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PloS One 2022Technical elements are related to shooting performance; however, the importance of each factor regarding performance, especially in elite-level pistol shooters, remains...
Technical elements are related to shooting performance; however, the importance of each factor regarding performance, especially in elite-level pistol shooters, remains controversial. The objective of this study was to determine the technical factors that influence pistol performance. One elite-level shooter was analysed during the season before the Olympic classification European championship through a total of six competitions (n = 360 shots). Aiming point trajectories were measured with the SCATT optoelectronic system. Variables were classified into six categories: performance; aiming time; stability of hold; aiming accuracy; cleanness of triggering and shooting delta. Principal component analysis, multiple regressions, Pearson correlations and ANOVAs were used to analyse the data. The results showed that five components (aiming time, stability of hold, aiming accuracy, cleanness of triggering and shooting delta) determined a total of 79.68% of the shooting variance. Specifically, aiming accuracy and cleanness of triggering explained up to 25% of the shooting score, with cleanness of triggering serving as the determining factor. Correlations were found among the performance and stability of hold, aiming accuracy, cleanness of triggering and shooting delta. Last, significant differences were found among 8-score, 9-score and 10-score shots. We conclude that while aiming accuracy seems to be related to the performance, cleanness of triggering could be the most critical technical element; furthermore, while stability of hold does not seem to be a determining factor of the score, it could be a general prerequisite to achieve high levels of performance in elite-level air pistol shooters.
Topics: Adult; Athletic Performance; Firearms; Humans; Male; Postural Balance; Principal Component Analysis; Psychomotor Performance; Task Performance and Analysis
PubMed: 35045106
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262276 -
Neuropsychologia Dec 2023Successful behaviour relies on the appropriate interplay between action and perception. The well-established dorsal and ventral stream theories depicted two distinct... (Review)
Review
Successful behaviour relies on the appropriate interplay between action and perception. The well-established dorsal and ventral stream theories depicted two distinct functional pathways for the processes of action and perception, respectively. In physiological conditions, the two pathways closely cooperate in order to produce successful adaptive behaviour. As the coupling between perception and action exists, this requires an interface that is responsible for a common reading of the two functions. Several studies have proposed different types of perception and action interfaces, suggesting their role in the creation of the shared interaction channel. In the present review, we describe three possible perception and action interfaces: i) the motor code, including common coding approaches, ii) attention, and iii) object affordance; we highlight their potential neural correlates. From this overview, a recurrent neural substrate that underlies all these interface functions appears to be crucial: the parieto-frontal circuit. This network is involved in the mirror mechanism which underlies the perception and action interfaces identified as common coding and motor code theories. The same network is also involved in the spotlight of attention and in the encoding of potential action towards objects; these are manifested in the perception and action interfaces for common attention and object affordance, respectively. Within this framework, most studies were dedicated to the description of the role of the inferior parietal lobule; growing evidence, however, suggests that the superior parietal lobule also plays a crucial role in the interplay between action and perception. The present review proposes a novel model that is inclusive of the superior parietal regions and their relative contribution to the different action and perception interfaces.
Topics: Humans; Psychomotor Performance; Brain Mapping; Parietal Lobe; Attention; Perception
PubMed: 37931747
DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2023.108722 -
Revista Espanola de Salud Publica Sep 2021The clinical evaluation is fundamental in the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and must include the evaluation of the psychomotor development in an integral... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
The clinical evaluation is fundamental in the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and must include the evaluation of the psychomotor development in an integral way that allows to identify the interaction between the somatic and the affective, and in the long term, positively influence the overall development of the child. The objective of this work was to identify validated psychomotor assessment tools in autism spectrum disorder in the current literature.
METHODS
An exploratory review was carried out following the Prisma-SCR criteria from searches in electronic databases, including PUBMED, SCIENCE DIRECT, LILACS, SCOPUS and PEDRO, only publications between the years 2010-2020 were taken into account. validation that will include people with ASD from 2 to 14 years old.
RESULTS
25 studies met the inclusion criteria, of which only the Gross Motor Development Test-3 (TGDM3) is recognized as a psychomotor exploration test through six locomotor activities and six object control.
