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Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The integrity of the myelin sheath of the spinal cord (SC) is essential for motor coordination. Seipin is an endoplasmic reticulum transmembrane protein highly expressed in adipose tissue and motor neurons in the SC. It was reported Seipin deficiency induced lipid dysregulation and neurobehavioral deficits, but the underlying mechanism, especially in SC, remains to be elucidated. In present study, we found that Seipin and myelin basic protein (MBP) increased synchronously in SC of developmental stage of mice. Demyelination impaired motor coordination as well as MBP and Seipin expression, which were alleviated by remyelination. Moreover, Seipin deficiency impaired motor coordination of mice, accompanied by hypomyelination in spinal cord. Mechanistically, we further demonstrated that myelin content as labeled by Fluormyelin, myelin basic protein (MBP) was down-regulated by Seipin deficiency. Seipin deficiency led to reduction of myelin-forming oligodendrocytes (OLs) density in spinal cord. Notably, administration of rosiglitazone (RG), a classic PPARγ activator, successfully restored the phenotypes manifested by Seipin deficiency including reduced OLs density, hypomyelination, as well as motor dyscoordination. In summary, present study revealed that Seipin deficiency disrupted motor coordination by compromising myelination in SC, and RG treatment could rescue the phenotypes. This study throws light on the mechanism underlying Seipin deficiency associated disorders and paves ways for developing therapeutics toward those diseases. Seipin deficiency leading to hypomyelination and motor dyscoordination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: While learning laparoscopic procedures, the physician must face the difficulties specific to this method. They include two-dimensional vision, disturbed eye-hand coordination, and lack of touch sense control. In this study, we examined the impact of different types of training on the performance of laparoscopic procedures on box trainers. We took into account the individual manual skills of the participants. Aim: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a self-built laparoscopic trainer and the influence of arcade smartphone games on improving laparoscopic psychomotor skills. Material and methods: Students with no experience in laparoscopy participated in the study. They took part in the Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test (MMDT). Then, they were divided randomly into three groups. The 1st group had a 3-hour laparoscopic training. The 2nd group was performing visual-manual tasks using a phone application. The 3rd group took part in the final test without prior preparation. The final test included transferring sponges using the laparoscopic trainer and cutting a latex glove. Results: There was a statistically significant difference between the groups in the results of the sponge-transferring test and the glove-cutting speed. There was no correlation between perforations during the cutting of latex gloves and the cutting length. Conclusions: The laparoscopic trainer – also self-built – is a valuable tool for laparoscopic training. The use of arcade smartphone games contributes to increased laparoscopic psychomotor skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose Motor coordination is essential for physical fitness and effective participation in sports. Various sports emphasise different types of coordination, with rhythmic sports focusing on timing and synchronisation and ball sports on quick reactions and precision. This study examines the impact of participation in rhythmic and ball sports on eye-foot and ear-foot coordination in adolescents. Methods Sixty adolescents (30 boys, 30 girls; mean age 12.95 ± 0.12 years) were divided into three groups: rhythmic sports, ball sports, and inactive, with 20 participants in each group. Eye-foot coordination was measured using a reaction time test, and ear-foot coordination was assessed by the coefficient of variation (CV) of inter-tap intervals (ITI). Data were analysed using one-way ANOVAs and post-hoc Bonferroni tests to compare the coordination skills among the three groups. Results The ball sports group demonstrated significantly better eye-foot coordination compared to both the rhythmic sports ( p = 0.028) and inactive groups ( p < 0.001). Additionally, the rhythmic sports group outperformed the inactive group in eyefoot coordination ( p = 0.021). For ear-foot coordination, the rhythmic sports group showed greater timing consistency (lower CVITI) than both the ball sports ( p = 0.012) and inactive groups ( p = 0.034). These findings indicate the specific benefits of different types of sports training on motor coordination in adolescents. Conclusions Adolescents in ball sports show better eye-foot coordination, while those in rhythmic sports excel in ear-foot coordination. Sport-specific training significantly enhances these motor skills, indicating the need for tailored training programs to optimise adolescent development.

Abstract Background Motor coordination (MC) is one of the main components of motor competence. Children with Intellectual disabilities (ID) usually have weaknesses in MC and related components. Therefore, the aim of study was to investigate the effect of mini-basketball training (MBT) versus general physical education programs on improving the motor coordination of children with intellectual disabilities ID. Methods The current study was a semi-experimental and practical research, with a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The Participants of this study consisted of 30 boy children with ID (aged 11.53 ± 1.87 years old). Then they were randomly assigned to two groups: control (n = 15) and experimental or MBT (n = 15). A developmental coordination disorder (DCD) questionnaire was used to identify DCD, and the Körperkoordinationstest für Kinder (KTK) test was used to evaluate MC. The experimental group performed MBT for 45 min, 3 times/week for 8 weeks. The control group only participated in general physical education programs. The data were analyzed by means of 2 × 2 repeated measures ANOVA followed by post hoc comparison (Bonferroni) at the significance level of (P

Abstract Background The order Rodentia is the largest group of mammals. Diversification of vocal communication has contributed to rodent radiation and allowed them to occupy diverse habitats and adopt different social systems. The mechanism by which efficient vocal sounds, which carry over surprisingly large distances, are generated is incompletely understood. Here we focused on the development and function of rhythmic mouth movements and laryngeal sound production. We studied spontaneously vocalizing California mice (Peromyscus californicus) through video and sound recordings. Mouth gape was estimated from video images and vocal characteristics were measured in synchronized sound recordings. Results California mice coordinated their mouth movements with laryngeal sound production but differently in two call types. In high-frequency whistles (“USV syllables”), mouth movements were present on postnatal day 1 but were reduced within the first 2 weeks of life. Mouth movements were prominently present during sustained vocalizations (“SV syllables”), and movements became more and more adjusted to syllable beginning and end. Maximum mouth gape was correlated with sound intensity and fundamental frequency of SV syllables. The effect on sound intensity was the strongest during postnatal development and most predictable when the mouth was closed by temporarily immobilizing the mandible in an elevated position. Conclusions This study demonstrates that rhythmic orofacial behavior not only plays a critical role in determining acoustic features of the vocal behavior of California mice but also shows remarkable adjustments during early development.

