Search Results (44)

Background: Early childhood represents a key stage for the development of movement behaviors (MB), motor skills (MS), and executive functions (EF). Body Mass Index (BMI), defined according to World Health Organization (WHO) references, may influence these domains early in life. In this context, this cross-sectional observational study aimed to examine the associations between BMI and 24-h MB, MS, and EF in Tunisian preschool children aged 4 to 5 years. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study included 112 Tunisian children aged 4 to 5 years (50 boys, 62 girls), recruited from kindergartens in urban and rural areas. Anthropometric measurements were used to calculate age-specific BMI z-scores and classify children into three BMI categories: below normal, normal, and above normal. Twenty-four-hour MB physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior (SB), and sleep were objectively assessed using accelerometry over five consecutive days. EF (inhibition and working memory) were assessed using standardized cognitive tests, gross MS were evaluated using the Supine Timed Up and Go test (functional mobility), One-Leg Standing Balance test (postural steadiness), Hand Grip Dynamometer (upper body strength), and Standing Long Jump (lower body strength), and fine MS were assessed using the 9-Hole Pegboard Test (dexterity). All tools are validated and standardized for children. Results: Significant differences between BMI categories were observed for anthropometric variables (p < 0.05). In contrast, no significant differences were found for 24-h MB, adherence to recommendations, EF, and MS (p > 0.05). Only Sleep duration showed a difference significantly between BMI < normal and BMI > normal (p = 0.022). Conclusions: In Tunisian preschool children, weight status is primarily associated with differences in physical growth, with no marked relationship to MB, EF, or MS. These findings highlight the importance of universal preventive interventions, particularly focusing on growth monitoring, starting in early childhood. These results should be interpreted with caution and highlight the need for further studies on larger populations to better understand the relationships between BMI, PA, and development in young children. Full article

Background/Objectives: Frailty and functional decline represent major challenges for aging populations, particularly among institutionalized older adults. Preserving functional capacity is essential to maintain autonomy, mobility, and quality of life. This study aimed to compare the effects of two strength training interventions—functional electromechanical dynamometer (FEMD) training and weighted vest training—on peak concentric and eccentric force during the sit-to-stand task, as well as on functional performance and body composition in frail nursing home residents. Methods: A pilot quasi-experimental study with a non-randomized control group was conducted in 19 older adults (mean age: 86.3 ± 5.8 years). Participants were allocated to FEMD training (EG1, n = 6), weighted vest training (EG2, n = 6), or a control group (CG, n = 7). Training was performed twice weekly for eight weeks. Assessments included body composition, handgrip strength, 30 s chair stand test, 3 m walking speed, and peak concentric and eccentric force during the sit-to-stand movement. Data were analyzed using mixed-model ANOVA and complementary within-group analyses. Results: No significant group × moment interactions were observed. However, EG1 demonstrated significant within-group improvements in chair stand performance (+4.8 repetitions, p = 0.006), walking speed (+0.1 m·s⁻¹, p = 0.030), concentric peak force (+46.5%, p = 0.008), and eccentric peak force (+34%, p = 0.047). EG2 showed a smaller but significant increase in eccentric peak force (+6.1%, p = 0.019), without functional improvements. Body composition changes were modest, with EG1 showing increases in weight and BMI without concomitant fat mass gains. Conclusions: In this pilot quasi-experimental study, functional electromechanical dynamometer-based training was associated with improvements in neuromuscular performance, particularly concentric peak force. However, no significant group × moment interactions were observed, indicating that differential effects between interventions cannot be established. Functional improvements should be interpreted cautiously. The present results should therefore be considered exploratory and hypothesis-generating. These findings suggest that FEMD-based training may be a feasible and potentially beneficial functional strength training strategy for frail institutionalized older adults, which should be confirmed in adequately powered randomized controlled trials. Full article

