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Background: When assessing motor skills, occupational therapists are encouraged to seek the perspectives of children and their parents to promote the delivery of client-centered care. Aim: To investigate whether 9–12-year-old children's views and their parents' proxy views of the children's motor skill competence and their performance on a standardized, performance-based assessment are associated. Materials and methods: Thirty 9–12-year-old children completed the Perceived Motor Competence Questionnaire in Childhood (PMC-C) and the Pictorial Scale of Perceived Movement Skill Competence – version 2 (PMSC-2), while their parents completed the Movement Assessment Battery for Children–2nd Edition Checklist (MABC-2 Checklist). Children's objective motor skills were measured by the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency–2nd Edition (BOT-2). Spearman's rho correlations were used to analyze the data. Results: Significant associations were found between the BOT-2 total motor composite and the PMC-C. A significant association was found between the MABC-2 Checklist and the BOT-2 Strength and Agility composite, as well as the PMC-C total score. Significance and conclusions: Occupational therapists are encouraged to include children and their parents in the therapeutic process to capture individual perspectives and deliver client-centered care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widely used insecticide chlorpyrifos (CP) is known to inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity attributed to result in various neurological disorders and acetylcholine-dependent organ functions including heart, skeletal muscle, lung, gastrointestinal tract, and central nervous systems. Enzyme reactivators, such as oximes, are known to restore AChE activity and mitigate adverse effects. The identification of compounds that reactivate AChE constitute agents with important therapeutic beneficial effects in cases of pesticide poisoning. However, the screening of novel drugs using traditional models may raise ethical concerns. This study aimed to investigate the potential of Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism for screening AChE reactivators, with a focus on organophosphate poisoning. The efficacy of several oximes, including pralidoxime, trimedoxime, obidoxime, methoxime, HI-6, K027, and K048, against CP-induced AChE activity inhibition in D. melanogaster was determined in silico, in vitro, and in vivo experiments. Molecular docking studies indicated a strong interaction between studied oximes and the active-site gorge of AChE. Data showed that selected oximes (100 μM) are effective in the reactivation of AChE inhibited by CP (10 μM) in vitro. Finally, in vivo investigations demonstrated that selected oximes, pralidoxime and K048 (1.5 ppm), reversed the locomotor deficits, inhibition of AChE activity as well as lowered the mortality rates induced by CP (0.75 ppm). Our findings contribute to utilization of D. melanogaster as a robust model for determination of actions of identified new AChE inhibitory agents with more effective therapeutic properties that those currently in use in the clinical practice in treatment of AChE associated disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Cannabis is one of the most widely used drugs, and yet an understanding of its impact on the human brain and body is inconclusive. Medicinal and recreational use of cannabis has increased in the last decade with a concomitant increase in use by pregnant women. The major psychoactive compound in cannabis, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), exists in different isomers, with the (-) trans isomer most common. Prenatal exposure to THC can alter neural and behavioral development, but it is unknown how exposure to (-) trans-THC ((-)THC) during very early stages of development impacts fetal growth and movement, and whether effects persist to adulthood, or into the next generation. Here we exposed zebrafish (Danio rerio) to a single exposure of (-)THC (0.001 mg/L (3.2 nM) to 20 mg/L (63.6 µM), for 5 h) during gastrulation (5.25 hpf to 10.75 hpf) when key neurons involved in locomotion such as the primary motor neurons and Mauthner cell first appear. We then examined the impact on embryo morphology and locomotion, adult behavior, and locomotion in the next (F1) generation. Embryos treated with (-)THC experienced changes in morphology, were shorter in length and experienced altered hatching and survival. Spontaneous coiling of 1 dpf embryos was reduced, swimming after touch-evoked responses was reduced and basal swimming in 5 dpf larvae was also reduced. Adult zebrafish tested in the open field test and novel object approach test demonstrated no differences in locomotion, anxiety-like behavior, nor boldness, compared to controls. The (-)THC F1 generation embryos at 1 dpf showed reduced coiling activity, while swimming after touch-evoked responses was reduced in 2 dpf animals but basal swimming at 5 dpf remained similar to controls. Taken together, exposure to (-)THC only once for 5 h during gastrulation has a significant impact on locomotion in embryos and larvae, a minimal impact on adult behavior, and effects that persist into the next generation.

Problem Statement. Fundamental motor skills are crucial predictors of optimal physical activity engagement. Elementary school settings offer significant potential for fostering these skills through Physical Education (PE). However, studies indicate substantial gaps in fundamental motor skills development in Indonesia, particularly related to students' motor competence. Purpose. This study aimed to explore the relationships among students' fundamental motor skill levels, teachers' mastery of materials, and the implementation of fundamental motor skill practices in learning. Methods. This research implemented an explanatory sequential design of the mixed-method approach, consisting of several stages. The first stage was to measure students' fundamental motor skills using the Test of Gross Motor Development (TGMD-2). The second stage evaluated teachers' mastery of learning materials and the learning implementation through a cross-sectional survey with convenience sampling. Following that, qualitative data through the semi-structured interviews were revealed in the third stage. The subject was 428 elementary school students aged 7 to 9 years old. Additionally, it involved 1371 PE teachers in elementary schools; 18 were chosen as representatives for the interview session. The data were then analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistic ver.25. Result. The first finding revealed that the average score of students' Gross Motor Quotient was 78.70, categorized at the average level (percentile 30). Meanwhile, the score of object control skills was at a low level (percentile 8). There was a significant difference in fundamental motor skills of students aged 7, 8, and 9 (p value<0.05), which tended to reduce with age. The next finding showed that only 542 out of 1371 teachers (39.52%) mastered the learning materials well. Additionally, 454 (33.01%) implemented the fundamental motor skills in the learning process. Conclusions. These teachers did not master the materials because of limited accessible sources for learning, so they were not competent in designing materials related to fundamental motor skills. Consequently, they did not effectively implement them in the learning process. Hence, this research concludes that the main predictors causing students' low competence were the low level of students' fundamental motor skills, the inadequate mastery of learning materials by Physical education teachers, and inefficient learning implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adequate gross motor skills are believed to be a determinant in realizing optimal and quality physical activity. This research aims to reveal and describe the gross motor skills of students aged 7 and 8 years and reveal the differences. This research uses a cross-sectional approach. The Test of Gross Motor Development Second Edition (TGMD-2) was used as a data collection instrument. The research subjects were male and female elementary school students aged 7 and 8 selected purposively with details (N=140; boys =70 and girls =70). Data were analyzed using the IBM SPSS statistics program version 25. The results showed the average Gross Motor Quotients in general (M=83.39, SD=9.2), the average Gross Motor Quotients for the 7-year age group (M=84.91 SD= 7.8) and the 8-year age group (M=81.87 SD=10.2). Asymp Sig obtained the results of the (2-tailed) (0.200>0.05). The results of the independent samples test show a significant difference in the students’ average Gross Motor Quotients (p-value

