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Introduction There is lack of studies on the effect of anti-pronation foot taping on the myoelectric activity of knee muscles. The purpose of this study was to investigate the immediate effect of anti-pronation foot taping on the myoelectric activity of the vastus medialis oblique and vastus lateralis muscles and their activity ratio in patellofemoral pain syndrome. Methods Twenty-six female patients were randomised into two equal groups. The study group A used augmented low Dye taping, while the control group B did not. The patients’ age, weight, height and BMI ranged between 18–31 years, 50–73 kg, 1.53–1.72 m and 20–25 kg/m². All patients were evaluated twice; pre- and immediately post-foot taping (pre-test post-test control group design). Normalised data of the myoelectric activity of the knee muscles were recorded using a Neuro-EMG-Micro device during stair climbing and single leg mini-squat. Results The first 2 × 2 Mixed Design MANOVA revealed that the myoelectric activity of the vastus medialis oblique decreased significantly ( p = 0.001) during both stair climbing and single leg mini-squat in group A post-taping compared with pre-taping. Similarly, the activity of the vastus medialis oblique decreased significantly ( p = 0.019) post-taping in group A compared with group B during single leg mini-squat. The second 2 × 2 Mixed Design MANOVA test revealed that the activity ratio decreased significantly ( p = 0.001) post-taping compared to pre-taping in group A during stair climbing. Conclusions Anti-pronation foot taping reduces the activity of the vastus medialis oblique during stair climbing and single leg mini-squat.

Introduction. There is lack of studies on the effect of anti-pronation foot taping on the myoelectric activity of knee muscles. The purpose of this study was to investigate the immediate effect of anti-pronation foot taping on the myoelectric activity of the vastus medialis oblique and vastus lateralis muscles and their activity ratio in patellofemoral pain syndrome. Methods. Twenty-six female patients were randomised into two equal groups. The study group A used augmented low dye taping, while the control group B did not. The patients' age, weight, height and BMi ranged between 18--31 years, 50--73 kg, 1.53--1.72 m and 20--25 kg/m². All patients were evaluated twice; pre- and immediately post-foot taping (pre-test post-test control group design). Normalised data of the myoelectric activity of the knee muscles were recorded using a Neuro-EMG-Micro device during stair climbing and single leg mini-squat. Results. The first 2 x 2 Mixed design MANoVA revealed that the myoelectric activity of the vastus medialis oblique decreased significantly (p = 0.001) during both stair climbing and single leg mini-squat in group A post-taping compared with pre-taping. Similarly, the activity of the vastus medialis oblique decreased significantly (p = 0.019) post-taping in group A compared with group B during single leg mini-squat. The second 2 x 2 Mixed design MANoVA test revealed that the activity ratio decreased significantly (p = 0.001) post-taping compared to pre-taping in group A during stair climbing. Conclusions. Anti-pronation foot taping reduces the activity of the vastus medialis oblique during stair climbing and single leg mini-squat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Chemotherapy and/or radiation are normally the predominant therapies administered to cancer patients. Commonly, patients express complaints of fatigue during adjuvant treatment. Furthermore, regular practice of physical exercise during adjuvant treatment seems to have positive effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of combined muscle strength, and a supervised aerobic training program on myoelectric activity of Vastus Lateralis during isometric test in patients with breast cancer undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Thirty-two women with breast cancer (20 patients in the training group and 12 patients as controls) undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy participated in the study. They took part in a 6-week training period. A muscle-strength program included isometric contraction and electrical muscle stimulation (EMS). Aerobic training program consisted of supervised intermittent cycling exercise and home-based walking exercise. The outcome measures were Root Mean Square (RMS), Mean Power Frequency (MPF), Maximal Voluntary isometric Contraction (MViC), and Endurance Time (ET) of Vastus Lateralis, before and after the training period in the two groups. RESULTS: Compared to controls, a significant increase in MViC (p=0.001) and ET (p=0.005) in quadriceps accompanied by a significant decrease in RMS (p=0.007) and a significant increase in MPF (p=0.002) has been obtained in the training group. CONCLUSIONS: Supervised muscle strength and supervised aerobic training programs enhanced muscle activity and muscular performance in women with breast cancer during adjuvant chemotherapy treatment and optimized the decrease of muscular fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Numerous studies have demonstrated that the addition of blood flow restriction (BFR) to low-load (LL) resistance exercise leads to elevated levels of muscle hypertrophy and strength gains. In terms of main underlying mechanisms, metabolic accumulation and increased neuromuscular adaptations seem to play a primary role. However, this evidence is largely based on dynamic exercise conditions. Therefore, the main objective was to investigate the acute physiological adaptations following isometric LL-BFR exercise. Methods Fifteen males participated in this cross-over trial and completed the following sessions in a random and counterbalanced order: isometric LL-BFR exercise (20% maximum voluntary contraction, MVC) and load matched LL exercise without BFR. Lactate levels, muscle activation as well as muscle swelling were recorded during the whole exercise and until 15 min post completion. Additionally, changes in maximal voluntary torque and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were monitored. Results During exercise, EMG amplitudes (72.5 ± 12.7% vs. 46.3 ± 6.7% of maximal EMG activity), muscle swelling and RPE were significantly higher during LL-BFR compared to LL (p

Osteoarthrosis is a disorder of synovial joints, resulting from destruction of the cartilage and subchondral bone. The present study is aimed to investigate the molar bite force, thickness and efficiency of the masseter and temporalis muscles of subjects with osteoarthrosis. A total of forty-eight subjects participated in the study. They were distributed into two groups: with osteoarthrosis (n=24) and asymptomatic controls (n=24). Subjects were analyzed on the basis of maximal molar bite force (right and left side), thickness (mandibular rest and dental clenching in maximal voluntary contraction) and electromyographic activity of masticatory cycles through the linear envelope integral in habitual (raisins and peanuts) and non-habitual (Parafilm M) chewing of the masseter and temporalis muscles. All the data were analyzed statistically using t-test with a significance level of p≤0.05. There was no difference between groups in maximal molar bite force, muscle thickness and non-habitual chewing. Differences were found on the raisins (p=0.02) and peanuts (p=0.05) chewing for right temporal muscle, with reduced masticatory muscle efficiency in osteoarthrosis subjects. This study showed that osteoarthrosis induces negative changes in habitual chewing, highlighting the efficiency of the right temporalis muscles. The greater temporal muscle activity in subjects with osteoarthrosis may compromise chewing and consequently the nutritional status of adult subjects.