CONCLUSIONS
The tools found are very broad compared to the measurement criteria and many of them are used as screening tests for ASD.
Topics: Adolescent; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Child; Child, Preschool; Humans; Psychomotor Performance; Spain
PubMed: 34584065
DOI: No ID Found -
Neuroscience Letters Jan 2022Manual motor deficits are common in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); however, it is unclear whether these impairments persist into...
Manual motor deficits are common in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); however, it is unclear whether these impairments persist into adulthood. The aim of this study was to examine manual dexterity and strength in young adults with ADHD aged 18-25 years. Sixty-one individuals with confirmed ADHD and 56 adults without ADHD completed Purdue Pegboard tasks for manual dexterity and maximal hand- and pinch-grip tests for strength. In the Purdue Pegboard task, participants placed pins using the right, left, and both-hands, respectively. In addition, participants built assemblies using pins, washers, and collars with alternating hand movements. The results demonstrated that women without ADHD out-performed the other three groups in the right-hand, bimanual, and assembly PPB tasks. Both maximal hand strength tests demonstrated that men were stronger than women, but no differences were observed between adults with and without ADHD. The current findings suggest that adults with ADHD may have deficits in manual dexterity and tasks requiring bimanual coordination.
Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity; Female; Humans; Male; Motor Skills; Muscle Strength; Psychomotor Performance; Young Adult
PubMed: 34785312
DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136349 -
Experimental and Clinical... Feb 2021Despite the growing interest in caffeine use and its effects among adolescents, and a large literature on caffeine and attention among adults, there is a lack of...
Despite the growing interest in caffeine use and its effects among adolescents, and a large literature on caffeine and attention among adults, there is a lack of experimental work examining the impact of caffeine on sustained attention among adolescents. We evaluated the acute effects of caffeine (vs. placebo) during a long (33-min) classic vigilance task among 31 adolescents (aged 12-17; 15 female; median caffeine use = 28 mg/day). We predicted a dose-dependent effect of caffeine, which would attenuate declines in target detection over time (i.e., a vigilance decrement). In each of 3 visits, participants completed an identical pairs continuous performance task beginning ∼25 min after consumption of noncaloric flavored water containing placebo, 1 mg/kg, or 3 mg/kg caffeine (order counterbalanced). Percent hits for low probability targets across 12 100-trial blocks was the primary outcome measure. As predicted, the linear decline in hits across trial blocks was attenuated by caffeine (Caffeine vs. Placebo × Block Linear, = .01), with significant improvements in Blocks 9-12 (s < .03). Compared to 1 mg/kg, 3 mg/kg caffeine resulted in earlier improvement in target detection (Drug Dose × Block Quadratic, = .001). This study demonstrated that caffeine acutely and dose-dependently improves sustained attention among adolescents. These results were likely due to the attention-enhancing effect of caffeine, rather than withdrawal reversal, as our sample was characterized by light to moderate caffeine use. This study provides the foundation for further work on the impact of chronic caffeine consumption on cognitive function during adolescence. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
Topics: Adolescent; Adolescent Behavior; Attention; Caffeine; Central Nervous System Stimulants; Child; Cognition; Double-Blind Method; Female; Humans; Male; Neuropsychological Tests; Psychomotor Performance; Reaction Time
PubMed: 32437192
DOI: 10.1037/pha0000364 -
NeuroImage Aug 2020We present the first evidence for vascular regulation driving fMRI signals in specific functional brain networks. Using concurrent neuronal and vascular stimuli, we...
