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Purpose: This study both investigated and compared Gaelic games players' and practitioners' perceptions of the importance of postexercise recovery strategies. Methods: Gaelic players (n = 1178 [n = 574 female], age 24.6 [6.6] y) and practitioners (n = 148 [n = 29 female], age 35.9 [8.7] y) completed a questionnaire assessing their perceptions of various postexercise recovery strategies (importance ranked out of 5 [1 "not important at all" to 5 "extremely important"]). Players were further categorized by playing standard into developmental (club/collegiate; n = 869) and national (intercounty; n = 309) levels and by sport: Gaelic football (n = 813), camogie/hurling (n = 342), and Gaelic handball (n = 23). Practitioners were categorized as sport coaches (n = 67), strength and conditioning staff (n = 34), nutrition staff (n = 15), and athletic rehabilitation staff (n = 32). Results: Gaelic players prevalently perceived sleep (76.4%), rehydration (72.5%), postexercise meal (48.4%), stretching (47.6%), active cool-down (25.1%), foam rolling (23.1%), and massage by therapist (22.6%) as "extremely important." Practitioners prevalently perceived sleep (90.1%), rehydration (83.6%), postexercise meal (76.6%), daytime naps (36.2%), stretching (25.4%), discussion with teammates (24.6%), and getting into nature (19.4%) as "extremely important." Conclusions: While strategies with well-documented efficacy such as sleep, nutrition, and rehydration were rated as most important, a distinct and possibly problematic disconnect exists between the perceived importance of many strategies and their empirically demonstrated effectiveness. For instance, active cool-downs and stretching were perceived as highly important despite prevailing evidence suggesting that their effects are often small in magnitude. Collectively, work promoting optimal recovery practices and aligning player-practitioner perspectives would be beneficial to maximize time and resource allocation and enhance player buy-in. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optoelectronic properties of non-metal (B, N, O, C, F) doped and biaxial tensile strain in the x–y direction of O-doped and N-doped ZrSe2, including energy band structure, density of states, dielectric function, and absorption coefficients, have been calculated by a first-principles approach based on density-functional theory. It is shown that the doped system has a low formation energy, indicating that the structure can exist stably. The B, C, and N atom-doped systems show impurity energy levels near the Fermi energy level, narrowing the bandgap, enhancing the electron transport ability, and increasing the electrical conductivity. Biaxial stretching was applied to the ZrSe2 structure before and after O and N doping, and it was found that the stability of the ZrSe2, Zr9Se 1 7 O 1 , and Zr9Se 1 7 N1 structures was found to decrease gradually with increasing strain. The energy bandwidth of the doped system in the Zr9Se 1 7 O1system at a tensile strain of 4% is a maximum of 0.924 eV; from the density of states, it is found that there is a very obvious orbital hybridization of Se-4p and Zr-d. The doped system has the largest effect on the dielectric function at 6% tensile strain and on the absorption coefficient at 8%. In the Zr9Se 1 7 N1 system, stretching 8% energy bandwidth is a maximum of 0.788 eV, the tensile strain of 8% has the greatest effect on the dielectric function, and a tensile strain of 6% has the most significant effect on the absorption coefficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optoelectronic properties of non-metal (B, N, O, C, F) doped and biaxial tensile strain in the x–y direction of O-doped and N-doped ZrSe2, including energy band structure, density of states, dielectric function, and absorption coefficients, have been calculated by a first-principles approach based on density-functional theory. It is shown that the doped system has a low formation energy, indicating that the structure can exist stably. The B, C, and N atom-doped systems show impurity energy levels near the Fermi energy level, narrowing the bandgap, enhancing the electron transport ability, and increasing the electrical conductivity. Biaxial stretching was applied to the ZrSe2 structure before and after O and N doping, and it was found that the stability of the ZrSe2, Zr9Se 1 7 O 1 , and Zr9Se 1 7 N1 structures was found to decrease gradually with increasing strain. The energy bandwidth of the doped system in the Zr9Se 1 7 O1system at a tensile strain of 4% is a maximum of 0.924 eV; from the density of states, it is found that there is a very obvious orbital hybridization of Se-4p and Zr-d. The doped system has the largest effect on the dielectric function at 6% tensile strain and on the absorption coefficient at 8%. In the Zr9Se 1 7 N1 system, stretching 8% energy bandwidth is a maximum of 0.788 eV, the tensile strain of 8% has the greatest effect on the dielectric function, and a tensile strain of 6% has the most significant effect on the absorption coefficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing evidence suggests that activation of muscle nerve afferents may inhibit central motor drive, affecting contractile performance of remote exercising muscles. Although these effects are well documented for metaboreceptors, very little is known about the activation of mechano- and mechanonociceptive afferents on performance fatigability. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to examine the influence of mechanoreceptors and nociceptors on performance fatigability. Eight healthy young males undertook four randomized experimental sessions on separate occasions in which the experimental knee extensors were the following: 1) resting (CTRL), 2) passively stretched (ST), 3) resting with delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), or 4) passively stretched with DOMS (DOMS+ST), whereas the contralateral leg performed an isometric time to task failure (TTF). Changes in maximal voluntary contraction (ΔMVC), potentiated twitch force (ΔQtw,pot), and voluntary muscle activation (ΔVA) were also assessed. TTF was reduced in DOMS+ST (−43%) and ST (−29%) compared with CTRL. DOMS+ST also showed a greater reduction of VA (−25% vs. −8%, respectively) and MVC compared with CTRL (−28% vs. −45%, respectively). Rate of perceived exertion (RPE) was significantly increased at the initial stages (20–40–60%) of the TTF in DOMS+ST compared with all conditions. These findings indicate that activation of mechanosensitive and mechanonociceptive afferents of a muscle with DOMS reduces TTF of the contralateral homologous exercising limb, in part, by reducing VA, thereby accelerating mechanisms of central fatigue. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: We found that activation of mechanosensitive and nociceptive nerve afferents of a rested muscle group experiencing delayed onset muscle soreness was associated with reduced exercise performance of the homologous exercising muscles of the contralateral limb. This occurred with lower muscle voluntary activation of the exercising muscle at the point of task failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Hamstring muscle (HM) flexibility is frequently compromised in people with chronic low back pain (CLBP), contributing to disability and leading to a less favorable recovery. In a previous article, we presented the results of a study on the immediate effect of passive HM stretching on flexibility in 90 people with CLBP. There was considerable variability in the changes after stretching. The objective of this supplementary analysis was to compare the clinical characteristics of individuals who experienced a significant improvement in flexibility with those who did not. Methods: We fixed a threshold of 7° to indicate an improvement in passive Straight Leg Raise (SLR) angle and differentiate between 'Responders' and 'Non-responders' regarding passive HM stretching. Results: Only body mass index differed between groups; it was significantly smaller in Responders (p = 0.007). The majority of Non-responders experienced workplace accidents, but this was of marginal difference compared to Responders (p = 0.056). Conclusions: Further studies should consider a broader clinical analysis with a larger sample size to understand which factors influence the HM stretching response in CLBP patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antagonist static-stretching and dynamic-stretching are both effective at improving muscular performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate responses to a dynamic stretching warm-up protocol, a static-stretching warm-up protocol and a combined dynamic-stretching and antagonist static stretching warm-up protocol on isokinetic leg extension performance. Twelve participants completed a baseline (PRE) isokinetic knee-extension test at 60°.s−1 and 300°.s−1, following a 5 min warm-up on a cycle ergometer. Subsequently, participants completed the following warm-up protocols randomly over a three-week period: dynamic-stretching (DS); antagonist muscle static-stretching (AMSS) and dynamic followed by antagonist muscle static-stretching (DS-AMSS). A repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to determine where significant differences existed for peak torque, total work, average power, time-to-peak-torque