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Human Movement Science Feb 2024This study described intra-task fine motor skill components of the Manual Dexterity tasks (Posting Coins; PC, Threading Beads; TB, Drawing Trail; DT) of the Movement...
This study described intra-task fine motor skill components of the Manual Dexterity tasks (Posting Coins; PC, Threading Beads; TB, Drawing Trail; DT) of the Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2 Test for typically developing children and investigated age- and sex-related differences. Three- to six-year-old Dutch children (n = 182, M 4.5 ± 1.1 years, 51.1% boys) were observed with regard to intra-task fine motor skill components, and changes in intra-task components of the Manual Dexterity tasks were analyzed across age using of the Kruskal-Wallis test with post-hoc Mann-Whitney U tests, and differences between sexes using the Mann-Whitney U test. The following intra-task components were observed: grip type, manipulation, non-dominant or non-writing hand, grip position, posture, head, coin placement, placement of the bead on the lace tip and joint movement. Results showed that the younger children (3-year-olds) more frequently used a grasp with the full hand (PC, TB), more often put the coin on the container and sliding it in (PC), more often supported the side or top of the container (PC), used more bi-manual manipulation (transferring from hand-to-hand or hand, body or surface assist) (TB, DT), more frequently used primitive, too high grips, predominantly used their proximal joints, and did not support the paper (DT). This in comparison with more frequent use of three-point pinch, direct coin placement, grabbing the front or back of the container, in-hand-manipulation, mature grips and correct height, distal joint use and supporting the paper from the side or below by most 5- and 6-year-olds. Furthermore, most sex-related differences were found in the younger age-groups (3- and 4-year-olds) in the DT tasks with girls outperforming boys. Results from this study add to the knowledge on qualitative fine motor skill performance in a convenience sample of 3- to 6-year-old typically developing children. A limitation of the current study was the relatively small sample size of 6-year-old children. The strength of the current study is its novelty in providing qualitative descriptions of intra-task fine motor skill components in typically developing 3- to 6-year-old children.
Topics: Child; Male; Female; Humans; Child, Preschool; Motor Skills; Movement; Posture; Hand Strength; Hand
PubMed: 38056220
DOI: 10.1016/j.humov.2023.103169 -
European Journal of Physical and... Mar 2024Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition resulting from compression of the median nerve at the wrist. First-line treatment typically involves conservative...
The effects of virtual reality-mediated tendon and nerve gliding exercises in the conservative management of carpal tunnel syndrome: a double-blind randomized placebo controlled trial.
BACKGROUND
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition resulting from compression of the median nerve at the wrist. First-line treatment typically involves conservative management, which commonly includes splinting and gliding exercises. Emerging evidence suggests the potential benefits of using virtual reality (VR) in rehabilitation.
AIM
This study aimed to assess the effects of VR-mediated tendon and nerve gliding exercises on the conservative treatment of CTS, compared to video-assisted (sham virtual) and home-based gliding exercises.
DESIGN
This study was a prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo controlled interventional trial.
SETTING
The study was conducted in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at a university hospital.
POPULATION
The study included patients with mild to moderate CTS.
METHODS
The study included a total of 54 hands from 33 patients. The participants were randomly allocated into three groups: the VR-mediated group (VG), the sham VR-mediated group (SG), and the control (home-based) group (CG). Both intervention groups engaged in gliding exercises utilizing a Leap Motion Controller-based VR system and instructional videos, under the supervision of a physical therapist. The VR system was activated for the VG and deactivated for the SG. Exercises were performed twice weekly for eight weeks. The CG received a brochure describing the gliding exercises. Primary outcomes were symptom severity measured by the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) and the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), along with nerve conduction studies. Secondary outcomes included muscle strength (hand grip, key pinch), sensory measures (static two-point discrimination, vibration), and quality of life.
RESULTS
Both the VG and SG showed significant improvements in NRS and BCTQ scores compared to the CG in within-group comparisons. Nighttime symptoms improved significantly in the VG compared to the CG in between-group analyses. Electrophysiological findings showed no significant changes.
CONCLUSIONS
An eight-week VR-mediated exercise program may enhance tendon and nerve gliding exercise effectiveness, particularly for nighttime symptoms in CTS patients.
CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT
In the future, challenging exercises requiring time and supervision could be effectively performed through VR, offering an alternative to traditional methods.
PubMed: 38551521
DOI: 10.23736/S1973-9087.24.08432-6 -
PloS One 2024Trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis (TMC-OA) reduces the range of motion (ROM) of the thumb. However, the kinematic change achieved through surgical treatment remains... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
Three-dimensional motion analysis of pre- and postoperative thumb movement in trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis-Comparison of arthrodesis and trapeziectomy with suspensionplasty.
Trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis (TMC-OA) reduces the range of motion (ROM) of the thumb. However, the kinematic change achieved through surgical treatment remains unclear. Therefore, to quantify the kinematic change following TMC-OA surgery, we performed a three-dimensional motion analysis of the thumb using an optical motion capture system preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively in 23 patients with TMC-OA scheduled for arthrodesis (AD) or trapeziectomy with suspensionplasty (TS). Eighteen hands of nine healthy volunteers were also included as controls. Both procedures improved postoperative pain and Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores, and AD increased pinch strength. The ROM of the base of the thumb was preserved in AD, which was thought to be due to the appearance of compensatory movements of adjacent joints even if the ROM of the TMC joint was lost. TS did not improve ROM. Quantifying thumb kinematic changes following TMC-OA surgery can improve our understanding of TMC-OA treatment and help select surgical procedures and postoperative assessment.