We present the first evidence for vascular regulation driving fMRI signals in specific functional brain networks. Using concurrent neuronal and vascular stimuli, we collected 30 BOLD fMRI datasets in 10 healthy individuals: a working memory task, flashing checkerboard stimulus, and CO inhalation challenge were delivered in concurrent but orthogonal paradigms. The resulting imaging data were averaged together and decomposed using independent component analysis, and three "neuronal networks" were identified as demonstrating maximum temporal correlation with the neuronal stimulus paradigms: Default Mode Network, Task Positive Network, and Visual Network. For each of these, we observed a second network component with high spatial overlap. Using dual regression in the original 30 datasets, we extracted the time-series associated with these network pairs and calculated the percent of variance explained by the neuronal or vascular stimuli using a normalized R parameter. In each pairing, one network was dominated by the appropriate neuronal stimulus, and the other was dominated by the vascular stimulus as represented by the end-tidal CO time-series recorded in each scan. We acquired a second dataset in 8 of the original participants, where no CO challenge was delivered and CO levels fluctuated naturally with breathing variations. Although splitting of functional networks was not robust in these data, performing dual regression with the network maps from the original analysis in this new dataset successfully replicated our observations. Thus, in addition to responding to localized metabolic changes, the brain's vasculature may be regulated in a coordinated manner that mimics (and potentially supports) specific functional brain networks. Multi-modal imaging and advances in fMRI acquisition and analysis could facilitate further study of the dual nature of functional brain networks. It will be critical to understand network-specific vascular function, and the behavior of a coupled vascular-neural network, in future studies of brain pathology.
Topics: Adult; Blood Vessels; Brain Mapping; Carbon Dioxide; Female; Humans; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Male; Memory, Short-Term; Nerve Net; Neurovascular Coupling; Oxygen; Photic Stimulation; Psychomotor Performance; Regression Analysis
PubMed: 32387624
DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2020.116907 -
PloS One 2021In joint action literature it is often assumed that acting together is driven by pervasive and automatic process of co-representation, that is, representing the...
In joint action literature it is often assumed that acting together is driven by pervasive and automatic process of co-representation, that is, representing the co-actor's part of the task in addition to one's own. Much of this research employs joint stimulus-response compatibility tasks varying the stimuli employed or the physical and social relations between participants. In this study we test the robustness of co-representation effects by focusing instead on variation in response modality. Specifically, we implement a mouse-tracking version of a Joint Simon Task in which participants respond by producing continuous movements with a computer mouse rather than pushing discrete buttons. We have three key findings. First, in a replication of an earlier study we show that in a classical individual Simon Task movement trajectories show greater curvature on incongruent trials, paralleling longer response times. Second, this effect largely disappears in a Go-NoGo Simon Task, in which participants respond to only one of the cues and refrain from responding to the other. Third, contrary to previous studies that use button pressing responses, we observe no overall effect in the joint variants of the task. However, we also detect a notable diversity in movement strategies adopted by the participants, with some participants showing the effect on the individual level. Our study casts doubt on the pervasiveness of co-representation, highlights the usefulness of mouse-tracking methodology and emphasizes the need for looking at individual variation in task performance.
Topics: Adult; Arm; Choice Behavior; Female; Humans; Joints; Movement; Neuropsychological Tests; Psychomotor Performance; Reaction Time; Young Adult
PubMed: 34965256
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261735 -
Headache Jan 2020To review the published findings relevant to migraine and driving performance, with an intent to encourage discussion on research which may broaden understanding in this... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
To review the published findings relevant to migraine and driving performance, with an intent to encourage discussion on research which may broaden understanding in this area and help educate healthcare providers and their patients.
BACKGROUND
Motor vehicle crashes result in more than 35,000 deaths and more than 2 million injuries annually in the United States. Migraine is one of the most prevalent diseases in the world, and many symptoms associated with migraine attacks have the potential to negatively influence driving ability.
METHODS
We reviewed the published findings related to migraine and driving performance. Study findings relevant to symptoms of migraine and their potential effect on driving were also reviewed. This required a more expansive exploration of the literature beyond migraine, for example, review of the literature relating to the effect of pain, sleepiness, visual disturbances, or vertigo on driving. Finally, the potential effects of treatment for migraine on driving were reviewed.
RESULTS
Literature on the effect of migraine on driving performance is sparse and, in general published studies on the topic have a number of limitations. Based on review of the literature pertaining to other disorders, it seems feasible that some symptoms occurring as part of the migraine attack could impact driving performance, although formal study in this area is lacking. Many of the approved treatments for migraine have the potential to impact driving, yet this has not been specifically studied, and the extent to which these risks are communicated to patients is not clear.