Background. Cervical spondylosis is a degenerative disorder of the spine, frequently associated with chronic neck pain, reduced mobility, and functional impairment. Patients develop alterations in muscle tone, stiffness, and elasticity, which further contribute to disability. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 14-day standardized rehabilitation program on the biomechanical and contractile properties of cervical and scapular muscles in patients with cervical spondylosis. Methods. This study used a single-group pre–post observational design on 23 patients (16 women, 7 men; mean age 61.1 ± 14.2 years) diagnosed with cervical spondylosis. All participants completed a standardized rehabilitation treatment that included cervical mobilization, stretching, isometric exercises, scapular stabilization, electrotherapy, ultrasound, thermotherapy, and balneotherapy. Muscle properties were evaluated bilaterally using the MyotonPRO^® device, measuring frequency, stiffness, decrement, relaxation time, and creep. Assessments were performed in a sitting position for the deltoid, upper trapezius and pectoralis major, both at baseline (T0) and after treatment (T1). Handgrip strength was assessed bilaterally with a handheld dynamometer. Results. The deltoid muscle showed a significant reduction in frequency (14.86 → 13.50 Hz, p = 0.034) and stiffness (306.4 → 256.1 N/m, p = 0.014) on the right side, suggesting normalization of tone and passive resistance. The upper trapezius had a significant bilateral decrease in decrement (p < 0.05), reflecting improved elasticity. The pectoralis major displayed the most consistent adaptations, with increased frequency (right side, p = 0.008), improved relaxation bilaterally (p < 0.05), and significant reductions in decrement and creep (p < 0.01). Handheld dynamometry confirmed increased handgrip strength, with a 5.4% improvement on the left side and 7.6% on the right side. Conclusions. In our study measurable changes in muscle parameters were observed following a rehabilitation program in patients with cervical spondylosis. The integration of myotonometry and dynamometry allowed objective assessment of muscle adaptations supporting the clinical value of individualized rehabilitation strategies. Full article

Energy-efficient driving is essential for reducing the environmental impacts of road transport, especially for electric passenger vehicles. This research aims to build a data-driven behavioral analysis and energy-consumption evaluation model. The model relies on sensor data from the vehicle’s on-board communication network, primarily the CAN (Controller Area Network) bus. We analyze patterns of key powertrain and battery parameters—such as current, voltage, state of charge (SoC), and power—in relation to driver inputs, such as the accelerator pedal position. In the first stage, we review the literature with a focus on machine learning and clustering methods used in behavioral and energy analysis. We also examine the role of on-board telemetry systems. Next, we develop a controlled measurement architecture. It defines reference consumption maps from dynamometer data across operating points and environmental variables, including SoC, temperature, and load. The longer-term goal is a multidimensional behavioral map and profiling framework that can predict energy efficiency from real-time driver inputs. This work lays the foundation for a future system with adaptive, feedback-based driver support. Such a system can promote intelligent, sustainable, and behavior-oriented mobility solutions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Hamstring injuries are highly prevalent in sports and often occur, particularly among recreational and professional athletes. Assessing eccentric hamstring strength is critical for injury prevention and rehabilitation, with isokinetic dynamometry being considered the gold standard. However, its accessibility is limited by cost and logistics. This study aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of the My Jump Lab (version 4.0) mobile application in estimating eccentric peak torque in the break-point angle, compared with isokinetic dynamometry. Methods: Twenty-seven recreational athletes (twenty-six male, one female) were assessed bilaterally using the mobile application and isokinetic dynamometer, which is considered the gold standard for this type of strength assessment. Statistical analysis included Pearson’s correlation, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), coefficient of variation (CV), and Bland–Altman plots. Results: Results showed excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.999; CV = 0.66%) for both smartphone application evaluators and good comparative validity and reliability (ICC ≈ 0.76 with confidence interval: 0.5367–0.876; p < 0.001 and r ≈ 0.705;) when comparing with isokinetic dynamometry. Conclusions: My Jump Lab is a mobile application which can provide a practical and accessible mean for monitoring eccentric hamstring strength in field settings. The app may serve as a feasible field-based alternative to laboratory dynamometry for eccentric strength monitoring. Full article

Frailty has emerged as a critical determinant of clinical outcomes in elderly patients, shaping postoperative recovery in crucial orthopedic events, such as hip fractures. The purpose of the present study is to examine the impact of frailty syndrome on muscle strength and joint range of motion in the non-fractured lower extremity and upper extremities of hospitalized older adults following hip fracture surgery. The sample consisted of 60 elderly patients recovering from either intracapsular or extracapsular hip fractures. Participants were categorized into either a frail or non-frail group, determined by the Clinical Frailty Scale. The outcome measures of muscle strength and range of motion of the upper and lower extremities were assessed by valid instruments, including a hand-held dynamometer, the Medical Research Council scale, and a digital goniometer. Statistical comparisons between groups were conducted using the independent samples t-test and the Mann–Whitney U test. The results showed that the non-frail group demonstrated greater active range of motion in the shoulder bilaterally (right: t = −2.85, left: U = 628.00, p < 0.05), elbow flexion bilaterally (right: U = 589.50, left: U = 592.50, p < 0.05), hip flexion (U = 679.50, p < 0.01), knee extension (t = −3.07, p < 0.05), and ankle dorsiflexion (t = −2.36, p < 0.05). Regarding the muscle strength, the non-frail group showed significantly higher grip strength bilaterally (right: U = 754.50, left: U = 713.50, p < 0.001), as well as greater strength in hip flexion (U = 641.00, p < 0.01) and ankle dorsiflexion (U = 619.50, p < 0.01). Frailty may negatively influence the muscle strength and joint mobility in non-fractured extremities, thereby hindering postoperative physical recovery in older adults with hip fractures. Further research involving a larger and more homogeneous sample may predict falls in elderly patients after hip or knee surgery using the Clinical Frailty Scale. Full article