Background: The study of neurological soft signs (NSSs) is a simple, clinical, inexpensive, and direct method of investigation for schizophrenia and bipolar disorders which are the major mental health problems that require early detection and treatment. Therefore, it is important to establish whether NSS is a common feature of schizophrenia and bipolar Disorder. This study was undertaken to study and compare the presence of NSSs in patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Aim: This study aims to compare the NSSs in patients of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Methodology: A cross-sectional study with a sample size of 80 patients (40 patients in each group) was taken as per the International Classification of Diseases-10 (ICD-10) criteria. The evaluation of NSSs was done using the Cambridge neurological inventory (CNI) and compared on three domains of CNI. The level of significance was set at 0.05 for all statistical analysis. Results: On CNI part 1, mean scores of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are 31.91 and 28.90 respectively t = 3.122. (P = 0.003). On CNI part 2 of mean scores of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are 47.05 and 38.05, respectively, t value is 6.685 (P < 0.001) On CNI part 3, mean scores of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are 44.68 and 58.25, respectively, t value is 6.235 (P < 0.001). Conclusion: NSSs especially repetitive movement sensory integration, impairment of motor coordination were more in schizophrenia, whereas other signs such as posturing, motor movements were more in bipolar disorder patients in our study.

Background and aims: Cucurbita maxima Duchesne is a member of the Cucurbita genus within the Cucurbitaceae family. The consumption of C. maxima (CM) offers several health benefits due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties, as well as its rich content of bioactive compounds. The primary aim of this study is to investigate the effects of CM extract on motor coordination and memory deficits induced by scopolamine (SCOP). Methods: In this experimental study, 56 Wistar rats were divided into eight groups. To induce memory impairment, SCOP was administered at a dose of 1 mg/kg body weight via intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) daily for 21 consecutive days. A hydroalcoholic extract of CM was prepared using 70% ethanol and administered at concentrations of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg (i.p.) for the same duration. The effects were evaluated using the shuttle box, Morris water maze (MWM), and rotarod tests. Additionally, serum and brain levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured. Results: The results from the MWM indicated that animals receiving SCOP along with CM extract at concentrations of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg spent significantly more time on the target platform compared to the SCOP-only group. In the shuttle box test, the secondary latency time of rats treated with SCOP and CM extract at the same concentrations was significantly longer than that of the SCOP group. Additionally, no significant effects were observed on motor coordination. The CM extract at concentrations of 50 and 200 mg/kg significantly reduced brain levels of MDA and increased TAC compared to the SCOP group. Conclusion: Cucurbita maxima extract effectively improves memory deficits induced by SCOP by reducing oxidative stress.

Abstract Background Mood disorders, particularly depression and anxiety, are associated with zinc dyshomeostasis and aberrant GABAergic signaling. Activation of ZnR/GPR39 by synaptic zinc in the hippocampus triggers phosphorylation of extracellular regulated kinase (ERK1/2), which regulates the K+/Cl− cotransporter (KCC2) and thereby GABAergic inhibitory neurotransmission and seizure activity. Therefore, we studied whether impaired ZnR/GPR39 signaling is linked to anxiety-related behavior in male or female mice. Results Using the acoustic startle response, elevated plus maze, and open field test, we found increased anxiety-related behavior in ZnR/GPR39 knockout (KO) mice. Despite a well-established sex difference, where females are typically more prone to anxiety, both male and female ZnR/GPR39 KO mice exhibited increased anxiety-related behavior compared to wildtype (WT) mice. Additionally, ZnR/GPR39 KO mice displayed impaired motor coordination in the pole and rotarod tests but did not show reduced muscle strength, as indicated by a grip test. Finally, we found intrinsic alterations in the expression level of KCC2, a major Cl− transporter regulating GABAergic signaling, in the amygdala of naïve ZnR/GPR39 KO mice compared to controls. Conclusions Our findings indicate that loss of ZnR/GPR39 enhances anxiety-related behavior in both male and female mice. Moreover, ZnR/GPR39 KO mice exhibit impaired motor coordination, which may be associated with increased anxiety. Finally, we demonstrate that loss of ZnR/GPR39 modulates the expression of KCC2 in the amygdala. Thus, we propose that ZnR/GPR39 can serve as a target for regulating GABAergic signaling in anxiety treatment.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is an age-related neurodegenerative pathology of the central nervous system. The well-known abnormalities characteristic of PD are dysfunctions in the nigrostriatal system including the substantia nigra of the midbrain and the striatum. Moreover, in PD persons, alpha-synucleinopathy is associated with abnormalities in the dopaminergic brain system. To study the mechanisms of this pathology, genetic models in mice have been designed. Transgenic mice of the B6.Cg-Tg(Prnp-SNCA*A53T)23Mkle/J strain (referred to as B6.Cg-Tg further in the text) possess the A53T mutation in the human alpha-synuclein SNCA gene. The density of neurons in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, substantia nigra and striatum in B6.Cg-Tg mice was assessed in our previous work, but the dopaminergic system was not studied there, although it plays a key role in the development of PD. The aim of the current study was to investigate motor coordination and body balance, as well as dopaminergic neuronal density and alpha-synuclein accumulation in the substantia nigra in male B6.Cg-Tg mice at the age of six months. Wild-type mice of the same sex and age, siblings of the B6.Cg-Tg mice from the same litters, lacking the SNCA gene with the A53T mutation, but expressing murine alpha-synuclein, were used as controls (referred to as the wild type further in the text). Motor coordination and body balance were assessed with the rota-rod test; the density of dopaminergic neurons and accumulation of alpha-synuclein in the substantia nigra were evaluated by the immunohistochemical method. There was no difference between B6.Cg-Tg mice and WT siblings in motor coordination and body balance. However, accumulation of alpha-synuclein and a decrease in the number of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra were found in the B6.Cg-Tg mouse strain. Thus, the mice of the B6.Cg-Tg strain at the age of six months have some symptoms of the onset of PD, such as the accumulation of mutant alpha-synuclein and a decrease in the number of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. Taken together, the results obtained in our work qualify the B6.Cg-Tg strain as a pertinent model for studying the early stage of human PD already at the age of six months.