Abstract Background Although prior studies have demonstrated that children with high levels of fundamental movement skill (FMS) are more active throughout the day, little is known about children’s FMS and their physical activity (PA) during different segments of the school day (e.g., recess, lunch break, and physical education). The present study focused on FMS and moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) during school day and identifies the association between children’s FMS and MVPA during different segments of the school day in China. Methods A total of 322 children (boys n = 163, girls n = 159; Mage = 8.12, SD = 1.22 years) from four elementary schools involved in this study. Children’s FMS and MVPA were measured using the Test of Gross Motor Development-2nd edition (TGMD-2) and hip-mounted accelerometers. Data such as height, weight, and socio-economic status (SES) were also obtained. Multilevel mixed regression models were used to examine the cross-sectional associations between FMS and MVPA. Models were adjusted for gender, age, standardized body mass index, and SES. Results Children engaged in 32.19 min of MVPA during the whole school day. Boys were more active than girls and had higher object-control skills competency. Locomotor skills were positively associated with children’s long recess (B = 1.063) and short recess time (B = 1.502) MVPA. Object-control skills were positively correlated with children’s MVPA time during long recess (B = 1.244) and physical education (PE) lessons (B = 1.171). Conclusion The findings highlight the importance of developing both locomotor and object-control skills in elementary schools to lead more MVPA engagement during different segments of the school day.

Cognitive decline in Parkinson's disease (PD) is a critical premotor sign that may occur in approximately 40% of PD patients up to 10 years prior to clinical recognition and diagnosis. Delineating the mechanisms and specific behavioral signs of cognitive decline associated with PD prior to motor impairment is a critical unmet need. Rodent PD models that have an impairment in a cognitive phenotype for a time period sufficiently long enough prior to motor decline can be useful to establish viable candidate mechanisms. Arguably, the methods used to evaluate cognitive decline in rodent models should emulate methods used in the assessment of humans to optimize translation. Premotor cognitive decline in human PD can potentially be examined in the genetically altered PINK1-/- rat model, which exhibits a protracted onset of motor decline in most studies. To increase translation to cognitive assessment in human PD, we used a modified non-water multiple T-maze, which assesses attention, cognitive flexibility, and working memory similarly to the Trail Making Test (TMT) in humans. Similar to the deficiencies revealed in TMT test outcomes in human PD, 4-month-old PINK1-/- rats made more errors and took longer to complete the maze, despite a hyperkinetic phenotype, compared to wild-type rats. Thus, we have identified a potential methodological tool with cross-species translation to evaluate executive functioning in an established PD rat model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although prior studies have demonstrated that children with high levels of fundamental movement skill (FMS) are more active throughout the day, little is known about children's FMS and their physical activity (PA) during different segments of the school day (e.g., recess, lunch break, and physical education). The present study focused on FMS and moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) during school day and identifies the association between children's FMS and MVPA during different segments of the school day in China. Methods: A total of 322 children (boys n = 163, girls n = 159; Mage = 8.12, SD = 1.22 years) from four elementary schools involved in this study. Children's FMS and MVPA were measured using the Test of Gross Motor Development-2nd edition (TGMD-2) and hip-mounted accelerometers. Data such as height, weight, and socio-economic status (SES) were also obtained. Multilevel mixed regression models were used to examine the cross-sectional associations between FMS and MVPA. Models were adjusted for gender, age, standardized body mass index, and SES. Results: Children engaged in 32.19 min of MVPA during the whole school day. Boys were more active than girls and had higher object-control skills competency. Locomotor skills were positively associated with children's long recess (B = 1.063) and short recess time (B = 1.502) MVPA. Object-control skills were positively correlated with children's MVPA time during long recess (B = 1.244) and physical education (PE) lessons (B = 1.171). Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of developing both locomotor and object-control skills in elementary schools to lead more MVPA engagement during different segments of the school day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psilocybe cubensis is a species of psilocybin mushroom (magic mushroom) of moderate potency whose principal active compounds are psilocybin and psilocin. Recent studies have shown the significant procognitive and mood-enhancer effects of Psilocybe cubensis. However, evidence is so limited, especially in preclinical studies. We aimed to investigate the effect of Psilocybe cubensis extract on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)-like behavior, pain perception, locomotor activity, and anxiety in a rat model of PTSD. Male rats were exposed to three consecutive shocks (0.8 mA, 3 s interval) paired with three sounds broadcasted 3 s before delivering shocks (75 dB, 3 s). After 1, 3, or 21 days, freezing rate was measured in the fear-conditioning apparatus. Open filed test and hot plate were used to assess locomotor activity and anxiety, and pain subthreshold, respectively. Psilocybe cubensis was injected intraperitoneal at the dose of 25 mg/kg (single administration) before (pretrain) or after (posttrain) shocks, or before the test (pretest). Results showed psilocybin potently alleviated PTSD symptom is short-but not long-term after the induction of PTSD. Psilocybe cubensis decreased locomotor activity only in a short period after administration. Psilocybe cubensis also increased pain subthreshold and decreased anxiety. In conclusion, Psilocybe cubensis effects on PTSD-like behavior and locomotor activity seem to be remained in short-term, while Psilocybe cubensis effects on pain subthreshold and anxiety remained long-term. This is the first study evaluating the effect of Psilocybe cubensis on PTSD-like behavior in rats in three different time protocols (1, 3, and 21 days after fear conditioning). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluate the impact of oral polio vaccines on the incidence of all disabilities (locomotor, hearing, visual, speech, and mental) in India, focusing on polio-related disability, which constitutes the largest fraction of locomotor disabilities. Polio was hyperendemic in India even as recently as the early 1990s, but the country was declared wild polio virus-free in 2014. Intent-to-treat effects from difference-in-differences with multiple time period models that condition on demographic and socio-economic characteristics reveal that access to oral polio vaccines in the year of birth reduced the incidence of any disability, locomotor disability, and polio-related disability by 20.5%, 11.6%, and 7.2%, respectively, signaling substantial gains. Impacts on any disability underline that polio vaccines had positive spillover effects on other disability categories as well. The eradication of polio in India, while relatively late, brought significant health benefits and is a notable health economics success story in a developing context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Study Aims. Good motor coordination is needed to achieve good fundamental motor skills. This study aimed to analyze and describe the relationship between fundamental motor skills and motor coordination performance of elementary school students aged 7 to 9 years old. Material and Methods. The subjects were elementary school students in grades 1, 2, and 3 with a total number of students was 478 (248 male students, and 230 female students) in 8 cities and regencies in West Sumatera, Indonesia. This study used a cross-sectional research design. The fundamental motor skills were examined using the Test of Gross Motor Development-Second Edition. This included assessing locomotor skills (running, galloping, sliding, leaping, hopping, and jumping) and object control skills (striking, catching, throwing, dribbling, rolling, and kicking). Motor coordination performance was assessed by using the Körperkoordinations Test für Kinder including balance beam, moving sideways, jumping sideways, and eye-hand coordination. The data were analyzed by using IBM SPSS statistic version 25. Results. Students in urban areas demonstrated certain levels in Gross Motor Quotients scores, while their counterparts in rural areas achieved marginally higher scores with slightly less variation. In schools where Physical Education teachers were present, students generally scored higher compared to schools without Physical Education teachers, albeit with a bit less variation in the latter. When comparing motor coordination performance, students in urban areas typically outperformed those in rural areas, exhibiting slightly more consistent scores. Similarly, students with access to Physical Education teachers showed better motor coordination performance than those without, though with a somewhat greater range in their scores. A noticeable trend was observed in the Gross Motor Quotients scores of Fundamental Motor Skills, which tended to decrease as age increased. Conversely, students' motor coordination performance generally improved with age. Supporting these observations, the result of the one-sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, obtained from Asymp. Sig. (2-tailed), was 0.200 > 0.05. Additionally, the Pearson correlation value between motor coordination performance and fundamental motor skills was 0.633 with a sig value of 0.000, indicating a significant relationship. Conclusions. Based on the study's findings, it is recommended to focus on enhancing motor skill programs for children in rural areas. Schools should invest in Physical Education teachers, especially where they are currently absent, to benefit children. Age-specific programs are needed to address the decline in Gross Motor Quotients with age in children. Regular monitoring and evaluation of these initiatives for children are essential.

