Search

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of agility ladder training combined with plyometric or multidirection speed drills, on performance in young female volleyball players. Methods: Seventy-six young female volleyball players were randomly distributed into 3 maturity-matched groups: (1) the agility ladder + plyometric drills group, (2) the agility ladder + multidirection speed drills group, and (3) the control group. Both experimental groups followed a 6-week training program, twice weekly, in addition to the regular volleyball training sessions, while the control group participated only in the regular volleyball training sessions. Assessments pretraining and posttraining included countermovement jump, 20-m sprint, and agility T test. Results: Both experimental groups improved T-test performance (P <.005) but only agility ladder + multidirection speed drills group outperformed the control group (P <.05). Conclusions: Agility ladder training programs combined with either plyometric or speed drills can improve change of direction performance in young female volleyball players but only the combination of agility ladder with multidirection speed drills is more effective than volleyball training per se. The small effectiveness of these protocols may be attributed to the short training period, or to the fact that training elements were combined in a single session. This hypothesis remains to be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maximum running speed is a performance determinant in para-athletics and cerebral palsy football. Sixty international para-athletes with brain impairments completed five activity-limitation tests (standing broad jump, four bounds for distance, split jumps, 10-m speed skip, and running in place) and two criterion tests (40-m sprint and modified agility test). The same three tests (standing broad jump, four bounds for distance, and 10-m speed skip) that correlated with running performance in nondisabled runners (.67 < r < −.82; p <.05; 75% of variance) also correlated in para-athletes with brain impairments (.41 < r < −.62; p <.01; 55% of variance). Standing broad jump, four bounds for distance, split jumps, and running in place also correlated with change-of-direction speed (.43 < r < −.63; p <.01; 58% of variance). Results indicate that methods of classification for para-athletics with nondisabled runners are also valid with para-athletes with brain impairments, and new sport-specific relationships were found for assessing the performance of rapid and short sprints toward different directions, specific of a team para-sport like cerebral palsy football. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individuals with intellectual disabilities often face unique challenges in physical capabilities, making traditional training methods less effective for their specific needs. This study aimed to investigate the effect of combining balance, plyometric, and strength (CBPS) training with sprint training on physical performance in male athletes with intellectual disabilities. Twenty-seven participants were randomly assigned to either a CBPS group or a control group that only maintained their regular sprint training. Participants underwent pre- and posttraining tests, including measures of balance, jumping, agility, and sprinting ability. The results showed that the CBPS group demonstrated significant improvements (p <.05) in one-leg stance, crossover-hop jump, squat jump, countermovement jump, and 10- and 30-m sprint at posttraining compared with pretraining. CBPS training combined with sprinting significantly improves physical performance in male athletes with intellectual disabilities, suggesting implications for tailored training programs to enhance their physical fitness and overall health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was 2-fold: (1) to examine the relationships between psychophysiological responses and locomotor demands with variations in technical performance during 2v2 and 4v4 conditioned games and (2) to compare psychophysiological and locomotor responses among players exhibiting higher and lower technical performance levels during the conditioned games. Methods: Twenty-four male youth soccer players (16.3 ± 0.8 y old) participating at the trained/developmental level underwent monitoring for psychophysiological responses (including heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, and visual analog scale), locomotor demands (such as distance covered), and technical performance variables (including successful and unsuccessful passes and shots, as well as lost balls) across 2v2 and 4v4 formats. These formats were applied 4 times within a single session and were replicated twice over 2 weeks. Results: Large correlations between the number of lost balls per minute and mean heart rate were found in both the 2v2 and 4v4 games (r =.586 and r =.665, respectively). Successful shots were inversely and largely correlated with mean heart rate (r = −.518) in 4v4 games. The number of interceptions per minute was inversely and significantly correlated with the visual analog scale in 2v2 and 4v4 games (r = −.455 and r = −.710, respectively). The frequency of lost balls was significantly higher among players who attained a higher mean heart rate (2v2: +42.9%, P =.031, d = −0.965; 4v4: +57.1%, P <.001, d = −2.072). Conclusions: Coaches should be aware that highly psychophysiologically demanding scenarios may significantly impair technical performance. Therefore, prioritizing technical performance by deliberately adjusting the intensity should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: There are important methodological considerations for translating wearable-based gait-monitoring data to field settings. This study investigated different devices' sampling rates, signal lengths, and testing frequencies for athlete monitoring using dynamical systems variables. Methods: Secondary analysis of previous wearables data (N = 10 runners) from a 5-week intensive training intervention investigated impacts of sampling rate (100–2000 Hz) and signal length (100–300 strides) on detection of gait changes caused by intensive training. Primary analysis of data from 13 separate runners during 1 week of field-based testing determined day-to-day stability of outcomes using single-session data and mean data from 2 sessions. Stride-interval long-range correlation coefficient α from detrended fluctuation analysis was the gait outcome variable. Results: Stride-interval α reduced at 100- and 200- versus 300- to 2000-Hz sampling rates (mean difference: −.02 to −.08; P ≤.045) and at 100- compared to 200- to 300-stride signal lengths (mean difference: −.05 to −.07; P <.010). Effects of intensive training were detected at 100, 200, and 400 to 2000 Hz (P ≤.043) but not 300 Hz (P =.069). Within-athlete α variability was lower using 2-session mean versus single-session data (smallest detectable change:.13 and.22, respectively). Conclusions: Detecting altered gait following intensive training was possible using 200 to 300 strides and a 100-Hz sampling rate, although 100 and 200 Hz underestimated α compared to higher rates. Using 2-session mean data lowers smallest detectable change values by nearly half compared to single-session data. Coaches, runners, and researchers can use these findings to integrate wearable-device gait monitoring into practice using dynamic systems variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study assessed physical activity (PA) and body composition of ambulatory children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) and their typically developing peers. Methods: Participants included youth with CP (ages 8–18 y and Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] levels I–III) and their typically developing peers. Outcomes included PA (actigraphy) and fat/lean mass index (FMI/LMI; dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry). Statistical analyses included linear mixed effects models with Bonferroni adjustment. Fixed effects were study group (CP and typically developing); random effects were participant clusters (sex and age). Exploratory analyses included association of body composition and PA, GMFCS level, and CP involvement (unilateral and bilateral). Results: Seventy-eight participants (CP: n = 40, girls: n = 29; GMFCS I: n = 20; GMFCS II: n = 14; GMFCS III: n = 6) met inclusion criteria. Individuals with CP had lower moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA; β = −12.5; 98.3% confidence interval, −22.6 to −2.5 min; P =.004) and lower LMI (β = −1.1; 97.5% confidence interval, −2.1 to −0.0 kg/m2; P =.020). Exploratory analyses indicated increased LMI with greater MVPA (P =.001), reduced MVPA for GMFCS II (P =.005) and III (P =.001), increased sedentary time for GMFCS III (P =.006), and greater fat mass index with unilateral motor impairment (P =.026). Conclusions: The findings contribute to the knowledge base of increasing MVPA and LMI deficits with the greater functional impact of CP. Associations of increasing LMI with greater MVPA support efforts targeting enhanced PA participation to promote independent mobility. [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]