and relative peak torque between warm-up protocols. DS-AMSS facilitated a significantly higher peak torque and total work compared to PRE, DS and AMSS at 60°.s−1 and 300°.s−1P < 0.05, respectively). DS-AMSS caused significantly greater relative peak torque than PRE for 60°.s−1 and 300°.s−1 (P < 0.05). DS-AMSS resulted in significantly reduced time-to-peak-torque and increased average power at 60°.s−1 compared to PRE, DS and AMSS (P < 0.05). DS-AMSS and AMSS resulted in a significant reduction in time-to-peak-torque and increased average power compared to the PRE and DS (P < 0.05) at 300°.s−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibromyalgia is one of the most prevalent chronic pain disorders. Fibromyalgia is characterised by generalised pain. In addition, patients with fibromyalgia often have co-morbidity. Since no cure is available, the treatment is based on symptom management, with physical exercise being the recommended first-line treatment. Different exercise modalities have been examined, including the practice of stretching exercises. The aim of the systematic review is to summarise the efficacy of stretching exercises on fibromyalgia symptoms and to study the content and the quality of the current evidence. The review followed the recommendations of the PRISMA statement. The search for articles was performed in April 2023. We searched on MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, SCOPUS, AMED, PEDro, ClinicalTrials.gov and the Cochrane Collaboration Trials Register. The search was updated in March 2024. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO. Risk of Bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool, and quality assessment was performed using the GRADE approach. In total, 2586 studies were found in the database searches, of which nine were included in the analysis. The primary outcome was pain. Secondary outcomes were self-reported quality of life, fatigue and physical and mental functioning. The available evidence shows that stretching exercises may improve pain, health-related quality of life and physical and mental functioning, but the level of evidence is low. The main limitation is due to issues with the heterogeneity of the interventions and small sample sizes. Trial registration: PROSPERO registration number CRD42023399614. Key Points • Stretching exercises show promise in the treatment of fibromyalgia. They may improve pain, health-related quality of life, physical functioning and mental health, but the level of evidence is low. • This study goes beyond previous research by presenting a more comprehensive and detailed analysis of the content and methodological quality of the current evidence. • Further research with clearly outlined protocols must be carried out to advance our understanding of the benefits of stretching exercises on fibromyalgia symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to investigate four treatments for the recovery of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). DOMS was induced in 56 women forced by the “Drop Set” system and they were divided into four treatment groups: home, massage, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) and passive stretching. The volunteers answered two pain scales: a numerical scale and a visual analogue scale (VAS) in five stages: 0 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h and 120 h, before each treatment session. The statistical analysis between the scales and at the different times was carried out using one-way analysis of variance; and the comparison between the groups at the same time was carried out using repeated measures analysis of variance, followed by the Tukey-Kramer post-test. There was no significant difference between the pain measures of the scales. Massage had the lowest pain intensity at 24 and 48 hours compared to the other treatments. Massage is the best method for treating DOMS and passive stretching is the worst. The pain scales are equivalent to each other and could be relevant tools for monitoring recovery from intense physical training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching is considered a clinically effective way to enhance muscle properties; however, rare information exists about its effect on muscle flexibility and strength of the patients with stroke. To investigate the efficacy of PNF exercise on lower extremity muscle flexibility and strength after stroke. Methods: Twenty-four... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pectoralis minor muscle originates from different 3 ribs and converges into one attachment point. Pectoralis minor shortening can contribute for many syndromes and impairments especially at the shoulder. Pectoralis minor tightness is very high in college going students. The gross stretch is the stretching procedure which increases the length of the pectoralis minor muscle. This shoulder position produces movement of the muscle insertion in a posterior direction in conjunction with scapular motion that is performed at flexion and elevation in the scapular plane, thereby lengthening the muscle. Retraction 30 is stretching with scapular retraction at 30 degrees of shoulder flexion; the flexion angle at 30 degrees can lengthen the muscle along muscle fiber direction in the coronal plane. 30 degrees of flexion is considered to be more comfortable than a higher angle of flexion, as well as the angle is closest to the line of force Objectives of the study: To compare the effectiveness of gross stretch and retraction 30 in relieving pectoralis minor muscle tightness which can be in co-operated in further treatment protocols. Study Design: Comparative Study Methodology: Two group pre-test post-test study design with purposive sampling method was opted. Selected subjects were allocated to two groups. Forty subjects (20 males and 20 females) who fulfilled inclusion and exclusion criteria were recruited for the study. The independent variables are gross stretch and retraction 30 whereas the dependant variables were PMI (pectoralis minor index), pectoralis minor length test and Cervical Curvature. Result: This study results implies that retraction 30 is better when compared to gross stretch for correcting pectoralis minor tightness. Hence should be included as an inevitable part of stretching treatment. Practicing clinicians should continue to use evidence based decisions when treating pectoralis minor tightness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of an experimental study designed to evaluate the effect of repeated stretching cycles on the electrical resistance change in a NiTi alloy wire. In particular, tests were carried out to determine the effect of the type of loading on resistance change in the investigated wires. Wires with a diameter of 100 μm were used in the research. The experiment was carried out on a dedicated test stand designed for this purpose. During the test, the samples were subjected to 40 identical tensile cycles. The electrical resistance, sample elongation, and tensile force during successive stretching cycles were measured. The conducted research demonstrated the impact of elongation and reorientation of the structure on the resistance change in NiTi alloy thin wires. The research included a comparison of the effect of two different types of loading on the electrical resistance change in the sample. During cyclic stretching of a NiTi alloy sample with constant displacement, a decrease in electrical resistance was observed after each successive stretching cycle. Alternatively, when stretching with a constant force, the value of electrical resistance increased. In both types of loads, the greatest change in resistance value was observed at the initial cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Stretching exercises are important in both the prevention and treatment of nonspecific low back pain (NLBP). The aim of this trial was to determine whether an 8-week active hamstring stretching protocol combined with core stabilization and education regarding the maintenance of a neutral lumbar spine during activities could reduce NLBP and low back discomfort during prolonged sitting among young people. Methods: Participants (52 students aged 18–25) were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the Experimental group (the hamstring stretching group) and the Control group (only education). The intervention was conducted for 8 weeks. The primary outcome measures were pain intensity (VAS), low back discomfort (LBD), and functional disability (ODI). The secondary outcome measures were satisfaction with the intervention (GPE) and flexibility of the hamstring (SLR). Results: After the 8-week intervention in the E-group, results of VAS, ODI, and LBD were significantly lower comparing to baseline. In the C-group, no significant differences were observed. After the exercises program, there were differences between the E-group and C-group in VAS, LBD, GPE, and SLR tests (p < 0.05, p < 0.05, p < 0.05, and p < 0.0001, respectively). Conclusions: In conclusion, our study provides compelling evidence that an eight-week program of active hamstring stretching and core stabilization exercises can significantly reduce NLBP and musculoskeletal discomfort during prolonged sitting in young adults. These findings highlight the importance of targeted exercise interventions in managing and preventing NLBP, particularly among sedentary populations. Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and explore their applicability to broader populations and over extended periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study was planned to determine the reliability, validity, and applicability of the isolated hamstring flexibility test (IHFT). Design: A cohort study (diagnosis); level of evidence, 2. Setting: It was performed in the research and application laboratory. Participants: Seventy-five individuals aged 18 to 25 years, selected through simple probability random sampling, with a normal Beighton Horan and Joint Mobility Index scores, and who volunteered to participate, were included for evaluation. Interventions: On then first and third days, participants underwent muscle strength, sit-and-reach test, active knee extension test, IHFT for validity and reliability. Stretching exercises were prescribed as a home program for 31 patients with limited knee extension, and measurements were repeated at the end of the eighth week. Main outcomemeasures: Sit-and-reach test, active knee extension test, IHFT. Results: The test-retest reliability was high (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.993). Our test demonstrated validity when compared in terms of flexibility gained. A significant difference was found between pre-post stretching exercise training in all 3 tests (P, 0.05). Conclusion: It was observed that the IHFT is reliable and applicable in determining hamstring flexibility. Given the absence of another test specifically measuring hamstring flexibility in isolation, its indirect validity was established through analysis with other tests using the gold standard for assessing gains in hamstring flexibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limb immobilization is considered to contribute to limb pain including hyperalgesia. Approximately 50% of patients with such chronic limb pain complain that their abnormal pain worsens after exposure to cold. However, there have been few studies on the relationship between limb immobilization and cold hypersensitivity. The aim of this study was to examine whether limb immobilization induces cold hypersensitivity, and whether physical exercise such as ankle stretching prevents its induction in model mice. We used forty-four 8-week-old male C57Bl/6J mice, consisting of 32 immobilized mice and 12 control mice. The bilateral hind limbs of the mice were immobilized by a thermoplastic cast. After limb-immobilization for 1 week, changes in mechanical, thermal and cold hypersensitivity, and the expression levels of TRPV1, TRPA1, TRPM8, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNFα in the spinal cord, dorsal root ganglia and the affected hind paw were evaluated in comparison with those in the control mice. In addition, we examined the effect of ankle stretching on the hypersensitivity and expression levels in the limb-immobilized mice. Mechanical, thermal and cold hypersensitivity were significantly increased in the limb-immobilized mice. In addition, ankle stretching during the immobilization period significantly prevented the increases in those hypersensitivities. There were no significant differences in the expression levels of TRPV1, TRPA1 and TRPM8 among the control, and limb-immobilized mice with and without ankle stretching. The expression levels of IL-1 and IL-6 were significantly increased in the immobilized hind limb paw. Furthermore, ankle stretching significantly prevented the increases in their expression levels. Limb-immobilization induced cold hypersensitivity as well as mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity, and ankle stretching significantly prevented the hypersensitivity induction in the model mice. It would be of great interest to clarify whether a patient with limb-immobilization experiences cold hypersensitivity and whether ankle stretching might prevent hypersensitivity induction in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prior to training, many athletes perform different soft-tissue preparation protocols. Many of these protocols involve stretching, foam rolling, and/or percussion massage. Many of these modalities have been studied, but not as a group to observe muscle alterations and differences in males and females. In total, 40 (20 males, 20 females) participants performed five minutes of static stretching, foam rolling, and percussion massage. Pre- and post-isometric leg strength, muscle activation and ultrasound assessments (cross-sectional area, echo intensity, pennation angle, fascicle length, and muscle thickness) were taken. The results indicate that there is no significant difference among modalities, and that they do not significantly alter any muscle characteristic or improve performance. There is a significant difference in size between males and female, with males having larger muscle and greater pennation angles than females. This allows males to generate significantly more muscle force. However, they both respond similarly to each modality. In conclusion, the muscle response to static stretching, foam rolling, and percussion massage do not differ among modalities and do not contribute to an increase or decrease in maximal isometric knee extension with similar effects between males and females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piezoelectric energy generation is relevant for developing advanced electronics. However, the poor understanding of the influence of triboelectricity as an alternate charge generation mechanism has, in many cases, resulted in the reporting of exaggerated piezoelectric outputs. Herein, the signal output is systematically investigated from a range of organic piezoelectric materials (poled polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)), moderately piezoelectric (heat‐treated PVDF), and non‐piezoelectric (non‐poled PVDF), polytetrafluoroelthylene (Teflon) and nylon) under tapping and compression (33 direction) and stretching (31 direction) in both encapsulated and non‐encapsulated forms. This findings reveal that regardless of their piezoelectric properties, all tested materials exhibit substantial voltage outputs (4.2–4.6 V) during tapping, primarily attributed to the triboelectric effect at the contact interface. The triboelectric contribution to the signal is reduced by 99% in compression mode for non‐piezoelectric materials and the piezoelectric signal is the primary contributor in the stretching mode with a high signal output of 7.71 V N−1 for poled PVDF and a negligible signal (0.01–0.12 V N−1) for non‐piezoelectric materials. Moreover, elastomeric encapsulation is demonstrated to markedly increase triboelectric signals in tapping mode. These results have important implications for the future design of piezoelectric‐triboelectric devices and the accurate interpretation of the data obtained from such devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching is considered a clinically effective way to enhance muscle properties; however, rare information exists about its effect on muscle flexibility and strength of the patients with stroke. To investigate the efficacy of PNF exercise on lower extremity muscle flexibility and strength after stroke. Methods: Twenty-four men with stroke were chosen for the current study and assigned to two groups, PNF (n=12, mean age=59.3) and control group (n=12, mean age=58.7). Both groups received conventional rehabilitation three times a week for two months, while the PNF group received an additional 20-minute contract-relax (CR) method of PNF exercises during each session. Gastrocnemius and hamstring flexibility have been measured pre- and post-intervention by wall lunge and active straight leg raising (aSLR) tests, respectively. Additionally, hamstring and quadriceps strength has been measured pre- and post-intervention by a hand-held dynamometer. A 2×2 mixed repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA) was utilized to analyze data. Results: Significant interaction of time x group was found for hamstring flexibility (F=33.24, P

The presence of reliable techniques for predicting the stress state in composite materials is one of the most important requirements in the design of composite components and structures. An analytical model has been developed to evaluate the shear stresses at the substrate-coating interface in tensile testing of a flat specimen. The developed model has been verified by numerical simulation. The strength and mechanisms of the fracture of furan epoxy composite coatings with polyvinyl chloride and zinc oxide fillers with various concentrations were studied. The adhesion strength of furan epoxy composite coatings with metal substrate was determined by the pull-off test of cylindrical specimens and the tensile test of flat-coated specimens. The correlation between the measured values of fracture stresses for two types of tests of composite coatings was determined. It is concluded that for qualitative comparison of fracture stress in composite coatings it is possible to neglect stress concentration in the specimens. The analyzed methods of stress evaluation have the same trends in the change of the measured values for different composite coatings. However, considering the stress concentration in the specimens provides more accurate results in determining the strength characteristics. [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.)