Intra-operative electrode placement for sacral neuromodulation (SNM) relies on visual observation of motor contractions alone, lacking complete information on neural activation from stimulation. This study aimed to determine whether electrophysiological responses can be recorded directly from the S3 sacral nerve during therapeutic SNM in patients with fecal incontinence, and to characterize such responses in order to better understand the mechanism of action (MOA) and whether stimulation is subject to changes in posture. Eleven patients undergoing SNM were prospectively recruited. A bespoke stimulating and recording system was connected (both intraoperatively and postoperatively) to externalized SNM leads, and electrophysiological responses to monopolar current sweeps on each electrode were recorded and analyzed. The nature and thresholds of muscle contractions (intraoperatively) and patient-reported stimulation perception were recorded. We identified both neural responses (evoked compound action potentials) as well as myoelectric responses (far-field potentials from muscle activation). We identified large myelinated fibers (conduction velocity: 36–60 m/s) in 5/11 patients, correlating with patient-reported stimulation perception, and smaller myelinated fibers (conduction velocity

Intra-operative electrode placement for sacral neuromodulation (SNM) relies on visual observation of motor contractions alone, lacking complete information on neural activation from stimulation. This study aimed to determine whether electrophysiological responses can be recorded directly from the S3 sacral nerve during therapeutic SNM in patients with fecal incontinence, and to characterize such responses in order to better understand the mechanism of action (MOA) and whether stimulation is subject to changes in posture. Eleven patients undergoing SNM were prospectively recruited. A bespoke stimulating and recording system was connected (both intraoperatively and postoperatively) to externalized SNM leads, and electrophysiological responses to monopolar current sweeps on each electrode were recorded and analyzed. The nature and thresholds of muscle contractions (intraoperatively) and patient-reported stimulation perception were recorded. We identified both neural responses (evoked compound action potentials) as well as myoelectric responses (far-field potentials from muscle activation). We identified large myelinated fibers (conduction velocity: 36–60 m/s) in 5/11 patients, correlating with patient-reported stimulation perception, and smaller myelinated fibers (conduction velocity <15 m/s) in 4/11 patients (not associated with any sensation). Myoelectric responses (observed in 7/11 patients) were attributed to pelvic floor and/or anal sphincter contraction. Responses varied with changes in posture. We present the first direct electrophysiological responses recorded from the S3 nerve during ongoing SNM in humans, showing both neural and myoelectric responses. These recordings highlight heterogeneity of neural and myoelectric responses (relevant to understanding MOA of SNM) and confirm that electrode lead position can change with posture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background After a neurological injury, mobility focused rehabilitation programs intensively train walking on treadmills or overground. However, after discharge, quite a few patients are not able to independently negotiate stairs, a real-world task with high physical and psychological demands and a high injury risk. To decrease fall risk and improve patients’ capacity to navigate typical environments, early stair negotiation training can help restore competence and confidence in safe stair negotiation. One way to enable early training in a safe and permissive environment is to unload the patient with a body weight support system. We here investigated if unloaded stair negotiation complies with basic locomotor principles, in terms of enabling performance of a physiological movement pattern with minimal compensation. Methods Seventeen able-bodied participants were unloaded with 0–50% bodyweight during self-paced ascent and descent of a 4-tread staircase. Spatio-temporal parameters, joint ranges of motion, ground reaction forces and myoelectric activity in the main lower limb muscles of participants were compared between unloading levels. Likelihood ratio tests of separated linear mixed models of the investigated outcomes assessed if unloading affects the parameters in general. Subsequent post-hoc testing revealed which levels of unloading differed from unsupported stair negotiation. Results Unloading affected walking velocity, joint ranges of motion, vertical ground reaction force parameters and myoelectric activity in all investigated muscles for stair ascent and descent while step width and single support duration were only affected during ascent. A reduction with increasing levels of body weight support was seen in walking velocity (0.07–0.12 m/s), ranges of motion of the knee and hip (2–10°), vertical ground reaction force peaks (10–70%) and myoelectric activity (17–70%). An increase with unloading was only seen during ascent for ankle range of motion and tibialis anterior activity at substantial unloading. Conclusions Body weight support facilitates stair negotiation by providing safety and support against gravity. Although unloading effects are present in most parameters, up to 30% body weight support these changes are small, and no dysfunctional patterns are introduced. Body weight support therefore fulfills all the necessary requirements for early stair negotiation training.

