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Sensors (Basel, Switzerland) May 2024(1) Background: The study aimed to determine the most important activities of the knee joints related to gait re-education in patients in the subacute period after a...
(1) Background: The study aimed to determine the most important activities of the knee joints related to gait re-education in patients in the subacute period after a stroke. We focused on the tests that a physiotherapist could perform in daily clinical practice. (2) Methods: Twenty-nine stroke patients (SG) and 29 healthy volunteers (CG) were included in the study. The patients underwent the 5-meter walk test (5mWT) and the Timed Up and Go test (TUG). Tests such as step up, step down, squat, step forward, and joint position sense test (JPS) were also performed, and the subjects were assessed using wireless motion sensors. (3) Results: We observed significant differences in the time needed to complete the 5mWT and TUG tests between groups. The results obtained in the JPS show a significant difference between the paretic and the non-paretic limbs compared to the CG group. A significantly smaller range of knee joint flexion (ROM) was observed in the paretic limb compared to the non-paretic and control limbs in the step down test and between the paretic and non-paretic limbs in the step forward test. (4) Conclusions: The described functional tests are useful in assessing a stroke patient's motor skills and can be performed in daily clinical practice.
Topics: Humans; Stroke Rehabilitation; Male; Female; Middle Aged; Gait; Stroke; Algorithms; Aged; Knee Joint; Range of Motion, Articular; Adult
PubMed: 38894207
DOI: 10.3390/s24113416 -
Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland) May 2024The severity of pulpitis is a crucial factor in determining the suitable treatment. There are no clear objective indicators to assess the stage of pulp inflammation that...
The severity of pulpitis is a crucial factor in determining the suitable treatment. There are no clear objective indicators to assess the stage of pulp inflammation that could be used in clinical practice. The change in blood pH of the pulp during the inflammatory phase could hypothetically serve as an indicator of the pulp inflammation severity. The aim of this study was to assess the pH values in the pulpal blood of mature teeth in patients with symptomatic pulpitis, in comparison with the healthy controls. The study included patients with symptoms of pulpitis in premolar or molar teeth (Test group; = 24, mean age 36.04, SD 7.10), and healthy controls (Control group, = 6, mean age 24.5, SD 5.94) referred for extraction of premolars or third molars, for orthodontic reasons. The pulpal blood was taken at the opening of the endodontic access cavity, and the pH value was measured in both groups. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 27.0 program with a significance level of ≤ 0.05. The Mann-Whitney test for dependent samples was performed to evaluate the statistical difference between the groups. The patients with symptomatic pulpitis had significantly decreased pulpal blood pH compared to the healthy controls ( ≤ 0.05). The mean pulpal blood pH was 7.27 (SD 0.06) and 7.40 (SD 0.02) in Test and Control groups, respectively. In the Test group, the pulpal blood pH values were significantly lower in the patients who had symptoms for 3 days or more (7.25, SD 0.05) than in those who had symptoms for up to 3 days (7.33, SD 0.03) ( < 0.001). The pH value of the pulpal blood gradually declines in cases of symptomatic pulpitis, along with increasing duration of the symptoms.
PubMed: 38893654
DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14111128 -
Journal of Neuroengineering and... Jun 2024Recently, the use of inertial measurement units (IMUs) in quantitative gait analysis has been widely developed in clinical practice. Numerous methods have been developed...
BACKGROUND
Recently, the use of inertial measurement units (IMUs) in quantitative gait analysis has been widely developed in clinical practice. Numerous methods have been developed for the automatic detection of gait events (GEs). While many of them have achieved high levels of efficiency in healthy subjects, detecting GEs in highly degraded gait from moderate to severely impaired patients remains a challenge. In this paper, we aim to present a method for improving GE detection from IMU recordings in such cases.
METHODS
We recorded 10-meter gait IMU signals from 13 healthy subjects, 29 patients with multiple sclerosis, and 21 patients with post-stroke equino varus foot. An instrumented mat was used as the gold standard. Our method detects GEs from filtered acceleration free from gravity and gyration signals. Firstly, we use autocorrelation and pattern detection techniques to identify a reference stride pattern. Next, we apply multiparametric Dynamic Time Warping to annotate this pattern from a model stride, in order to detect all GEs in the signal.
RESULTS
We analyzed 16,819 GEs recorded from healthy subjects and achieved an F1-score of 100%, with a median absolute error of 8 ms (IQR [3-13] ms). In multiple sclerosis and equino varus foot cohorts, we analyzed 6067 and 8951 GEs, respectively, with F1-scores of 99.4% and 96.3%, and median absolute errors of 18 ms (IQR [8-39] ms) and 26 ms (IQR [12-50] ms).