Objective: To analyze the clinical efficacy of autologous platelet rich plasma (PRP) injection in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and its influence on related biomarkers such as interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). Method: 150 study subjects are randomly selected from KOA patients received treatment in the Third Hospital of Bethune Hospital from January 2022 to January 2023. After enrollment, patients are randomly numbered 1–100. 75 patients with odd and even numbers are included in the control group and the observation group, respectively. The former is cured with etocoxib, while the latter is treated with autologous PRP injection based on this. The clinical efficacy, relevant biomarkers (IL-1β, TNF-α, hs-CRP), and Lysholm knee score scale and Fugl Meyer assessment (FMA) scores are compared and analyzed. Results: The total effective rate of 94.67% (71/75) in the observation group was higher than 84.00% (63/75) in the other one group (P < 0.05). Before treatment, the comparison in IL-1β, TNF-α, hs-CRP, Lysholm knee joint score, and FMA scale score are with P > 0.05. When the treatment period is at 1 and 2 months, the IL-1β, TNF-α, hs-CRP levels within the group were lower than before treatment, while the Lysholm knee joint score and FMA scale score were higher than before treatment (P < 0.05). When the treatment period is at 1 and 2 months, the IL-1β, TNF-α, hs-CRP levels and the Lysholm knee joint and FMA scale scores in the observation group were lower and higher than those in the other one group, respectively (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The application of autologous PRP injection therapy in KOA patients can significantly improve their levels of related biomarkers, effectively improve knee joint function and motor function, and have good clinical efficacy. [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]

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an 8-week yoga intervention on muscle strength, proprioception, pain, concerns about falling, and quality of life in individuals diagnosed with diabetic neuropathy. Methods: A quasi-experimental design incorporating a pretest-posttest methodology and a control group was implemented in the present study. A total of 30 patients who were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and neuropathy were recruited and randomly assigned to intervention (n = 15) or non-exercise control (n = 15). Yoga sessions were conducted for a duration of 60 min on three occasions per week, with participants requested to practice at home on other days. Results: The results showed significant main effects of time on the muscle strength (both flexor and extensor muscles, p <.001, ηp2 = 0.652 and p <.001, ηp2 = 0.539, respectively), proprioception error (p <.001, ηp2 = 0.807), pain intensity (p <.001, ηp2 = 0.538), concerns about falling (p <.001, ηp2 = 0.700), and overall score of quality of life (p <.001, ηp2 = 0.475). Moreover, there were significant group-by-time interactions for all variables (p <.001 for all). Conclusion: The study reveals that yoga intervention can be an effective alternative therapeutic approach to medication for individuals with diabetic neuropathy. Yet, future studies are needed on a larger sample size to strengthen the present understanding of the advantageous impact of yoga intervention in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared lower extremity, trunk, and upper extremity kinematics between tee and front toss hitting in youth baseball athletes. Twenty youth baseball athletes (14.3±2.9 yrs) performed three maximal effort swings off front toss and tee. Kinematic data were collected during the preparatory and acceleration phases. Lower extremity, trunk, and upper extremity kinematics were compared between tee and front toss hitting using 1-dimensional statistical parametric mapping (SPM). There was a significant difference in trunk kinematics between tee and front toss during the preparatory phase (p=.001); the trunk rotated more toward the back side when hitting off a tee compared to front toss (p<0.001). There was also a significant difference in trunk kinematics between tee and front toss for 67% of the acceleration phase; the trunk rotated more towards the back side from 0 to 67% when hitting off the tee (p<0.001). Significant differences were found in trunk kinematics between tee and front toss hitting in youth baseball players, where the trunk is less rotated toward the pitcher in the tee than in the front toss. Coaches utilize various training modalities to enhance hitting performance; however, differences in trunk kinematics should be considered between modalities when developing fundamental hitting techiques in youth baseball athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early childhood educators (ECEs) are ideally positioned to support the development of children's fundamental movement skills (FMS). However, ECEs have little specialised training to support the development of FMS in young children. This study aimed to assess the impact of an e-Learning course on the FMS of preschool-aged children. 145 Preschool-aged children and 42 ECEs from 12 childcare centres participated in the study. ECEs in the experimental group were asked to complete the e-Learning course. A subsample of children (n = 48) was objectively assessed using the Test of Gross Motor Development 3rd Edition (TGMD-3). Additionally, parents of all participating children reported perceptions of their child's FMS to understand if they knew how well their child was progressing. Findings showed a significant increase in TGMD-3 assessed locomotor skills from baseline to follow-up in the intervention group compared to the control group and total FMS but not objective control skills. Parent-reported FMS increased in the intervention group for all locomotor, object control skills, and total FMS. However, the intervention effect for all three measurements was not significant. The results from this study highlight the potential utility of online professional development for ECEs as an approach to improving young children's FMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basketball victory relies on an athlete's skill to make precise shots at different distances. While extensive research has explored the kinematics and dynamics of different shooting distances, the specific neuromuscular control strategies involved remain elusive. This study aimed to compare the differences in muscle synergies during basketball shooting at different distances, offering insights into neuromuscular control strategies and guiding athletes' training. Ten skilled shooting right-handed male basketball players participated as subjects in this experiment. Electromyographic (EMG) data for full-phase shooting were acquired at short (3.2 m), middle (5.0 m), and long (6.8 m) distances. Non-negative matrix decomposition extracted muscle synergies (motor modules and motor primitives) during shooting. The results of this study show that all three distance shooting can be broken down into three synergies and that there were differences in the synergies between short and long distances, with differences in motor primitive 1 and motor primitive 2 at the phase of 45% - 59% (p < 0.001, t* = 4.418), and 78% - 88% (p < 0.01, t* = 4.579), respectively, and differences in the motor module 3 found in the differences in muscle weights for rectus femoris (RF) (p = 0.001, d = -2.094), and gastrocnemius lateral (GL) (p = 0.001, d = -2.083). Shooting distance doesn't affect the number of muscle synergies in basketball shooting but alters synergy patterns. During long distance shooting training, basketball players should place more emphasis on the timing and synergistic activation of upper and lower limbs, as well as core muscles. [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]

Purpose: Explore occupational therapists' (OTs) and speech language pathologists' (SLPs) process of selecting and applying motor learning strategies (MLS) in their interventions for children with acquired brain injury (ABI), and identify similarities and differences between OTs and SLPs in MLS selection and application. Methods: This qualitative descriptive study involved individual semi-structured interviews with OTs and SLPs from the ABI program at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital (Toronto, Canada). Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. A modified constant comparison method permitted comparison within and between professions. Results: Four OTs and three SLPs were interviewed. Four themes were developed: aligning MLS application with the child's cognitive ability, using MLS to promote success within a single session, adjusting MLS across treatment sessions, and promoting generalization and transfer of motor skills beyond the therapy session. MLS application was predominately based on child-specific factors with task-specific considerations. OTs and SLPs used similar clinical reasoning processes for selecting and applying MLS. Conclusions: This study provides a greater understanding of OTs' and SLPs' clinical reasoning process when applying MLS in pediatric ABI interventions. The similarities in MLS selection and application between disciplines suggest that an interprofessional approach to MLS is suitable for pediatric ABI rehabilitation. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Pediatric occupational therapists and speech language pathologists use a similar process for selecting and applying motor learning strategies (MLS) in their interventions Clinicians continually reflect upon and adapt their use of MLS based on each child's performance, progress, and goals Adopting an interprofessional approach to MLS selection and application, including the use of a common MLS language, has the potential to optimize motor outcomes in pediatric acquired brain injury rehabilitation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we aimed to analyze the incremental effects of sensory integration therapy (SIT) plus neurodevelopmental therapy (NT) versus NT alone on the attention and motor skills in children with Down syndrome (DS). We randomly assigned into experimental (i.e. SIT + NT; n = 21) and control (i.e. NT alone; n = 21) groups. While NT was applied to both groups for six weeks, SIT was applied simultaneously to the experimental group for six weeks. Participants' motor functions (Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency-Short form (BOT-2 SF)) and attention skills (Stroop TBAG (Turkish Scientific and Technological Research Association) Form) were evaluated before and after treatment (6 weeks later). Stroop TBAG and BOT-2 SF scores of the groups were similar at the baseline (p > 0.05). Significant improvement from baseline was observed in both BOT-2 SF, and Stroop TBAG results in both groups (p < 0.05). In addition, the improvement in both BOT-2 SF and Stroop TBAG results was found to be greater in the experimental