There is a striking sex bias in the prevalence and severity of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with 80% of diagnoses occurring in males. Because the molecular etiology of ASD is likely combinatorial, including interactions across multiple genetic and environmental factors, it is difficult to investigate the physiological mechanisms driving sex-specific differences. Loss of function mutations in TSC1 result in dysregulated mTORC1 signaling and underlie a multi-system disorder known as tuberous sclerosis (TSC). Interestingly, more than 50% of individuals diagnosed with TSC are also diagnosed with ASD, making TSC mutations one of the most prevalent monogenic causes of ASD. Mice harboring targeted deletion of Tsc1 selectively in cerebellar Purkinje neurons, referred to here as Tsc1mut/mut , have multiple ASD-linked behavioral impairments, including deficits in social interactions, motor coordination, and vocalizations. However, these ASD-linked behavioral deficits have only been investigated using male Tsc1mut/mut animals. Here, we used cohorts of male and female Tsc1mut/mut animals to determine if behavioral impairments, previously identified in this model, are similar across sex. Specifically, we measured balance and motor coordination and social interaction behaviors in two age groups across sex. We determined balance and motor coordination deficits are similar in male and female Tsc1mut/mut mice, and that deficits in the firing of Tsc1mut/mut Purkinje neurons located in the cerebellar vermis are also similar across sex. However, impairments in social approach behavior were found to be significantly more severe in Tsc1mut/mut males compared to females. These results indicate the selective deletion of Tsc1 in Purkinje neurons differentially impairs cerebellar circuits based on sex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The order Rodentia is the largest group of mammals. Diversification of vocal communication has contributed to rodent radiation and allowed them to occupy diverse habitats and adopt different social systems. The mechanism by which efficient vocal sounds, which carry over surprisingly large distances, are generated is incompletely understood. Here we focused on the development and function of rhythmic mouth movements and laryngeal sound production. We studied spontaneously vocalizing California mice (Peromyscus californicus) through video and sound recordings. Mouth gape was estimated from video images and vocal characteristics were measured in synchronized sound recordings. Results: California mice coordinated their mouth movements with laryngeal sound production but differently in two call types. In high-frequency whistles ("USV syllables"), mouth movements were present on postnatal day 1 but were reduced within the first 2 weeks of life. Mouth movements were prominently present during sustained vocalizations ("SV syllables"), and movements became more and more adjusted to syllable beginning and end. Maximum mouth gape was correlated with sound intensity and fundamental frequency of SV syllables. The effect on sound intensity was the strongest during postnatal development and most predictable when the mouth was closed by temporarily immobilizing the mandible in an elevated position. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that rhythmic orofacial behavior not only plays a critical role in determining acoustic features of the vocal behavior of California mice but also shows remarkable adjustments during early development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Motor coordination (MC) is one of the main components of motor competence. Children with Intellectual disabilities (ID) usually have weaknesses in MC and related components. Therefore, the aim of study was to investigate the effect of mini-basketball training (MBT) versus general physical education programs on improving the motor coordination of children with intellectual disabilities ID. Methods: The current study was a semi-experimental and practical research, with a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The Participants of this study consisted of 30 boy children with ID (aged 11.53 ± 1.87 years old). Then they were randomly assigned to two groups: control (n = 15) and experimental or MBT (n = 15). A developmental coordination disorder (DCD) questionnaire was used to identify DCD, and the Körperkoordinationstest für Kinder (KTK) test was used to evaluate MC. The experimental group performed MBT for 45 min, 3 times/week for 8 weeks. The control group only participated in general physical education programs. The data were analyzed by means of 2 × 2 repeated measures ANOVA followed by post hoc comparison (Bonferroni) at the significance level of (P < 0.05). The statistical analysis was done using SPSS, 25. Results: The results showed that there was a significant difference between the MBT (experimental) and control groups in variables of the walking backwards (F = 25.36; P = 0.001; ES = 0.47), vertical hopping (F = 7.15; P = 0.01; ES = 0.20), lateral jumping (F = 26.83; P = 0.001; ES = 0.48), lateral movement (F = 9.77; P = 0.004; ES = 0.25) and overall score of KTK (F = 27.37; P = 0.001; ES = 0.49). Conclusion: The results showed that the use of MBT, which is considered a type of sports game, could improve the global motor coordination of the children with ID and DCD. Based on the results, coaches and therapists are advised to use MBT for improving the MC of this population. Trial registration: No IRCT20190425043370N2 (date of registration on January 10, 2024). registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Beneficial effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) on brain and musculoskeletal health in mice have been demonstrated, but underlying mechanisms remain relatively unrevealed. WBV improves attention and memory performance in mice, putatively through stimulation of the cholinergic system. Here, we investigated the effects of WBV on the septo-hippocampal cholinergic system. Methods: Young C57BL/6 mice (8 weeks old) were subjected to 10 min WBV/day (mechanical vibration: 30 Hz; ~0.1-µm peak-to-peak displacement), 5X/week for 5 weeks. In Experiment 1, choline acetyltransferase (ChAT)-immunoreactivity in the septum and hippocampus was analyzed either 2 or 24 h after the last WBV session. Pseudo-WBV-treated mice (same handling procedure as WBV, but no vibrations) served as controls. In Experiment 2, the longitudinal profile of ChAT-immunoreactivity was analyzed in the hippocampus after 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 weeks of WBV. In addition, synaptophysin immunostaining was performed at either 2 and 5 weeks of WBV. Mice housed 1/cage during the entire experiment served as controls. The balance-beam test was used to monitor the functional impact of WBV. In Experiment 3, a Y-maze reference-memory test was performed after 5 weeks of WBV to obtain a functional