CONCLUSIONS
Our results are consistent with the state of the art for healthy subjects and demonstrate a good accuracy in GEs detection for pathological patients. Therefore, our proposed method provides an efficient way to detect GEs from IMU signals, even in degraded gaits. However, it should be evaluated in each cohort before being used to ensure its reliability.
Topics: Humans; Male; Female; Multiple Sclerosis; Adult; Middle Aged; Gait Disorders, Neurologic; Gait Analysis; Gait; Aged; Stroke; Accelerometry; Young Adult
PubMed: 38890696
DOI: 10.1186/s12984-024-01405-x -
Frontiers in Public Health 2024This study aimed to explore the potential effects of 8-week parents-accompanied swimming on the physical capacity and intelligence of preschool children in China....
This study aimed to explore the potential effects of 8-week parents-accompanied swimming on the physical capacity and intelligence of preschool children in China. Thirty-six boys (mean age 3.56 ± 0.27 years) were divided into three groups: the traditional physical exercise group (TP, = 12), the accompanied swimming group (AS, = 12) and the independent swimming group (IS, = 12). Participants' physical capacity was assessed before and after the intervention using the following indicators: height, weight, distance of tennis ball throw, standing long jump distance, time for the 10-meter shuttle run, time for a two-legged continuous jump, sit-and-reach distance, and time on the walking balance beam. Intelligence was assessed at three points: pre-test, mid-test after 4 weeks, and post-test. Data were analyzed using a two-way repeated measures ANOVA, Bonferroni test ( < 0.05) and effect size. The time of the AS and IS groups to walk the balance beam was significantly lower than the TP group, with a difference of 1.81 s ( < 0.01, [95% CI -3.22 to -0.40], ES = 1.53) and 1.25 s ( < 0.05, [95% CI -2.66 to 0.16], ES = 0.81). At the mid-test, the IQ scores of the TP group were lower than the AS group ( < 0.05, [95% CI -12.45 to -0.96], ES = 0.89). Additionally, at post-test, the IQ scores of the TP group were significantly lower than those of both AS ( < 0.01, [95% CI -14.12 to -2.74], ES = 1.15) and IS groups ( < 0.01, [95% CI -12.53 to -3.31], ES = 1.21). Swimming enhances children's balance and IQ scores more than traditional physical exercises. Involving parents in swimming leads to a more significant increase in IQ scores within 4 weeks of initial swimming exercise.
Topics: Humans; Male; Child, Preschool; Intelligence; Swimming; China; Parents; Exercise; Physical Fitness
PubMed: 38883199
DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1410707 -
Journal of Bodywork and Movement... Jul 2024In this case report a new approach called neurofascialvascular training (NFVT) is described. NFVT consists of two mechanisms which improve mechanosensitivity in carpal...
INTRODUCTION
In this case report a new approach called neurofascialvascular training (NFVT) is described. NFVT consists of two mechanisms which improve mechanosensitivity in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The first involves increased blood flow in the nerve microcirculation, while the second stimulates the reciprocal sliding between the thin sheets of connective tissue inside the nerve. The goal of these two actions is to squeeze, mobilize and reduce intraneural edema. The novelty of this approach is the simultaneous involvement of multiple physiological systems to reduce nerve mechanosensitivity. This case report describes the rehabilitation progress achieved by NFVT in a patient with CTS.
MAIN SYMPTOMS AND/OR IMPORTANT CLINICAL FINDINGS
A 64-year-old woman complaining of nocturnal pain and tingling with severe impairment of sleep quality for two years was diagnosed at CTS.
THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTIONS
The patient underwent nine 30-min exercise sessions of NFVT.
OUTCOMES
At each session and at the last follow-up 3 months after the end of treatment the following tests were performed: the upper limb neurodynamic test1 (ULNT1), the Hand Grip Meter and the Phdurkan test. Furthermore ultrasound, numerical rating scale and the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) were also adopted.
CONCLUSION
NFVT can improve symptoms and motor dysfunction in a patient with CTS.
TAKE-AWAY LESSON
In the presence of mild carpal tunnel syndrome, active neurofascialvascular training that increases peripheral blood flow and targets fascial tissue within the peripheral nervous system can resolve symptoms and produce significant improvement within a few months of starting treatment.
Topics: Humans; Carpal Tunnel Syndrome; Female; Middle Aged; Exercise Therapy; Hand Strength
PubMed: 38876659
DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2023.10.003 -
Mikrochimica Acta Jun 2024An ultra-high sensitivity pH sensor based on vertical organic electrochemical transistors (vOECT) with extended gate was proposed. The vOECT, which exhibited high...