Background: This randomized controlled trial aimed to assess the effects of a yearly Multi-Component Exercise Training (MCET) program performed within the hospital setting on the functional capacity and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) of inpatients with psychotic disorders. Methods: Forty-eight inpatients of a public Psychiatric Hospital with a diagnosis of psychosis participated in the study and were randomly assigned to two groups: (i) the intervention group (mean age: 46.6 ± 13.2) and (ii) the control group (mean age: 47.7 ± 8.9). The MCET program consisted of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (AE), Pilates exercises, and strengthening, balance, corrective and flexibility exercises, using rubber bands, mobility sticks and balls. Sessions were implemented three times per week over a 12-month period and each group session lasted for 30–45 min. The primary outcomes of the study included functional capacity and HRQoL. Functional capacity was assessed through measurements of strength (using handgrip and leg dynamometer), balance, and body positioning, while HRQoL was evaluated using the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Results: At the end of the treatment, participants in the intervention group demonstrated significantly increased lower and upper extremity muscle strength by 35.9% (p < 0.01) and 23.6% (p < 0.01), respectively, improved balance by 18.1% (p < 0.001), and enhanced sit-and-reach and sit-to-stand results by 47.6% (p < 0.001) and 18.2% (p < 0.001), respectively, as well as increased distance covered at 6MWT by 26.2% (p < 0.001). Regarding the HRQoL, all the parameters of the SF-36 were improved, including general and mental health (p < 0.05), physical (p < 0.001) and social function (p < 0.05), physical (p < 0.01) and emotional roles (p < 0.01) and vitality and bodily pain (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively). The Physical Component Summary score (PCS) was enhanced significantly (p < 0.001), while the Mental Component Summary score (MCS) remained unchanged. Compliance with the 1-year ET program was 80%. Conclusions: The findings of the study indicated that a 1-year moderate-intensity MCET performed three times per week was safe, well accepted and efficient in improving physical functioning and HRQoL among inpatients with psychotic disorders. These results suggest that structured exercise interventions could be prescribed as add-ons to the pharmacological treatment for psychotic disorders. Full article

Enhanced Battery Management Systems (BMS) are essential for improving operational efficacy and safety within Electric Vehicles (EVs), especially in tropical climates where traditional systems encounter considerable performance constraints. This research introduces a novel two-tiered deep learning framework that utilizes a two-stage Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) framework for precise prediction of battery voltage and SoC. The first tier employs LSTM-1 forecasts individual cell voltages across a full-scale 120-cell Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery pack using multivariate time-series data, including voltage history, vehicle speed, current, temperature, and load metrics, derived from dynamometer testing. Experiments simulate real-world urban driving, with speeds from 6 km/h to 40 km/h and load variations of 0, 10, and 20%. The second tier uses LSTM-2 for SoC estimation, designed to handle temperature-dependent voltage fluctuations in high-temperature environments. This cascade design allows the system to capture complex temporal and inter-cell dependencies, making it especially effective under high-temperature and variable-load environments. Empirical validation demonstrates a 15% improvement in SoC estimation accuracy over traditional methods under real-world driving conditions. This study marks the first deep learning-based BMS optimization validated in tropical climates, setting a new benchmark for EV battery management in similar regions. The framework’s performance enhances EV reliability, supporting the growing electric mobility sector. Full article

In the automotive industry, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) represent the future of individual mobility. To establish a long-term market presence, innovative vehicle and powertrain concepts are essential, and therefore, identifying the most promising concepts is crucial to determine where to focus research and development further. Academia plays a significant role in this identification process; however, researchers often face restricted access to data from the industry, and identifying different technological approaches is often connected to significant costs. We present a comprehensive study of the Porsche Taycan Performance Battery Plus, which integrates two technological advancements: the first series-production implementation of a two-speed transmission in an electric vehicle allowing for high acceleration while reaching high top speeds and a 800 V battery system architecture providing more efficient charging capabilities. This study details vehicle dynamics, electric powertrain efficiencies, their impact on vehicle level, and the two technological advancements. This work aims to provide researchers access to vehicle dynamometer and real-world data from one of the most advanced and innovative battery electric sports cars. This allows for further analysis of cutting-edge technologies that have yet to reach the mass market. In addition to providing researchers with this study’s results, all data utilized in this study will be made available as open-access, enabling individual use of test data for parameter identification and the development of simulation models. Full article