group compared to the control group (p < 0.01). There were clear advantages to adding SIT to NT alone when seeking to improve motor and attention skills in children with DS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Neurocognitive and motor impairments are often observed both before and after liver transplantation, resulting in inefficiencies in dual-task performance. Specific aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the motor-cognitive dual-task performance in liver recipients, with a particular emphasis on cognition, performance status, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Design: A prospective, cross-sectional, web-based design with a control group was used. The study included 22 liver transplant recipients and 23 controls. Participants completed a motor-cognitive dual-task test (timed up and go test, TUG), a cognitive assessment (mini mental state examination), and a physical performance test (5-repetition sit-to-stand test). The study also used a functional performance status scale (The Karnofsky performance status) and assessed fear of coronavirus disease (fear of COVID-19 scale). Dual-task interference was assessed and the rate of correct responses per second was calculated to assess cognitive performance. Results: The results indicated no statistically significant difference in TUG time and TUG correct responses per second between the groups (group × condition interactions; P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in cognitive and motor dual-task interference during the TUG test between the two groups (P > 0.05). The Karnofsky Performance Status score was significantly correlated with TUG motor dual-task interference (r = −0.424 and P = 0.049). Conclusion: This study suggests that dual-task performance does not differ in cognitive or motor performance between liver recipients and healthy controls under the same dual-task condition. However, further controlled studies are needed to improve the generalizability of these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) increases pulmonary vascular resistance and right ventricular (RV) afterload. Assessment of RV systolic function in PH using RV fractional area change (RV FAC) as a marker directly correlates with mortality and the need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). However, few studies have assessed neurodevelopmental outcomes. We hypothesize that cardiac RV systolic dysfunction with lower RV FAC is associated with worse neurodevelopmental impairment (NI). (2) Methods: Retrospective study of 42 subjects with PH to evaluate neurodevelopmental outcomes in the first two years of life based on (i) subjective assessment of RV systolic function and (ii) RV FAC, a specific echocardiographic marker for RV function. (3) Results: Subjects from the initial study cohort (n = 135) with PH who had long-term follow-up were divided into RV dysfunction (study, n = 20) and non-RV dysfunction (control, n = 22) groups. RV FAC in the study vs. control group (0.18 vs. 0.25) was lower (p = 0.00017). There was no statistically significant difference in NI either with RV dysfunction or lower RV FAC. Although not significant, RV dysfunction was associated with longer mean duration of mechanical ventilation, time on ECMO, and length of stay. In the initial cohort (135), mortality was 16.3% and the percentage of NI was 62%. (4) Conclusions: Neonatal pulmonary hypertension is associated with a high degree of neurodevelopment impairment. Early RV systolic dysfunction, as identified by RV FAC, was not an optimal predictive biomarker for infants with PH and neurodevelopmental impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seven-degree-of-freedom space manipulator, characterized by its redundant and aspheric wrist structure, is extensively used in space missions due to its exceptional dexterity and multi-joint capabilities. However, the non-spherical wrist structure presents challenges in solving inverse kinematics, as it cannot decouple joints using the Pieper criterion, unlike spherical wrist structures. To address this issue, this paper presents a closed-form analytical method for solving the inverse kinematics of seven-degree-of-freedom aspheric wrist space manipulators. The method begins by identifying the redundant joint through comparing the volumes of the workspace with different joints fixed. The redundant joint angle is then treated as a parametric joint angle, enabling the derivation of closed-form expressions for the non-parametric joint angles using screw theory. The optimal solution branch is identified through a comparative analysis of various self-motion manifold branches. Additionally, a hybrid approach, combining analytical and numerical methods, is proposed to optimize the parametric joint angle for a trajectory tracking task. Simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Change of direction while dribbling appears to be of interest for on-court performance in basketball. The study aim was to assess the validity and reliability of the V-cut dribbling test (VcutBk) in young basketball players. Methods: Ninety-two young basketball players from 8 to 21 years old (74% male) were classified in relation to peak height velocity (PHV) offset. To examine validity and test–retest reliability, VcutBk was performed in 2 identical sessions separated by 1 week. Participants also performed the V-cut test and linear sprint test with and without dribbling to analyze correlations between tests in different somatic maturity stages. Results: The relationships of the VcutBk with the other tests and skill-time-related deficits were interpreted from large (r >.51) to very large (r >.71). The comparisons between pre-PHV and post-PHV groups of basketball players showed significant and large effect in the VcutBk (d = 2.04; mean difference = 2.59; 95% CI, 1.86 to 3.32). Also, significant main effects when comparing PHV groups were reported in all skill-time-related deficits (P <.001, η p 2 =. 13 -.28 , moderate to large effect size). Test–retest reliability and signal-to-noise ratio analysis did not show substantial between-trials differences in VcutBk. Reliability scores showed high intraclass correlation coefficient (.95) and low coefficient of variation (0.23%). Conclusions: The VcutBk seems to be a valid and reliable test to assess change of direction while dribbling. VcutBk performance and skill-time-related deficits seem to be sensitive to somatic maturity. Basketball coaches should consider the VcutBk to assess young basketball players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Symptom scores commonly measured following concussion were compared between male and female adolescents with (Hx+) and without (Hx−) a history of concussion, pre and post physical exertion testing. Methods: Eighty (males [n = 60; Hx+ = 19], female [n = 20; Hx+ = 5]) high school students (ages 15–17 y) completed the Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test once and the modified shuttle run test twice. Symptom scores were collected using the 22-point Symptom Evaluation Scale on the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (version 5) immediately pre and post physical exertion testing. Results: The symptoms most reported during preexertional testing were fatigue/low energy, feeling slowed down, and nervous/anxious, whereas feeling slowed down, fatigue/low energy, "pressure in head" (males only), and headache (females only) were most frequently reported during postexertion testing. Conclusion: An understanding of the common exertion-related symptoms at baseline in a laboratory or field-based setting in adolescents may be advantageous for clinicians as they manage individual recovery postconcussion. This is particularly important during an adolescent's recovery and return to play when exertional testing may be implemented, especially since symptoms were reported pre and post exertional testing in both males and females regardless of concussion history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to explore the impact of occupational activities involving extensive finger movement on the muscular characteristics of the forearms. In particular, the flexor digitorum (FD) muscular thickness and strength asymmetry between right and left hand were compared between musicians and non-musicians. Methods: Ultrasonography was employed to measure the thickness of the FD in each hand, while a validated custom-made device was used to assess the strength of the flexor and extensor digitorum (ED). Initially, muscle differences were estimated by computing the asymmetry index between dominant and non-dominant hands. To assess potential occupational disparities, comparisons of the asymmetry index were conducted between 25 right-handed instrumental musicians and 25 right-handed non-musicians. Results: Musicians exhibited lower asymmetry between dominant and non-dominant hands in both FD thickness and ED strength when compared to non-musicians. This effect was particularly pronounced in musicians playing instruments that extensively use the left-hand fingers (e.g., violinists). Conclusions: Occupational activities, such as playing a musical instrument, can alter forearm muscle mass and strength distribution between dominant and non-dominant hands. This underscores the importance of considering occupational parameters in clinical or experimental interventions and musculoskeletal assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of skill modifications on head motion experienced during women's artistic gymnastics skills. Nine gymnasts (four beginner and five advanced) completed three trials of up to 24 skill progressions, each consisting of a skill and two progressive safety modifications. Gymnasts were instrumented with mouthpiece sensors embedded with an accelerometer and gyroscope collecting motion data at 200, 300, and 500 Hz during each skill performance. Peak-to-peak linear and rotational kinematics during contact phases and peak rotational kinematics during non-contact phases were computed. A mixed-effects model was used to compare differences in