Alcohol abuse remains one of the primary preventable sources of mortality in the United States. Model species can be used to evaluate behavioral and other biological changes associated with alcohol and to identify novel treatments. This report describes methods for evaluating the behavioral effects of ethanol (EtOH) in crayfish. Crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) were immersed in ethanol concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 1.0 molar, for 10-30 min. Studies evaluated hemolymph alcohol concentration, locomotion in an open field and anxiety-like behavior using a Light/Dark transfer approach. EtOH immersion produced dose-dependent increases in hemolymph EtOH (up to 249 mg/dL) and reductions in open field locomotion that depended on EtOH concentration or exposure duration. Untreated crayfish exhibit avoidance of the open parts of the locomotor arena and a preference for a covered portion. Acute EtOH immersion decreased time spent in the covered portion of the Light/Dark arena, consistent with a decrease in anxiety-like behavior. Daily EtOH immersion for 5 days did not alter locomotor responses, however, activity was increased 3 days after the repeated EtOH regimen. Overall, this study shows that this inexpensive, easily maintained species can be used for behavioral pharmacological experiments designed to assess the acute and repeated effects of EtOH.

The purpose of this study was to obtain information in the process of implementing basic locomotor movement learning with balance, creating and transmitting the learning process with basic locomotor movement models with balance for elementary school children in grade I to obtain empirical data about the effectiveness and efficiency and interest of children from the motion learning process. basic locomotor with balance for elementary school children in class I and created a learning model book for teachers as a guide for teaching basic locomotor movements with balance for elementary school children. This will increase effectiveness and efficiency as well as increase children's motivation to learn basic locomotor movements with balance. This research was conducted at SDN Semanan 14 Petang, West Jakarta, with 32 children as research objects. This study uses the ADDIE learning development model, which in this model starts at the stages of Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. From the results obtained, the basic locomotor motion learning model with this balance turned out to be very effective to be applied in learning. From the results obtained, the basic locomotor motion learning model with this balance turned out to be very effective when applied in learning. This can be seen from the increase in pre-test and post-test by using the paired sample test on the SPSS 25.0 T-Test. The difference in significance on T-count is shown as -98.097 df = 31, p-value = 0.001

This research aims to develop a basic motor skills learning model through game activities tailored to the developmental stages of students' ages. The game model used in this research is called "Colorful Question." This game is designed to enhance locomotor skills, particularly the basic movements of jumping and hopping, which are highly beneficial for training leg muscle strength, coordination, attention focus, and cognitive abilities of students. The research follows the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation). The subjects of this study are fourth-grade students in both boys' and girls' elementary schools, consisting of 27 participants in a small-scale pilot test and 65 participants in a large-scale pilot test. Validation results from experts show a CVI (Content Validation Index) value of 3.57 and a CVR (Content Validity Ratio) of 0.01, indicating that the developed "Colorful Question" game has high validity and is suitable for fourth-grade elementary school students, making it suitable for field testing (empirical validation).