CONCLUSION
The impact of migraine on driving performance has been largely neglected, with few studies specifically designed to address the topic, and relevant studies were generally small with limited control of confounders. This area requires more focus, given a potential for impact on road safety.
Topics: Automobile Driving; Humans; Migraine Disorders; Psychomotor Performance
PubMed: 31792964
DOI: 10.1111/head.13716 -
Sleep & Breathing = Schlaf & Atmung Dec 2022Optimal cognitive performance might prevent vehicle accidents. Identifying time-related circadian and homeostatic parameters having an impact on cognitive performance of...
PURPOSE
Optimal cognitive performance might prevent vehicle accidents. Identifying time-related circadian and homeostatic parameters having an impact on cognitive performance of drivers may be crucial to optimize drivers' performance.
METHODS
In this prospective study conducted on bus drivers, two drivers alternated driving during a 24-h round trip and were accompanied by an interviewer. Each driver was tested using Karolinska Sleepiness Scale (KSS) and the reversed digit span Wechsler Working Memory test before the start of his shift and then every 6 h during a "work/driving" day. Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT) was assessed before and after the journey. Linear mixed model was used to explore the factors affecting cognitive performance and sleepiness in univariate and multivariate analysis.
RESULTS
Among 35 bus drivers, the effect of time of day on working memories was statistically significant (p = 0.001), with the lowest working memory scores at 04:00 am (± 1). The highest score of subjective sleepiness was also at 04:00 am (± 1). The time on task parameter affected sleepiness significantly (p = 0.024) and sleepiness was significantly associated with decreased working memory. Psychomotor Vigilance Task reaction time mean and the number of minor lapses were significantly increased after the journey, which suggested decreased vigilance. In multivariable analysis, a longer interval between the beginning of working hours and testing time (B (95% CI) = 15.25 (0.49 to 30), p = 0.043) was associated with higher (i.e., slower) PVT reaction time mean.
CONCLUSIONS
These results suggest that optimizing bus drivers' working schedules may improve drivers' sleepiness and cognitive performance and thus increase road safety.
Topics: Humans; Automobile Driving; Cognition; Prospective Studies; Psychomotor Performance; Sleep; Sleepiness; Work Schedule Tolerance; Time Factors
PubMed: 35013897
DOI: 10.1007/s11325-021-02526-6 -
Experimental Brain Research Apr 2024Psychomotor slowing has consistently been observed in schizophrenia, however research on motor learning in schizophrenia is limited. Additionally, motor learning in...
Psychomotor slowing has consistently been observed in schizophrenia, however research on motor learning in schizophrenia is limited. Additionally, motor learning in schizophrenia has never been compared with the waning of motor learning abilities in the elderly. Therefore, in an extensive study, 30 individuals with schizophrenia, 30 healthy age-matched controls and 30 elderly participants were compared on sensorimotor learning tasks including sequence learning and adaptation (both explicit and implicit), as well as tracking and aiming. This paper presents new findings on an explicit motor sequence learning task, an explicit verbal learning task and a simple aiming task and summarizes all previously published findings of this large investigation. Individuals with schizophrenia and elderly had slower Movement Time (MT)s compared with controls in all tasks, however both groups improved over time. Elderly participants learned slower on tracking and explicit sequence learning while individuals with schizophrenia adapted slower and to a lesser extent to movement perturbations in adaptation tasks and performed less well on cognitive tests including the verbal learning task. Results suggest that motor slowing is present in schizophrenia and the elderly, however both groups show significant but different motor skill learning. Cognitive deficits seem to interfere with motor learning and performance in schizophrenia while task complexity and decreased movement precision interferes with motor learning in the elderly, reflecting different underlying patterns of decline in these conditions. In addition, evidence for motor slowing together with impaired implicit adaptation supports the influence of cerebellum and the cerebello-thalamo-cortical-cerebellar (CTCC) circuits in schizophrenia, important for further understanding the pathophysiology of the disorder.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Psychomotor Performance; Schizophrenia; Learning; Aging; Verbal Learning
PubMed: 38459999
DOI: 10.1007/s00221-024-06797-9