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.)

Introduction Cervical traction has long been used to relieve compression of nerve roots caused by intervertebral discs. Yet, there is lack of knowledge on comparing the effect of traction decompression with neck muscle stretching in patients with cervical radiculopathy (CR). This study investigated the effect of different angles of decompression on the flexor carpi radialis H-reflex, Neck Disability Index (NDI), and pain level (determined with the visual analogue scale) in patients with CR and compared the results with neck muscle stretching. Methods Overall, 58 patients with CR were randomly assigned to 4 groups. Group A received a stretching protocol to the cervical musculature. Group B was treated with traction therapy from neutral position with rope angle 0°. Group C underwent traction therapy from 30° lateral bending toward the side opposite to radiculopathy. Group D was managed with traction from 15° flexion with 30° lateral bending to the side opposite to radiculopathy and 15° rotation toward the side of radiculopathy. All participants were assessed before and after 6 weeks of treatment. Results Mixed design MANOVA revealed that the H-reflex increased significantly ( p < 0.05) after treatment in groups A, B, and D. However, it increased non-significantly in patients within group C. NDI and pain scores decreased significantly after treatment in all tested groups. Conclusions Decompression traction from retracted neutral position with 0° rope angle and foraminal opening directions is as effective as stretching of ipsilateral neck muscles in enhancing nerve root decompression and reducing pain in patients with CR.

Abstract Background Abnormal posture (e.g. loss of lordosis) has been associated with the occurrence of musculoskeletal pain. Stretching tight muscles while strengthening the antagonists represents the most common method to treat the assumed muscle imbalance. However, despite its high popularity, there is no quantitative synthesis of the available evidence examining the effectiveness of the stretch-and-strengthen approach. Methods A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted, searching PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar. We included controlled clinical trials investigating the effects of stretching or strengthening on spinal and lumbopelvic posture (e.g., pelvic tilt, lumbar lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, head tilt) in healthy individuals. Effect sizes were pooled using robust variance estimation. To rate the certainty about the evidence, the GRADE approach was applied. Results A total of 23 studies with 969 participants were identified. Neither acute (d = 0.01, p = 0.97) nor chronic stretching (d=-0.19, p = 0.16) had an impact on posture. Chronic strengthening was associated with large improvements (d=-0.83, p = 0.01), but no study examined acute effects. Strengthening was superior (d = 0.81, p = 0.004) to stretching. Sub-analyses found strengthening to be effective in the thoracic and cervical spine (d=-1.04, p = 0.005) but not in the lumbar and lumbopelvic region (d=-0.23, p = 0.25). Stretching was ineffective in all locations (p > 0.05). Conclusion Moderate-certainty evidence does not support the use of stretching as a treatment of muscle imbalance. In contrast, therapists should focus on strengthening programs targeting weakened muscles.

Introduction: Infrared thermography is gaining attention in the field of sports medicine and performance. This study investigated the effects of static and dynamic warm-ups and a 90° change of direction (COD) exercise on the thermal response of the knee. Methods: Thermograms were collected using the FlIR E54 Imaging Camera from 85 healthy young adults, 46 men and 39 women, aged 20-31 years. The participants were divided in two groups, static and dynamic warm-up. Four thermograms were taken: baseline (T0), warm-up (T1), COD (T2), and rest (T3). Four regions of interest (ROIs) of the knee were analyzed: anterior upper half (AUH), anterior lower half (ALH), posterior upper half (PUH), and posterior lower half (PLH). Mixed ANOVA with the Bonferroni-Holm test and independent t-test were used for pairwise comparison and to spot differences between the right and left knees at T1 and T2 and at T0 between men and women, respectively. Results: The mixed ANOVA was significant for time points (p< 0.001) in all the ROIs and for the stretching/temperature interaction with different levels of significance. The t-test results for the right and left knees at T1 and T2 were not significant. The temperature in the static warm-up group followed a decrease at T1, a subsequent decrease at T2, and a recovery similar to the baseline at T3, in the ALH in men and women and in the PUH only in men. Conclusion: Static stretching was more suitable for preparing the knee for the COD exercise than the dynamic one in terms of the thermal response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary aim of this was to assess the effectiveness of stretching for improving shoulder range of motion (ROM) in overhead athletes with glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD). The secondary aims were to compare whether the combination of stretching plus manual therapy was more effective than stretching in isolation and if any stretching technique was superior to others. A systematic review and a meta-analysis were designed. The MEDLINE, PEDro, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched. Clinical trials investigating the effects of stretching in isolation or combined with other manual therapy techniques on ROM and pain intensity in athletes with GIRD were included. The PEDro scale was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies, and the certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE tool. Two independent assessors extracted data through a standardized form. The random-effects models were applied. Sixteen randomized controlled trials were included in this systematic review with a meta-analysis, with a methodological quality ranging from high to low. The stretching techniques in isolation showed statistically significant improvements in internal rotation and horizontal adduction ROM. Adding glenohumeral dorsal gliding to a stretching protocol showed better improvement in internal rotation ROM than stretching in isolation. Stretching techniques with manual stabilization showed better benefits than self-stretching techniques. A very low certainty of evidence suggests that stretching produces statistically significant changes for improving ROM in patients with glenohumeral internal rotation deficit. The combination with glenohumeral dorsal gliding seems to produce better improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Flexibility is recognized as one of the components of physical fitness and commonly included as part of exercise prescriptions for all ages. However, limited data exist regarding the relationship between flexibility and survival. We evaluated the sex‐specific nature and magnitude of the associations between body flexibility and natural and non‐COVID‐19 mortality in a middle‐aged cohort of men and women. Design: Prospective cohort study. Methods: Anthropometric, health and vital data from 3139 (66% men) individuals aged 46–65 years spanning from March 1994 to October 2022 were available. A body flexibility score, termed Flexindex, was derived from a combination of 20 movements (scored 0–4) involving seven different joints, resulting in a score range of 0–80. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were obtained, and unadjusted and adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for mortality estimated. Results: During a mean follow‐up of 12.9 years, 302 individuals (9.6%) comprising 224 men/78 women died. Flexindex was 35% higher in women compared to men (mean ± SD: 41.1 ± 9.4 vs. 30.5 ± 8.7; p < 0.001) and exhibited an inverse relationship with mortality risk in both sexes (p < 0.001). Following adjustment for age, body mass index, and health status, the HR (95% CI) for mortality comparing upper and bottom of distributions of Flexindex were 1.87 (1.50–2.33; p < 0.001) for men and 4.78 (1.23–31.71; p = 0.047) for women. Conclusions: A component of physical fitness—body flexibility—as assessed by the Flexindex is strongly and inversely associated with natural and non‐COVID‐19 mortality risk in middle‐aged men and women. Future studies should assess whether training‐induced flexibility gains are related to longer survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the potential effectiveness of myofascial release compared to passive muscle stretching and to a control group in modulating pain intensity and health status in adults diagnosed with fibromyalgia (FM). A preliminary randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted, consisting of eight weekly sessions. The participants were divided into three groups: myofascial release group (RG = 13), a muscle stretching group (SG = 13), and a control group (CG = 12), which received advice from a rheumatologist. The outcomes measured were the visual analogue pain scale (VAS), the fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (FIQ) (representing health status), and the number of painful areas. Univariate analyzes of covariance (ANCOVA) were performed at baseline, after 4 weeks (during treatment), after 8 weeks (post-treatment), and after 12 weeks (follow-up). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) were included as covariates. Clinical trial registration number: NCT: 03408496. After eight weeks, the RG showed lower VAS scores compared to the CG (mean difference 95% CI: −5.10 to −1.26) and the SG (mean difference 95% CI: −4.9 to −0.23) with no difference between the SG and the CG. The total FIQ score for the RG was lower than the CG after 4 weeks (95% CI: −49.92 to −5.61), and 8 weeks (mean difference 95% CI: −52.72 to −15.73), although there was no difference between the RG and SG, as well as between the SG and CG, at both time points. The number of painful body areas was similar in all groups at the four time points. Preliminary results suggest that the RG possibly showed greater improvements in pain intensity and health status compared to the CG, and possibly greater improvements in pain intensity compared to the SG. Myofascial release in fibromyalgia may potentially have greater improvements on pain modulation and health status when compared to medical counseling. Myofascial release, when compared to stretching, may potentially offer greater improvement in pain modulation in fibromyalgia. Myofascial release was not effective in decreasing the number of painful body areas of patients with fibromyalgia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mental imagery (MI) is frequently used in rehabilitation, often in stationary settings. However, recent studies indicate that incorporating MI during exercise could substantially alleviate pain. Purpose: The objective of this study is to determine whether combining myofascial training with MI is more effective than exercise alone in reducing pain, enhancing flexibility, improving functional performance, and increasing quality of life in women with chronic low back pain (CLBP). Materials and Methods: Thirty women were assigned to one of three groups: the "Exercise Group" (EG), the "Exercise plus MI Group" (MIG), and the "Control Group" (CG). The exercise sessions included stretching and self-myofascial release (SMR) using foam rollers (FRs). Both experimental groups (EXGs) performed identical exercises; however, the MIG also received MI instructions during the workouts. Measurements were taken at four time points: baseline, after 9 sessions, after 18 sessions, and 2 weeks after intervention. The assessed variables included pain intensity, hamstring and spinal flexibility, functional performance in daily activity simulations, and quality of life as measured by the RAND SF-36. Results: Significant pain reduction was observed only in the MIG. Both EXGs showed significant improvements in flexibility, with MIG achieving some scores superior to those of the CG. Functional performance improved across all tests in both EXGs, with more pronounced gains in the MIG. For the RAND SF-36, the EG showed better results in the "Bodily Pain" dimension. In the "Physical Functioning" dimension, both EXGs demonstrated similar positive results. However, significant improvements in "Vitality" and "Health Change" were observed only in the MIG. Conclusions: Myofascial training was effective in reducing pain and improving functional capacity and quality of life in women with CLBP. However, incorporating MI instructions during exercise produced more substantial benefits, suggesting a promising new approach for managing chronic musculoskeletal disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soccer teams integrate specific exercises into their typical workout programs for injury prevention. This study examined the effects of hamstring exercise on paraspinal and hamstring stiffness. These findings can inform training and rehabilitation programs to improve muscle health and prevent injuries. Fifteen young, healthy males performed passive and active (submaximal) knee flexion efforts from 0°, 45°, to 90° angle of knee flexion from the prone position. Using shear-wave elastography (SWE) and surface electromyography, we measured the elastic modulus and root mean square (RMS) signal of the erector spinae (ES), multifidus (MF), semitendinosus (ST), and semimembranosus (SM) during different knee flexion angles. Passive SWE modulus at 0° was 12.44 ± 4.45 kPa (ES), 13.35 ± 6.12 kPa (MF), 22.01 ± 4.68 kPa (ST), and 21.57 ± 5.22 kPa (SM) and it was greater (p < 0.05) compared to 45° and 90°. The corresponding values during knee flexion contractions at 0° increased to 18.99 ± 6.11 kPa (ES), 20.65 ± 11.31 kPa (MF), 71.21 ± 13.88 kPa (ST), and 70.20 ± 14.29 kPa (SM) and did not differ between angles (p > 0.05). Compared to rest, the relative increase in the SWE modulus during active contraction had a median value (interquartile range) ranging from 68.11 (86.29) to 101.69 (54.33)% for the paraspinal muscles and it was moderately to strongly correlated (r > 0.672) with the corresponding increase of the hamstring muscles [ranging from 225.94 (114.72) to 463.16 (185.16)%]. The RMS signal was greater during active compared to passive conditions, and it was lower at 90° compared to 45° (for SM/ST) and 0° (for all muscles). The association between paraspinal and hamstring passive muscle stiffness indicates a potential transmission of forces through myofascial connections between the lumbar spine and the lower limbs. In this laboratory setting, hamstring exercises affected the stiffness of the paraspinal muscles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Istanbul Gelisim University Journal of Health Sciences / İstanbul Gelişim Üniversitesi Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Istanbul Gelisim Universitesi Saglik Bilimleri Yuksekokulu 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.)