Background/Objectives: Total hip joint arthroplasty (THA) is a common procedure aimed at alleviating pain and restoring mobility in patients with severe hip joint conditions, particularly osteoarthritis. While the surgery itself is effective, postoperative rehabilitation is crucial for long-term functional recovery. This study investigates the role of muscle deflection as an indicator of rehabilitation quality, focusing on hip movement improvements (abduction, extension, and flexion) over an 8-week recovery period. The objective is to assess whether muscle deflection measurements can serve as reliable metrics for evaluating recovery progress and functional outcomes. Methods: The study involved post-THA patients from Euroclinic Hospital S.A. and Bucharest Emergency Clinical Hospital, who were divided into an experimental group (undergoing a specialized rehabilitation program) and a control group (receiving standard recovery protocols). Measurements of active range of motion (AROM), passive range of motion (PROM), and muscle deflection were taken using a handheld digital dynamometer (ActivForce 2) at different time points (2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks post-surgery). The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) was also used to assess pain, physical difficulties, and joint stiffness. Results: The study found progressive improvements in AROM, PROM, and muscle deflection across all movements over the 8-week period. Conclusions: The findings highlight the importance of structured physiotherapy in post-THA rehabilitation. The use of muscle deflection measurements provides an objective and quantifiable method for tracking patient progress. Future rehabilitation protocols could benefit from incorporating muscle deflection monitoring to tailor recovery programs and optimize patient outcomes. Standardizing rehabilitation exercises, including balance training and resistance exercises, may further enhance recovery and reduce long-term functional impairments. Full article

Background/objective: Tennis involves repetitive overhead movements, and understanding the relationship between shoulder mobility, dynamic stability, and isometric strength could be crucial for developing targeted training programmes to enhance performance and reduce injury risk. This study aimed to assess shoulder rotational mobility, dynamic stability, and isometric strength profiles in elite and national-level tennis players. Methods: Twenty-four male and female athletes were grouped by competitive level: National-Level Female Group (NFG); National-Level Male Group (NMG); and Elite Male Group (EMG). Shoulder isometric strength was evaluated using an electromechanical dynamometer (Dynasystem), while rotational mobility and dynamic stability were assessed using standardised protocols. Results: Significant anthropometric differences in height, weight, and leg length were identified between NFG and the other groups (p < 0.001). NMG showed reduced external rotation compared to NFG and EMG in the dominant shoulder (p < 0.05). EMG exhibited significant asymmetries in external rotation between the dominant and non-dominant shoulders, which may be attributed to higher training volumes (p < 0.05; ES = 0.994). No significant differences were found in isometric strength across the groups, although NFG showed lower internal rotation strength and ER/IR ratio asymmetry between the dominant and non-dominant shoulder (p < 0.05). Dynamic stability scores were consistently low, with asymmetries between the dominant and non-dominant sides in most cases. Conclusions: These findings suggest the need for targeted training to address asymmetries and enhance dynamic stability. Caution is advised when generalising these results due to the limited sample size. Future research should include more participants and explore associations with performance metrics, such as serve speed and playing style. Full article

Trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis (TMJ OA) is a progressive condition, particularly affecting postmenopausal women. Various surgical techniques have been proposed, but the optimal approach remains debated. This clinical study compares the clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes of two surgical treatments: suspension tenoplasty using the flexor carpi radialis tendon (Altissimi technique, AST) and a dual-mobility prosthesis. The main complications associated with these procedures include postoperative pain, De Quervain’s syndrome, radial nerve injuries, and prosthetic component mobilization. In prosthetic arthroplasty, the most common complication is component mobilization (8%), while in tenoplasty, postoperative pain is the most frequent (15%). A total of 36 patients were randomized into two groups: 18 patients underwent AST (Group A), and 18 received trapeziometacarpal joint arthroplasty (Group B). Functional outcomes were assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Visual Analogue Score (VAS), and Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. Range of motion (ROM), Kapandji score, pulp pinch strength, hand grip strength (Jamar dynamometer), and radiological maintenance of the trapezial space (step-off measurement) were also evaluated. Both procedures resulted in significant pain reduction (VAS, p < 0.05) and functional improvement (DASH, MHQ, p < 0.05). ROM increased significantly in both groups. The Kapandji scores improved from 4.0 ± 1.1 to 9.2 ± 1.2 (Group A) and 4.3 ± 0.8 to 7.8 ± 1.4 (Group B) (p < 0.05). Group B grip strength results showed a greater increase in hand grip strength than Group A (p = 0.23). The radiographic step-off showed slight proximal migration of the first metacarpal in Group A, whereas Group B maintained joint height. No implant loosening or major complications were reported in either group. Both suspension tenoplasty and dual-mobility arthroplasty are effective in TMJ OA. AST ensures joint stability with minimal radiographic changes, whereas TJA provides superior grip strength and ROM recovery. The absence of major complications suggests that TJA is a safe alternative to AST, but its higher cost and potential for implant-related complications must be considered. Full article