cognitive outcome measure of WBV. Pseudo-WBV treated mice served as controls. Results: In Experiment 1, ChAT-immunoreactivity was significantly enhanced after the last WBV session of the 5-week period. This was found in the septum, Cornu Ammonis 1 (CA1), CA3, and dentate gyrus, and was dependent on layer and time-point (2 or 24 h). Experiment 2 revealed that, ChAT-immunoreactivity was lower after 2 weeks of WBV, whereas it was significantly higher after 5 weeks (similar to in Experiment 1). Immunostaining for synaptophysin, a marker for synaptic density, was also significantly higher after 5 weeks of WBV, but not significantly lower after 2 weeks, as was ChAT. WBV-treated groups performed significantly better than did controls on the balance beam from week 3 onwards. Experiment 3 showed that WBV-treated mice had better spatial-reference memory performance in the Y-maze test than did pseudo-WBV controls. Conclusions: Our results indicate that WBV stimulates the septo-hippocampal cholinergic system in a gradual and dynamic way that may contribute to improved spatial-memory performance. This finding suggests that WBV, by upregulation of the septo-hippocampal cholinergic system, may be considered a valuable therapeutic strategy to enhance brain functions in aging, neurodegenerative, and other brain diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Physical fitness is associated with health-related quality of life, especially among youth. Although schools play an important role in promoting children's physical activity, in Italy the lack of qualified physical education teachers in primary schools may be compromising children's achievement of recommended levels of physical activity. Methods: To test that possibility, we measured the physical fitness of 170 children (i.e., 79 boys and 91 girls) 6-10 years old in two schools in Cadore, Veneto, in northeast Italy, using the Physical Fitness Test, a tool developed in Norway and previously used among children there and in Lithuania. Teachers in Italy also assessed their students' physical fitness, and their rankings were correlated with the children's test results. The test battery included nine elements: a standing broad jump, hopping 7 m on both feet, hopping 7 m on one foot, throwing a tennis ball, pushing a medicine ball, climbing wall bars, a 10 × 5 m shuttle run, a 20 m run, and a 6 min Cooper test. Results: Test scores generally increased with age and more steeply among boys than girls, and boys outperformed girls on most items. Children in Italy performed similarly to children in Norway but outperformed ones in Lithuania on nearly every item across sex and age groups. The correlation between teachers' predictions and the actual test results was rather low for boys (.538, p <.001) and even lower for girls (.360, p <.001). Discussion: Data revealed similar results in physical fitness between the three countries, albeit with some differences for individual items. However, primary school teachers in Italy assessed physical fitness rather poorly, possibly due to their lack of specific academic training in physical education and thus limited perception of physical fitness compared with academically trained physical education teachers. Last, because the procedure for categorizing children by age may significantly affect the results and subsequent between-group comparisons, researchers comparing children in different age groups should report their procedures for categorizing age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complexity of interactions in team sports requires players to have excellent technical skills. The purpose of this study was to longitudinally investigate the predictive value of motor competence (MC) on soccer-specific skills development. Participants were n = 79 boys, aged between 5.89 and 14.63 years at baseline followed for 3 consecutive years. MC was assessed with Körperkoordination Test für Kinder, and soccer-specific skills were assessed with soccer wall-volley, soccer dribble, juggling, and shuttle run with a ball. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to estimate developmental trajectories of proficiency in soccer-specific skills. The final model shows that soccer-specific skills proficiency significantly improved, and that MC was a significant predictor of this improvement. For every point increase in MC, the change in soccer-specific skills proficiency improved to 0.03 z scores each year. In conclusion, MC is a predictor of specific soccer skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cerebellum, traditionally linked to voluntary motor coordination, is now recognized for its role in nonmotor functions, including cognitive and social behaviors. This expanded understanding is vital for identifying neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), where cerebellar abnormalities are common. Recent research has identified specific cerebellar circuits contributing to these diverse functions, revealing interconnected pathways that regulate both motor and social behaviors. The cerebellum communicates extensively with the cerebral cortex, thalamus, and limbic structures through converging and diverging pathways, integrating sensory and motor information to fine-tune outputs and influence higher-order functions. Mouse models have been instrumental in dissecting cerebellar functions, with studies using genetic and neuroanatomical techniques to manipulate specific circuits and observe behavioral outcomes. Disruptions in cerebellar pathways can lead to motor deficits and social impairments, mirroring human neurodevelopmental disorders. This review explores the anatomical and functional organization of cerebellar pathways in mice, their role in behavior, and the implications of cerebellar dysfunction in disorders such as ASD. Understanding these pathways enhances knowledge of cerebellar contributions to behavior and informs therapeutic strategies for cerebellar and neurodevelopmental disorders, emphasizing the integral role of the cerebellum in motor and social functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Developmental Coordination Disorder is a commonly occurring, but poorly recognised developmental condition characterised by difficulties with motor functions. Danish tests of children's motor functioning, which are currently available, are outdated and only applicable up to the age of seven years old. New tools are needed to enable easy and efficient screening of motor difficulties experienced by children living in Denmark. Aims/Objectives: We translated and adapted the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire (DCDQ'07) into Danish and aimed to evaluate its utility. Materials and Methods: A team of translators prepared the Danish version of the DCDQ'07 – DCDQ-DK. In total, 36 parents completed the questionnaire. The children completed fine and gross motor tests. Concurrent validity was tested using Pearson