Background: Numerous studies have demonstrated that the addition of blood flow restriction (BFR) to low-load (LL) resistance exercise leads to elevated levels of muscle hypertrophy and strength gains. In terms of main underlying mechanisms, metabolic accumulation and increased neuromuscular adaptations seem to play a primary role. However, this evidence is largely based on dynamic exercise conditions. Therefore, the main objective was to investigate the acute physiological adaptations following isometric LL-BFR exercise. Methods: Fifteen males participated in this cross-over trial and completed the following sessions in a random and counterbalanced order: isometric LL-BFR exercise (20% maximum voluntary contraction, MVC) and load matched LL exercise without BFR. Lactate levels, muscle activation as well as muscle swelling were recorded during the whole exercise and until 15 min post completion. Additionally, changes in maximal voluntary torque and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were monitored. Results: During exercise, EMG amplitudes (72.5 ± 12.7% vs. 46.3 ± 6.7% of maximal EMG activity), muscle swelling and RPE were significantly higher during LL-BFR compared to LL (p < 0.05). Lactate levels did not show significant group differences during exercise but revealed higher increases 15 min after completion in the LL-BFR condition (LL-BFR: + 69%, LL: + 22%) (p < 0.05). Additionally, MVC torque significantly decreased immediately post exercise only in LL-BFR (~ − 11%) (p < 0.05) but recovered after 15 min. Conclusions: The present results demonstrate that isometric LL-BFR causes increased metabolic, neuromuscular as well as perceptual responses compared to LL alone. These adaptations are similar to dynamic exercise and therefore LL-BFR represents a valuable type of exercise where large joint movements are contraindicated (e.g. rehabilitation after orthopedic injuries). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is hypothesised that specific groups of muscles aka muscle synergies (MSs) are combined by the central nervous system to control a wide repertoire of movements and also simplify motor control. Therefore, studying MSs during human locomotion is of significance, as it may reveal neuromuscular strategies for postural stability. In this study, the authors aimed to use the hypothesis of MSs to identify specific muscle co-activations during overground walking and slacklining where postural perturbations were generated by the participants rather than being externally controlled. Nine participants were asked to walk overground and on a slackline while they recorded myoelectric activity of their leg muscles. They extracted synergies from the electromyography signals in the two tasks using factor analysis. The results showed adaptation in the shared MSs structure during walking on the slackline and these shared MSs across participants were recruited flexibly to meet the demand for stability. The modulation of synergies suggests adaptive neuromuscular strategies for stability while walking on a slackline. Specifically, higher activation of quadriceps during slacklining suggests a crouched gait to facilitate balance. During overground walking, lower leg muscles revealed higher activation compared to slacklining to support a more consistent toe-off during the stance phase.

To investigate the effect of running frequency diagnosed by microscope on myoelectric activity of lower extremity muscles. In this study, 60 college students were selected to conduct running frequency experiment, including speed test, lower extremity biarticulation emg and muscle vibration test. Data analysis and grey correlation analysis were used to analyze the influence of running frequency on the emg activity of lower extremity biarticulation muscles diagnosed by microscope. 60 subjects were divided into three groups according to their running frequency: slow, medium and fast. In the dynamics test, the first peak of the low-step group was 22.5±6.37 when the running frequency was high, which was higher than the 19.48±3.95 when the running frequency was high. When the running speed is moderate, that is, the running frequency is moderate, the second peak value of the low step frequency group is 24.75±2.02, which is less than the 24.71±1.74 of the high step frequency group. The study also found that the process of generating force is intermittent, with the vastus medialis muscle continuing to generate force after a 2.5-second interval of about 3.5 seconds, and the rectus femoris muscle having a one-second interval. The frequency of running diagnosed by microscope can improve the accuracy of diagnosis. With the help of microscope, the details that cannot be seen by the naked eye can be seen by the doctor and the relevant data can be recorded in time so that the diagnosis can be watched at any time in the later period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrohysterography (EHG) has emerged as an alternative technique to predict preterm labor, which still remains a challenge for the scientific-technical community. Based on EHG parameters, complex classification algorithms involving non-linear transformation of the input features, which clinicians found difficult to interpret, were generally used to predict preterm labor. We proposed to use genetic algorithm to identify the optimum feature subset to predict preterm labor using simple classification algorithms. A total of 203 parameters from 326 multichannel EHG recordings and obstetric data were used as input features. We designed and validated 3 base classifiers based on k-nearest neighbors, linear discriminant analysis and logistic regression, achieving F1-score of 84.63 ± 2.76%, 89.34 ± 3.5% and 86.87 ± 4.53%, respectively, for incoming new data. The results reveal that temporal, spectral and non-linear EHG parameters computed in different bandwidths from multichannel recordings provide complementary information on preterm labor prediction. We also developed an ensemble classifier that not only outperformed base classifiers but also reduced their variability, achieving an F1-score of 92.04 ± 2.97%, which is comparable with those obtained using complex classifiers. Our results suggest the feasibility of developing a preterm labor prediction system with high generalization capacity using simple easy-to-interpret classification algorithms to assist in transferring the EHG technique to clinical practice.