modification status nested within skill categories. Timer skills (i.e. drills that simulate performance of a gymnastics skill) resulted in the highest median ΔLA and ΔRA of all skill categories, and 132 skill performances exceeded 10 g ΔLA during a contact phase. Modifications were associated with significant reductions in head kinematics during contact phases of timers, floor skills, bar releases, and vault skills. Gymnasts can be exposed to direct and indirect head accelerations at magnitudes consistent with other youth contact sports, and common safety modifications may be effective at reducing head motion during contact and non-contact phases of gymnastics skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: There is a need to elucidate intermittent Theta burst stimulation (iTBS) as a novel treatment in persistent somatoform pain disorder (PSPD). Methods: Twenty patients were randomly allocated to active iTBS (n = 11) and sham iTBS (n = 9) and received 10 iTBS sessions, 2 sessions per day, sequentially to primary motor and dorsolateral prefrontal cortices for 5 days in a week. Each iTBS session comprised of 2 sec. per train of 10 bursts (3 pulses per burst at 50 Hz; total 30 pulses) and were given with a gap of 5 Hz, total of 20 trains, and 600 pulses. Visual Analogue Scale, Brief Pain Inventory and Global Pain Scale (GPS), Montgomery and Asberg Depression Rating Scale, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale - Anxiety, World Health Organization Quality-of-Life Scale-brief, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index were applied at baseline, after last session, and at 2 weeks after last TBS session. Intention to treat analysis was conducted. Results: Both groups were comparable for baseline psychopathology scores including clinical variables like age (t = 0.865; P = 0.398), duration of illness (t = 1.600; P = 0.127), and motor threshold (t = 0.304; P = 0.765). On repeated measures ANOVA, a significant within-group time effect for VAS, BPI-Severity, BPI-Interference, BDI - II, MADRS, HAM-A, and WHOQOL- BREF was found for active and sham TBS groups, respectively. GPS scores had significant within-group (active) * time interaction (F = 11.651; P = .001; ηp2 = 0.538) and between-group * time interaction (F = 3.407; P = 0.044; ηp2 = 0.159). However, between-group * time effect interaction was lost after covariance (F = 1.726; P = 0.196; ηp2 = 0.110). Conclusion: No major adverse effects were reported. Our pilot trial concludes that safe therapeutic efficacy of iTBS in PSPD is inconclusive. Lower total number of sessions along with small sample size may limit the study findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agility, as the ability to react rapidly to unforeseen events, is an essential component of football performance. However, existing agility diagnostics often do not reflect the complex motor–cognitive interaction required on the field. Therefore, this study evaluates the criterion and ecological validity of a newly developed motor–cognitive dual‐task agility approach in elite youth football players and compare it to a traditional reactive agility test. Twenty‐one male youth elite football players (age:17.4 ±0.6; BMI:23.2 ± 1.8) performed two agility tests (reactive agility, reactive agility with integrated multiple‐object‐tracking (Dual‐Task Agility)) on the SKILLCOURT system. Performance was correlated to motor (sprint, jump), cognitive (executive functions, attention, reaction speed) and football specific tests (Loughborough soccer passing test (LSPT)) as well as indirect game metrics (coaches' rating, playing time). Reactive agility performance showed moderate correlations to attention and choice reaction times (r = 0.48−0.63), as well as to the LSPT (r = 0.51). The dual‐task agility test revealed moderate relationships with attention and reaction speed (r = 0.47−0.58), executive functions (r = 0.45−0.63), as well as the game metrics (r = 0.51−0.61). Finally, the dual‐task agility test significantly differentiated players based on their coaches' rating and playing time using a median split (p < 0.05; d = 0.8–1.28). Motor–cognitive agility performance in elite youth football players seems to be primarily determined by cognitive functions. The integration of multiple object tracking into reactive agility testing seems to be an ecologically valid approach for performance diagnostics in youth football. Highlights: The study introduces a novel motor–cognitive dual‐task agility approach (incorporation of multiple‐object‐tracking in agility testing), evaluating its criterion and ecological validity in elite youth football players compared to a standard agility test.The standard agility test was shown to have moderate correlations with attention and choice reaction times, while the dual‐task agility approach additionally incorporates executive functionsWhile the agility test correlates to football‐specific test performance, the dual‐task agility test significantly discriminates players based on their potential ratings and in‐season playing time, highlighting its potential as a valuable tool for assessing performance in youth football.The findings suggest that agility performance in elite youth football is primarily determined by cognitive functionsIncorporating more complex cognitive elements such as multiple‐object‐tracking in agility testing may improve ecological validity and therefore the predictive value of the testing procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developmental coordination disorder is a frequently co-occurring condition with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Several cross-sectional studies have reported that children with difficulties in motor skills have a higher severity of ASD symptoms. This study aims to examine the association of difficulties in motor skills with longitudinal changes in social skills in children with ASD. Participants were drawn from the ELENA cohort, a French longitudinal cohort of children with ASD. Motor skills were assessed using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children at baseline, while social skills were measured using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) and the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS-II) at both the baseline and a follow-up assessment conducted 3 years later. A composite score of social skills was created at baseline and at both time points. Linear regression models were performed to assess the association between difficulties in motor skills and changes in social skills, considering potential confounders such as IQ, age, and gender. The sample included 162 children with ASD. Children with difficulties in global motor skills (N = 114) showed less favorable trajectories in social skills compared to those without motor difficulties. The results were consistent when examining the ADOS-2 and the VABS-II separately. This study provides evidence for the negative impact of difficulties in motor skills on the longitudinal development of social skills in children with ASD. Interventions targeting motor difficulties may have broader benefits, extending beyond motor function to improve socialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The progression from crawling to walking in infancy is associated with changes in infant language development. One possible explanation for such change is the infant's language environment. Prior research indicates that caregivers use more action directives with walking infants compared to crawling infants, but the relations of such parental speech with infant vocabulary is unknown. Here, we present findings from day‐long home audio recordings (Study 1) and laboratory observations (Study 2) of same‐aged crawling and walking infants to explore how caregiver language, specifically action directives, were associated with parent reported infant vocabulary size. Findings in both studies indicated that caregiver action directives were associated with crawling, but not walking infants' receptive vocabulary sizes. Specifically, action directives about objects occurring when the infant and caregiver were not jointly engaged were associated with higher receptive vocabulary scores for crawling infants, but no such pattern was found for walking infants. The replication of results in distinct samples with different research methodologies strengthens the findings. Taken together, these studies demonstrate that caregiver social engagement specific to infant motoric development is related with infant language learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study we investigated the effects of an 8-week table tennis exercise program with a task-oriented approach on visual perception and motor performance of 31 adolescents with developmental coordination disorder (DCD). The participants were identified by their teachers as having greater difficulty than their peers (450 students from three Korean middle schools) in physical education (PE) classes. On the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency-2, these adolescents scored below the 15th percentile and showed difficulties in performing daily life activities due to motor performance problems; they did not have physical defects, intellectual or neurological impairments, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Of 98 prospective adolescents with PE difficulties, we obtained personal assent and parents' informed consent from 54, and 31 of these met screening criteria for DCD through the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire-Korean. This final group was divided in non-random fashion (based on the proximal geographic grouping of the children's schools) between an experimental group (n = 16) and a control group (n = 15). The experimental group participated in the 8-week task-oriented table tennis training program with three 90-minute sessions per week, while the control group only participated in regular PE classes twice per week. We measured participants' visual perception and motor performance in the same environment before and after the intervention program. Participants' visual