correlation on the DCDQ-DK and motor performance scores. Internal consistency was tested using Cronbach's alpha. Results: The results show good concurrent validity (r =.311) and internal consistency (α =.80). Conclusions: DCDQ-DK is well suited for use with Danish-speaking parents. Significance: The tool will aid early assessment of motor difficulties in children of Danish-speaking parents. DCDQ-DK can be used by occupational therapists, educational and health professionals as well as researchers in national and international contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding of the multidimensional performance characteristics (MPCs) that underlie performance and distinguish athletes of varying performance levels are key for talent development programs. However, in the Olympic combat sport of judo, including MPCs in talent development research is still a recent approach. Hence, little is known about the MPCs of talented youth judoka. Therefore, this study aimed to determine differences in MPCs of talented youth (U18) judoka with varying levels of success in international competition, specified by sex and corrected for body weight. Fifty-two international level judoka (males: n = 28, age: 16.7 ± 0.9 and females: n = 24, age: 16.3 ± 0.9) participated. Multiple linear regressions were performed with performance level as the dependent variable. Performance level was defined as the win rate at international competitions in one competitive season. Anthropometrical (e.g., body height), physiological (e.g., dynamic balance), and psychological (e.g., coping skills) characteristics were used as independent variables. Results showed that win rate of females positively relates to dynamic balance and coping with adversity, and negatively relates to goal setting and mental preparation (R 2 =.611, p <.001). Peaking under pressure positively relates to the win rate of males (R 2 =.152, p <.05). The extent to which MPCs explain competition performance differs between sexes. However, for both sexes, coping skills seem to be important. Therefore, it is recommended that psychological characteristics are integrated in talent programs of youth judoka next to the judo-specific, physiological and/or technical-tactical trainings whilst taking in consideration the individual differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of green tea catechins on the prevention of Parkinson's disease neurobehavioral symptoms and α-synuclein blood plasma concentration in a hemizygous transgenic A53T mouse model.Methods: Thirty 6-month-old male mice were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 10/group): control, low-dose, and high-dose, receiving green tea polyphenol (GTP) treatment in their drinking water at 0%, 0.5%, and 1.5%, respectively, over a 90-day period. The efficacy of ad libitum dosing was assessed by analyzing the bioaccumulation of tea catechins in urine samples collected from metabolic cages on days 0, 30, 60, and 90, using LC/Q-TOF analysis. PD-related behavioral impairments were measured with open field and rotarod performance tests on days 0, 45, and 90. On day 90, plasma α-synuclein levels were analyzed via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to assess treatment effects.Results: Circulating tea catechin metabolites were detected in treated groups by day 30, with levels progressively increasing through day 90. By day 90, control mice exhibited significant deficits in rotarod performance, while both low- and high-dose groups maintained or improved their maximum time on the rotarod. Open field testing indicated reduced anxiety-related behavior in control mice compared to treated groups. ELISA analysis revealed significantly lower circulating α-synuclein levels in high-dose mice compared to controls.Conclusion: Our findings indicate that sustained administration of tea catechins significantly reduces circulating α-synuclein levels in blood plasma, improves motor coordination in a dose-dependent manner, and modulates anxiety-related behaviors in a PD mouse model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mood disorders, particularly depression and anxiety, are associated with zinc dyshomeostasis and aberrant GABAergic signaling. Activation of ZnR/GPR39 by synaptic zinc in the hippocampus triggers phosphorylation of extracellular regulated kinase (ERK1/2), which regulates the K+/Cl− cotransporter (KCC2) and thereby GABAergic inhibitory neurotransmission and seizure activity. Therefore, we studied whether impaired ZnR/GPR39 signaling is linked to anxiety-related behavior in male or female mice. Results: Using the acoustic startle response, elevated plus maze, and open field test, we found increased anxiety-related behavior in ZnR/GPR39 knockout (KO) mice. Despite a well-established sex difference, where females are typically more prone to anxiety, both male and female ZnR/GPR39 KO mice exhibited increased anxiety-related behavior compared to wildtype (WT) mice. Additionally, ZnR/GPR39 KO mice displayed impaired motor coordination in the pole and rotarod tests but did not show reduced muscle strength, as indicated by a grip test. Finally, we found intrinsic alterations in the expression level of KCC2, a major Cl− transporter regulating GABAergic signaling, in the amygdala of naïve ZnR/GPR39 KO mice compared to controls. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that loss of ZnR/GPR39 enhances anxiety-related behavior in both male and female mice. Moreover, ZnR/GPR39 KO mice exhibit impaired motor coordination, which may be associated with increased anxiety. Finally, we demonstrate that loss of ZnR/GPR39 modulates the expression of KCC2 in the amygdala. Thus, we propose that ZnR/GPR39 can serve as a target for regulating GABAergic signaling in anxiety treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: A lack of evidence exists regarding the effects intervention has on the motor performance, including the timing ability and health-related physical fitness, of children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD). Objectives: We aimed to assess the effects of school-based intervention that improves fundamental motor skills (FMS) on the motor performance and health-related physical fitness of children with DCD. Methods: The participants were 55 children (age 8–9 years) with DCD. Children with DCD were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (n = 27) or control group (n = 28). The intervention group participated in FMS training. The control group participated in a conventional physical education class. Motor performance was evaluated before and after the intervention using the Test of Gross Motor Development, second edition; Movement Assessment Battery for Children, second edition; and the Interactive Metronome. Health-related physical fitness was assessed using the physical activity promotion system. Results: A significant difference was observed when we considered the interaction