor events and visual behavior were measured and analyzed. Results showed that the execution of this highly constrained task is the result of a significant reduction in the variability of motor events preceding the start. These findings reveal the implementation of a perceptual‐motor dialog until the initiation of the run. This study is a first step toward understanding the mechanisms underlying anticipation skills in the 4 × 100 m relay; it constitutes a preliminary step to the deployment of VR training protocols. Highlights: Virtual reality constitutes a powerful tool for characterizing and optimizing the anticipation skills of high‐level athletes. It allows not only to control and manipulate the context in which the training is carried out but also to precisely characterize the behavior produced.This study reveals that the anticipatory behavior of high‐level 4 × 100 m relay athletes is based on a close dialog between perception and action. The precise initiation of the race reflects the athlete's ability to regulate his preparatory movement on the basis of the information available about his partner.The analysis of the perceptual‐motor behavior produced by athletes not only reveals great anticipation capacities but also significant inter‐individual differences. This result justifies the design and implementation of personalized training protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the associations between force and velocity characteristics of forward skating and off‐ice speed, agility, and power of highly trained teenage ice hockey players. Players attending the Quebec ice hockey federation's off‐season evaluation camp were invited to participate in this study. Final sample consists of 107 highly trained teenage ice hockey players (Males: n = 38; 13.83 ± 0.38 years; Females: n = 69: 14.75 ± 0.90 years). Individual force–velocity profiles (F–V) were determined during a 44 m skating sprint. Off‐ice speed, agility, and power were measured using 30 m sprint, 5‐10‐5 agility, and standing long jump. Associations between F–V mechanical capabilities and off‐ice indicators were analyzed with correlational analyses and multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). Results of pooled data indicate that the three off‐ice measures had moderate associations with F0 and V0 and large associations with Pmax. Associations with Rfmax, Drf, and Sfv were moderate to small. F0 had stronger associations with off‐ice performance in female players while V0 was more important with male players. MANCOVA identified 5‐10‐5 times as the better predictor for F0 while 30 m sprints times better predicted V0. To maximize physical attributes of skating ability, practitioners are encouraged to focus on a general physical preparation for highly trained teenage players. Prioritizing types of exercises that use change of direction or acceleration and linear speed should have distinct effects on F0 and V0 on the ice. Highlights: A good general physical preparation is important for highly trained teenage ice hockey players as maximal running speed, change of direction ability, and leg power in the horizontal plane are largely associated with mechanical capabilities during maximal skating performance.Change of direction ability tends to be associated with the ability to generate force at low velocities on the ice (F0) while maximal running speed tends to be associated with the ability to generate force at high velocities on the ice (V0).Off‐ice abilities are more strongly associated to the ability to generate force at low velocities on the ice (F0) in highly trained female players than in highly trained male players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Current research separately analyzed the connection between postpartum depression, fatigue, sleep and infant development. However, depression, fatigue and sleep quality often coexisted as adverse symptoms in postpartum women and influenced infant development together. This study explored the maternal postpartum symptoms on infant growth. Methods: Our study included 224 pairs of singleton full‐term mothers and their infants who underwent routine pediatric outpatient clinics. Latent profile analysis was applied to identify the latent classes based on mothers' postpartum depression, fatigue and sleep profile characteristics. We evaluated the maternal adverse symptoms and infant development using multivariable logistic regressions. Results: Totally, 224 pairs of eligible mothers (28.85 ± 4.43 years) and infants (30.93 ± 3.26 days) participated in this study. Latent profile analysis identified 3 latent groups: mild (58.04%), moderate (34.37%), and severe (7.59%) postpartum adverse symptoms. Postpartum adverse symptoms were associated with delayed development in the baby's motor level (χ2 = 6.572, p =.037) and weight‐for‐length (χ2 = 9.652, p =.008). After controlling for mother and infant related factors, postpartum adverse symptoms remained a risk factor for infant motor level (odds ratio [OR]: 4.35; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.25–15.08) and weight‐for‐length (OR: 5.53; 95% CI: 1.55–19.74). Conclusions: Maternal postpartum depression, fatigue and sleep quality are associated with infant development. Clinically, mothers with these symptoms should be intervened timely to avoid the aggravation of maternal symptoms, which affect baby's development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI) experience high rates of poor functional outcomes such as inability to complete activities of daily living (ADL). Occupational therapy needs to be customised to the individual's function, goals, and environment to facilitate improvement in ADLs after ABI. Virtual reality (VR) is a novel treatment approach that aims to improve skills within an individualised environment. This study aimed to review the current literature for the use of VR platforms that incorporate ADLs to improve functional outcomes after ABI. Methods: This review followed the six‐stage framework by Arksey & O'Malley (2005). Electronic databases were searched for peer‐reviewed journal articles based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: One thousand and six hundred eighty articles were screened, including 413 full text articles and 13 articles were included for review. Among the 13 articles, six were RCTs and the rest were pre‐post intervention studies. Studies largely used non‐immersive VR platforms, which incorporated ADLs such as grocery shopping, aiming to improve functional outcomes. Consumer and community consultation: Consumer and community were not involved in executing this study. Conclusion: This review suggests mixed results if VR is effective at treating upper limb, cognition, and ADL function after ABI. Using their clinical reasoning, occupational therapists can determine the suitability of VR for ADL rehabilitation for specific patient populations and settings. Plain Language Summary Individuals who sustain an acquired brain injury can have difficulty performing their daily activities such as, making a meal or getting dressed, because of limited function (e.g., physical and cognitive problems). To help improve their ability to complete daily activities, occupational therapy needs to be customised to the individual's function, goals, and environment. Virtual reality is a new rehabilitation approach that allows individuals to improve their function in an individualised environment. In this study, we reviewed the current studies that have used virtual reality platforms that incorporate daily activities to improve function after acquired brain injury. We searched databases and screened the titles and abstracts of 1,680 studies. Then, 413 full‐text studies were screened, and 13 studies were included. Studies mostly used non‐immersive platforms to practise daily activities such as, grocery shopping, aiming to improve function after acquired brain injury. This review suggests mixed results if virtual reality can effectively treat function after acquired brain injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Three‐dimensional (3‐D) printing offers an innovative option to produce clinical simulators because of its low production costs and widespread availability. We aimed to develop a low‐cost, 3‐D printed knot‐tying simulator that overcomes the barriers students face in self‐directed skills development. Approach: Medical students completing a procedural residency preparation course (PRPC) completed a pre‐survey with Likert scales and multiple choice questions to assess their perceptions of and barriers to self‐directed knot‐tying practice. Subsequently, a 3‐D printed knot‐tying simulator, which contains a progression of knot‐tying challenges and a designated video curriculum, was designed. After utilising the simulator in a 1‐hour, faculty‐guided knot‐tying session, PRPC students assessed the educational utility and usability of the simulator via a post‐survey. Evaluation: The primary barriers students faced in engaging in self‐directed knot‐tying practice included limited accessibility to simulators and insufficient knowledge of knot‐tying techniques. Many students (91.3%, n = 21) agreed that practicing with the simulator improved their knot‐tying motor skills and was easy to use (100%, n = 23). Twenty‐two (95.7%) students agreed that they would continue to use the simulator beyond the knot‐tying session and PRPC. Implications: We demonstrate the educational utility and usability of a novel 3‐D printed knot‐tying simulator for medical education. Enabling students to engage in self‐directed technical skills development is critical in developing surgical skills that can translate to clinical environments. Our simulator highlights the benefits of 3‐D printers as an innovative, inexpensive option to improve the availability and accessibility to medical education tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Sensory features are included in the diagnostic criteria of autism and atypical sensory responsiveness may produce “cascading effects” on later development. Similarly, autistic individuals often struggle with motor coordination and early delays in the motor domain appear to be linked to later development. However, the longitudinal interrelation between early sensory profiles and motor features on later socio‐communicative skills remains to be defined. This study aimed to investigate whether sensory sensitivity impacts fine motor abilities and vice versa from 12 to 18 months of age and to examine how sensory‐motor interplay would be associated with later autistic traits at 24–36 months of age. The sample included 118 infant siblings of autistic children recruited at 12 months of age. Sensory sensitivity and eye–hand coordination were assessed at 12 and 18 months of age and autistic traits were evaluated at 24–36 months of age. Cross‐lagged panel analysis revealed significant within‐domain effects for sensory sensitivity and eye–hand coordination from 12 to 18 months. Furthermore, a significant association between these two domains on later autistic traits was found. In analyzing the longitudinal bidirectional relationship, we found that lower eye–hand coordination skills at 12 months predicted later sensory sensitivity at 18 months, and in turn, social communication skills at 24–36 months. The present study offers new empirical evidence supporting the potential clinical value of including sensory and motor measures besides social communication skills within early autism surveillance programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have shown that a single bout of exercise has acute improvements on various forms of memory, including procedural motor learning, through mechanisms such as the plasticity‐promoting effect. This study aimed to examine (1) the acute effects of timing and intensity of aerobic exercise on the acquisition and retention of motor learning in healthy adults, (2) the effect of sleep quality of the night before and after acquisition on motor learning, and (3) the acute effects of low and moderate‐intensity aerobic exercise on cognitive functions. Seventy‐five healthy adults were divided into five groups: Two groups performed low or moderate intensity aerobic exercise before motor practice; two groups performed low or moderate intensity aerobic exercise after motor practice; the control group only did motor practice. Low‐ and moderate‐intensity exercises consisted of 30 min of running at 57%–63% and 64%–76% of the maximum heart rate, respectively. Motor learning was assessed using a golf putting task. The sleep quality of the night before and after the acquisition was evaluated using the Richard Campbell Sleep Questionnaire. Cognitive function was assessed before and after aerobic exercise using the Paced Auditory Serial Acquisition Task test. Results indicated that all groups demonstrated acquisition, 1‐day and 7‐day retention at a similar level (p > 0.05). Regression analysis revealed no significant relationship between sleep quality on the night before the experimental day and total acquisition (p > 0.05). However, a positive correlation was found between the sleep quality on the night of the experimental day and both 1‐day and 7‐day retention (p < 0.05). A single bout of low or