An ultra-high sensitivity pH sensor based on vertical organic electrochemical transistors (vOECT) with extended gate was proposed. The vOECT, which exhibited high transconductance (g), was for the first time used in the preparation of a pH sensor. The extended gate was modified by electrochemical deposition of polyaniline (PANI) using the cyclic voltammetry (CV) technique. Open circuit potential (OCP) measurements were used to optimize the scan rate, showing a super-Nernstian sensitivity at all scan rates. The pH sensor based on vOECT with extended gate was investigated at different pH levels, and it exhibited an ultra-high sensitivity of 3363.6 µA/pH in the pH range 5-9, which was about 36 times greater than the maximum current sensitivity (91 µA/pH) of other transistor-based pH sensors, to the best of our knowledge. This pH sensor performed excellently in terms of reversibility, long-term stability, and selectivity. To confirm the reliability of the pH sensor, we conducted measurements on real samples using this pH sensor and compared the results with those obtained from a standard pH meter. The ultra-high sensitivity pH sensor based on vOECT with extended gate offers a sensitive and promising alternative in environmental monitoring, food safety, chemistry, clinical diagnostics, and bio-sensing applications.
PubMed: 38874626
DOI: 10.1007/s00604-024-06472-4 -
BMC Neurology Jun 2024In the United States, there are over seven million stroke survivors, with many facing gait impairments due to foot drop. This restricts their community ambulation and... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
A single-center, assessor-blinded, randomized controlled clinical trial to test the safety and efficacy of a novel brain-computer interface controlled functional electrical stimulation (BCI-FES) intervention for gait rehabilitation in the chronic stroke population.
BACKGROUND
In the United States, there are over seven million stroke survivors, with many facing gait impairments due to foot drop. This restricts their community ambulation and hinders functional independence, leading to several long-term health complications. Despite the best available physical therapy, gait function is incompletely recovered, and this occurs mainly during the acute phase post-stroke. Therapeutic options are limited currently. Novel therapies based on neurobiological principles have the potential to lead to long-term functional improvements. The Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) controlled Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) system is one such strategy. It is based on Hebbian principles and has shown promise in early feasibility studies. The current study describes the BCI-FES clinical trial, which examines the safety and efficacy of this system, compared to conventional physical therapy (PT), to improve gait velocity for those with chronic gait impairment post-stroke. The trial also aims to find other secondary factors that may impact or accompany these improvements and establish the potential of Hebbian-based rehabilitation therapies.
METHODS
This Phase II clinical trial is a two-arm, randomized, controlled, longitudinal study with 66 stroke participants in the chronic (> 6 months) stage of gait impairment. The participants undergo either BCI-FES paired with PT or dose-matched PT sessions (three times weekly for four weeks). The primary outcome is gait velocity (10-meter walk test), and secondary outcomes include gait endurance, range of motion, strength, sensation, quality of life, and neurophysiological biomarkers. These measures are acquired longitudinally.
DISCUSSION
BCI-FES holds promise for gait velocity improvements in stroke patients. This clinical trial will evaluate the safety and efficacy of BCI-FES therapy when compared to dose-matched conventional therapy. The success of this trial will inform the potential utility of a Phase III efficacy trial.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
The trial was registered as "BCI-FES Therapy for Stroke Rehabilitation" on February 19, 2020, at clinicaltrials.gov with the identifier NCT04279067.
Topics: Humans; Brain-Computer Interfaces; Stroke Rehabilitation; Electric Stimulation Therapy; Gait Disorders, Neurologic; Stroke; Male; Female; Middle Aged; Aged; Treatment Outcome; Single-Blind Method; Gait; Chronic Disease; Adult
PubMed: 38872109
DOI: 10.1186/s12883-024-03710-3 -
Nature Communications Jun 2024People with lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) have increased oxidative stress, impaired mitochondrial activity, and poor walking performance. NAD+ reduces... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
People with lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) have increased oxidative stress, impaired mitochondrial activity, and poor walking performance. NAD+ reduces oxidative stress and is an essential cofactor for mitochondrial respiration. Oral nicotinamide riboside (NR) increases bioavailability of NAD+ in humans. Among 90 people with PAD, this randomized double-blind clinical trial assessed whether 6-months of NR, with and without resveratrol, improves 6-min walk distance, compared to placebo, at 6-month follow-up. At 6-month follow-up, compared to placebo, NR significantly improved 6-min walk (+7.0 vs. -10.6 meters, between group difference: +17.6 (90% CI: + 1.8,+∞). Among participants who took at least 75% of study pills, compared to placebo, NR improved 6-min walk by 31.0 meters and NR + resveratrol improved 6-min walk by 26.9 meters. In this work, NR meaningfully improved 6-min walk, and resveratrol did not add benefit to NR alone in PAD. A larger clinical trial to confirm these findings is needed.