Background: After a neurological injury, mobility focused rehabilitation programs intensively train walking on treadmills or overground. However, after discharge, quite a few patients are not able to independently negotiate stairs, a real-world task with high physical and psychological demands and a high injury risk. To decrease fall risk and improve patients' capacity to navigate typical environments, early stair negotiation training can help restore competence and confidence in safe stair negotiation. One way to enable early training in a safe and permissive environment is to unload the patient with a body weight support system. We here investigated if unloaded stair negotiation complies with basic locomotor principles, in terms of enabling performance of a physiological movement pattern with minimal compensation.Methods: Seventeen able-bodied participants were unloaded with 0-50% bodyweight during self-paced ascent and descent of a 4-tread staircase. Spatio-temporal parameters, joint ranges of motion, ground reaction forces and myoelectric activity in the main lower limb muscles of participants were compared between unloading levels. Likelihood ratio tests of separated linear mixed models of the investigated outcomes assessed if unloading affects the parameters in general. Subsequent post-hoc testing revealed which levels of unloading differed from unsupported stair negotiation.Results: Unloading affected walking velocity, joint ranges of motion, vertical ground reaction force parameters and myoelectric activity in all investigated muscles for stair ascent and descent while step width and single support duration were only affected during ascent. A reduction with increasing levels of body weight support was seen in walking velocity (0.07-0.12 m/s), ranges of motion of the knee and hip (2-10°), vertical ground reaction force peaks (10-70%) and myoelectric activity (17-70%). An increase with unloading was only seen during ascent for ankle range of motion and tibialis anterior activity at substantial unloading.Conclusions: Body weight support facilitates stair negotiation by providing safety and support against gravity. Although unloading effects are present in most parameters, up to 30% body weight support these changes are small, and no dysfunctional patterns are introduced. Body weight support therefore fulfills all the necessary requirements for early stair negotiation training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Whole-body vibration (WBV) training is frequently applied in sports and rehabilitation with the aim of inducing beneficial functional and structural adaptations. In the past decades, blood flow restriction (BFR) training has received increasing attention by enhancing the effectiveness of several low-load exercise regimens. The objective of this study was to evaluate the additional effect of BFR on myoelectric activity and metabolic accumulation during WBV training.Methods: Fifteen active men performed three sessions in a counterbalanced order on three different days: whole-body vibration exercise (WBV), whole-body vibration exercise with blood flow restriction (WBV + BFR), and a control session (CON) with neither WBV nor BFR. Electromyographic (EMG) activity was measured in six lower limb muscles throughout each exercise session; lactate and reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentrations were determined prior to, immediately after and 15 min after the exercise sessions.Results: EMG amplitudes increased from CON (29 ± 13% MVC) to WBV (45 ± 20% MVC) to WBV + BFR (71 ± 37% MVC) conditions (p < 0.05). Likewise, lactate concentrations increased in a similar manner, demonstrating significantly higher increases in the WBV + BFR session compared to WBV and CON. Furthermore, significant correlations between lactate concentration and EMG amplitude were detected. ROS concentration did not change significantly between the conditions.Conclusions: The findings of the present study emphasize that the addition of BFR increases the acute effects beyond WBV treatment alone which becomes manifested in both neuromuscular and metabolic adaptations. Further research is needed to identify potential long-term effects of the combination of these two training regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of present research is to compare the myoelectric activity of some chosen upper extremity muscles while doing bench press in two training methods of TRX and barbell bench press. Methods: Ten physically healthy students of physical education with experience in TRX participated in the study. Electromyography Bio Vision sixteen-channel and surface electrodes were used to calculate muscle activity of pectoralis major, anterior deltoeid, triceps brachii and trapezius. Data analysis of variance with repeated measures was used to assess the difference between the three states of the experiment at p

Background: Sprained ankle a common orthopedic injury. The standard treatment for ankle sprains remains nonoperative. Ankle taping was used to protect and prevent ligaments excessive strain. So, the current study aimed at investigating the effect of spa-care Kinesio tape versus standard white athletic tape on myoelectric activities (EMG) of ankle evertors (peroneus longus) and invertors (tibialis anterior) in a chronic ankle sprain. Methods: A convenient sample of 30 patients with a chronic ankle sprain (18 females and 12 males) were included in this study. Their mean age ±SD was 24 ±1.2 years. Their height was 175±4.8 cm among men & 163±5.2 cm for females, and weight was 85±5.2 kg for males & 74±5.5 kg for women. It was a within-group design in which the same participant experienced the two types of taping compared to no taping condition. Root mean square (RMS) was measured while participants were moving the isokinetic dynamometer at an angular velocity of 120°/sec using concentric contraction mode through full ankle range of motion. The EMG (RMS) of evertors and invertors was measured immediately after the three taping ways (no tape, Kinesio tape, and athletic tape) with a one-week interval between each taping. Results: Spa-care Kinesiotape significantly reduced evertors and invertors EMG (RMS) compared with no tape or athletic tape in patients with chronic ankle sprain. Mean± SD of the evertors was 0.7 (±0.1) for no tape and 0.58 (±0.2) for Kinesio tape. The P value was 0.000 for kinesio tape in evertors compared with no tape. Also, mean± SD of the invertors was 0.87 (±0.23) for no tape, and 0.54 (±0.1) for Kinesio tape and the P value was 0.001 for Kinesio tape in invertors compared with no tape. Conclusion: Spa-care Kinesio tape may be useful for reducing EMG activity of ankle muscles in a chronic ankle sprain.

Textile electromyography (EMG) electrodes embedded in clothing allow muscle excitation to be recorded in previously inaccessible settings; however, their ability to accurately and reliably measure EMG during dynamic tasks remains largely unexplored. To quantify the validity and reliability of textile electrodes, 16 recreationally active males completed two identical testing sessions, within which three functional movements (run, cycle and squat) were performed twice: once wearing EMG shorts (measuring quadriceps, hamstrings and gluteals myoelectric activity) and once with surface EMG electrodes attached to the vastus lateralis, biceps femoris and gluteus maximus. EMG signals were identically processed to provide average rectified EMG (normalized to walking) and excitation length. Results were compared across measurement systems and demonstrated good agreement between the magnitude of muscle excitation when EMG activity was lower, but agreement was poorer when excitation was higher. The length of excitation bursts was consistently longer when measured using textile vs. surface EMG electrodes. Comparable between-session (day-to-day) repeatability was found for average rectified EMG (mean coefficient of variation, CV: 42.6 and 41.2%) and excitation length (CV: 12.9 and 9.8%) when using textile and surface EMG, respectively. Additionally, similar within-session repeatability (CV) was recorded for average rectified EMG (13.8 and 14.1%) and excitation length (13.0 and 12.7%) for textile and surface electrodes, respectively. Generally, textile EMG electrodes appear to be capable of providing comparable muscle excitation information and reproducibility to surface EMG during dynamic tasks. Textile EMG shorts could therefore be a practical alternative to traditional laboratory-based methods allowing muscle excitation information to be collected in more externally-valid training environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite its ancient use as a therapeutic tool to treat several ailments, acupuncture still faces the challenge of scrutiny by Western science both in terms of its efficacy and in terms of the characterization of its effects and mechanisms of actions underlying these effects. We investigated under well-controlled and carefully characterized conditions the influence of electrical stimulation of acupuncture points ST-36 (Zusanli) and SP-6 (Sanyinjiao) on the myoelectric activity of the small intestine of 38 adult male Wistar rats. Electrical recordings obtained by means of four electrodes chronically implanted in the small intestine were used to assess the effects of acupuncture (electroacupuncture stimulation set at 2 Hz, intermittent stimulation, 1 V, for 30 min). Immobilization of the animals was associated with a consistent decrease (-8 ± 7%) in the myoelectric activity of the small intestine as measured by means of the root mean square. Conversely, acupuncture was able to significantly increase (overshoot) this activity compared to baseline (+44 ± 7%). In contrast, immobilized animals subjected to sham acupuncture had only modest (nonsignificant) increases in myoelectric activity (+9 ± 6%). Using carefully controlled conditions we confirmed previous noncontrolled studies on the ability of acupuncture to alter intestinal motility. The characterization of the topographic and temporal profiles of the effects observed here represents a basis for future dissection of the physiological and pharmacological systems underlying these effects.