moderate acute exercise did not modify motor skill acquisition and retention. Other results showed the importance of night sleep quality on the retention and proved that a single bout of moderate intensity exercise was associated with improved cognitive function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Methods Results Conclusions To investigate the diagnostic accuracy of parent‐completed Ages and Stages Questionnaire, Third Edition (ASQ‐3) to identify abnormal or delayed gross motor development in infants born less than 1000 g or less than 28 weeks gestation.Prospective cohort study of high‐risk infants comparing ASQ‐3 as the index test with concurrent score on Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS) as the reference standard, at 4‐, 8‐ and 12‐month corrected (post‐term) age. Reference standard positivity cut‐offs were ‘Abnormal motor development’ (AIMS Clinical Range) and ‘Motor delay’ (AIMS score >1 SD below mean, not captured in Clinical Range).Participating infants (n = 191) had mean gestational age (95% confidence interval (CI)) 26.8 weeks (26.6–27.1) and mean birthweight (95% CI) 870 g (844–896). AIMS rated 51%, 31% and 23% of infants as having ‘Abnormal motor development’ and 12%, 28% and 13% with ‘Motor delay’, at 4, 8 and 12 months, respectively. Diagnostic accuracy of ASQ‐3 to identify abnormal motor development was acceptable for older infants only if ‘Monitor’ cut‐off was used: sensitivity (95% CI) 33% (23–44), 86% (73–95) and 80% (63–92) and specificity (95% CI) 84% (74–92), 76% (66–84), and 76% (67–83) at 4, 8 and 12 months, respectively. ASQ‐3 sensitivity to identify motor delay was low.ASQ‐3 has poor sensitivity to identify abnormal or delayed motor development at 4 months. Using the ‘Monitor’ cut‐off improves the diagnostic accuracy of ASQ‐3 for identification of older infants with abnormal motor development who are at high risk of motor disability. However, ASQ‐3 has poor sensitivity to identify motor delay. Clinical motor assessment of high‐risk infants is recommended, particularly in early infancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Aims Method Main Contribution Conclusions & Implications WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS What is already known on the subject What this paper adds to the existing knowledge What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work? Speech sound disorders (SSDs) in children are heterogeneous. Differentiating children with SSDs into distinct subtypes is important so that each child receives a treatment approach well suited to the particular difficulties they are experiencing.To study the distinct underlying processes that differentiate phonological processing, phonological planning or motor planning deficits.The literature on the nature of SSDs is reviewed to reveal diagnostic signs at the level of distal causes, proximal factors and surface characteristics.Subtypes of SSDs may be identified by linking the surface characteristics of the children's speech to underlying explanatory proximal factors. The proximal factors may be revealed by measures of speech perception skills, phonological memory and speech–motor control. The evidence suggests that consistent phonological disorder (CPD) can be identified by predictable patterns of speech error associated with speech perception errors. Inconsistent phonological disorder (IPD) is associated with a deficit in the selection and sequencing of phonemes, that is, revealed as within‐word inconsistency and poor phonological memory. The motor planning deficit that is specific to childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is revealed by transcoding errors on the syllable repetition task and an inability to produce [pətəkə] accurately and rapidly.Children with SSDs form a heterogeneous population. Surface characteristics overlap considerably among those with severe disorders, but certain signs are unique to particular subtypes. Careful attention to underlying causal factors will support the accurate diagnosis and selection of personalized treatment options. SSD in children are heterogenous, with numerous subtypes of primary SSD proposed. Diagnosing the specific subtype of SSD is important in order to assign the most efficacious treatment approach for each child. Identifying the distinct subtype for each child is difficult because the surface characteristics of certain subtypes overlap among categories (e.g., CPD or IPD; CAS).SSD in children are heterogenous, with numerous subtypes of primary SSD proposed. Diagnosing the specific subtype of SSD is important in order to assign the most efficacious treatment approach for each child. Identifying the distinct subtype for each child is difficult because the surface characteristics of certain subtypes overlap among categories (e.g., CPD or IPD; CAS). The diagnostic challenge might be eased by systematic attention to explanatory factors in relation to the surface characteristics, using specific tests for this purpose. Word identification tasks tap speech perception skills; repetition of short versus long strings of nonsense syllables permits observation of phonological memory and phonological planning skills; and standard maximum performance tests provide considerable information about speech motor control.The diagnostic challenge might be eased by systematic attention to explanatory factors in relation to the surface characteristics, using specific tests for this purpose. Word identification tasks tap speech perception skills; repetition of short versus long strings of nonsense syllables permits observation of phonological memory and phonological planning skills; and standard maximum performance tests provide considerable information about speech motor control. Children with SSDs should receive comprehensive assessments of their phonological processing, phonological planning and motor planning skills frequently, alongside examinations of their error patterns in connected speech. Such assessments will serve to identify the child's primary challenges currently and as they change over developmental time.Children with SSDs should receive comprehensive assessments of their phonological processing, phonological planning and motor planning skills frequently, alongside examinations of their error patterns in connected speech. Such assessments will serve to identify the child's primary challenges currently and as they change over developmental time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrocephalus can affect brain function and motor ability. Current treatments mostly involve invasive surgeries, with a high risk of postoperative infections and failure. A successful animal model plays a significant role in developing new treatments for hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus was induced in Sprague–Dawley rats by injecting 25% kaolin into the subarachnoid space at the cerebral convexities with different volumes of 30, 60 and 90 μL. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed 1 month and 4 months after kaolin injection. The behavioral performance was assessed weekly, lasting for 7 weeks. The histopathological analyses were conducted to the lateral ventricles by hematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining. Transcriptomic analysis was used between Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) patients and hydrocephalus rats. MRI showed a progressive enlargement of ventricles in hydrocephalus group. Kaolin‐60 μL and kaolin‐90 μL groups showed larger ventricular size, higher anxiety level, bigger decline in body weight, motor ability and cognitive competence. These symptoms may be due to higher‐grade inflammatory infiltrate and the damage of the structure of ependymal layer of the ventricles, indicated by HE staining. The overlap upregulated genes and pathways mainly involve immunity and inflammation. Transcriptomic revealed shared pathogenic genes CD40, CD44, CXCL10, and ICAM1 playing a dominance role. 60 μL injection might be recommended for the establishment of hydrocephalus animal model, with a high successful rate and high stability. The hydrocephalus model was able to resemble the inflammatory mechanism and behavioral performance observed in human NPH patients, providing insights for identifying therapeutic targets for hydrocephalus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Identifying sensory processing problems of 12‐month‐old preterm and term children and defining their relationship with motor skills are essential for appropriate interventions and optimal sensory‐motor development. This study aimed to determine sensory processing difficulties in 12‐month‐old babies and examine their relationship with motor skills. Methods: This cross‐sectional study included 61 infants (28 preterm and 33 full‐term, ages 12 months). The infants' sensory processing skills were evaluated using the Test of Sensory Functions in Infants (TSFI), and their gross and fine motor skills were assessed with the Peabody Developmental Motor Scales‐2 (PDMS‐2). Results: Sensory processing difficulties were more common in preterm babies. Multiple linear regression models indicated a significant positive association between PDMS‐2 gross/fine motor scores and TFSI total scores, reactivity to tactile deep pressure, and ocular‐motor control in the total sample. Furthermore, there was a relationship between gross motor and adaptive motor function, and fine motor scores were found to be associated with visual‐tactile integration sensory scores. Conclusions: Preterm babies are more likely than their full‐term peers to have sensory processing problems around the age of one, which can affect their motor skills. The results support the relationship between children's sensory and motor processing skills. Practitioners such as occupational and physical therapists should be alert to this relationship in infants with sensory processing and motor problems. Taking this relationship into consideration when planning intervention programs can be a guide for an effective intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal‐assisted interventions (AAIs) have the potential to enhance people's well‐being and function and are increasingly being implemented across a range of settings. This scoping review explored how AAIs have been used in adult hospital rehabilitative care. Using JBI and PRISMA‐ScR guidelines, a systematic search of four databases was undertaken. Inclusion criteria involved adults, aged >18 years, who had received AAIs in the hospital rehabilitation setting. Twenty‐two articles met the inclusion criteria. Results identified two intervention types: visitation activities (n = 8 studies) and structured therapeutic interventions (n = 14 studies). Dogs were the most common animal species. Improvements in social and emotional well‐being were reported across both types of interventions, with improvements in ambulation, motor skills, and verbal communication reported by those engaged in structured therapeutic interventions. Implementation challenges included a dependency on volunteer dog‐handlers; the need for better recording of interventions in medical records to enable evaluation; and cost, safety, infection control, and animal welfare considerations. Strengthening the planning of AAIs is fundamental for the realization of potential outcomes from human–animal interactions in hospital rehabilitative care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetes related foot ulcer (DFU) is a leading cause of impaired quality of life, disability, hospitalisation, amputation and mortality in people with diabetes. It is therefore critical that podiatrists across all settings, including community settings, are confident and capable of providing care for diabetes‐related foot complications. This study aims to describe current practice, confidence and anxiety levels of community podiatrists in the management of patients with foot ulceration. Furthermore, current barriers to service provision and interest in future educational opportunities will also be explored. Methods: An online cross‐sectional survey was distributed to Australian community podiatrists. Descriptive variables including gender, age, professional experience, practice location and practise setting were elicited. A modified competitive State Anxiety Inventory‐2 (CSAI‐2) was utilised to measure anxiety related to managing a foot ulcer. Other questions included a combination of multiple choice and open‐ended free‐text responses relating to assessment, confidence and referral pathways. Results: One hundred and twenty‐two Australian community‐based podiatrists responded to the survey. A variety of ulcer sizes and complexity were reported to be managed in community settings. Confidence in DFU management was high in most manual skill domains including: stabilisation of the foot (85.7%, standard deviation [SD] 17.42), scalpel control (83.0%, SD 20.02), debridement with a scalpel (82.7%, SD 18.19) and aseptic technique (81.0%, SD 18.62, maintaining integrity of healthy tissue (77.3%, SD 21.11), removal of appropriate tissue (75.6%, SD 22.53), depth of ulceration (73.7%, SD 23.99) and ability to manage messy wounds (69.1%, SD 26.04). Curette debridement had substantially lower levels of reported