Topics: Humans; Peripheral Arterial Disease; Niacinamide; Male; Female; Aged; Pyridinium Compounds; Double-Blind Method; Resveratrol; Middle Aged; Walking; Treatment Outcome; Oxidative Stress
PubMed: 38871717
DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49092-5 -
Science Robotics Jun 2024Repetitive overhead tasks during factory work can cause shoulder injuries resulting in impaired health and productivity loss. Soft wearable upper extremity robots have...
Repetitive overhead tasks during factory work can cause shoulder injuries resulting in impaired health and productivity loss. Soft wearable upper extremity robots have the potential to be effective injury prevention tools with minimal restrictions using soft materials and active controls. We present the design and evaluation of a portable inflatable shoulder wearable robot for assisting industrial workers during shoulder-elevated tasks. The robot is worn like a shirt with integrated textile pneumatic actuators, inertial measurement units, and a portable actuation unit. It can provide up to 6.6 newton-meters of torque to support the shoulder and cycle assistance on and off at six times per minute. From human participant evaluations during simulated industrial tasks, the robot reduced agonist muscle activities (anterior, middle, and posterior deltoids and biceps brachii) by up to 40% with slight changes in joint angles of less than 7% range of motion while not increasing antagonistic muscle activity (latissimus dorsi) in current sample size. Comparison of controller parameters further highlighted that higher assistance magnitude and earlier assistance timing resulted in statistically significant muscle activity reductions. During a task circuit with dynamic transitions among the tasks, the kinematics-based controller of the robot showed robustness to misinflations (96% true negative rate and 91% true positive rate), indicating minimal disturbances to the user when assistance was not required. A preliminary evaluation of a pressure modulation profile also highlighted a trade-off between user perception and hardware demands. Finally, five automotive factory workers used the robot in a pilot manufacturing area and provided feedback.
Topics: Humans; Robotics; Wearable Electronic Devices; Equipment Design; Biomechanical Phenomena; Male; Shoulder; Adult; Range of Motion, Articular; Torque; Muscle, Skeletal; Electromyography; Industry; Shoulder Injuries; Female; Young Adult; Task Performance and Analysis; Shoulder Joint; Exoskeleton Device
PubMed: 38865477
DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.adi2377 -
BMC Biotechnology Jun 2024Genetic diversity, population structure, agro-morphological traits, and molecular characteristics, are crucial for either preserving genetic resources or developing new...
BACKGROUND
Genetic diversity, population structure, agro-morphological traits, and molecular characteristics, are crucial for either preserving genetic resources or developing new cultivars. Due to climate change, water availability for agricultural use is progressively diminishing. This study used 100 molecular markers (25 TRAP, 22 SRAP, 23 ISTR, and 30 SSR). Additionally, 15 morphological characteristics were utilized to evaluate the optimal agronomic traits of 12 different barley genotypes under arid conditions.
RESULTS
Substantial variations, ranging from significant to highly significant, were observed in the 15 agromorphological parameters evaluated among the 12 genotypes. The KSU-B101 barley genotype demonstrated superior performance in five specific traits: spike number per plant, 100-grain weight, spike number per square meter, harvest index, and grain yield. These results indicate its potential for achieving high yields in arid regions. The Sahrawy barley genotype exhibited the highest values across five parameters, namely leaf area, spike weight per plant, spike length, spike weight per square meter, and biological yield, making it a promising candidate for animal feed. The KSU-B105 genotype exhibited early maturity and a high grain count per spike, which reflects its early maturity and ability to produce a high number of grains per spike. This suggests its suitability for both animal feed and human food in arid areas. Based on marker data, the molecular study found that the similarity coefficients between the barley genotypes ranged from 0.48 to 0.80, with an average of 0.64. The dendrogram constructed from these data revealed three distinct clusters with a similarity coefficient of 0.80. Notably, the correlation between the dendrogram and its similarity matrix was high (0.903), indicating its accuracy in depicting the genetic relationships. The combined analysis revealed a moderate correlation between the morphological and molecular analysis, suggesting alignment between the two characterization methods.
CONCLUSIONS
The morphological and molecular analyses of the 12 barley genotypes in this study effectively revealed the varied genetic characteristics of their agro-performance in arid conditions. KSU-B101, Sahrawy, and KSU-B105 have emerged as promising candidates for different agricultural applications in arid regions. Further research on these genotypes could reveal their full potential for breeding programs.
Topics: Hordeum; Genotype; Genetic Variation; Genetic Markers
PubMed: 38862994
DOI: 10.1186/s12896-024-00861-6