perception was significantly more improved in the experimental group than the control group, with specific improved skills in visual-motor search, visual-motor speed, figure-ground, and visual closure; copying and perceptual constancy skills did not improve significantly. In addition, total motor performance and motor sub-skills, including fine manual control, manual coordination, body coordination, strength, and agility were significantly more improved in the experimental group than in the control group. Thus, our task-oriented table tennis exercise program was of greater assistance than general PE classes for improving visual perception and motor performance in adolescents at risk of DCD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Depth camera-based measurement has demonstrated efficacy in automated assessment of upper limb Fugl-Meyer Assessment for paralysis rehabilitation. However, there is a lack of adequately sized studies to provide clinical support. Thus, we developed an automated system utilizing depth camera and machine learning, and assessed its feasibility and validity in a clinical setting. Design: Validation and feasibility study of a measurement instrument based on single cross-sectional data. Setting: Rehabilitation unit in a general hospital Participants: Ninety-five patients with hemiparesis admitted for inpatient rehabilitation unit (2021–2023). Main measures: Scores for each item, excluding those related to reflexes, were computed utilizing machine learning models trained on participant videos and readouts from force test devices, while the remaining reflex scores were derived through regression algorithms. Concurrent criterion validity was evaluated using sensitivity, specificity, percent agreement and Cohen's Kappa coefficient for ordinal scores of individual items, as well as correlations and intraclass correlation coefficients for total scores. Video-based manual assessment was also conducted and compared to the automated tools. Result: The majority of patients completed the assessment without therapist intervention. The automated scoring models demonstrated superior validity compared to video-based manual assessment across most items. The total scores derived from the automated assessment exhibited a high coefficient of 0.960. However, the validity of force test items utilizing force sensing resistors was relatively low. Conclusion: The integration of depth camera technology and machine learning models for automated Fugl-Meyer Assessment demonstrated acceptable validity and feasibility, suggesting its potential as a valuable tool in rehabilitation assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate children's characteristics and impact of a powered wheelchair lending program including comparisons of diagnostic sub-groups, and validation of a predictive model of powered mobility proficiency. This retrospective study included 172 children who participated in the ALYN powered mobility lending program from 3/2009-7/2022. Demographics and functional levels were measured via questionnaires; driving proficiency was evaluated when the wheelchair was returned, and parents and children were interviewed following their participation in the program. Two diagnostic groups were identified: cerebral palsy (CP) (n = 136, median = 9.75 yrs) and other neuromuscular diseases (NMD) (n = 30, median = 5.83 yrs). They differed significantly in the age they commenced PM training, the male/female ratio, walking ability and access mode. Fifty-seven percent of the participants with CP achieved powered mobility proficiency, a rate that was significantly lower than the 73% proficiency found for the NMD group. Four significant predictors were identified: communication, manual wheelchair operation, access mode and go-stop upon request. They predicted proficiency in approximately 80% of cases. Overall feedback from the parents and children indicated that their personal and family's quality of life improved as a result of their child's ability to use a powered wheelchair. A lending program provides children with opportunities to improve mobility skills in an appropriate powered wheelchair. Children who can communicate verbally, propel a manual wheelchair, use a joystick and go-stop upon request are significantly more likely to become proficient drivers; however, many who were unable to complete these tasks also improved and even became proficient drivers. Children who are able to engage in verbal communication, propel a manual wheelchair for short distances, use a joystick and go-stop upon request are significantly likely to become a proficient powered wheelchair drivers. Children with cerebral palsy who have greater physical challenges (e.g., cannot walk at all or propel a manual wheelchair) can reach powered mobility proficiency following practice with a powered wheelchair borrowed from a lending program, although at a lower rate than those with other neuromuscular diseases; additional training strategies should be developed to increase the percent success for children with cerebral palsy. A multivariate logistic regression was able to correctly predict whether a child will become proficient driver in 80% of case. Training with a powered wheelchair from the lending program enabled parents to observe their children's independent mobility in their home environment; they reported improvement in the family's quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to investigate the effects of manipulation and mobilization treatments applied to the L3 segment on sportive performance to prevent performance anxiety and low performance resulting from competition stress in athletes. Material-Method: Sixty male volleyball players aged 18 to 25 were enrolled in this randomized controlled trial. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a manipulation, a mobilization, and a control group. After completing the required warm-up program, participants underwent either manipulation or mobilization based on their assigned group. Hip range of motion, lumbar range of motion, T-Test time (seconds), 10-meter sprint time (seconds), vertical jump height (cm), and horizontal jump distance (cm) were evaluated immediately before and after the interventions. Results: There were no significant differences between the groups regarding participants' age and height (p>0.05). The mobilization group had the highest mean body mass index and weight (p=0.05). In the intra-group analysis, statistically significant improvements were observed in the spinal manipulation group for hip external rotation, lumbar flexion, extension, T-test performance, and right lumbar flexion (p<0.05). In the mobilization group, significant changes were noticeable for right hip flexion, left hip abduction, hip external rotation, lumbar flexion, extension and lateral flexion, T-test performance, 10-meter sprint, and horizontal jump. Across all groups, all measures were statistically significant except for hip flexion, hip adduction, hip internal rotation, and lumbar lateral flexion (p<0.05). Conclusion: Comparing the data between the groups revealed that the spinal manipulation group demonstrated superior outcomes in right hip extension, right hip external rotation, lumbar flexion, extension, T-test performance, and 10-meter sprint times compared to the spinal mobilization and control groups. We believe that pre-competition spinal manipulation interventions may offer the greatest benefit for volleyball players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neonatal cerebral stroke includes a range of focal and multifocal ischemic and hemorrhagic brain lesions, occurring in about one of 3000 live births. More than 50% of children with neonatal stroke develop adverse outcomes, mainly unilateral cerebral palsy. Asymmetries in segmental movements at three months have been proven to be an early sign of CP in infants with unilateral brain damage. Recognition of additional early signs could enhance prognostic assessment and enable an early and targeted intervention. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess early signs of CP in infants with arterial cerebral stroke through the General Movements Assessment and the Motor Optimality Score—Revised (MOS-R). Method: Twenty-four infants born at term (12 females and 12 males) diagnosed with ACS, and 24 healthy infants (16 females and 8 males) were assessed. The GMs (fidgety movements) and MOS-R were assessed from videos recorded at 11–14 weeks of post-term age. Cognitive and motor outcomes were assessed at 24 months using the Griffiths III developmental quotient and Amiel-Tison neurological examination. The gross motor function classification system expanded and revised (GMFCS-E&R) was adopted to categorize CP. Results: Among infants with ACS, 21 (87.5%) developed unilateral CP. Most of them showed non-disabling CP (14 had GMFCS-E&R grade 1 [66.6%], 6 grade 2 [28.6%], and 1 grade 5 [4.8%]). Fidgety movements (FMs) were absent in 17 (70.8%), sporadic in 4 (16.7%) infants, and normal in 3 (12.5%). Segmental movement asymmetry was found in 22/24 (91.7%). According to the MOS-R, motor items (kicking, mouth movements), postural patterns (midline centered head, finger posture variability), and movement character (monotonous and stiff) were statistically different among infants with ACS and healthy infants. The MOS-R median global score was lower in the group with ACS compared to the control group (6 vs 26; p < 0.01). FMs, segmental movement asymmetry, and MOS-R global score were significantly correlated with abnormal outcome. MOS-R global scores less than or equal to 13 had 100% specificity and sensitivity in predicting GMFCS-E&R grade ≥ 2 CP in infants with ACS. Conclusions: The rate of CP was high among infants with ACS, but in most cases it showed low GMFCS-E&R grades. The study highlighted a significant correlation between MOS-R, together with absent FMs and unilateral CP in infants with ACS. Moreover, the MOS-R showed high sensitivity and specificity in the prediction of CP. Combined assessment of FMs and MOS-R could help to better identify infants