confidence (41.0%, SD 34.24). Performance anxiety was low with somatic and cognitive anxiety of 6/24 and 3/8 on the CSAI‐2, respectively. Conclusion: Community podiatrists are managing foot ulcers of varying size and complexity. Confidence and anxiety do not pose a barrier to care. Adherence to wound assessment clinical guidelines is low and confidence with the use of curette was sub‐optimal. Further educational programs may overcome these barriers and support shared models of care between community and acute podiatry services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Motor coordination concerns are estimated to affect 5%–6% of school‐aged children. Motor coordination concerns have variable impact on children's lives, with gait and balance often affected. Textured insoles have demonstrated positive impact on balance and gait in adults with motor coordination disorders related to disease or the ageing process. The efficacy of textured insoles in children is unknown. Our primary aim was to identify the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial involving children with motor control issues. The secondary aim was to identify the limited efficacy of textured insoles on gross motor assessment balance domains and endurance in children with movement difficulties. Methods: An assessor‐blinded, randomised feasibility study. We advertised for children between the ages of 5–12 years, with an existing diagnosis or developmental coordination disorder or gross motor skill levels assessed as 15th percentile or below on a norm‐referenced, reliable and validated scale across two cities within Australia. We randomly allocated children to shoes only or shoes and textured insoles. We collected data across six feasibility domains; demand (recruitment), acceptability (via interview) implementation (adherence), practicality (via interview and adverse events), adaptation (via interview) and limited efficacy testing (6‐min walk test and balance domain of Movement ABC‐2 at baseline and 4 weeks). Results: There were 15 children randomised into two groups (eight received shoes alone, seven received shoes and textured insoles). We experienced moderate demand, with 46 potential participants. The insoles were acceptable, however, some parents reported footwear fixture issues requiring modification. The 6‐min walk test was described as problematic for children, despite all but one child completing. Social factors impacted adherence and footwear wear time in both groups. Families reported appointment locations and parking impacting practicality. Underpowered, non‐significant small to moderate effect sizes were observed for different outcome measures. Improvement in balance measures favoured the shoe and insole group, while gait velocity increase favoured the shoe only group. Conclusion: Our research indicates that this trial design is feasible with modifications such as recruiting with a larger multi‐disciplinary organisation, providing velcro shoe fixtures and using a shorter timed walk test. Furthermore, progressing to a larger well‐powered randomised control trial is justified considering our preliminary, albeit underpowered, efficacy findings. Trial Registration: This trial was retrospectively registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registration: ACTRN12624000160538. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motor imagery (MI) is the mental representation of a movement without its execution. It activates internal representations of the movement without external stimulus through different memory‐related processes. Although acute stress is frequent in the population and affects supraspinal structures essential for memory functionality, it is still unknown how that stress affects MI capacity and temporal congruence (TC) between execution and movement imagination. This study aimed to discover how acute stress may influence MI capacity and TC in the subscales of internal and external visual imagery and kinesthetic imagery. A double‐blind, randomized trial was conducted. Sixty‐two young, healthy subjects (mean age = 20.65 [2.54]; 39 females and 23 males) unfamiliar with the assessment and uses of MI were recruited. Participants were assigned by stratified randomization to the stress group or the control group. Stress was induced by the Maastricht Acute Stress Test (MAST), while the control group performed the MAST control protocol. MI capacity and TC were assessed before (t1) and after (t2) MAST stress or control using the Movement Imagery Questionnaire‐3 (MIQ‐3). Electrodermal activity and heart rate variability were further recorded as control variables to assess stress induction. Thirty subjects in the stress group and 26 subjects in the control group were analyzed. No significant group differences were observed when comparing MI capacity or TC in any subscales. These findings suggest that acute stress does not significantly affect MI capacity or TC in young, healthy, non‐experienced MI subjects. MI could thus be a relevant helpful technique in stressful situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabis is one of the most consumed illicit drugs and the potency of cannabis products is of note due to health‐related concerns. Hand‐rubbed hashish is the ancient technique of extracting psychoactive resin from cannabis plants and is practiced in the Indian Himalayas. This study establishes the cannabinoid profile and potency of hand‐rubbed hashish collected from 20 regions of the northwest Himalayas. Fifty‐eight hashish samples were analyzed using a validated high‐performance liquid chromatography‐diode array detection (HPLC‐DAD) method. Ten cannabinoids were quantified including acidic (THCA & CBDA), and neutral compounds (CBDV, THCV, CBD, CBG, CBN, Δ9‐THC, Δ8‐THC, and CBC). The mean concentration (w/w%) of Δ9‐THC is 26%; THCA is 15% and THCTotal is 40% is observed in the studied hashish samples. The majority (70%) of the hashish samples were categorized in chemotype I with the THC:CBD:CBN ratio of 91:3:4, and the remaining 30% were categorized under chemotype II with the ratio of 76:15:8. Diverse qualities of hashish are produced in the studied regions as per the seed, plant selection, and skills of manual rubbing, which results in potency variations. The average difference between the least and highest potent hand‐rubbed hashish of a region is 27 w/w% (THCTotal). The other studied non‐psychoactive cannabinoids have a mean w/w% of <5%, followed by 6% of CBDA. It is concluded that the cultivated and wild cannabis fields in the northwest Himalayas belong to the drug‐type cannabis subspecies. Hand‐rubbed hashish holds