Baseball includes complex multi-joint and multi-planar activities involving a majority of the musculature of the body. Research pertaining to training practices including pre-activity and post-activity stretching continues to evolve along with related sport science recommendations. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to assess the pre-activity and post-activity warm-up, stretching, and training practices of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I and Division III baseball coaches. A total of 686 questionnaires were distributed via email to head collegiate baseball coaches from NCAA Division I and III universities. The questionnaire was designed to gather demographic, professional, and educational information, as well as specific pre-activity and post-activity stretching usage by the coaches. The responses were examined by computing frequency counts and means where applicable. For the statistical analysis, both SPSS version 27.0 and JMP version 13.0 software packages were utilized. Pearson's Chi-squared tests were run where applicable. Results indicated just over 77% of coaches in the present study affirmed the importance of a pre-activity dynamic warmup. When comparing coaching specific certification to pre-activity flexibility practices, it is clear not all coaches comply with suggested pre-activity flexibility recommendations. This study indicates it is important for baseball coaches to re-evaluate their own practices, perhaps cross-checking them with practices of their peers and staying current with ongoing research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the wicking properties of different fabrics produced from 100% Polyester, 100% Soybean, and bilayer (Polyester and Soybean), under various conditions (relaxed, static deformation, and dynamic deformation). The study evaluates the wicking area, liquid spread, and maximum wetted radius to understand moisture transport and absorption inside the fabric structure. According to the results, polyester textiles typically have better wicking qualities than soybean fibers, while bilayer fabrics frequently show better wicking qualities than single-layer fabrics. Dynamic deformation shows the tendency to improve wicking properties more significantly, especially in multidirectional stretching; suggesting potential applications for sports materials that need to manage moisture better. The results of this study provide insights into fabric design for enhanced comfort and utility by highlighting the significance of fabric composition and state when evaluating moisture-wicking ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/purpose Interventions including posterior glenohumeral mobilizations (PGM), sleeper stretches, and thoracic manipulation are commonly used to address posterior shoulder tightness. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of adding thoracic manipulation to PGM and sleeper stretches on passive range of motion (PROM), joint mobility, and infraspinatus electromyographic (EMG) activity in shoulders with decreased internal rotation (IR) PROM. Design Randomized Sequential Intervention Laboratory Study Methods Forty individuals with clinically significant IR loss attended two study sessions. Participants were randomized to receive five 30 seconds bouts of either grade III PGM or sleeper stretching. Following a seven-day washout period, all participants attended a second session and received a prescriptive supine HVLA manipulation targeting the T3-4 segment, followed by the previously randomized intervention. Outcome measures included internal rotation PROM, horizontal adduction PROM, posterior glenohumeral joint translation assessed via ultrasound imaging, and EMG activity of the infraspinatus during a PGM. All outcome measures were assessed pre- and immediately post-intervention and compared statistically. Results There were significant within-group, but not between-group, differences for IR and horizontal adduction PROM following a single session of PGM or sleeper stretch. When combined with thoracic manipulation, significantly smaller within session changes of IR PROM were observed for both PGM (mean difference 4.4, p=0.017) and sleeper stretches (mean difference 6.4, p=0.0005). There were no significant between group differences for horizontal adduction PROM, humeral head translation, or EMG activity across all time points. Discussion Both GH posterior mobilizations and sleeper stretches improved IR and horizontal adduction PROM in a single session. The addition of thoracic manipulation prior to local shoulder interventions resulted in smaller gains of both IR and horizontal adduction ROM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate whether a combination of dry-needling treatments and upper extremity neuromuscular reeducation exercises can significantly improve neck pain and/or headache-related disability, joint position error, cervical range of motion, and pain pressure threshold in individuals suffering from cervicogenic headache (CGH). This study is a quasi-experimental design. Seven participants met the inclusion criteria and received dry needling to three muscles that reproduced the participant's headache symptoms and completed the Neck Disability Index (NDI), Headache Disability Inventory (HDI), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). Participants performed an exercise regimen designed to address strength and mobility of cervical and scapulothoracic musculature. There were significant improvements seen in cervical range of motion and neck pain-related disability (NDI) during the 4-week treatment period. Dry needling and neuromuscular re-education (NMR) exercises could be effective components of treatment for individuals suffering from CGH to reduce disability and pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study is to examine and compare the effects of tissue flossing compared to massage and stretching on the lower extremity function condition - range of motion ROM of the, and muscle strength and pain perception in the knee. Materials and methods: This study involved 16 patients that were divided in two groups, Group A - controlled (n=8) (male=5, female=3) mean age 36±4.2 years and Group B - experimental (n=8), (male=4, female=4) mean age 38±3,8 years. All patients were with impaired knee function, involving to a different degree: pain, limited range of motion and decreased muscle strength. The controlled group received a treatment of massage and stretching and the experimental group a tissue flossing therapy. Before and after the treatment we measured the levels of pain, ROM and muscle strength. Results: the therapy modalities for both groups showed positive impact on the patient's condition with slightly better results in the experimental group. Statistical significance was marked in the measurement of VAS, ROM flexion and dynamometry testing. Conclusion: Tissue flossing has a positive influence on decreasing of pain and normalization of range of motion and enhancing muscle strength and control, we recommend its use as a main or additional treatment modality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Cervical traction has long been used to relieve compression of nerve roots caused by intervertebral discs. Yet, there is lack of knowledge on comparing the effect of traction decompression with neck muscle stretching in patients with cervical radiculopathy (CR). This study investigated the effect of different angles of decompression on the flexor carpi radialis H-reflex, Neck Disability Index (NDI), and pain level (determined with the visual analogue scale) in patients with CR and compared the results with neck muscle stretching. Methods. Overall, 58 patients with CR were randomly assigned to 4 groups. Group A received a stretching protocol to the cervical musculature. Group B was treated with traction therapy from neutral position with rope angle 0°. Group C underwent traction therapy from 30° lateral bending toward the side opposite to radiculopathy. Group D was managed with traction from 15° flexion with 30° lateral bending to the side opposite to radiculopathy and 15° rotation toward the side of radiculopathy. All participants were assessed before and after 6 weeks of treatment. Results. Mixed design MANOVA revealed that the H-reflex increased significantly (p < 0.05) after treatment in groups A, B, and D. However, it increased non-significantly in patients within group C. NDI and pain scores decreased significantly after treatment in all tested groups. Conclusions. Decompression traction from retracted neutral position with 0° rope angle and foraminal opening directions is as effective as stretching of ipsilateral neck muscles in enhancing nerve root decompression and reducing pain in patients with CR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes have been widely used as attractive nanoporous materials because of their applications in drug delivery, membrane filtration, and catalysis. Although AAO membranes with anisotropic pore shapes can be achieved, the methods are often complex and costly. In this work, we present an innovative approach to fabricating AAO membranes with controlled pore geometries, focusing on the transition from nonelliptical to elliptical nanopores. Utilizing commercially available aluminum foils of varying thickness and purity, the research demonstrates a cost-effective and scalable method for producing these specialized AAO membranes. The process involves a two-step anodization, where the aluminum foils undergo electropolishing, anodization, and chemical etching, followed by a unique stretching technique that transforms circular concavities into elliptical shapes. This approach successfully produces elliptical AAO membranes with varying pore sizes and aspect ratios, controlled by different electrolytes and pore-widening times. The study further explores the application of these membranes in nanopatterning by creating anisotropic polymer nanorod arrays using polystyrene (PS) and