at high risk of developing UCP in a population of infants with ACS. Early identification of precocious signs of unilateral CP is fundamental to providing an early individualized intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: COVID-19 pandemic has influenced all children's motor development. We examine whether this differs by social circumstances. We hypothesise that socially disadvantaged children experienced more pronounced motor problems compared with better-off children. Methods: Our trend study includes three representative waves of preschoolers (school years 2018/19, 2019/20, 2023/24) from a German school enrolment medical screening. Based on logistic regressions, we computed predicted prevalences of motor problems separately for children in different social circumstances (neighbourhood, migration background, family status). Results: Motor development of preschoolers slightly worsened by 2023 compared to pre-pandemic level (6.3 percent 2018 to 7.4 percent 2023). Results by neighbourhood highlight that preschoolers from well-off districts experienced a deterioration of motor development (4.9 percent 2018–6.4 percent 2023). The prevalence of motor problems is, however, below that of children from deprived neighbourhoods with consistently high prevalence (9.2–10 percent). Results by migration background show a worsening trend for children without migration background and the gap between the groups disappears in 2023. Results by family status do not indicate significant differences. Conclusion: Contrary to our hypothesis, socially disadvantaged children experienced smaller change in motor problems. However, our results highlight the potential of structured physical activities in daycare centres and sports facilities to enhance the motor development of these children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This study examines spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a neuromuscular disease associated with malnutrition. Our goals are to assess how effectively screening tools can detect malnutrition and evaluate the impact of nutritional interventions on neurological outcomes, particularly motor functions. Methods Thirty-seven genetically diagnosed SMA patients (types 1, 2, and 3) under nusinersen therapy were included in the study. The nutritional status of these patients was assessed by using anthropometric measurements, including height for age (HFA), weight for height (WFH), and body mass index (BMI) before and after the study. Additionally, the risk of malnutrition was determined using screening tools, namely the Pediatric Yorkhill Malnutrition Score (PYMS) and the Screening Tool for the Assessment of Malnutrition in Pediatrics (STAMP). Nutritional counseling followed the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) guidelines and considered the patients' dietary history, including content and administration method. Motor functions were assessed by validated tests: the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Infant Test of Neuromuscular Disorders (CHOP-INTEND) and the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale—Expanded (HFMSE). Result The study showed an improvement in HFA, by a change from −0.95 to −0.65 (p = 0.015). Conversely, BMI scores decreased from 0.08 to −0.54 (p = 0.015), while WFH and MUAC showed no significant alterations (p = 0.135, p = 0.307). Following nutritional interventions, HFMSE demonstrated a median increase from 29.5 to 30.5 (p = 0.023). Patients identified as being at high risk for malnutrition based on PYMS and STAMP belonged to the moderate-to-severe malnutrition group (BMI Z-score ≤ −2, p = 0.001). Conclusions Use of screening tools in SMA patients is highly beneficial for the early detection of malnutrition. Future research should highlight the importance of combining nutritional management with nusinersen therapy to potentially alter the disease trajectory, especially in motor and neurological functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate potential differences in symptoms between PD patients with or without RBD. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science databases (as of August 16, 2023), to identify relevant studies on PD and RBD. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata 15.0. Continuous variables were analyzed using the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI), while count data were assessed using the odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI as statistical effect sizes. Heterogeneity among all included studies was tested; for studies with low heterogeneity (I² < 50%), a fixed-effects model was used to calculate statistical results. For studies with relatively high heterogeneity (I² > 50%), a random-effects model was applied, followed by sensitivity and subgroup analyses to identify sources of heterogeneity. Results: A total of 5,672 subjects were involved in this study. Compared to the NRBD group, the UPDRS-III score in the RBD group was significantly higher (SMD = 0.20, 95% CI: [0.11, 0.29], P < 0.001), and the Hoehn-Yahr score in the RBD group was also significantly higher (SMD = 0.29, 95% CI: [0.03, 0.55], P < 0.001). Patients with PD in the RBD group had more severe cognitive impairments than those in the NRBD group (SMD = -0.30, 95% CI: [-0.48, -0.11], P < 0.001). The incidence of hallucination in PD patients in the RBD group was 3.0 times that of the NRBD group (OR = 3.0, 95% CI: [2.15, 4.20], P = 0.110). PD patients in the RBD group also experienced more severe anxiety symptoms (SMD = 0.13, 95% CI: [-0.26, 0.51], P < 0.001), had higher scores in depression scales (SMD = 0.22, 95% CI: [0.02, 0.43], P < 0.001), and higher scores in sleep disorder scales than those in NRBD group (SMD = 0.10, 95% CI: [-0.11, 0.31], P < 0.001). Conclusion: Results show PD patients with co-occurring RBD have more severe motor and non-motor symptoms likely due to overlapping affected regions in RBD and PD-related pathology, plus broader neurodegeneration seen in PD patients with RBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy (CP) often demonstrate gluteus medius weakness that causes balance deficits and frequent falling during walking. Purpose: The aim of the study was to evaluate the combined effects of functional task training with electrical stimulation of bilateral hip abductor muscles on motor abilities (standing and walking) and balance in children with spastic diplegic CP. Methods: Thirty children with diplegic CP of both sexes whose ages ranged from 7 to 10 years were assigned randomly into two equal groups. For both groups, motor abilities were assessed by gross motor function measure (GMFM), and balance (static and dynamic) was assessed by the humac balance system before and after the study. The control group received a functional training program focusing on standing walking and balance exercises. While children in the study group received the same functional training program with bilateral electrical stimulation of gluteus medius muscles for 50 min. The treatment program for both groups was conducted for 3 sessions/week for 8 weeks. Results: There were statistically significant differences between the control and study group post-treatment in GMFM as well as the center of pressure test and weight shift test in favor of the study group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Using functional task training with electrical stimulation for treatment of children with spastic diplegic CP have significant effects on improving their motor abilities and balance that suggests using it in rehabilitation for these children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lateral ankle sprains are one of the most frequent athletic injuries in football, causing deficits in balance. Motor Imagery (MI) has been successively included in sports rehabilitation as a complementary therapeutic intervention. The aim of the present study was to explore the effects of MI on static and dynamic balance and on the fear of re-injury in professional football players with Grade II ankle sprains. Fifty-eight participants were randomly allocated into two groups: First—MI group (n = 29) and second—Placebo group (n = 29), and they each received six intervention sessions. The first MI group received MI guidance in addition to the balance training program, while the second Placebo group received only relaxation guidance. One-way ANOVA showed statistically significant results for all variables, both before and 4 weeks after the interventions for both groups. The t-test showed statistically significant differences between the two groups for static balance for the right lower extremity (t = 3.25, S (two-tailed) = 0.002, p < 0.05) and also for heart rate (final value) in all time phases. Further research is needed in order to establish MI interventions in sports trauma recovery using stronger MI treatments in combination with psychophysiological factors associated with sports rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fundamental motor skills (FMS) and physical fitness (FIT) play important roles in child development and provide a foundation for lifelong participation in physical activity (PA). Unfortunately, many children have suboptimal levels of PA, FMS, and FIT. The Active Learning Norwegian Preschool(er)s (ACTNOW) study investigated the effects of a staff-led PA intervention on FMS, FIT, and PA in 3–5-year-old children. Methods: Preschools in Western Norway having ≥ six 3–4-year-old children were invited (n = 56). Of these, 46 agreed to participate and were cluster-randomized into an intervention (n = 23 preschools [381 children, 3.8 yrs., 55% boys]) or a control group (n = 23 [438, 3.7 yrs., 52% boys]). Intervention preschools participated in an 18-month PA intervention involving a 7-month staff professional development between 2019 and 2022, amounting to 50 h, including face-to-face seminars, webinars, and digital lectures. Primary outcomes in ACTNOW were cognition variables, whereas this study investigated effects on secondary outcomes. FMS was measured through 9 items covering locomotor, object control, and balance skills. FIT was assessed as motor fitness (4 × 10 shuttle-run test) and upper and lower muscular strength (handgrip and standing long jump). PA was measured with accelerometers (ActiGraph GT3X +). All measures took place at baseline, 7-, and 18-month follow-up. Effects were analysed using a repeated measures linear mixed model with child and preschool as random effects and with adjustment for baseline scores. Results: Participants in the intervention preschools showed positive, significant effects for object control skills at 7 months (standardized effect size (ES) = 0.17) and locomotor skills at 18 months (ES = 0.21) relative to controls. A negative effect was found for handgrip strength (ES = -0.16) at 7 months. No effects were found for balance skills, standing long jump, or motor fitness. During preschool hours, sedentary time decreased (ES = -0.18), and light (ES = 0.14) and moderate-to-vigorous PA (ES = 0.16) increased at 7 months, whereas light PA decreased at 18 months (ES = -0.15), for intervention vs control. No effects were found for other intensities or full day PA. Conclusions: The ACTNOW intervention improved some FMS outcomes and increased PA short-term. Further research is needed to investigate how to improve effectiveness of staff-led PA interventions and achieve sustainable improvements in children's PA, FMS, and FIT. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT04048967, registered August 7, 2019. Funding: ACTNOW was supported by the Research Council of Norway (grant number 287903), the County Governor of Sogn og Fjordane, the Sparebanken Sogn og Fjordane Foundation, and the Western Norway University of Applied Sciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Hand dexterity is important with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare hand dexterity and hand laterality task assessments in patients with DMD with typically-developing peers. METHODS: The study included 25 DMD with a mean age of 10.2±2.38 and 21 typically-developing peers with a mean age of 10.33±2.26. Functional levels of DMD patients were determined by Brooke Upper Extremity Functional Classification Scale and Brooke Lower Extremity Functional Scale. The ABILHAND-Kids and 9-hole peg test were used to assess the hand dexterity of all participants, and assess the hand laterality task. RESULTS: Patients with DMD had lower ABILHAND-Kids scores than their typically-developing peers (p < 0.001). Patients with DMD had higher 9-hole peg test duration on the dominant and non-dominant extremity compared to typically-developing peers (p < 0.001). Patients with DMD were found to be different from their typically-developing peers (p < 0.001) in lateralization response time and accuracy. CONCLUSION: Patients with DMD were found to have lower manual dexterity and hand laterality task skills compared to their typically-developing peers. It is recommended that hand dexterity and upper extremity recognition capacities should be considered in assessment and intervention programs for physiotherapists and clinicians working in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim was to quantify jump performance in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and determine if the expected deficit is related to their lower body joint kinetics and kinematics. Methods: Twenty-four ambulatory (n = 17 level I and 7 level II in the Gross Motor Function Classification System) children with spastic CP (n = 13 unilateral and 11 bilateral) and 24 age-, sex-, and race matched typically developing controls were studied. Jump height and peak power and range of motion at the hip, knee, and ankle of the more affected limb in children with CP and the nondominant limb in controls were assessed during a countermovement jump using three-dimensional motion capture and a force platform. Results: Compared with controls, children with CP had lower jump height (33%, Cohen's d (d) = 1.217), peak power at the knee (39%, d = 1.013) and ankle (46%, d = 1.687), and range of motion at the hip (32%, d = 1.180), knee (39%, d = 2.067), and ankle (46%, d = 3.195; all P < 0.001). Jump height was positively related to hip, knee, and ankle power and range of motion in children with CP (rs range = 0.474-0.613, P < 0.05), and hip and ankle power and knee and ankle range of motion in controls (rs range = 0.458-0.630, P < 0.05). The group difference in jump height was no longer detected when ankle joint power, ankle range of motion, or knee range of motion was statistically controlled (P > 0.15). Conclusions: Jump performance is compromised in children with CP and is associated with low power generation and range of motion in the lower limb, especially at the ankle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This pilot study sought to determine the feasibility of quantifying sensory processing, postural control, motor skill development and participation in daily life in children with idiopathic toe walking (ITW) compared to children without ITW. A nonrandomized, prospective case-control design was employed. Twenty participants were recruited. Computerized weight bearing and postural control data was successfully collected. Differences were found in forefoot/rearfoot weight bearing, balance, sensory-motor abilities and parent reported participation challenges. Sensory processing results were inconclusive. Findings can inform standardized assessment and treatment of ITW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An important application for training instructions is found in directing one's attentional focus. This direction can occur in different internal, external, or holistic forms. However, comparison between these three forms of instructions is a relatively recent development rarely reported at different skill levels or various sports including karate. Therefore, the present study attempts to investigate the effects of three forms of instructions on standing long jump performance in skilled and novice karatekas. The participants were 60 skilled and novice karatekas (all females; mean age: 21.32 ± 1.65) who completed 12 standing long jump trials under different focus conditions (3 trials for each condition: internal, external, holistic and control condition) in a counterbalanced order. Our findings suggested significant main effects, indicating that skilled karatekas outperformed the novices. The findings also showed that regardless of skill levels, the participants exhibited similar performance under external and holistic focus conditions while performance in both of these conditions was superior compared to performance under internal focus and control conditions. No difference was observed between the control and internal focus conditions. It seems that skilled and novice karatekas may benefit from holistic and external focus of attention instructions which enhance their motor performance. Thus, it is recommended that coaches should incorporate these two types of attentional focus instructions into their training sessions. Highlights: Both external as well as holistic focus of attention are similar and improve standing long jump performance.Both skilled and novice karatekas benefit from external as well as holistic focus of attention.Performance under an Internal focus of attention is similar to control conditions and does not benefit standing long jump performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the psychometric characteristics of the Pictorial Scale of Perceived Movement Skill Competence (PMSC) in Chinese children, utilizing the principles of item response theory (IRT). Methods: A total of 284 children (147 boys), aged 4–10 years (Mage = 7.39, SD = 2.18), from four schools were recruited for testing, adhering to the principle of random sampling. The Rasch model was applied to evaluate the rating scale validity, local independence, scale dimensionality, person and item fit statistics, and differential item functioning (DIF). Results: (1) The rating scale validity was confirmed by the monotonically increasing trend in both average item difficulty measures and Andrich thresholds. (2) However, the observation that standardized residual correlations for all items remained below 0.3 unequivocally confirmed the presence of local independence among the variables. (3) The scale's dimensions were substantiated, with Rasch measures explaining 40.6% of total variance, exceeding the 40% threshold. Additionally, the first contrast had an eigenvalue of 1.8 and explained 8.80% of the variance, both exceeding the minimum 3:1 ratio. Consequently, the unidimensionality assumption of the item was supported. (4) Person and item fit statistics indicated requisite reliability and separation, with all achieving suitable infit and outfit measures, and point‐biserial correlations exceeding 0.55. (5) Regarding gender DIF, it was observed that the majority of items did not exhibit statistically significant gender DIF effects (p > 0.05) except item 8 (Bounce a ball, t = −2.74, p < 0.01, DIF = −0.51). Conclusion: Rasch analysis revealed that the instrument exhibited strong scale validity among Chinese children, adhering to the Rasch model's unidimensionality and local independence principles, with robust person and item reliability and separation. All items demonstrated a good fit. Additionally, the significant gender difference in item 8 (Bounce a ball) warrants further consideration. In conclusion, PMSC is suitable for assessing the PMSC of Chinese children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prenatal SARS-CoV-2 infection may be a risk factor for neurological impairment. This study describes the neuromotor behavior of infants prenatally exposed to SARS-CoV-2 using gold standard tools for early detection of neurological impairment. Sixteen infants were included in this exploratory longitudinal study. Infants were assessed at 3 months using the Prechtl General Movement Assessment, and at 6 months using the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination. Infants might have presented neuromotor limitations at 3 months; however, they progressed to a low-risk outcome of neurological impairment at 6 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Idioms are commonly used in everyday language to convey emotions figuratively. The ability to comprehend and use idioms that incorporate emotional elements is crucial for effective communication in daily life, particularly among people with aphasia (PwA). Despite the interest in understanding the process of emotion idiom comprehension in PwA, limited information is available in the literature. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the process of emotion idiom comprehension in people with Wernicke's aphasia (PwWA) and compare it with that of neurotypical individuals. Methods: Sixty idioms were selected based on their syntactic and semantic features, and participants evaluated their imageability. Sixteen idioms were chosen for the study, and two types of tasks were prepared: written idiom-picture matching and written idiom-written text matching. These tasks were administered to two groups: 11 PwWA and 11 neurotypical individuals. The results were analysed in terms of task performance, response type, syntactic and semantic features, and emotional content. Results: The emotion idiom comprehension scores of the PwWA group were significantly lower than those of the neurotypical participants. PwWA had greater difficulty with the written idiom-picture matching task and tended to rely on the literal meanings of the idioms. There were differences in the semantic features between the two groups. Among the emotion idioms, PwWA showed significant differences in the types of emotions they were able to comprehend. Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that regardless of the syntactic content of idioms, PwWA's ability to comprehend emotion idioms is impaired, and they tend to interpret them more literally. This study provides a useful method for assessing emotional idiom comprehension in PwA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most studies that use the NIH Toolbox 2-Minute Walk Test with young children, modify the protocol, compromising the generalizability of outcomes. A standardizable protocol is needed. The purpose of this study was to compare the 2MWT performance of children ages 3–6 years on the standard NIH Toolbox protocol and on a modified protocol designed to support young children. Cross-over randomized controlled trial. Fifteen typically developing children ages 3–6 years were randomly assigned to the performance order of the NIH toolbox 2MWT protocol and the Modified Accessibility Path (MAP) 2MWT protocol. Outcome variables and statistical analyses included test completion (McNemar test), distance walked (Wilcoxon signed-rank test), and accuracy (general estimating equation model with Poisson distribution). All children completed 2 min of walking with the MAP protocol. Only 40% of children completed the NIH Toolbox protocol, with 83% of these NIH completers bolstered by previous exposure to the MAP protocol. Collapsed across the order, children also had significantly fewer errors per lap with the MAP protocol (p < 0.0001), despite walking a significantly greater distance (p = 0.006). These findings lend preliminary support for standardized application of a 2MWT with young children when the protocol is designed to be child-friendly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hand dexterity is an important clinical marker after hand surgery as it can greatly impact one's ability to perform their day-to-day activities. With the increased focus on remote patient monitoring after hand surgery, new technologies are required to remotely monitor hand dexterity. The purpose of this study is to identify dexterity outcomes using the web application "DIGITS" and compare these outcomes to the nine-hole-pegboard test (NHPT). Cross-sectional observational study. This was a two-part study with a pilot of our remote dexterity design using DIGITS followed by a validation study comparing DIGITS to a gold-standard metric of dexterity, NHPT. The pilot study recruited 42 healthy subjects between the ages of 18–65 to perform a remote finger tapping exercise using DIGITS. The second part of the study included 50 subjects between the ages of 18–65. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire and then completed three finger tapping sequences for 20 seconds using DIGITS and three trials of the NHPT with each hand. Correlational analyses were done to compare the DIGITS dexterity test with the NHPT. Four outcome measures to assess dexterity were identified, which included (1) total sequences completed in 20 seconds, (2) time to complete 10 sequences, (3) average frequency per sequence, and (3) sequence accuracy. Significant negative correlations were found with the NHPT and total sequences completed in 20 seconds in both dominant and non-dominant hand trials. Additionally, significant negative correlations were found between the NHPT and the time to complete 10 sequences and average frequency in the non-dominant hand trials. This study shows promising results for the use of DIGITS as a remote measure of hand dexterity. The total number of sequences completed significantly correlates with the NHPT and should be further explored in representative patient populations. • DIGITS outcomes included total sequences completed, average frequency, and accuracy. • Several DIGITS outcomes significantly correlated with NHPT scores. • Dexterity was found to worsen as patients get older in the NHPT and DIGITS test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study compared postural control and neuromuscular activation in athletic swimmers (A-S) and non-athletic swimmers (N-A-S) in older children. Methods: Ten A-S and ten N-A-S underwent assessments of center of pressure (CoP) parameters under static and dynamic surfaces in two directions (dynamic mediolateral (DML) and dynamic anteroposterior (DAP)) in eyes-open (EO) and eyes-closed (EC) conditions, and electromyography (EMG) parameters under DAP and DML directions in EO and EC conditions. Results: Results showed that A-S demonstrated significantly superior postural control (p < 0.05), with smaller CoP area and lower CoP mean velocity compared with N-A-S, particularly in static with EC, DAP with EO and EC, and DML with EO conditions. A-S exhibited significantly larger neuromuscular activation amplitudes (p < 0.05), especially in the AP direction. Conclusions: These findings suggested that athletic swimming training may enhance postural control and neuromuscular activation in 11–13-year-old children, emphasizing the potential benefits of incorporating swimming exercises in these children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children with Down syndrome (DS) experience more difficulties with oral motor skills, including chewing, drinking, and swallowing. The present study attempts to measure the preliminary effectiveness of Global Intensive Feeding Therapy (GIFT) in DS. GIFT is a new rehabilitation program addressing the specific difficulties and needs of each child, focusing on sensory and motor oral abilities. It follows an intensive schedule comprising 15 sessions over 5 consecutive days, with 3 sessions per day. The principles of GIFT are applied with specific objectives for DS. Methods: GIFT was preliminarily implemented among 20 children diagnosed with DS. To measure the efficacy of GIFT, the Karaduman Chewing Performance Scale (KCPS), the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI), and the Pediatric Screening–Priority Evaluation Dysphagia (PS–PED) were used. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test before (T0) and after intervention (T1) and at one-month follow-up (T2). The effect size was also measured for specific outcomes, using Kendall's W. Results: Our findings revealed that children with DS showed no risk of dysphagia according to the PS–PED (mean score 2.80). Furthermore, statistically significant improvements in chewing performance were observed, as measured by the KCPS (p < 0.01), as well as in texture acceptance and modification, as measured by the IDDSI post-intervention (p < 0.01). For both the KCPS and IDDSI, a large effect size was found (Kendall's W value > 0.8). Parents/caregivers continued using GIFT at home, and this allowed for a positive outcome at the one-month follow-up. Conclusions: GIFT proved to be effective in the rehabilitation of feeding and swallowing disorders in children with DS, as well as for food acceptance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: It is believed that outdoor play structures lead to more physical activity for kids during school recess. However, the intensity of this activity remains unknown. This study explored whether access to outdoor play structures during recess interferes with children's physical activity levels. Methods: Forty-one children (8–10 years old) accessed play structures during the afternoon recess but not in the morning for one entire week. To control for temperature differences, the same number of participants from another school who did not access playground structures were invited to participate. Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity (MVPA) was determined using heart rate reserve. Heart rate was recorded using the Fitbit Inspire 2 (San Francisco, CA, USA) for at least three full school days. Wilcoxon signed-rank and Mann–Whitney U tests analyzed within- and between-group differences. Results: The findings show no difference in MVPA when accessing or not accessing outdoor play structures, both within groups [(n = 37) median (25th–75th) 16 min (7–30) vs. 14 min (5–22)] and between groups [(n = 22) 16 min (7–26)]. The weekly MVPA for all participants (n = 59) [172 min (117–282)] was the strongest variable associated with MVPA during recess [t(df) = 5.40 (38), 95% CI 0.04–0.09, p < 0.001]. Conclusion: accessibility to outdoor play structures does not increase MVPA during recess in children aged 8 to 10. Therefore, schools may need various options for children to play during recess, allowing them to accumulate MVPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]