traditional significance and impacts the current policies of legislation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In fencing, it remains unclear whether practice enhances visual‐spatial attention allocation. We explored whether this ability is improved in fencers and if it is related to attack speed and accuracy. Twelve novices (<1 year of experience) and 12 trained epee fencers (18 ± 10 years of experience) visited the laboratory twice (familiarization and testing session). They performed a covert orienting of visuospatial attention test (COVAT) on a computer and an epee test, involving 30 trials of 3 shuttles followed by fast attack phases where the fencers quickly hit a target (randomly proposed out of 8). We measured COVAT reaction time, number of successful target hits, and execution time to hit in the fencing test. We found shorter COVAT reaction time for trained fencers (332 ± 24 ms) versus novices (367 ± 32 ms; p < 0.001). The number of hits was greater for trained fencers (22 ± 3) versus novices (16 ± 3; p < 0.001). ANCOVA showed a difference in execution time at the test (823 ± 73 ms vs. 913 ± 141 ms, p = 0.035). A relationship was found between hits and execution time and between execution time and COVAT reaction time for the trained group (r = 0.62, p = 0.03 and r = 0.70, p = 0.01, respectively) but not in the novice group (r = 0.11, p = 0.72 and r = 0.45, p = 0.14, respectively). Mediation analysis showed that the relationship between execution time and number of hits (ADE: p = 0.008) was not mediated by COVAT reaction time (ACME: p = 0.17). These results evidence the importance of visual‐spatial attention allocation in fencing and evidence differences between novices and trained fencers with important implications for talent development in the early career stage. Highlights: This is the first study investigating visual‐spatial attention allocation ability by comparing computer and fencing‐specific tests in trained versus novice epee fencers.Speed and accuracy at the fencing test and reaction time at the computer test were greater for trained epee fencers compared to novices.Only trained epee fencers showed a trade‐off between accuracy and speed of execution at the fencing test.This relationship was not mediated by covert‐orienting attention ability despite a correlation between speed of execution and reaction time at the computer test.These results underline the importance of attention allocation and technical abilities, which could improve independently with practice and play a role in epee fencing performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stop the Bleed® is an emergency response course that offers a certificate of completion but no ending assessment. The purpose of this educational study was to develop and test the Response Readiness Tool (RRT) that measures learning of participants after taking Stop the Bleed®. The study used a pre‐/post‐test design to measure knowledge and attitudes, and a post‐test only for skills. Participants were recruited from existing Stop the Bleed® courses. Knowledge was measured with a 10‐item questionnaire, attitude was measured with five Likert‐style questions, and skills were measured by observing simulated tourniquet placement. Ninety‐five participants were recruited over two semesters. There was a significant difference in the knowledge and attitude scores indicating participants' improvement in learning and attitude toward responding. Internal consistency reliability of scores showed moderate reliability with Cronbach's Alpha of 0.73 and McDonald's Omega of 0.75. A positive correlation was found between expected proficiency and pre‐test indicating the tool had construct validity. RRT provides Stop the Bleed® instructors with an instrument to measure knowledge, skills, and attitude of participants after taking Stop the Bleed®. Statistics show moderate reliability and validity; however, larger samples are needed for full psychometric testing. This publication presents the revised tool after the completion of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As a group, autistic children with high support needs (with adaptive functioning in the range of an intellectual disability) are at risk of significant literacy difficulties. We investigated the parent‐reported home literacy environment of this group of children. Method: Sixty‐two parents of autistic children (4.5 to 18.25 years) attending an autism‐specific school completed a home literacy survey reporting on their child's: (1) alphabet knowledge, (2) interest in reading, (3) activities/interactions around books, (4) reading ability, and (5) writing ability. Results: We found significant positive correlations between parent‐reported child interest in reading and literacy‐related interactions and skills, but not with child age. Children using spoken words to communicate obtained significantly greater scores on four home‐literacy subscales, but not on reading interest. Conclusions: A better understanding of the home literacy activities of autistic children with high‐support needs is needed to inform educational practices aimed at promoting literacy development in this vulnerable population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: The prevalence of childhood obesity in the U.S. has increased, likely due to decreased physical activity, increased sedentary behaviour and unhealthy diets. Little is known about the relationships between these factors and weight gain in those under the age of three. Objectives: This study aimed to understand the longitudinal associations of weight gain over 6‐month intervals with child and parent characteristics as children develop from 6 to 36 months. Methods: Mother and infant data were collected at 6‐month intervals from 6 to 36 months. Weight (kg) was the primary outcome variable, and potential explanatory variables included child and parent characteristics, physical activity, motor development, diet and sleep. Structural equation modelling was used to assess associations between explanatory variables and 6‐month weight gain. Results: Weight increased ~1 kg per 6‐month interval (p < 0.001) from 6 to 36 months. Childcare outside of the home at 12 months was associated with 0.272 kg (p = 0.002) greater weight gain at 18 months, while children's physical activity was associated with 0.228 kg (per 2 SD, p = 0.051) less weight gain during the same time period. Mother's TV and screen media use (0.102 kg per hour/day, p = 0.046) and child's intake of high‐energy beverages at 18 months (0.387 kg, p = 0.037) were both associated with greater weight gain at 24 months. Conclusion: Childcare, physical activity, screen media use and high‐energy beverage consumption might affect weight gain at different time points in early childhood. These insights can inform efforts to prevent excessive weight gain and childhood obesity effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers have concluded, unsurprisingly, that preterm infants randomized to enhanced developmental support had better developmental outcomes than infants whose caregivers did not receive the training. The researchers started with the very safe hypothesis that enhanced developmental support provided by caregivers — mothers, mainly — would improve the outcomes of infants born preterm to families with low income. The used an intervention which included training was provided by a multidisciplinary team with specialized knowledge of early intervention and infant development. The training began in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and continued after the infant was discharged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Importance: Understanding the significance of motor skills in promoting physical fitness (PF) can offer valuable insights for devising comprehensive intervention and clinical rehabilitation programs for children with global developmental delay (GDD). However, it remains unclear whether fundamental motor skills (FMS) can improve the PF of children with GDD. Objective: To investigate the correlation between FMS and PF in children with GDD. Methods: A total of 180 children with GDD and 180 typically developing (TD) children aged 3–5 years were selected. All participants completed the Gesell Developmental Schedule, FMS, and PF tests at Beijing Children's Hospital between September 2022 and August 2023. Partial correlation and regression analyses were performed to examine the relationship between FMS and PF. Results: Children with GDD had significantly lower FMS and PF scores compared to TD children (P < 0.05). No significant differences were found between males and females with GDD in FMS and PF score (P > 0.05). A more severe developmental delay was associated with lower FMS and PF scores. The correlation coefficients between individual FMS items and individual PF items, as well as the total PF score, ranged from 0.20 to 0.56. Regression analysis indicated that manual dexterity (β = 0.241, P = 0.029) and body balance (β = 0.399, P = 0.001) significantly predicted the total PF score. Interpretation: In children with GDD, both FMS and PF are underdeveloped. Focusing on motor skills development is vital for promoting their PF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Summary Effects of sleep on procedural (implicit) memory consolidation in children remain controversial. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesise the evidence on the influence of sleep on motor skills acquisition in children. Four electronic databases were searched: PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Excerpta Medica Database (Embase), and Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS). Original studies, published until October 17, 2023, on motor skill acquisition in children aged ≤12 years, in which the intervention group slept after motor skill training, while the control group remained awake, were considered for inclusion. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane's Risk of Bias 2 tool. The review protocol was pre‐registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO protocol number: CRD42022363868) and all reported items followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Of the 7241 articles initially retrieved, nine met the primary criteria and were included in this review. Of these, six studies reported that daytime or night‐time sleep intervention improved motor skill acquisition, as compared to wakefulness. All studies presented a high risk of bias. In conclusion, the evidence summarised suggests that sleep may enhance motor skills acquisition and could be important for motor development in childhood. However, due to the high risk of bias in the included studies, future randomised controlled trials with high methodological quality are necessary to better clarify this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusion The potential neuroprotective effects of dexmedetomidine against ketamine‐induced neurotoxicity remain inconclusive. This study aims to investigate the influence of dexmedetomidine on ketamine‐induced neuronal apoptosis and neurodevelopmental toxicity.In vitro experiments employed concentrations of 0.1 uM for dexmedetomidine and 50 uM for ketamine individually as well as their combination. Changes in apoptotic proteins and dendritic development in neurons were assessed after a 6‐h exposure to the drugs with evaluations conducted 24 hs' post‐treatment. In vivo experiments entailed intraperitoneal administration starting from postnatal Day 7 (P7) continuously for 3 days (P7–P9) using dosages of 100 mg/kg for ketamine and 1 mg/kg for dexmedetomidine alone or combined. Learning, memory and motor coordination abilities were evaluated via rotary rod tests and shuttle box experiments at P30 and P60, respectively.Dexmedetomidine effectively mitigated ketamine‐induced apoptosis in hippocampal neurons but did not alleviate associated dendritic developmental abnormalities. Although causing reduced motor coordination in mice, no improvement was observed with regard to this effect or reaction speed when treated with dexmedetomidine alongside ketamine.This study demonstrates that while dexmedetomidine can mitigate ketamine‐induced neuronal apoptosis, it has limited impact on its associated neurodevelopmental toxicities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Method Results Interpretation To determine if the Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance (CO‐OP) intervention is effective in improving motor skills of autistic children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD), and whether motor gains are maintained 3 months after therapy.In this quasi‐experimental study, we recruited 27 autistic children (8–12 years) with DCD without intellectual disability. The treatment group received CO‐OP intervention once weekly for 10 weeks, focusing on three child‐chosen motor goals. The waitlist group received CO‐OP 3 months later. Outcome measures included the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (child ratings of motor performance and satisfaction), Performance Quality Rating Scale (therapist‐observed movement quality), and the Bruninks‐Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, Second Edition (motor ability).Non‐parametric