The construct and concurrent validity of the Thera-Band Perceived Exertion Scale for Resistance Exercise with elastic bands (EB) was examined. Twenty subjects performed two separate sets of 15 repetitions of both frontal and lateral raise exercise over two sessions. The criterion variables were myoelectric activity and heart rate. One set was performed with an elastic band grip width that permitted 15 maximum repetitions in the selected exercise, and another set was performed with a grip width 50% more than the 15RM grip. Following the final repetition of each set, active muscle (AM) and overall body (O) ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were collected from the Thera- Band® resistance exercise scale and the OMNI-Resistance Exercise Scale of perceived exertion with Thera-Band® resistance bands (OMNI-RES EB). Construct validity was established by correlating the RPE from the OMNI-RES EB with the Thera-Band RPE scale using regression analysis. The results showed significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in myoelectric activity, heart rate, and RPE scores between the low- and high-intensity sets. The intraclass correlation coefficient for active muscles and overall RPE scale scores was 0.67 and 0.58, respectively. There was a positive linear relationship between the RPE from the OMNI-RES EB and the Thera-Band scale. Validity coefficients for the RPE AM were r2 = 0.87 and ranged from r2 = 0.76 to 0.85 for the RPE O. Therefore, the Thera-Band Perceived Exertion Scale for Resistance Exercise can be used for monitoring elastic band exercise intensity. This would allow the training dosage to be better controlled within and between sessions. Moreover, the construct and concurrent validity indicates that the OMNI-RES EB measures similar properties of exertion as the Thera-Band RPE scale during elastic resistance exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze the electromyographic activity (EMG) and thermographic patterns of the masseter and temporalis muscles and pressure of the orofacial tissues in individuals with intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD)., Methods: This study had two distinct groups: with IDD (n = 16) and controls (n = 16). EMG at rest, protrusion, right and left laterality, and maximum voluntary contraction were evaluated. Tongue, orbicularis oris, and buccinator muscles pressures were measured by Iowa Oral Performance Instrument. The thermographic patterns were analyzed using infrared thermography., Results: Comparisons between groups showed significant differences regarding at rest [right ( p = 0.05) and left ( p = 0.05) masseter and right temporal ( p = 0.05)], orofacial tissue pressure [tongue ( p = 0.001), orbicularis oris ( p = 0.01), and buccinator ( p = 0.0001)], but no significant differences for the thermographic patterns., Conclusion: IDD modifies the functionality of the craniomandibular complex, influencing the performance of the stomatognathic system.

In chronic experiments on rabbits, the effect of electric stimulation of the hunger center in the lateral hypothalamus on myoelectric activity of the fundal and antral parts of the stomach was studied under conditions of hunger and satiation in the absence of food. Stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus in rabbits subjected to 24-h food deprivation and in previously fed rabbits produced incessant seeking behavior, which was followed by reorganization of the structure of temporal organization of slow wave electric activity of muscles of the stomach body and antrum specific for hungry and satiated animals. Increased hunger motivation during electric stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus manifested in the structure of temporal organization of slow wave electric activity of the stomach body and antrum muscles in rabbits subjected to 24-h food deprivation in the replacement of bimodal distribution of slow wave periods to a trimodal type typical of 2-day deprivation, while transition from satiation to hunger caused by electric stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus was associated with a shift from monomodal distributions of slow wave periods to a bimodal type typical of 24-h deprivation. Reorganization of the structure of temporal organization of slow wave electric activity of the stomach body and antrum muscles during electric stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus was determined by descending inhibitory influences of food motivational excitation on activity of the myogenic pacemaker of the lesser curvature of the stomach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study aimed designing drills according to the law of inertia in improving some variables kinematics and the electrical activity of the muscles of the legs of the effectiveness of the long jump junior class. Identify the effect drills on according to the law of inertia in improving some variables kinematics and the electrical activity of the muscles of the legs of the effectiveness of the long jump junior class. Method. Researchers used the experimental the curriculum to suitability nature of the problem. Formed research community players clubs area of Mahaweel and numbered (10) players of the effectiveness of the long jump for the sports season from 2012 to 2013, was chosen as community full sample, were divided into two groups (control and experimental) random method and each group (5) players. The application took drills in accordance with the law of inertia (10) weeks, (2) training unit per week for a total of units (20) and educational unit training. A time ceiling (120) minutes allocated (45-60 minutes) for special exercises with respect to the experimental group, while the control group was applied vocabulary of training curriculum used by the coach. Researchers have resorted to use set of tests (physical tests, tests EMG tests analysis biomechanics), the focus of the study. After obtaining the results were processed statistically using statistical bag Readymade (SPSS). Conclusions. The results showed that there are real effects of reality drills according to the law of inertia in the improvement of some indicators variables kinematics and electrical of Planning for the muscles of the legs between the tribal and post tests for experimental research group and in favor