Topics: Humans; Osteoarthritis; Female; Thumb; Male; Middle Aged; Arthrodesis; Range of Motion, Articular; Aged; Trapezium Bone; Biomechanical Phenomena; Carpometacarpal Joints; Movement; Adult; Postoperative Period
PubMed: 38753715
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302898 -
Medical Science Monitor : International... May 2024BACKGROUND Scaphoid nonunion (SN) is a challenging condition in wrist pathology, often resulting in severe consequences if left untreated. Surgical intervention,...
Treatment of AVN-Induced Proximal Pole Scaphoid Nonunion Using a Fifth and Fourth Extensor Compartmental Artery as a Vascularized Pedicle Bone Graft: A Retrospective Case Series.
BACKGROUND Scaphoid nonunion (SN) is a challenging condition in wrist pathology, often resulting in severe consequences if left untreated. Surgical intervention, particularly using vascularized bone grafts (VBGs), is a promising but uncertain approach. The 4+5 extensor compartment artery (ECA) pedicled graft, less commonly used for SN, has potential benefits due to its vascular supply and accessibility to the scaphoid. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the 4+5 ECA pedicled graft combined with headless compression screw fixation in treating avascular necrosis (AVN)-induced proximal pole SN. Radiological results, functional outcomes, and complications related to this method were assessed. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of 19 proximal pole SN cases with AVN treated using the 4+5 ECA-VBG technique from 2016 to 2022. Patients underwent preoperative evaluation and postoperative follow-up for at least 1 year. Data on surgery, demographics, radiological assessments, and functional outcomes were recorded and analyzed statistically. RESULTS All patients achieved radiographic union within 8.5 weeks postoperatively, with revascularization of proximal pole necrosis. Significant improvements in functional outcomes were observed, including pain reduction, increased wrist range of motion, improved grip and pinch strength, and enhanced wrist scores. No major complications were reported. CONCLUSIONS The 4+5 ECA-VBG technique, with headless compression screw fixation, showed high success rates in treating AVN-induced proximal pole SN. This method offers comprehensive restoration of wrist function and minimal complications, making it a viable option for SN management, especially in AVN cases. Further research is needed to confirm these results and establish standardized protocols for SN treatment.
Topics: Humans; Scaphoid Bone; Male; Retrospective Studies; Female; Adult; Fractures, Ununited; Osteonecrosis; Bone Transplantation; Fracture Fixation, Internal; Treatment Outcome; Middle Aged; Range of Motion, Articular; Young Adult; Adolescent; Bone Screws; Arteries
PubMed: 38762751
DOI: 10.12659/MSM.944553 -
PloS One 2024African elephants have a wide range of abilities using their trunk. As a muscular hydrostat, and thanks to the two finger-like processes at its tip, this proboscis can...
African elephants have a wide range of abilities using their trunk. As a muscular hydrostat, and thanks to the two finger-like processes at its tip, this proboscis can both precisely grasp and exert considerable force by wrapping. Yet few studies have attempted to quantify its distal grasping force. Thus, using a device equipped with force sensors and an automatic reward system, the trunk tip pinch force has been quantified in five captive female African savanna elephants. Results showed that the maximum pinch force of the trunk was 86.4 N, which may suggest that this part of the trunk is mainly dedicated to precision grasping. We also highlighted for the first time a difference in force between the two fingers of the trunk, with the dorsal finger predominantly stronger than the ventral finger. Finally, we showed that the position of the trunk, particularly the torsion, influences its force and distribution between the two trunk fingers. All these results are discussed in the light of the trunk's anatomy, and open up new avenues for evolutionary reflection and soft robot grippers.
Topics: Animals; Elephants; Female; Torso; Fingers; Hand Strength; Biomechanical Phenomena
PubMed: 38743734
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301529 -
Polymers Mar 2024The use of Type IV cylinders for gas storage is becoming more widespread in various sectors, especially in transportation, owing to the lightweight nature of this type...
The use of Type IV cylinders for gas storage is becoming more widespread in various sectors, especially in transportation, owing to the lightweight nature of this type of cylinder, which is composed of a polymeric liner that exerts a barrier effect and an outer composite material shell that primarily imparts mechanical strength. In this work, the failure analysis of an HDPE liner in a Type IV cylinder for high-pressure storage was carried out. The breakdown occurred during a cyclic pressure test at room temperature and manifested in the hemispherical head area, as cracks perpendicular to the liner pinch-off line. The failed sample was thoroughly investigated and its characteristics were compared with those of other liners at different stages of production of a Type IV cylinder (blow molding, curing of the composite material). An examination of the liner showed that no significant chemical and morphological changes occurred during the production cycle of a Type IV cylinder that could justify the liner rupture, and that the most likely cause of failure was a design-related fatigue phenomenon.
PubMed: 38543383
DOI: 10.3390/polym16060779