poly-(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), demonstrating the practical utility of the fabricated AAO membranes in nanomaterial synthesis. The research highlights the potential of the stretching approach in AAO membrane fabrication, promising a diverse range of applications in material science and engineering, particularly in fields requiring precise nanopore geometries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composite materials are actively used as protection against electromagnetic fields, as conductors and to remove excess heat from microcircuits and boards. Such products are often subjected to mechanical stress during operation, and stretched polymer‐film composite materials suffer from deterioration in electrical conductivity, which leads to loss of electrically conductive properties. In this work, the effect of mechanical deformation (stretching) on electrical conductivity properties was studied. A predictive model was built based on Boltzmann statistics, which allows predicting the loss of electrically conductive properties when materials are under mechanical stress. The resulting model was refined by introducing coefficients calculated using an ensemble regression machine learning method. The mean absolute percentage error of the predicted electrical conductivity value for the materials under mechanical stress is about 5%–20%. Highlights: Stretching influence on conductivity and shielding.An expression for description and prediction resistance during stretching.Machine learning for predictive modeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Abnormal posture (e.g. loss of lordosis) has been associated with the occurrence of musculoskeletal pain. Stretching tight muscles while strengthening the antagonists represents the most common method to treat the assumed muscle imbalance. However, despite its high popularity, there is no quantitative synthesis of the available evidence examining the effectiveness of the stretch-and-strengthen approach. Methods: A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted, searching PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar. We included controlled clinical trials investigating the effects of stretching or strengthening on spinal and lumbopelvic posture (e.g., pelvic tilt, lumbar lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, head tilt) in healthy individuals. Effect sizes were pooled using robust variance estimation. To rate the certainty about the evidence, the GRADE approach was applied. Results: A total of 23 studies with 969 participants were identified. Neither acute (d = 0.01, p = 0.97) nor chronic stretching (d=-0.19, p = 0.16) had an impact on posture. Chronic strengthening was associated with large improvements (d=-0.83, p = 0.01), but no study examined acute effects. Strengthening was superior (d = 0.81, p = 0.004) to stretching. Sub-analyses found strengthening to be effective in the thoracic and cervical spine (d=-1.04, p = 0.005) but not in the lumbar and lumbopelvic region (d=-0.23, p = 0.25). Stretching was ineffective in all locations (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Moderate-certainty evidence does not support the use of stretching as a treatment of muscle imbalance. In contrast, therapists should focus on strengthening programs targeting weakened muscles. Key Points: • Stretching of tight muscles and strengthening of weak muscles is popular in treating muscular imbalance of the pelvis and spine. While combined interventions have previously been meta-analyzed and shown to be effective, the effectiveness of both used in isolation has not been investigated. • This meta-analysis found no effects of stretching on posture while strengthening can improve imbalances/posture. • Additional studies including higher stretching volumes and intensities are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Current research suggests static stretch-induced maximal strength increases and muscle hypertrophy with potential to substitute resistance-training routines. However, most studies investigated the plantar flexors. This study explored the effects of a static stretching program on maximal strength, hypertrophy and flexibility of the pectoralis major and compared the effects with those of traditional resistance training. Methods: Eighty-one (81) active participants were allocated to either a static stretching, strength-training or control group. Pectoralis stretching was applied 15 min/day, 4 days per week for 8 weeks, while resistance training trained 3 days per week, 5 × 12 repetitions. Results: There was an increase in all parameters (strength: p < 0.001, ƞ2 = 0.313, muscle thickness: p < 0.001, ƞ2 = 0.157–0.264, flexibility: p < 0.001, ƞ2 = 0.316) and a time*group interaction (strength: p = 0.001, ƞ2 = 0.154, muscle thickness: p = 0.008–0.001, ƞ2 = 0.117–0.173, flexibility: p < 0.001, ƞ2 = 0.267). Post-hoc testing showed no difference between both intervention groups regarding maximal strength and muscle thickness (p = 0.905–0.983, d = 0.036–0.087), while flexibility increased in the stretching group (p = 0.001, d = 0.789). Conclusion: Stretching showed increases in maximal strength and hypertrophy, which were comparable with commonly used resistance training. Based on current literature, the influence of mechanical tension as the underlying mechanism is discussed. Furthermore, as equipment and comparatively long stretching durations are requested to induce meaningful strength increases in recreationally active participants, practical application seems limited to special circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Botulinum toxin A (BONT/A) injections play a central role in the treatment of upper limb spasticity in stroke patients. We proposed structured stretching exercises to enhance the effect of post-stroke spasticity relief of the upper limbs following BONT/A injections. A total of 43 patients who had a stroke with grade 2 spasticity or higher on the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) in their upper-limb muscles were randomly assigned to the intervention (n = 21) or control group (n = 22). The former received structured stretching exercises after their BONT/A injections for 20 min, 5 days per week, for 6 months at a hospital, while the others conducted self-stretching exercises at home. The outcome measures were assessed before the intervention (T0) and after three (T1) and six months (T2). Significantly greater improvements in the MAS scores of the elbows, wrists, and fingers were found in the intervention group's patients at T1 and T2. The behavioral outcome measures, including shoulder pain, activities of daily living, and quality of life, and our electrophysiological studies also showed a significantly higher enhancement in this patient group. In conclusion, the structured stretching exercises plus BONT/A injections for six months showed a superior effect in relieving post-stroke upper-limb spasticity compared to self-stretching exercises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of whole-body vibration (WBV) stretching on soleus (SOL) muscle stiffness remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the acute and long-term effects of stretching with WBV on SOL muscle stiffness. This study employed a repeated-measures experimental design evaluating 20 healthy young males. SOL muscle stretching with WBV was performed for 5 min per day (1 min per set, five sets) over 4 weeks, for 4 days a week. Participants stretched the SOL muscle with ankle dorsiflexion in a loaded flexed knee position on a WBV device. Data were obtained to examine acute effects before stretching, immediately after stretching, and at 5, 10, 15, and 20 min. Moreover, data were obtained to examine the long-term effects before stretching, immediately after the completion of the 4-week stretching program, and at 2 and 4 weeks later. SOL muscle stiffness was measured using Young's modulus with shear wave elastography. The acute effect of SOL muscle stretching with WBV persisted for up to 20 min. Additionally, the long-term effect of stretching was better maintained than the acute effect, which was effective for up to 4 weeks (p < 0.001). Clinically, continuous stretching with WBV may be used to improve SOL muscle stiffness in rehabilitation programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim was to evaluate the quality of the sheep skin of different sex classes submitted to different levels of feed restriction. Sheep without defined racial pattern of different sex classes (15 non-castrated males, 15 castrated males and 15 females), with initial body weight of 18.1 ± 0.4 kg and mean age of 90 days were distributed in a factorial 3 × 3, with three sex classes and 3 levels of feed restriction (ad libitum intake and restricted intake at 70 and 80%), with 5 repetitions. After slaughter, the skins were collected for physical–mechanical tests. The effect of the sex classes x levels of dietary restriction interaction was observed for transverse thickness and longitudinal rupture elongation (p < 0.05). Animals fed ad libitum had greater longitudinal transverse thickness (p < 0.05). Animals fed ad libitum and 70% feed restriction showed greater transverse elongation at break (p < 0.05). As for the difference between sex classes in the transverse thickness variable for tearing strength, the interaction sex classes x levels of feed restriction for transverse thickness, longitudinal thickness, transverse tearing strength and longitudinal tearing strength occurred (p < 0.05). Feed restriction reduces the physical quality of the skin of sheep of different sex classes, and the use of castrated male sheep in positive energy balance is recommended to obtain leather with greater thickness, longitudinal rupture elongation and transverse tear strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Advanced Textile Technology is the property of Zhejiang Sci-Tech University Magazines 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.)