effect of the intervention and time regarding motor performance and health-related physical fitness; however, no significant difference was observed regarding body composition. Conclusions: the intervention showed significant improvements in the parameters evaluated, suggesting that a school-based intervention to improve FMS may effectively improve the motor performance and health-related physical fitness of children with DCD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cirrhotic patients may show minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE), with mild cognitive impairment and motor deficits. Hyperammonemia and inflammation are the main contributors to the cognitive and motor alterations of MHE. Hyperammonemic rats reproduce these alterations. There are no specific treatments for the neurological alterations of MHE. Extracellular vesicles from mesenchymal stem cells (MSC-EVs) are promising to treat inflammatory and immune diseases. We aimed to assess whether treatment of hyperammonemic rats with MSC-EVs reduced neuroinflammation in cerebellum and restored motor coordination and to study the mechanisms involved. The effects of MSC-EVs were studied in vivo by intravenous injection to hyperammonemic rats and ex vivo in cerebellar slices. Motor coordination was analyzed using the beam walking test. Effects on neuroinflammation were assessed by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and Western blot. Injection of MSC-EVs reduced microglia and astrocytes activation in cerebellum and restored motor coordination in hyperammonemic rats. Ex vivo experiments show that MSC-EVs normalize pro-inflammatory factors, including TNFα, NF-kB activation and the activation of two key pathways leading to motor incoordination (TNFR1-NF-kB-glutaminase-GAT3 and TNFR1-CCL2-BDNF-TrkB-KCC2). TGFβ in the EVs was necessary for these beneficial effects. MSC-EVs treatment reverse neuroinflammation in the cerebellum of hyperammonemic rats and the underlying mechanisms leading to motor incoordination. Therapy with MSC-EVs may be useful to improve motor function in patients with MHE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Unfavorable conditions affecting mothers during pregnancy not only disrupt the development of the offspring, but can also affect subsequent generations. Epigenetic regulation of transcription is among the factors able to mediate hereditary metabolic diseases. Epigenetic modifications of the genome are observed in conditions of elevated blood homocysteine concentrations, which can be accompanied by changes in the fetal brain development program and cognitive impairment. The aim of the present work was to analyze the sensorimotor development, behavioral reactions, and cognitive functions of the offspring of rats with hyperhomocysteinemia in the second generation (HHcyF2). These studies demonstrated delays in the formation of unconditioned reflexes and physical parameters in HHcyF2 rats. Investigations in the open field test showed that these animals displayed high anxiety and decreased exploratory and motor activity, while motor coordination in the rotarod test was not impaired despite a decrease in limb muscle strength in a grip strength test. Learning and long-term memory in the Morris water maze test were impaired in HHcyF2 rats. Biochemical analysis revealed an imbalance in the functioning of antioxidant systems due to decreases in the activity of glutathione peroxidase and the enzymes of hydrogen sulfide synthesis. These studies suggest that high homocysteine levels during pregnancy lead to epigenetic changes in the genome which affect metabolism in the offspring and are transmitted to subsequent generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The study aimed to present evidence of reliability and construct validity of the Motor Coordination Test with Ball (MCTB) for adolescents aged 13 to 15 years. Methodology: The sample consisted of 402 students, stratified equally into both sexes and age groups. Results: The reliability results of the study, carried out using the intraclass correlation coefficient, showed “excellent” reliability in the intra - and inter-rater measurements (≥0.999 (0.999; 1.000) and ICC ≥0.982 (0.961; 0.991), respectively). Regarding the results of construct validity, the exploratory factor analysis showed good fit and adjustment indexes of the final two-dimensional model (BTS= 0.001; KMO= 0.81; factor loading 0.51 to 0.91; communality 0.25 to 0.86; explained variance of 65%; GFI=0.99; AGFI= 0.99; RMSR= 0.02). Confirmation of the model, carried out through confirmatory factor analysis, with X2 = 60.2 significant for p

ObjectivePrevious studies have indicated that visual-motor performance is affected by cultural variations. This study aimed to examine differences between the proportion of children with poor visual-motor integration (VMI) performance in published population norms with that in the sample population of this study and to assess the predictive value of the visual perception(VP) and motor coordination(MC) scores in explaining VMI variance in Chinese preschoolers.MethodsA random sample of 421 children ageds 3.0–6.11 years (mean age, 4.51 ± 0.93) participated in this study. The Beery VMI, VP, and MC were administered in sequence by qualified raters.ResultsThe standard scores of VMI in all age groups of this study were significantly better than those in U.S. norms. Overall, 61 (14.5% of the total sample) and 6 (1.4% of the total sample) children did poorly in the VMI test using study population norms and published population norms, respectively. The proportion of children with poor VMI performance using published norms was significantly lower compared with that using study sample population norms (p

Objective: this study analyzed the influence of the specificity of sports practice on Brazilian children's motor coordination levels. Methodology: the sample consisted of 80 male children with an average age of 10.4 (standard deviation = 1.3 years), engaged in different sports modalities (futsal, handball, and capoeira) and school physical education, and children not participating in extracurricular systematic sports training. Motor coordination level was assessed using the KTK (general motor coordination) and TECOBOL (motor coordination with a ball) tests. Results: the results revealed that, for general motor coordination, children practicing capoeira (p = 0.016) and futsal (p = 0.004) showed a higher overall score than the physical education group. The futsal group also scored higher overall than the handball group (p = 0.025). In motor coordination with a ball, the handball group outperformed the physical education (p < 0.001), capoeira (p = 0.001), and futsal (p = 0.004) groups in the dribbling test. Conclusions: the findings suggest that the specificity of sports practice influences motor coordination, and engaging in systematic sports improves children’s motor coordination.