analyses showed significant improvements (p < 0.013) in all outcomes. Follow‐up analysis revealed significant improvements in performance (p < 0.001, W = 0.69), satisfaction (p < 0.001, W = 0.72), and movement quality (p < 0.001, W = 0.62). Despite slight declines at follow‐up, overall improvements from pretest remained evident.The CO‐OP intervention effectively improved motor skills of autistic children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The material transport system, facilitated by motor proteins, plays a vital role in maintaining a non‐equilibrium cellular state. However, understanding the temporal coordination of motor protein activity requires an advanced imaging technique capable of measuring 3D angular displacement in real‐time. In this study, a Fourier transform‐based plasmonic dark‐field microscope has been developed using anisotropic nanoparticles, enabling the prolonged and simultaneous observation of endosomal lateral and rotational motion. A sequence of discontinuous 3D angular displacements has been observed during the pause and run phases of transport. Notably, a serially correlated temporal pattern in the intermittent rotational events has been demonstrated during the tug‐of‐war mechanism, indicating Markovian switching between the exploitational and explorational modes of motor protein exchange prior to resuming movement. Alterations in transition frequency and the exploitation‐to‐exploration ratio upon dynein inhibitor treatment highlight the relationship between disrupted motor coordination and reduced endosomal transport efficiency. Collectively, these results suggest the importance of orchestrated temporal motor protein patterns for efficient cellular transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to examine the effects of a visual praxis‐based occupational therapy (VPOT) program on reading and motor skills for children with developmental dyslexia (DD). Forty‐two children were included in the study. Additionally, before VPOT, the Reading‐Aloud and Reading‐Comprehension Test 2 (ORSRC‐2) and the Bruininks‐Oseretsky Motor‐Proficiency‐Test‐2‐Brief Form (BOT2‐BF) were applied to the participants. According to the study design, VPOT was applied to two sessions per week for 8 weeks to group A. During this period, group B was accepted as the control group. At the end of these 8 weeks, evaluation tests were applied to both groups. Then, group A was defined as the control group and Group B as the intervention group, and VPOT was applied to Group B. At the end of another 8 weeks, evaluation tests were applied to both groups for the third time. When the final ORSRC‐2 results were examined, VPOT was found to be an effective program for improving reading skills. Additionally, when the final BOT2‐BF results were examined, VPOT was determined to be effective in improving motor skills (p < 0.05). We believe that it is important to carry out comprehensive studies such as the VPOT program to solve problems in the physical and learning activities of children with DD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to review the prevalence of developmental coordination disorder (DCD) in individuals born preterm and systematically explore this prevalence according to gestational age and different assessment cut‐offs and compare it to full‐term peers. The eligibility criteria were observational and experimental studies reporting the prevalence of DCD in preterm individuals. A systematic search was performed in databases from inception until March 2022. Two independent reviewers performed the selection. Study quality assessment was performed using the checklists from Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). Data analysis was performed on Excel and Review Manager Software 5.4. Among the 1774 studies identified, 32 matched the eligibility criteria. The pooled estimate rate of the DCD rate in preterm was 21% (95% confidence interval [CI] 17.8–24.3). The estimate rates were higher as gestational age decreased, and preterm children are two times more likely to have DCD than their full‐term peers risk ratio (RR) 2.2 (95% CI 1.77–2.79). The limitation was high heterogeneity between studies; the assessment tools, cut‐off points and age at assessment were diverse. This study provided evidence that preterm children are at higher risk for DCD than full‐term children, and the risks increased as gestational age decreased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Havdahl et al.'s (2023) Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa) skill loss study stands out for their creative consideration of scale items to gain a better understanding of skill loss/regression. This commentary outlines how the MoBa team continues to challenge the field by conducting "basic" measurement analyses with their public health longitudinal population data. Their creative use of items, validity‐oriented analyses, and transparent reporting of item correlations emulates early‐stage scale development in psychometric research, and sets the stage for considering how psychometricians and epidemiologists might more directly work with each other to improve early autism identification research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With expertise, athletes develop motor strategies that enhance sports performance or reduce functional costs. Motor variability is known as a relevant way to characterize these strategies in athletes with different levels of expertise. The aim of this scoping review is to gather and discuss the latest advances in the impact of expertise on motor variability during sports‐related tasks. A search encompassing three databases, Medline, SportDiscus, and Academic Search Complete, was performed. Our research methodology included three core themes: motor variability, laboratory instruments, and sports. Motor variability metrics (e.g., standard deviation and approximate entropy) and laboratory instruments (e.g., motion capture system, EMG, and force plate) were compiled. Athletes' expertise was defined by the time of deliberate practice, the performance results, or the level in which they performed. Overall, 48 of the 59 included studies determined that higher‐skilled athletes had lesser motor variability than lower‐skilled athletes. This difference in motor variability between skill levels was present within individual athletes (intra‐individual) and between athletes (inter‐individual). This result was independent of the criteria used to define expertise, the type of instrumentation used, and the metrics used to quantify motor variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]