posteriori tests. The results showed that there are significant effects between the tribal and posteriori tests to control research group in improving some variables kinematics and electrical of Planning indicators of the muscles of the legs between pre and post tests for experimental research group and in favor posteriori tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychogenic stress in rabbits induced by fixation of the animal to a frame was accompanied by an increase in contractile activity of the initial portion of the distal colon, which was abolished by blockade of muscarinic and nicotinic cholinergic receptors. Increased contractile activity of the colon was due to centrogenic stimulation of preganglionic neurons of the parasympathetic nervous system followed by the involvement of the effector cholinergic neurons of the enteric nervous system into excitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Previously we have shown that, during sleep, electrical and magnetic stimulation of areas of the stomach and small intestine evoked neuronal and EEG responses in various cortical areas. In this study we wanted to correlate natural myoelectrical activity of the duodenum with cortical neuronal activity, and to investigate whether there is a causal link between them during periods of slow-wave sleep. Methods We have recorded the myoelectrical activity from the wall of the duodenum and activity of single neurons from three cortical visual areas in naturally sleeping cats and investigated causal interrelationship between these structures during slow-wave sleep. Key Results About 30% of the cortical neurons studied changed their firing rate dependent on the phases of the peristaltic cycle and demonstrated selectivity to particular pattern of duodenal myoelectrical activity during slow-wave sleep. This interrelationship was never seen when awake. Conclusions & Inferences This observation supports the hypothesis that, during sleep, the cerebral cortex switches from processing of exteroceptive and proprioceptive information to processing of interoceptive information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on research which was conducted to investigate the concurrent validity of the OMNI-Resistance Exercise Scale (OMNI-RES) of perceived exertion for use with elastic bands during isotonic resistance exercises. Researchers evaluated the scale with 20 subjects. They found that the OMNI-RES was valid and could be used for monitoring the intensity of exercises when elastic bands are used.

Manifestations of hunger and satiation in myoelectric activity patterns in different portions of the stomach were studied in chronic experiments. The state of hunger manifested in the structure of temporal organization of slow electric activity of muscles in the stomach body and antrum in the form of bimodal distributions of slow electric wave periods, while satiation as unimodal distribution. In hunger-specific bimodal distribution of slow electric wave periods generated by muscles of the stomach body and antrum, the position of the first maximum carries the information about oncoming food reinforcement, since this particular range of slow wave fluctuations determines temporal parameters of slow electric activity of muscles in all stomach regions in the course of subsequent successive food-procuring behavior. Under conditions of hunger, the pacemaker features of muscles in the lesser curvature are realized incompletely. Complete realization is achieved in the course of food intake and at the state of satiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Chronic cholangitis caused by hepatolithiasis is a common disease in Southeast Asia. Few studies have addressed the effects of chronic cholangitis on cyclic activity of the sphincter of Oddi (SO). In this study, we investigated the changes of myoelectric activity in rabbits with chronic cholangitis in vivo and in vitro. Methods Chronic cholangitis was induced in rabbits by initially introducing three pieces of 2–0 silk suture and sequentially injecting E. coli into the choledochus through the tube in ductus cysticus. In in vivo experiments, myoelectric activity of SO was recorded by a circular electrode through the jejunum stump in conscious animals. In in vitro experiments, the SO was completely isolated and the myoelectric activity was recorded by a circular electrode in a 10-mL organ bath filled with Krebs solution, with or without addition of cholecystokinin-8 (CCK-8), KCl, ionomycin or induction of capacitative calcium entry (CCE). Key Results In comparison with control and non-infected rabbits, the rabbits with chronic cholangitis showed higher levels of alkaline phosphatase and γ-glutamyltransferase and significant pathological changes including increased inflammatory infiltration and collagen deposition in mucosae or muscular layer. Cyclic myoelectric activity of SO at phases 2 and 3 of migrating motor complex and the excitatory response to CCK-8 were dramatically decreased in animals with chronic cholangitis. Myoelectric activity of SO was also significantly decreased in vitro with or without agonists or with induction of CCE. Conclusions & Inferences Myoelectric activity of SO and its response to agonists are decreased in rabbits with chronic cholangitis both in vivo and in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of cholecystokinin (CCK) upon the intestinal motility has not been entirely explored in ruminants. The aim of this study was to examine the precise effects of CCK amphibian analogue, cerulein, on small-intestinal myoelectric activity in rams in the course of chronic experiments. Five rams underwent implantation of bipolar platinum electrodes to the duodenal bulb, the distal duodenum and jejunum. During continuous myoelectrical and motor recordings, 0.15 M NaCl or the various doses of cerulein were administered intravenously. Short infusions of the smallest dose of cerulein exerted a slight and mostly insignificant effect on the duodenal bulb and the duodenal myoelectric activity index (MAI) values. In the duodenal bulb, the effects of cerulein on myoelectric activity were dose-dependent and closely related to the phase of the MMC. In the duodenum, the higher doses of the hormone evoked short stimulatory response followed by longer inhibitory biphasic effects on MAI. These