Lead (Pb) is a ubiquitous heavy metal associated with developmental and behavioral disorders. The establishment of pioneer microbiota overlaps with the development of the brain during early life, and Pb-induced developmental neurotoxicity may be partially caused by early-life microbiota dysbiosis. This study investigated the locomotor activity and the microbiota in developing zebrafish at multiple developmental time points (five days post fertilization [5 dpf], 6 dpf, and 7 dpf) under exposure to low concentrations of lead (0.05 mg/L). Time-dependent reductions in the number of activities and the average movement distance of larvae compared to the control were observed following Pb exposure. Furthermore, Pb exposure significantly altered the composition of the gut microbiota of zebrafish larvae. At the phylum level, the abundance of Proteobacteria decreased from 5 to 7 dpf, while that of Actinobacteria increased in the control groups. At the class level, the proportion of Alphaproteobacteria decreased, while that of Actinobacteria increased in the control groups. Notably, all showed the opposite trend in Pb groups. A correlation analysis between indices of locomotor activity and microbial communities revealed genus-level features that were clearly linked to the neurobehavioral performance of zebrafish. Seven genera were significantly correlated with the two performance indicators of the locomotion analysis, namely Rhodococcus, Deinococcus, Bacillus, Bosea, Bradyrhizobium, Staphylococcus, and Rhizobium. Rhizobium was dominant in zebrafish and increased in the Pb groups in a time-dependent manner. In addition, the expression levels of bdnf, trkb1, trkb2, and p75ntr changed in zebrafish from 5 to 7 dpf under Pb exposure. Collectively, these results suggest that Pb-induced neurotoxicity could potentially be treated by targeting the gut microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Surgical procedures on the lower extremities often require weight-bearing on crutches as part of the rehabilitation process. Orthopedic elective procedures enable patients to learn the correct use of crutches in a controlled preoperative setting. Digital assistance systems can safely circumvent a shortage of skilled staff and any contact restrictions that may be necessary. Objective: The usability of a newly developed gait training assistant (GTA) for the use of crutches will be evaluated. An intervention group trained to use crutches by the digital trainer will be compared with a control group trained to use crutches conventionally by a physiotherapist. Methods: As part of the development and implementation of a novel GTA, 14 patients learned to walk with crutches by completing specific exercises while receiving live feedback. Their movements were detected by a depth sensor and evaluated in real time. Specific parameters (step length, synchronous movement, crutch angle, and crutch distance to the feet) were compared with a control group (n=14) trained to use crutches by physiotherapists. The intervention group was also assessed by a physiotherapist. At the end of the study, the patients completed questionnaires to evaluate the usability of the system (Brooke's System Usability Scale score) and patient satisfaction. Results: All patients trained by the novel GTA were able to use crutches correctly. The intervention group showed significantly better values for crutch angle (mean –6.3°, SD 3.5° vs mean –12.4°, SD 4.5°; P <.001) and crutch position (mean 3.3, SD 5.1 cm vs mean –8.5, SD 4.9 cm; P =.02). Both groups reported that they felt confident in the use of crutches, were able to follow the instructions, and enjoyed the training. Even though the majority (12/14, 86%) preferred physical therapy over a purely digital approach, most participants enjoyed using the system (13/14, 93%) and were interested in trying out other digital assistants (11/14, 79%). The usability of the GTA was rated above average by the majority (9/14, 64%) of the patients. Conclusions: The newly designed GTA is a safe method of teaching the use of crutches and is statistically superior to training by a physiotherapist. Even if patients prefer interaction with a physiotherapist over a purely digital approach, digital devices provide a safe and motivating opportunity to learn the essential locomotor skills for rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The α-pyrrolidino-phenone cathinone stimulants first came to widespread attention because of bizarre behavior consequent to the use of α-pyrrolidinopentiophenone (α-PVP, "flakka") reported in popular press. As with other designer drugs, diversification of cathinones has been driven by desirable subjective effects, but also by attempts to stay ahead of legal controls of specific molecules. The α-pyrrolidinohexiophenone (α-PHP) and α-pyrrolidinopropiophenone (α-PPP) compounds have been relatively under-investigated relative to α-PVP and provide a key opportunity to also investigate structure-activity relationships, i.e., how the extension of the alpha carbon chain may affect potency or efficacy. Female rats were used to contrast the effects of α-PHP and α-PPP with those of α-PVP in altering wheel activity and effects on spontaneous locomotion, temperature and intracranial self-stimulation reward. The α-PPP, α-PHP and α-PVP compounds (5, 10 mg/kg, i.p.) suppressed wheel activity. Inhalation of α-PHP or α-PVP also suppressed wheel activity, but for an abbreviated duration compared with the injection route. Spontaneous activity was increased, and brain reward thresholds decreased, in a dose-dependent manner by all three compounds; only small decrements in body temperature were observed. These data show that all three of the α-pyrrolidino-phenone cathinones exhibit significant stimulant-like activity in female rats. Differences were minor and abuse liability is therefore likely to be equivalent for all three α-pyrrolidino-phenones.

Parabens can potentially disrupt the hormonal regulation of energy metabolism, leading to issues related to obesity, metabolic health, and the cardiovascular and nervous systems. However, the health effects of parabens have yielded conflicting research results. The impact of these substances on aquatic organisms, specifically their neuro- and cardio-toxic effects, has been insufficiently investigated. Hence, the primary goal of our research was to investigate and comprehensively assess the neuro- and cardio-toxic effects of four distinct parabens using the Daphnia magna model. After 48 h of exposure to various concentrations (0.1, 1, and 10 mg/L) of four parabens (methyl-, ethyl-, propyl-, and butyl-paraben), along with a solvent control, we conducted a series of physiological tests, behavioral observations, and gene transcription analyses, focusing on cardiomyopathy, serotonin, glutamate, dopamine, GABA, acetylcholine receptors, and ion flux. From a physiological perspective, the heart rate and thoracic limb activity of the exposed daphnids showed substantial time- and dose-dependent inhibitions. Notably, among the parabens tested, butylparaben exhibited the most potent inhibition, with significant alterations in cardiomyopathy-related gene transcription. In the context of neurotoxicity, all the parabens had a significant impact on gene expression, with methylparaben having the most pronounced effect. Additionally, significant changes were observed in parameters such as distance moved, the distance between individuals, and the extent of body contact among the daphnids. In summary, our findings indicate that each paraben has the capacity to induce neurobehavioral and cardiotoxic disorders in Daphnia magna. The effects of butylparaben on the cardiovascular and nervous systems were found to be the most pronounced. These discoveries showed the potential ecological implications of paraben exposure in aquatic ecosystems, particularly regarding the predator avoidance abilities of Daphnia magna.