Copyright of Revija Šport is the property of Sport: Revija Za Teoreticna in Praticna Vprasanja Sporta 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. Measuring the degree of deformation of solids is a necessary measure in many fields of science. Such measurements can be performed using sensor equipment containing resistance strain gauges. This type of sensor uses a special type of resistor called a resistance strain gauge. Various methods for incorporating these electronic components into a strain gauge circuit are given. Materials and methods. Using linear equations, numerical characteristics were calculated for different switching options, for example, the sensitivity of the sensor. Results and conclusions. The schemes for including different numbers of active and compensating strain gauges in a measuring bridge are considered. For different types of deformation it is necessary to use suitable switching methods, this must be taken into account when designing information-measuring and control systems.

Abstract Piezoelectric energy generation is relevant for developing advanced electronics. However, the poor understanding of the influence of triboelectricity as an alternate charge generation mechanism has, in many cases, resulted in the reporting of exaggerated piezoelectric outputs. Herein, the signal output is systematically investigated from a range of organic piezoelectric materials (poled polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)), moderately piezoelectric (heat‐treated PVDF), and non‐piezoelectric (non‐poled PVDF), polytetrafluoroelthylene (Teflon) and nylon) under tapping and compression (33 direction) and stretching (31 direction) in both encapsulated and non‐encapsulated forms. This findings reveal that regardless of their piezoelectric properties, all tested materials exhibit substantial voltage outputs (4.2–4.6 V) during tapping, primarily attributed to the triboelectric effect at the contact interface. The triboelectric contribution to the signal is reduced by 99% in compression mode for non‐piezoelectric materials and the piezoelectric signal is the primary contributor in the stretching mode with a high signal output of 7.71 V N−1 for poled PVDF and a negligible signal (0.01–0.12 V N−1) for non‐piezoelectric materials. Moreover, elastomeric encapsulation is demonstrated to markedly increase triboelectric signals in tapping mode. These results have important implications for the future design of piezoelectric‐triboelectric devices and the accurate interpretation of the data obtained from such devices.

The American College of Sports Medicine classifies flexibility as one out of 5 important health-related parameters that should be addressed in preventive and therapeutic training programs (Garber et al., 2011). Due to its importance in health and athletic performance development, there is an increasing number of studies to figure out flexibility training interventions as well as underlying mechanisms. While several exercise modalities are available, stretching and foam rolling (FR) are the most common training routines to improve range of motion (ROM). Interestingly, acute and chronic effects are mainly attributed to very similar mechanisms, more specifically, improved stretch tolerance and/or structural adaptations such as stiffness reductions in the muscle, the tendon, or the muscle-tendon complex (Takeuchi et al., 2023). Since stretching and FR seem to induce similar effect sizes in acute flexibility, authors suggested the replacement of static stretching to FR in movement preparation routines to avoid the stretch-induced force deficit, thus, impairments of subsequent strength related performance. Similarly, when discussing chronic flexibility routine effects, literature suggests task specificity. Therefore, increased ROM was attributed to specific stretch/foam rolling induced stiffness and passive peak torque changes. Unfortunately, statements developed from used research designs are incomprehensive. When referring to acute stretching of foam rolling effects that can be extracted from numerous systematic reviews, conclusions were drawn from comparisons to passive controls. This, however, does exclusively allow statements that stretching/FR was effective compared to doing nothing, however, does not exclude general warm-up effects, induced by muscle activity. Referring to William of Ockham (1287 – 1347), one popular philosopher from the United Kingdom, the most obvious explanatory approach would be the most likely one. In medicine diagnostics, this statement is metaphorically described as “when hearing hoof beats from behind, expect horses, not zebras”. Therefore, since both routines enhance temperature, the most likely explanation suggest acute ROM increases could rely on general warm-up effects instead of task-specific adaptations. Similarly, for chronic effects, literature suggests that ROM can be increased by several alternative interventions, e.g. full ROM resistance training, indicating shared mechanisms. Both interventions share underlying physiological mechanisms, such as inducing mechanical tension in high muscle lengths. Consequently, we extensively discussed available evidence in our published research. Key findings will be presented to challenge current paradigms (Warneke et al., 2024). References Garber, C. E., Blissmer, B., Deschenes, M. R., Franklin, B. A., Lamonte, M. J., Lee, I.-M., Nieman, D. C., & Swain, D. P. (2011). Quantity and quality of exercise for developing and maintaining cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, and neuromotor fitness in apparently healthy adults. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 43(7), 1334–1359. https://doi.org/10.1249/MSS.0b013e318213fefb Takeuchi, K., Nakamura, M., Fukaya, T., Konrad, A., & Mizuno, T. (2023). Acute and long-term effects of static stretching on muscle-tendon unit stiffness: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, 22, 465–475. https://doi.org/10.52082/jssm.2023.465 Warneke, K., Behm, D. G., Alizadeh, S., Hillebrecht, M., Konrad, A., & Wirth, K. (2024). Discussing conflicting explanatory approaches in flexibility training under consideration of physiology - A narrative review. Sports Medicine, 54, 1785-1799. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-024-02043-y

IntroductionBalance is a multifactorial construct with high relevance in, e.g., everyday life activities. Apart from sensorimotor control, muscle strength and size are positively linked with balance performance. While commonly trained for via resistance training, stretch training has emerged as a potential substitution in specific conditions. However, no review has investigated potential effects of stretching on balance, yet.MethodsPubMed, Web of Science and Scopus were searched with inception to February, 2024. Studies were included if they examined acute and/or chronic effects of any stretching type against passive and/or active controls on balance parameters – without any population-related restrictions concerning sex/gender, age, health status, activity level. Methodological quality was assessed using PEDro scale. Meta-analyses were performed if two or more studies reported on the same outcome. Certainty of evidence was determined based on GRADE criteria.ResultsEighteen acute and eleven chronic effect studies were included. Stretching studies exhibited significant improvements for sway parameters with eyes open against passive controls of moderate magnitude for chronic (ES: 0.63, p = 0.047) and of small magnitude for acute studies (ES: 0.21, p = 0.032). Most other subgroups against passive controls as well as actively-controlled comparisons resulted in trivial and/or non-significant effects.ConclusionEven though some pooled effects slightly reached the level of significance, the overall results are biased by (very) low certainty of evidence (GRADE criteria downgrading for risk of bias, imprecision, publication bias). Moderators suggested by literature (strength, muscle size, flexibility, proprioception) were rarely assessed, which prevents conclusive final statements and calls for further, high quality evidence to clarify potential mechanisms–if any exist.