Background and Aim: Hypoxia is a common stressor during childbirth, while hyperthermia-induced seizures are prevalent in infancy and childhood. This study aims to investigate the impact of hypoxia induction at parturition on the severity of hyperthermia seizures, as well as cognition and motor coordination in rats. Methods: In this experimental study, 28 male Wistar rats were utilized. Four groups (7 rats each) included: control, hyperthermia (15 minutes of exposure to hot air at 41°C), hypoxia (7% oxygen and 93% nitrogen for 1 hour), and hypoxia combined with hyperthermia. We evaluated the number of tonic-clonic seizures and seizure threshold. Behavioral assessments in adult male offspring were conducted using new object recognition, open field, rotarod, inverted grid, and parallel bar tests. Results: In the hyperthermia + hypoxia group, the number of tonic-clonic seizures increased while the seizure threshold decreased (P < 0.05). Cognition in adult rats from the hypoxia + hyperthermia group was significantly impaired compared to the control group (P < 0.001). The distance traveled and speed in the open field (P

Abstract Neurological soft signs (NSS), discrete deficits in motor coordination and sensory integration, have shown promise as markers in autism diagnosis. While motor impairments, partly associated with core behavioral features, are frequently found in children with autism, there is limited evidence in adults. In this study, NSS were assessed in adults undergoing initial diagnosis of high-functioning autism (HFA), a subgroup difficult to diagnose due to social adaptation and psychiatric comorbidity. Adults with HFA (n = 34) and 1:1 sex-, age-, and intelligence-matched neurotypical controls were administered a structured NSS examination including motor, sensory, and visuospatial tasks. We showed that adults with HFA have significantly increased motor coordination deficits compared with controls. Using hierarchical cluster analysis within the HFA group, we also identified a subgroup that was particularly highly affected by NSS. This subgroup differed from the less affected by intelligence level, but not severity of autism behavioral features nor global psychological distress. It remains questionable whether motor impairment represents a genuinely autistic trait or is more a consequence of factors such as intelligence. Nevertheless, we conclude that examining NSS in terms of motor coordination may help diagnose adults with HFA and identify HFA individuals who might benefit from motor skills interventions.

Oxycodone is widely used for pain management and acts via binding to mu- and kappa opioid receptors. It was shown that extended oxycodone usage can result from the demyelination and degeneration of neurons through the stress response, which triggers apoptotic signaling pathways. The striatum and cerebellum are recognized as significant contributors to addiction; however, there is no report on the effect of oxycodone on the cerebellum and striatum and motor coordination. We treated rats daily with oxycodone at 15 mg/kg doses for thirty days. Motor performance and electromyography activity were then evaluated. Stereological methods were performed to assess the number of neurons in the cerebellum and striatum as well as immunohistochemistry for microgliosis and astrogliosis. Furthermore, the Sholl analysis method was utilized to evaluate the cellular structure of both microglia and astrocytes. Results of the rotarod test for motor coordination show no significant (P < 0.05) difference between the oxycodone subjects and those in the control group. In addition, open-field assessments indicated that the application of oxycodone did not alter the amount of distance covered (as an indicator of locomotion) or time spent in the central area (as an indicator of anxiety) (P < 0.001). The electromyography (EMG) test result showed that oxycodone caused a delay in the reaction of the muscular nerves (P < 0.001). Data and results from our experiment revealed that administering oxycodone did not affect astrogliosis and the number of neurons in the cerebellum and striatum (P < 0.05). In contrast, it altered neuromuscular function. In addition, oxycodone administration activated microglia in the cerebellum and striatum. In conclusion, we encourage more research on the adverse effects of oxycodone on the brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

In the Industry 4.0 scenario, human–robot collaboration (HRC) plays a key role in factories to reduce costs, increase production, and help aged and/or sick workers maintain their job. The approaches of the ISO 11228 series commonly used for biomechanical risk assessments cannot be applied in Industry 4.0, as they do not involve interactions between workers and HRC technologies. The use of wearable sensor networks and software for biomechanical risk assessments could help us develop a more reliable idea about the effectiveness of collaborative robots (coBots) in reducing the biomechanical load for workers. The aim of the present study was to investigate some biomechanical parameters with the 3D Static Strength Prediction Program (3DSSPP) software v.7.1.3, on workers executing a practical manual material-handling task, by comparing a dual-arm coBot-assisted scenario with a no-coBot scenario. In this study, we calculated the mean and the standard deviation (SD) values from eleven participants for some 3DSSPP parameters. We considered the following parameters: the percentage of maximum voluntary contraction (%MVC), the maximum allowed static exertion time (MaxST), the low-back spine compression forces at the L4/L5 level (L4Ort), and the strength percent capable value (SPC). The advantages of introducing the coBot, according to our statistics, concerned trunk flexion (SPC from 85.8% without coBot to 95.2%; %MVC from 63.5% without coBot to 43.4%; MaxST from 33.9 s without coBot to 86.2 s), left shoulder abdo-adduction (%MVC from 46.1% without coBot to 32.6%; MaxST from 32.7 s without coBot to 65 s), and right shoulder abdo-adduction (%MVC from 43.9% without coBot to 30.0%; MaxST from 37.2 s without coBot to 70.7 s) in Phase 1, and right shoulder humeral rotation (%MVC from 68.4% without coBot to 7.4%; MaxST from 873.0 s without coBot to 125.2 s), right shoulder abdo-adduction (%MVC from 31.0% without coBot to 18.3%; MaxST from 60.3 s without coBot to 183.6 s), and right wrist flexion/extension rotation (%MVC from 50.2% without coBot to 3.0%; MaxST from 58.8 s without coBot to 1200.0 s) in Phase 2. Moreover, Phase 3, which consisted of another manual handling task, would be removed by using a coBot. In summary, using a coBot in this industrial scenario would reduce the biomechanical risk for workers, particularly for the trunk, both shoulders, and the right wrist. Finally, the 3DSSPP software could be an easy, fast, and costless tool for biomechanical risk assessments in an Industry 4.0 scenario where ISO 11228 series cannot be applied; it could be used by occupational medicine physicians and health and safety technicians, and could also help employers to justify a long-term investment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of E-balonmano.com: Journal of Sports Science / Revista de Ciencias del Deporte is the property of Federacion Extremena de Balonmano and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