BackgroundThe ongoing crisis related to non-medical use of opioids makes it of continued importance to understand the risk factors for opioid addiction, the behavioral and neurobiological consequences of opioid exposure and to seek potential avenues for therapy. Pre-clinical rodent models have been critical to advancing understanding of opioid consequences for decades, but have been mostly limited to drug delivery by injection or by oral dosing. Inhalation, a significant route for many human users, has not been as well-established.MethodWe adapted an e-cigarette based exposure system, previously shown efficacious for delivery of other drugs to rats, to deliver heroin vapor. Effectsin vivo were assessed in male and female Sprague-Dawley rats using a warm-water assay for anti-nociception and an implanted radiotelemetry system for evaluating changes in body temperature and spontaneous activity rate.ResultsInhalation of vapor created by heroin 100 mg/mL in the propylene glycol (PG) vehicle significantly slowed tail-withdrawal from a 52 °C water bath, bi-phasically altered activity, and increased temperature in male and female rats. Inhalation of heroin 50 mg/mL for 15 min produced significant effects, as the lower bound on efficacy, whereas inhalation of heroin 100 mg/mL for 30 min produced robust effects across all endpoints and groups.ConclusionsThis work shows that e-cigarette devices deliver psychoactive doses of heroin to rats, using concentrations of ∼50-100 mg/mL and inhalation durations of 15-30 min. This technique may be useful to assess the health consequences of inhaled heroin and other opioid drugs.

Reelin is a large secreted protein important for brain development and functions. In both humans and mice, the lack of Reelin gene causes cerebellar hypoplasia and ataxia. Treatment against Reelin deficiency is currently unavailable. Here, we show that the injection of recombinant Reelin protein into the cerebellum of Reelin-deficient reeler mice at postnatal day 3 ameliorates the forelimb coordination and mice are noted to stand up along cage wall more frequently. A mutant Reelin protein resistant to proteases has no better effect than the wild-type Reelin. Such ameliorations were not observed when a mutant Reelin protein that does not bind to Reelin receptors was injected and the injection of Reelin protein did not ameliorate the behavior of Dab1-mutant yotari mice, indicating that its effect is dependent on the canonical Reelin receptor–Dab1 pathway. Additionally, a Purkinje cell layer in reeler mice was locally induced by Reelin protein injection. Our results indicate that the reeler mouse cerebellum retains the ability to react to Reelin protein in the postnatal stage and that Reelin protein has the potential to benefit Reelin-deficient patients. • Reelin injection into postnatal reeler cerebellum ameliorates forelimb coordination. • The Reelin injection allows reeler mice to stand up along cage walls. • The effect of injected Reelin is mediated by canonical Reelin receptors and Dab1. • Motor behavior improvement may partly come from repositioned Purkinje cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Disability, which has been deemed as a significant public health problem in our country, in any form, be it correctable or not, tends to hamper the day to day life of the affected person. It affects their personal as well as professional life to a great extent, and creates a lack of confidence and difficulty in social interactions. To assess the burden of locomotor disability, its socio-demographic correlates, and suggest measures to improve the life of people with disability. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study, conducted in areas under the rural and urban health training centers, using a pretested and validated questionnaire along with appropriate examination of the involved system. A total of 900 individuals were included. The study duration was July 2017 to June 2018. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 20.0. Results: The total prevalence of disability (of any type) contributed to 13.6% while locomotor disability was found to be 4.44% in the study population. Significant association of locomotor disability was observed with age, gender, marital status and occupation (p

Swimming is the only sport providing lifesaving skills, reducing the risk of death by drowning, a top cause of deaths in children aged 1–14 years. Research shows swimming amongst other sports can aid fundamental movement skill (FMS) development. Therefore, this review investigated the following: (1) how swimming impacts FMS development in children aged 3–11 years, (2) successful tools assessing swimming and FMS, and (3) recommendations appropriate to the UK curriculum based on findings of this study. A systematic literature review using Google Scholar, PubMed, and SPORTDiscuss was conducted to investigate the effects of swimming on FMS development. Methods included database searching, finalising articles appropriate to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and identifying relevant articles using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool assessed data quality and bias risk, whilst thematic analysis synthesised data alongside descriptive results. Ten papers were synthesised, identifying significant positive impacts of swimming on FMS, including significant pre–post testing (p < 0.01), significant improvements compared to other sports (p < 0.001), and significant improvements in specific motor skills (Balance; p = 0.0004). Future research specifically addressing swimming and FMS is essential to improving the curriculum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionIntermediate efficacy mu opioid receptor (MOR) agonists have potential to retain analgesic effectiveness while improving safety, but the optimal MOR efficacy for effective and safe opioid analgesia is unknown. Preclinical assays of pain-depressed behavior can assess effects of opioids and other candidate analgesics on pain-related behavioral depression, which is a common manifestation of clinically relevant pain and target of pain treatment. Accordingly, the present study goal was to validate a novel assay of pain-depressed locomotor behavior in mice and evaluate the role of MOR efficacy as a determinant of opioid analgesic effects and related safety measures.MethodsMale and female ICR mice were tested in a locomotor chamber consisting of 2 compartments connected by a doorway that contained a 1-inch-tall barrier. Dependent measures during 15-min behavioral sessions included crosses between compartments (which required vertical activity to surmount the barrier) and total movement counts (which required horizontal activity to break photobeams in each compartment).Results and DiscussionIntraperitoneal injection of lactic acid (IP acid) produced a concentration- and time-dependent depression of both endpoints. Optimal blockade of IP acid-induced behavioral depression with minimal motor impairment was achieved with intermediate-efficacy MOR treatments that also produced less gastrointestinal-transit inhibition and respiratory depression than the high-efficacy MOR agonist fentanyl. Sex differences in treatment effects were rare. Overall, these findings validate a novel procedure for evaluating opioids and other candidate analgesic effects on pain-related behavioral depression in mice and support continued research with intermediate-efficacy MOR agonists as a strategy to retain opioid analgesic effectiveness with improved safety.