effects were inversely related to the duration of hormone injection. Infusions of hormones at the higher doses caused a less pronounced biphasic effect. It is concluded that cerulein exerts an inhibitory effect upon the myoelectric activity of the duodenal bulb and a strong stimulatory and inhibitory (biphasic) effect on duodenal motility in sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is suspected that cholecystokinin (CCK) might affect antral slow-wave frequency and amplitude, but in sheep this problem is virtually unknown. Therefore the myoelectric activity was continuously recorded before and after intravenous administration of 0.15 M NaCl or CCK peptides in adult rams, equipped with platinum bipolar electrodes in the abomasal antrum, duodenum, and jejunum. CCK octapeptide (CCK-OP) was given to five rams at doses of 17.5, 175, or 1750 pmol/ kg and cerulein was administered to six rams at doses of 0.735, 7.35, or 73.5 pmol/kg of body weight. Each dose was infused to fasted or non-fasted animals for 30, 60, 120, or 300 s during phase 1, 2a or 2b (the less or more intense) of the migrating myoelectric complex (MMC). The 300-sec infusion of the moderate CCK-OP dose during the less intense or more intense phase 2b of the MMC increased the antral slow-wave amplitude from 79 ± 7 to 124 ± 26 μV (p < 0.01) and from 82 ± 8 to 175 ± 40 μV (p < 0.001), respectively. The 300-sec infusion of the highest CCK-OP dose under the same conditions increased antral slow-wave amplitude from 79 ± 6 to 121 ± 24 μV (p < 0.05) and from 84 ± 9 to 138 ± 27 μV (p < 0.01), respectively. Administration of the moderate dose of CCK for 120 s in the course of the less or more intense phase 2b of the MMC increased antral slow-wave frequency from 6.1 ± 0.2 to 6.6 ± 0.4 cpm (N.S.) and from 6.1 ± 0.3 to 6.8 ± 0.4 cpm (p < 0.05), respectively. Administration of the highest dose of CCK-OP for 120 s in the course of the less or more intense phase 2b of the MMC increased the antral slow-wave frequency from 6.2 ± 0.3 to 7.2 ± 0.4 (p < 0.05) and from 6.0 ± 0.3 to 7.8 ± 0.6 cpm (p < 0.001), respectively. It is concluded that CCK in physiological and putatively pharmacological doses can affect the slow-wave frequency and amplitude in sheep related in part to the small-intestinal MMC phase and the intensity of the antral motor activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which evaluates the difference between the effects of abdominal exercise using a commercially available machine and a traditionally performed crunch. It evaluates whether a selected commercial abdominal exercise machine, the AbRoller, is effective and safe. The difference in the peak and mean myoelectric activities of abdominal muscles are discussed.

The aim of this work was to find possible differences between the effects of anticholinergic drug administration during the duodenal phase 1 or phase 2a of migrating myoelectric complex on antral spike burst amplitude in fasted and non-fasted sheep. Eight adult rams possessing bipolar electrodes in the antrum and small intestine were used in the study. Feeding increased significantly the spike burst amplitude range from 60-110 to 80-160 µV. The effects of hexamethonium (2 mg/kg), atropine (0.1 mg/kg) and pirenzepine (0.5 mg/kg) given i.v. during phase 1 of the migrating myoelectric complex (expressed as per cent of control) in non-fasted sheep were 68 ± 18, P < 0.05, 69 ± 20, P < 0.05, 45 ± 18, P < 0.01, respectively. The effects of the same doses of these drugs given during phase 2a of the migrating myoelectric complex in non-fasted sheep were 54 ± 13, P < 0.01, 41 ± 12, P < 0.0001, 33 ± 11, P < 0.0001, respectively. In non-fasted animals, the anticholinergic drugs exerted a more pronounced effect than in fasted animals. These effects were partially dose-dependent. The effects of drug combinations were not additive. It is concluded that the effects of anticholinergic substances given during phase 1 or 2a of migrating myoelectric complex and under various feeding conditions on ovine antral spike burst amplitude can vary, partially due to the intensity of the refractory period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate the effects of peripheral orexins on myoelectric activity of the sphincter of Oddi (SO) in fasted rabbits, and carry out a preliminary investigation into the mechanisms underlying these effects. Methods: Myoelectric activity of SO in fasted rabbits was recorded before and after intravenous or local application of orexins. The effects of intravenous atropine on orexin-increased myoelectric activity of SO were tested. Results: Myoelectric activity of SO was activated by both intravenous and local injection of orexin-A or orexin-B. Intravenous application of atropine completely inhibited the excitatory effect of orexins on SO. Conclusion: Peripheral application of orexins can increase myoelectric activity of SO in fasted rabbits, which is partially associated with the activation of the cholinergic pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To understand the possible physiological mechanisms of a modulated transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation [TENS] device on the reported reductions in pain using quantitative electromyography to measure muscle activation and near-infrared spectroscopy to estimate muscular oxygenation levels. Methods: All subjects self-selected the intensity of the TENS stimulation current. Electromyography, near-infrared spectroscopy and a color analog scale of pain intensity to measure reported pain levels were collected both pre-and post-treatment. For Studies 1 and 2, measures of muscle activity and self-perceived pain were taken from 51 male and female subjects. For study 3, measures of muscle oxygenation and pain scores were taken from 12 different subjects. Results: Myoelectric activation level and pain scores of painful muscles were reduced after treatment [P < 0.001] with no change in activation or pain in the control muscles. The follow-up study revealed that muscle oxygenation was significantly increased in the treatment trials when compared to the control trials [P = 0.013], while the color analog scale of pain intensity pain scores decreased [P < .05]. Conclusions: Pain reduction following TENS treatment has been reported before. The documented reduction in muscle activation suggests less vasoconstriction from prolonged contraction. Simultaneous documentation of increases in available oxygen suggests a tenable mechanism; reduced contraction level and less oxygen consumption, and/or more blood flow suggests an increased capacity to flush metabolites known to cause pain. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: The precise role of the muscarinic and especially of nicotinic receptors as well as the extent of the influence of individual phases of the migrating myoelectric complex (MMC) in the control of postprandial motility in sheep have been incompletely recognized. To gain further understanding of these, the antral and small-intestinal myoelectric activity was continuously recorded in six conscious sheep with implanted bipolar platinum electrodes. The amplitude of antral spike bursts observed during phase 1, 2a or 2b MMC in non-fasted animals gradually increased (77 ± 13, 87 ± 16 and 102 ± 9μV, respectively), while in the fasted animals these values exhibited a similar tendency, although the values were lower (67 ± 12, 88 ± 14 and 91 ± 6μV, respectively). Feeding performed during phase 2b MMC increased the antral spike burst amplitude in fasted and non-fasted animals, compared to the relevant pre-feeding value. When feed was administered during phase 1 or 2a of the MMC cycle, a significant response was recorded only in the non-fasted sheep. When feed was given following hexamethonium (2.0mg/kg i.v.), atropine (0.1mg/kg i.v.) or pirenzepine (0.5mg/kg i.v.) administration, the response was still significant. Furthermore, the anticholinergic drugs often exerted more pronounced effect in non-fasted than in fasted animals. Thus, the muscarinic and nicotinic receptors contribute substantially, but not entirely to the control of the postprandial gastric motility in sheep and the roles of various MMC phases in this control can differ. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

: BackgroundThe combined effects of peritoneal injury and intraabdominal infection on gastrointestinal motility in postoperative ileus are poorly understood: Materials and methodsSprague Dawley rats underwent placement of three electrodes on the small intestine and a tube gastrostomy. Animals were divided into four groups: a control (n = 12), a peritoneal injury (PI, n = 12), a peritoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS, n = 12), and a LPS + PI group (n = 12). After myoelectric activity recording on postoperative day (POD) 1, half of the rats in each group underwent intestinal transit studies. The remainder of the rats underwent another myoelectric activity recording as well as intestinal transit study at 48 h after operation: ResultsAlthough six to eight of rats in the control, PI, and LPS groups recovered migrating myoelectric complex (MMC) on POD 1, no rats in the LPS + PI group recovered MMC by POD 1. The transit distance on POD 1 in the PI (36 ± 2.5 cm) and LPS + PI group (38 ± 2.8 cm) was shorter than that in the control group (53 ± 2.0 cm, P < 0.05): ConclusionsFull recovery of liquid intestinal transit precedes the return of MMC activity after abdominal surgery in the rats. Peritoneal injury causes decreased intestinal transit and when combined with intraabdominal injection of LPS may cause the delayed recovery of MMC activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The electromyogram of the abomasum of the adult cow, especially of the corpus abomasi, was studied. For use on the corpus abomasi of the adult cow stainless steel electrodes appeared to last longer than Ni/Cr-electrodes. In the normal electromyogram of the abomasal body 5 activity patterns were distinguished: An electric control activity (ECA), mostly followed by an electric response activity (ERA). On the corpus abomasi these activities occurred simultaneously over the whole corpus and more or less regularly 5.4 ± 0.7 times per minute. Beginning at the incisura angularis, they were propagated towards the pylorus with increasing velocity and regularity, resulting in the arrival at the pylorus of 3.7 ± 0.2 ECA's and ERA's per minute in a very regular rhythm., A 5 minute rhythm superimposed on the amplitude of the ERA's., Occasionnally low frequency potential changes were recorded from the corpus abomasi, about 20 to 50 per minute., Periods of relative inactivity of the corpus abomasi were observed. Short periods of inhibition occurred during the duodenal development of a phase of R.S.A. (regular spike activity). Sometimes longstanding periods of several hours inactivity were observed., During periods of inactivity a minute rhythm could be observed of small bursts of spike potentials., The significance of these findings with respect to motility and flow is discussed. Zusammenfassung Mit rostfreien Stahlelektroden am Corpus abomasi der Kuh registrierte Muster der myoelektrischen Aktivität Bei der adulten Kuh wurde das Elektromyogramm des Abomasus, insbesondere des Corpus abomasi, untersucht. Dabei erwiesen sich rostfreie Stahlelektroden haltbarer als Ni/Cr-Elektroden. Im normalen Elektromyogramm des Corpus abomasus konnten 5 Aktivitätsmuster unterschieden werden: Eine elektrische Schrittmacher-Aktivität (ECA), der meist eine Aktivität der elektrischen Antworten (ERA) folgte. Am Corpus abomasi traten diese Aktivitäten entlang des gesamten Corpus gleichzeitig und mehr oder weniger regelmäßig 5,4 ± 0,7mal pro Minute auf. Sic begannen an der Incisura angularis und pflanzten sich Richtung Pylorus mit zunehmender Geschwindigkeit und Regelmäßigkeit fort, so daß 3,7 ± 0,2 ECA und ERA pro Minute sehr regelmäßig den Pylorus erreichten., Ein 5 min-Rhythmus, der sich der ERA-Amplitude überlagerte., Gelegentlich wurden am Corpus abomasi niederfrequente Potentialschwankungen registriert (etwa 20 bis 50 pro Minute)., Am Corpus abomasi wurden ferner Perioden relativer Inaktivität beobachtet. Eine kurzfristige Hemmung ergab sich während der Entwicklung einer Phase der regelmäßigen 'Spike'-Aktivität des Duodenums. Manchmal wurden auch mehrere Stunden andauernde Perioden der Inaktivität beobachtet., Während der Inaktivitätsperioden konnte ein Minuten-Rhythmus kleiner Salven von 'Spike'-Potentialen beobachtet werden. Die Bedeutung dieser Befunde für die Motilität und den Digesta-Fluß wird diskutiert. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]