Background: Patellar dislocation is a knee injury affecting generally young, active individuals, damaging joint ligaments and structures, and impacting sports activity and quality of life. Objective: This review aimed to evaluate the role of the quadriceps femoris muscle in knee extension and to consider whether extensor strength deficits are present in patients who have suffered from a primary or recurrent patellar dislocation and have been treated surgically or conservatively. Methods: This systematic literature review with meta-analysis was performed following the PRISMA Statement criteria. The search engines consulted to select studies were MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science/ISI. The JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist tools were applied for the quality assessment based on the specific study design. The outcomes were measurements of the knee extension force of the quadriceps femoris muscle, which were objectively quantifiable with an isokinetic or mobile dynamometer. Results: Of the 891 articles initially identified through the databases, 10 studies with a total of 370 patients were included in the analysis. The results indicated a strength deficit of the quadriceps in patients who had undergone a patellar dislocation, in comparison with the control group, when examining the uninvolved limb or in comparison with the pre-operative values. The overall effect size was large, with a value of −0.99. Conclusions: Our review concluded that after a primary or recurrent patellar dislocation, strength deficits of the quadriceps femoris muscle in the knee extension of the affected limb are frequently observed in surgically or conservatively treated patients. This deficit may persist even after a protracted follow-up of up to three years after injury. Full article

Great toe strength (GTS) weakness is linked to declines in balance and mobility. Accurately assessing GTS, particularly great toe extension strength (GTES), is often neglected in clinical evaluations due to cumbersome and subjective methods. This study aims to characterize the force development curve output from the ToeScale and examine GTES variations with age, sex, BMI, and grip strength (GS) using traditional analyses and machine learning (ML). We conducted a pilot, cross-sectional feasibility study with convenience samples. We assessed GS using a hand-grip dynamometer and GTES using the ToeScale. The data analysis included descriptive statistics, correlations, independent samples t-tests, and accuracy and area under the curve (AUC) scores for three ML models. Thirty-one participants (males: 9; females: 22), 14 young (18–24 years) and 17 older (>65 years) adults, participated in the study. Males had significantly higher peak GTES than females in both age groups. The associations of GTES parameters with BMI and GS varied by age and sex. The ML model accuracies and AUC scores were low–moderate but aligned with traditional analyses. Future studies with larger samples and optimized ML models are needed. Full article

Because of the high prevalence of bone destruction in patients with multiple myeloma (MM), physical exercise is oftentimes discouraged by healthcare providers. The goal of this prospective trial was to investigate the feasibility of two six-month exercise interventions in patients with MM (N = 42): a remotely prompted home-based walking intervention or a supervised strength training intervention. Physical function and pain were assessed with the Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care (AM-PAC) Basic Mobility Short Form raw score, a six-minute walk test (6 MWT), a 30-second sit-to-stand test (30 SST), a timed up-and-go (TUG) test, a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, handheld dynamometer tests, heart rate at rest, blood oxygen saturation at rest, and body mass index. No intervention-related serious adverse events were observed. Adverse events mostly affected the musculoskeletal system. In the resistance training group (n = 24), patients showed significant improvements in AM-PAC, TUG, 6 MWT, and 30 SST, with all effects but the 6 MWT sustained six months after the intervention. The walking group (n = 18) saw improvements in the AM-PAC, TUG, 6 MWT, and 30 SST, with a sustained change in the AM-PAC and TUG. This trial shows the feasibility of both exercise interventions with a sustained beneficial effect on the physical functioning of a six-month strength training intervention and, to a lesser extent, a six-month unsupervised walking intervention. A larger study building on these findings is currently underway. Full article