The purpose of this study was to optimize the locomotor basic movement abilities of students in class 4A UPT SDN 144 Gresik for the 2022/2023 Academic Year by modifying the PJOK learning facility. This study used the Classroom Action Research (CAR) method. The data sources in this study were all class 4A students at UPT SDN 144 Gresik for the 2022/2023 academic year. The research subjects were 28 class 4A UPT SDN 144 Gresik students for the 2022/2023 academic year, which were divided into 12 male students and 16 female students. The data collection technique is through tests and measurements of locomotor basic movement abilities based on the Gross Motor Development Test and observation of the process of learning activities. The data analysis technique used in this research is descriptive based on qualitative analysis. The procedure of this research includes planning, acting, observing and reflecting. Based on the results of the research, it was concluded that modifying the learning facilities for Physical Education can optimize the basic locomotor movement abilities of UPT SDN 144 Gresik students in the 2022/2023 Academic Year. From the results of the analysis obtained there was an increase from the initial conditions to cycle I and cycle II, both from increasing locomotor basic movement abilities and the completeness score of learning outcomes. Basic locomotor movement ability in initial conditions (105.61), cycle I (124.86), cycle II (146.25), so that the increase from initial conditions to cycle II was (40.64). The completeness value of learning outcomes in the initial conditions (66.0), cycle I (78.0), cycle II (91.4), so that the increase from the initial conditions to cycle II was (25.4). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to lead (Pb) and manganese (Mn) during early life influences neurodevelopment and increases the risk of neurodegenerative disorders. However, the level of developmental neurotoxicity due to combined exposure to the two metals remains unclear. Although the microbiota plays an essential part in the development of the nervous system via the gut–brain axis, there is a paucity of information regarding the interactions between exposure to Pb and Mn, the destruction of the microbiome, and neurodevelopmental impacts. To fill in this knowledge gap, we investigated the developmental neurotoxicity and effects on the microbiota of Pb (0.05 mg·L−1) alone and in combination with Mn (0.3 mg·L−1) in zebrafish larvae. Our results revealed that combined exposure precipitated higher malformation rates and lower locomotor activity levels than exposure to either Pb or Mn alone. Additionally, when we separated the combined exposure group from the other groups by applying unsupervised principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) and linear discriminant analysis (LEfSe) of microflora sequencing results, we observed extensive alterations in microbial abundances under combined-exposure conditions. Functional prediction analysis showed that combined exposure contributed to altered amino acid and lipid metabolism, and also that combined exposure to Pb and Mn reflected the greatest number of differentially activated biological pathways compared to the other three groups. ATP-binding cassette G (ABCG) genes and genes related to serotonin signaling and metabolism were altered following combined Pb and Mn exposure and exhibited disparate trends vis-à-vis Pb or Mn exposure alone. According to the results, the combined exposure to Pb and Mn led to more severe effects on both zebrafish locomotor activity and gut microbial composition. We suggest that the microbiota contributes to the combined neurotoxicity by increasing ABCG5 and ABCG8 gene expression.

In this article, we describe the profile of patients who were issued disability certificates from the neurology unit of a medical college in Maharashtra, India. In a retrospective cross-sectional study of 1-year duration, the demographic and clinical details of 102 participants were studied, of which 100 were issued the certificate. The mean age was 36 ± 14.04 years. There were more number of male applicants (65%) than females. Motor disability (71%) was the most common manifestation for which disability certificate was sought. Cerebral palsy was the most common etiology in the age group of 40 years. During our study period, four patients' diagnoses were changed during revisit. Additional studies are required to assess the causes of low female enrollment and lack of motivation to apply for the disability certificate at an earlier age.

Background: Rodent Parkinson's disease (PD) models are valuable to interrogate neurobiological mechanisms of exercise that mitigate motor impairment. Translating these mechanisms to human PD must account for physical capabilities of the patient. Objective: To establish cardiovascular parameters as a common metric for cross-species translation of aerobic exercise impact. Method: We evaluated aerobic exercise impact on heart rate (HR) in 21 early-stage PD subjects (Hoehn Yahr ≤1.5) exercising in non-contact boxing training for ≥3 months, ≥3x/week. In 4-month-old Pink1 knockout (KO) rats exercising in a progressively-increased treadmill speed regimen, we determined a specific treadmill speed that increased HR to an extent similar in human subjects. Results: After completing aerobic exercise for ∼30 min, PD subjects had increased HR∼35% above baseline (∼63% maximum HR). Motor and cognitive test results indicated the exercising subjects completed the timed up and go (TUG) and trail-making test (TMT-A) in significantly less time versus exercise-naïve PD subjects. In KO and age-matched wild-type (WT) rats, treadmill speeds of 8–10 m/min increased HR up to 25% above baseline (∼67% maximum HR), with no further increases up to 16 m/min. Exercised KO, but not WT, rats showed increased locomotor activity compared to an age-matched exercise-naïve cohort at 5 months old. Conclusion: These proof-of-concept results indicate HR is a cross-species translation parameter to evaluate aerobic exercise impact on specific motor or cognitive functions in human subjects and rat PD models. Moreover, a moderate intensity exercise regimen is within the physical abilities of early-stage PD patients and is therefore applicable for interrogating neurobiological mechanisms in rat PD models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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NA-014 is a positive allosteric modulator (PAM) of glutamate transporter subtype 1 (GLT-1) that increases glutamate reuptake. Since enhanced glutamate transmission facilitates methamphetamine (METH) hyperlocomotion, behavioral sensitization, and conditioned place preference (CPP), we hypothesized that NA-014 (60mg/kg) would reduce these effects in male mice. NA-014 reduced acute ambulation induced by METH and behavioral sensitization during repeated METH. NA-014 given after METH conditioning reduced expression of METH CPP. NA-014 injected during METH conditioning did not affect development of METH CPP, and NA-014 did not affect spatial memory. These results suggest that GLT-1 PAMs reduce METH-induced behavioral effects in mice., (Copyright © 2025. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Dysfunction of the endocannabinoid system has been related to depressive-like behavior. In our study, bilateral olfactory bulbectomy (OBX) was used as an animal model of depression. We evaluated the effect of the selective CB1-antagonist SR-141716A (Rimonabant) on the exploratory and locomotor activity of OBX-rats. Rimonabant was administered intragastrically for 14 days to OBX-rats, divided into 3 experimental groups, where the drug was given before; immediately (1-14 days) after; or 14 days (14-28 day) after OBX. Exploratory and locomotor activity of OBX-rats was tested in an Opto-Varimex apparatus. SR-141716A, administered subchronically, intragastrically exerted locomotor stimulating effects in OBX- and sham-operated rats, while the exploratory activity was not affected. The time interval for the drug administration is of significance for the manifestation of the effects on locomotor activity in OBX-rats. SR-141716A applied 14 days before OBX or after the development of a depressive-like state (14-28 days after OBX), but not immediately after OBX (1-14 days) aggravated the OBX-induced hyperlocomotor state.