According to the modular hypothesis for the control of movement, muscles are recruited in synergies, which capture muscle coordination in space, time, or both. In the last two decades, muscle synergy analysis has become a well-established framework in the motor control field and for the characterization of motor impairments in neurological patients. Altered modular control during a locomotion task has been often proposed as a potential quantitative metric for characterizing pathological conditions. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review is to analyze the recent literature that used a muscle synergy analysis of neurological patients' locomotion as an indicator of motor rehabilitation therapy effectiveness, encompassing the key methodological elements to date. Searches for the relevant literature were made in Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus. Most of the 15 full-text articles which were retrieved and included in this review identified an effect of the rehabilitation intervention on muscle synergies. However, the used experimental and methodological approaches varied across studies. Despite the scarcity of studies that investigated the effect of rehabilitation on muscle synergies, this review supports the utility of muscle synergies as a marker of the effectiveness of rehabilitative therapy and highlights the challenges and open issues that future works need to address to introduce the muscle synergies in the clinical practice and decisional process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pedagogy in physical education (PE) has traditionally been characterized by drill-style teaching. While this traditional approach influences the range of skills developed in school learning contexts, it does not adequately demonstrate students' competencies in applying these skills in complex game situations. Therefore, educators should consider implementing educational theoretical models that support more effective pedagogical approaches. This study investigated the impact of a Game-Based Motor Coordination (GBMC) learning model on improving motor coordination in 9-year-old Indonesian children. A pretest and posttest were used to investigate the effectiveness and feasibility of an 8-week intervention program using the four subtests of the Körperkoordinationstest für Kinder (KTK3+), where 60 children were tested in two groups, intervention and control, for motor coordination skills. One school was designated as the control group (32 students, aged eight years), and the other was designated as the intervention group (28 students, aged eight years). The scores from each of the four subtests were summed into the KTK total raw score (RS). Children in the intervention group showed significantly higher RS scores than children in the control group (192.54 ± 21.82 vs 187.75 ± 25.10). Boys from the intervention group performed better than children in the control group in moving sideways and eye-hand coordination (p < 0.05). The improvement in the balance beam and jumping sideways was similar between boys and girls. The findings of this study indicate that teachers should use game-based models to enhance enjoyable and efficient learning environments that support practical pedagogical approaches, foster early talent development, and ensure effective learning within the PE domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purposes: First, to examine the relationship between primary school children's academic achievement and healthy lifestyle habits. Second, to evaluate the effectiveness of two different 5-month physical education interventions (traditional physical education vs. coordinative physical education) on children's academic achievement. Third, to examine whether variations of anthropometric variables, fitness level, gross motor coordination, physical activity level, sedentary time, attentional performance, fruit and vegetable consumption, meal frequency and type of physical education intervention could predict children's academic achievement variations. Methods: Before and after the intervention, Italian language and mathematics skills, anthropometric variables (weight, height, body fat percentage, BMI), physical fitness (aerobic fitness, muscular strength, flexibility), gross motor coordination, attentional performance (processing speed, concentration performance, performance accuracy, attentional and inhibitory control), physical activity level, sedentary time and eating habits (meal frequency, fruit and vegetable consumption) were assessed in 161 Italian primary school children, randomly assigned to a traditional physical education group or to a coordinative physical education group. Results: Physical activity level, gross motor coordination and aerobic fitness moderately predicted mathematics skill (R² = 17%). Moreover, physical activity level, aerobic fitness and muscular strength moderately predicted Italian language skill (R² = 21%). Intervention type differently affected academic achievement. Specifically, Italian language and mathematics skills significantly improved only after traditional intervention. Fruit consumption increase was positively associated with the improvement in academic achievement. Coordinative physical education intervention was associated with a lower probability of improvement in Italian language and mathematical skills. Conclusion: Motor ability and lifestyle habits may have a positive influence on academic achievement in children. Unexpectedly, traditional physical education intervention resulted to be more effective on both Italian language and mathematical skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The motor features of people with cerebellar ataxia suggest that locomotion is substantially impaired due to incoordination of the head, trunk, and limbs. The purpose of this study was to investigate how well a wearable soft passive exoskeleton worked for motor coordination in these patients. We used an optoelectronic system to examine the gait of nine ataxic people in three different conditions: without an exoskeleton and with two variants of the exoskeleton, one less and the other more flexible. We investigated kinematics using trunk ranges of motion, the displacement of the center of mass in the medio-lateral direction, and the parameters of mechanical energy consumption and recovery. Furthermore, we investigated the lower limb and trunk muscle coactivation. The results revealed a reduction of the medio-lateral sway of the center of mass, a more efficient behavior of the body in the antero-posterior direction, an energy expenditure optimization, a reduction of muscle coactivation and a better coordination between muscle activations. As a result, the findings laid the groundwork for the device to be used in the rehabilitation of individuals with cerebellar ataxia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are numerous studies comparing young and old adults in terms of muscle coordination in standard tasks (e.g., walking, reaching) and small variations of them. These tasks might hide differences: individuals would converge to similar behavior as they practice these throughout life. Also, we are unaware of studies that considered the muscle recruitment nested dynamics. For this reason, our study evaluated how young and old women coordinate and control the movement system while performing an unusual redundant motor control task through the network physiology approach. We acquired electromyographic signals from nine leg muscles of the dominant and non-dominant limbs during maximum voluntary isometric contractions (knee extension and flexion) and co-contraction bouts. Our results showed that young participants presented higher peak torque output, with similar EMG variability, compared to older participants. Considering firing rate frequencies, old and young women demonstrated different traits for network clustering and efficiency for the task. Age seems to affect muscle coordination at higher frequencies, even with a similar number of muscle synergies, indicating that younger women might have more integrated synergies than older women. The findings also point to differential muscle coordination adaptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]