Globally, there is a growing need to recognise and realise the importance of physical activity (PA). For children to be active, they need to be proficient in fundamental movement skills (FMS) because these skills serve as the building blocks for more specific and complex movements later in life. To date, no previous study has investigated the FMS proficiency of children in the Western Cape, South Africa (SA). This study investigated the FMS proficiency of Grade 1 children (N = 178) from two schools in Cape Town (SA) using the Test of Gross Motor Development-2 (TGMD-2). The results indicated that 35% of the participants mastered all their FMS. Generally, children performed better in locomotor than object control skills, however, no statistically significant differences were found in locomotor skills between boys and girls. There was a statistically significant difference (p = 0.01) in object control skills, where boys performed better than girls. The results indicated that run was the highest mastered skill and hop the most difficult to master. The greatest difference between boys and girls was in kick and roll, where boys performed better. Although the results look seemingly good in comparison to international studies, it is recommended that children should continue to practice their FMS, especially strike, hop, leap and gallop, as they were the most difficult skills to master. These results highlight the importance of FMS proficiency and describe the proficiency of Grade 1 children in a selected area in the Western Cape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boswellia serrata gum is a natural product that showed beneficial effects on neurodegenerative diseases in recent studies. In this study, we investigated the effects of Boswellia serrata resin on rotenone-induced dopaminergic neurotoxicity. Firstly, we attempted to see if the resin can induce AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway which has been known to have broad neuroprotective effects. Boswellia increased AMPK phosphorylation and reduced phosphorylation of mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR) and α-synuclein (p-α-synuclein) in the striatum while increased the expression level of Beclin1, a marker for autophagy and brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Next, we examined the neuroprotective effects of the Boswellia extract in the rotenone-injected mice. The results showed that Boswellia evidently attenuated the loss of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons and microglial activation caused by rotenone. Moreover, Boswellia ameliorated rotenone-induced decrease in the striatal dopamine and impairment in motor function. Accumulation of α-synuclein meditated by rotenone was significantly ameliorated by Boswellia. Also, we showed that β-boswellic acid, the active constituents of Boswellia serrata gum, induced AMPK phosphorylation and attenuated α-synuclein phosphorylation in SHSY5 cells. These results suggest that Boswellia protected the dopaminergic neurons from rotenone neurotoxicity via activation of the AMPK pathway which might be associated with attenuation of α-synuclein aggregation and neuroinflammation. Further investigations are warranted to identify specific molecules in Boswellia which are responsible for the neuroprotection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As principais causas do afastamento dos cavalos atletas das atividades esportivas estão relacionadas com injurias que afetam o sistema locomotor, fato esse que, lesões locomotoras afastam mais animais do esporte quando comparado a alterações gástricas ou respiratórias. E nesse aparelho todas as estruturas como: ossos, tendões, articulações, estão sujeitas a sofrerem algum tipo de lesão, podendo acarretar em uma claudicação que por sua vez pode estar associada a diversos fatores como disfunções metabólicas, processos infecciosos, traumas externos ou alteração genética. Dentre as lesões locomotoras, as luxações são comuns e deve-se ter cuidado já que apresentam grande potencial degenerativo para a articulação. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo relatar um caso de um potro macho, mestiço, de aproximadamente quinze dias de vida com suspeita de luxação, onde foi confirmado através de exames de imagem o diagnóstico definitivo de luxação da articulação tarso metatársica. No entanto, mesmo com o tratamento de suporte com antibióticos, anti-inflamatórios, limpeza da lesão e bandagem, o animal continuou a definhar e perder peso por não conseguir se alimentar devido à evolução da septicemia, o que acarretou a um quadro de artrite séptica degenerativa o que levou a equipe médica optar após autorização do proprietário pela eutanásia do animal. Portanto o atendimento e diagnóstico precoce são de grande importância para o sucesso do tratamento evitando assim complicações posteriores e possível morte do animal.

The study purpose was to determine a survey of basic locomotor, non-locomotor, and manipulative movement skills in elementary school students in Kecamatan Kandangan Kabupaten Kediri East Java in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and methods. This study used a descriptive research design with a quantitative research type, for the method used in this research was a survey method. The population of elementary school students in Kecamatan Kandangan was 2997 elementary school students. Determination of the sample size used the Accidental purposive sampling technique; as many as 471 participants of grades 4, 5, and 6 were selected from elementary schools located in Kecamatan Kandangan Kediri East Java. The data collection technique used in this study was a survey technique with data collection instruments using questionnaires created with Google Forms application. Data analysis was carried out in this study using a descriptive percentage test. Results. The impact of COVID-19 did not interfere with students’ skills in performing locomotor and non-locomotor movements, but greatly interferes with students’ skills in performing manipulative movements. Conclusions. Learning PJOK during the COVID-19 pandemic did not interfere with students’ skills in performing locomotor and non-locomotor movements, but interferes with students’ skills in performing manipulative movements.

Swimming is the only sport providing lifesaving skills, reducing the risk of death by drowning, a top cause of deaths in children aged 1–14 years. Research shows swimming amongst other sports can aid fundamental movement skill (FMS) development. Therefore, this review investigated the following: (1) how swimming impacts FMS development in children aged 3–11 years, (2) successful tools assessing swimming and FMS, and (3) recommendations appropriate to the UK curriculum based on findings of this study. A systematic literature review using Google Scholar, PubMed, and SPORTDiscuss was conducted to investigate the effects of swimming on FMS development. Methods included database searching, finalising articles appropriate to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and identifying relevant articles using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool assessed data quality and bias risk, whilst thematic analysis synthesised data alongside descriptive results. Ten papers were synthesised, identifying significant positive impacts of swimming on FMS, including significant pre–post testing (p < 0.01), significant improvements compared to other sports (p < 0.001), and significant improvements in specific motor skills (Balance; p = 0.0004). Future research specifically addressing swimming and FMS is essential to improving the curriculum.

Despite advancements in healthcare and increased lifespan, aging populations face numerous challenges, including declining cognitive function, increased susceptibility to chronic diseases, and reduced quality of life. This study investigated Aging impaired Locomotors and Biochemical Activities in Drosophila melanogaster Oregon R (Fruit Fly) Model with the aim to elucidate the mechanism involved. Adult wild-type Drosophila melanogaster Oregon R was used for this study. Survival assay, antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA)) and total protein (TP) concentration were investigated. Data obtained were analyzed using R studio and GraphPad Prism. The result indicated low survival in male flies compared to female flies and the highest survival rate was observed with both flies reared together in the same vial. There was impaired locomotor activity in the flies with age. There was a significant decrease in the level of SOD, CAT, GSH and TP with age with a corresponding significant increase in the level of MDA. This finding demonstrated that locomotor activity decreased with aging with decrease performance index and also established the involvement of oxidation through the activities of antioxidant enzymes in aging; decreased (p < 0.05) concentration of antioxidant enzymes and increased (p < 0.05) lipid peroxidation. Also, it demonstrated that female species had longer lifespan compared to males while co-habiting of male and female species extended lifespan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alleviation of motor impairment by aerobic exercise (AE) in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients points to activation of neurobiological mechanisms that may be targetable by therapeutic approaches. However, evidence for AE-related recovery of striatal dopamine (DA) signaling or tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) loss has been inconsistent in rodent studies. This ambiguity may be related to the timing of AE intervention in relation to the status of nigrostriatal neuron loss. Here, we replicated human PD at diagnosis by establishing motor impairment with >80% striatal DA and TH loss prior to initiating AE, and assessed its potential to alleviate motor decline and restore DA and TH loss. We also evaluated if serum levels of neurofilament light (NfL) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), biomarkers of human PD severity, changed in response to AE. 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) was infused unilaterally into rat medial forebrain bundle to induce progressive nigrostriatal neuron loss over 28 days. Moderate intensity AE (3× per week, 40 min/session), began 8–10 days post-lesion following establishment of impaired forelimb use. Striatal tissue DA, TH protein and mRNA, and serum levels of NfL/GFAP were determined 3-wks after AE began. Despite severe striatal DA depletion at AE initiation, forelimb use deficits and hypokinesia onset were alleviated by AE, without recovery of striatal DA or TH protein loss, but reduced NfL and GFAP serum levels. This proof-of-concept study shows AE alleviates motor impairment when initiated with >80% striatal DA loss without obligate recovery of striatal DA or TH protein. Moreover, the AE-related reduction of NfL and GFAP serum levels may serve as objective blood-based biomarkers of AE efficacy. • Treadmill exercise in rats followed parameters used by most Parkinson's patients. • Established motor impairment induced by 6-OHDA was alleviated by this regimen. • Despite motor recovery, striatal dopamine and tyrosine hydroxylase were unaffected. • Motor recovery from exercise was associated with decreased serum levels of NfL and GFAP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-esteem is the summary judgement on one's personal value, system and standards as selfworth, self-respect, self-acceptance, self-regard, self-feeling and self-evaluation. It is a component of personality and relationship between one's real life and ideal life. Studies of age and sex difference on self-esteem during the onset of adolescence are important for understanding human psychology and behaviour. This study investigates self-esteem levels, impact of age and sex on self-esteem among visually and locomotor disabled adolescents in Manipur. This study was done on the randomly selected 60 visually and 60 locomotor disabled adolescents aged 12-19 years; from institutions at Imphal East and West Districts of Manipur. Data were collected using Sorensen Self-esteem Test (2006) to assess the self-esteem among disabled adolescents. The data were analysed with SPSS (Version 25.0). Descriptive statistics - mean, standard deviation, percentage and chi-square test were adopted and tested the hypotheses. Result showed that majority of the disabled adolescents had moderately low self-esteem. There was no significant difference on self-esteem among disabled adolescents having the mean score of visually disabled 18.12 with standard deviation 7.52 and for locomotor disabled adolescents was 16.57 with standard deviation 7.01,'t' value 1.17 with p-value 0.245 > 0.05 level of significance. Results showed that there was no impact of sex on selfesteem among the disabled adolescent boys and girls as 't' value 0.700 with 'p'-value 0.486 > 0.05 level of significance and there was impact of age on self-esteem among younger group and older group adolescent as 't'-test value 2.059 with 'p'-value 0.049<.0.05. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes a physical education teacher's methods and strategies for teaching elementary students who have autism and other disabilities. It focuses on one particular student who had intellectual and motor deficits and describes how the teacher used proximity, observation, relationship-building, collaboration and trial-error-modification to provide the student with an enriching physical education program. Numerous examples of lessons, activities and interactions underscore the importance of continually exploring different approaches and possible solutions to challenges posed by one's students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study examined school-age children's actual motor competence (MC) and perceived physical competence (PC) over 3 yr along with the covariate effects of gender and body mass index (BMI). Methods: Participants were 1121 (girls 573, boys 548) children (mean age, 11.26 ± 0.32 yr) from 35 randomly selected public schools across Finland. MC was assessed using three movement tests targeting locomotor, stability, and object control skills, and PC was assessed using the sport competence subscale of the Physical Self-Perception Profile via four-phase monitoring. Results: MC and PC remained stable over time. Of the three variables, locomotor skills showed the strongest association with PC. Lower BMI was associated with advanced MC skills and a less steep decrease in locomotor and stability skills over time. Conclusions: The acquisition of fundamental motor skills in childhood and early adolescence is a prerequisite for enhancing MC and PC. The contribution of locomotor skills to PC indicated that versatile lower limb strength, speed, dynamic balance, and movement skills are important for positive subjective beliefs about PC capability. Increasing the MC skills of the children in most need, particularly those with high BMI scores, merits special attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to assess gross motor skills between boys and girls of preschool and primary school age. The study included a total sample of 83 respondents (49.3% boys) with an average chronological age of 6.14 ± 2.25 years. The Test of Gross Motor Development-3rd Edition (TGMD-3) was used to verify the set research goal. Research data were analyzed by the method of parametrical statistics. To determine the differences in gross motor skills between boys and girls, t-test was used for an independent sample of respondents. Based on the obtained research results, it can be concluded that there are no statistically significant differences between boys and girls on the locomotor and "Ball skills" subtest. Although no statistically significant differences were recorded, generally, boys achieve better results on the subtest "Ball skills" compared to girls. It is suggested that intervention programs be designed to improve girls' performance in ball skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]