Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (513)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = upper extremity performance

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
20 pages, 562 KiB  
Article
Effectiveness of a Post-Acute-Care Rehabilitation Program in Patients with Stroke: A Retrospective Cohort Study
by Yi-Pang Lo, Mei-Chen Wang, Yao-Hsiang Chen, Shang-Lin Chiang and Chia-Huei Lin
Life 2025, 15(8), 1216; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15081216 - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
Early rehabilitation is essential for restoring functional recovery in patients with stroke, particularly during the early phase of post-acute care (PAC), or the subacute stage. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a 7-week PAC rehabilitation program in improving muscle strength, physical performance, [...] Read more.
Early rehabilitation is essential for restoring functional recovery in patients with stroke, particularly during the early phase of post-acute care (PAC), or the subacute stage. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a 7-week PAC rehabilitation program in improving muscle strength, physical performance, and functional recovery. A total of 219 inpatients with stroke in the subacute stage were initially recruited from the PAC ward of a regional teaching hospital in Northern Taiwan, with 79 eligible patients—within 1 month of an acute stroke—included in the analysis. The program was delivered 5 days per week, with 3–4 sessions daily (20–30 min each, up to 120 min daily), comprising physical, occupational, and speech–language therapies. Sociodemographic data, muscle strength, physical performance (Berg Balance Scale [BBS], gait speed, and 6-minute walk test [6MWT]), and functional recovery (modified Rankin Scale [mRS], Barthel Index [BI], Instrumental Activities of Daily Living [IADL], and Fugl–Meyer assessment: sensory and upper extremity) were collected at baseline, 3 weeks, and 7 weeks. Generalized estimating equations analyzed program effectiveness. Among the 56 patients (70.9%) who completed the program, significant improvements were observed in the muscle strength of both the affected upper (B = 0.93, p < 0.001) and lower limbs (B = 0.88, p < 0.001), as well as in their corresponding unaffected limbs; in physical performance, including balance (BBS score: B = 9.70, p = 0.003) and gait speed (B = 0.23, p = 0.024); and in functional recovery, including BI (B = 19.5, p < 0.001), IADL (B = 1.48, p < 0.001), and mRS (B = −0.13, p = 0.028). These findings highlight the 7-week PAC rehabilitation program as an effective strategy during the critical recovery phase for patients with stroke. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Rehabilitation of Stroke)
Show Figures

Figure 1

37 pages, 12322 KiB  
Article
Research on the Evaluation Method of Electrical Stress Limit Capability Based on Reliability Enhancement Theory
by Shuai Zhou, Kaixue Ma, Zhihua Cai, Shoufu Liu, Jian Xiang and Chi Ma
Electronics 2025, 14(15), 3056; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14153056 - 30 Jul 2025
Abstract
This study focuses on the evaluation of electrical stress limit capability for 3D-packaged memory (256 M × 72-bit DDR3 SDRAM) (Shanghai Fudan Microelectronics Group Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China). Guided by Reliability Enhancement Theory, this study presents a meticulously designed comprehensive test profile that [...] Read more.
This study focuses on the evaluation of electrical stress limit capability for 3D-packaged memory (256 M × 72-bit DDR3 SDRAM) (Shanghai Fudan Microelectronics Group Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China). Guided by Reliability Enhancement Theory, this study presents a meticulously designed comprehensive test profile that incorporates critical stress parameters, including supply voltage, input clock frequency, electrostatic discharge (ESD) sensitivity, and electrical endurance. Explicit criteria for stress selection, upper/lower bounds, step increments, and duration are established. A dedicated test platform is constructed, integrating automated test equipment (ATE) and ESD sensitivity analyzers with detailed specifications on device selection criteria and operational principles. The functional performance testing methodology is systematically investigated, covering test platform configuration, initialization protocols, parametric testing procedures, functional verification, and acceptance criteria. Extreme-condition experiments—including supply voltage margining, input clock frequency tolerance, ESD sensitivity characterization, and accelerated electrical endurance testing—are conducted to quantify operational and destructive limits. The findings provide critical theoretical insights and practical guidelines for the design optimization, quality control, and reliability enhancement of 3D-packaged memory devices. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 1969 KiB  
Case Report
A Rare t(3;15;17) in a Patient with Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia: Case Report and Review of the Literature
by Linda Shi, Chu En Chen, Tahmeena Ahmed, Jacob Rocha, Pons Materum, Sashank Cherukuri, Leah Gallagher, Paula Fernicola, Roxana Ponce, Htien Lee, Christina Giordano, Gabriela Evans, Changtai Tian and Carlos A. Tirado
Diagnostics 2025, 15(15), 1901; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15151901 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 142
Abstract
We present a 48-year-old female with a past medical history of endometrioid adenocarcinoma who presented with symptoms of spontaneous gum bleeding, post-coital bleeding, and upper extremities–lower extremities-abdomen ecchymosis. Initial laboratory findings were significant for cytopenia and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Due to a [...] Read more.
We present a 48-year-old female with a past medical history of endometrioid adenocarcinoma who presented with symptoms of spontaneous gum bleeding, post-coital bleeding, and upper extremities–lower extremities-abdomen ecchymosis. Initial laboratory findings were significant for cytopenia and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Due to a suspected case of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), conventional karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) were performed. FISH analysis confirmed an unusual chromosome rearrangement that affected chromosomes 3, 15, and 17. This t(3;15;17)(q29;q24;q21) was characterized by the presence of PML::RARA fusion on the derivative chromosome 15. Treatment at the hospital with standard APL therapy of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and arsenic trioxide (ATO) was complicated by the development of differentiation syndrome, which necessitated the temporary stoppage of ATO. However, complete remission was achieved despite complications after starting consolidation treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 451 KiB  
Article
Primary and Recurrent Erysipelas—Epidemiological Patterns in a Single-Centre Retrospective Analysis
by Marta Matych, Agata Ciosek, Karol Miler, Marcin Noweta, Karolina Brzezińska, Małgorzata Sarzała, Joanna Narbutt and Aleksandra Lesiak
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5299; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155299 - 27 Jul 2025
Viewed by 286
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Erysipelas is an acute bacterial skin infection, particularly affecting the lower limbs, with a tendency to recur. Despite its clinical importance, data on demographic and epidemiological risk factors, as well as factors influencing hospitalization, remain limited. This study aimed to analyze the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Erysipelas is an acute bacterial skin infection, particularly affecting the lower limbs, with a tendency to recur. Despite its clinical importance, data on demographic and epidemiological risk factors, as well as factors influencing hospitalization, remain limited. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of patients hospitalized with primary and recurrent erysipelas, focusing on risk factors contributing to disease onset, recurrence, and prolonged hospitalization. Methods: A retrospective single-center analysis was conducted on 239 patients hospitalized for erysipelas at the Department of Dermatology, Pediatric Dermatology, and Oncology at the Medical University of Lodz. Data collected included demographics, lesion location, laboratory markers, comorbidities, and hospitalization outcomes. Statistical analyses were performed to assess associations between risk factors, disease recurrence, and hospitalization duration. Results: The majority of erysipelas cases (85.4%) involved the lower limbs, with a higher prevalence in men. Upper extremities were mostly affected in women, especially those who had undergone breast cancer surgery. Recurrent erysipelas accounted for 75.7% of cases. Most patients (89.1%) had at least one comorbidity, with hypertension, diabetes type 2 (DM2), and obesity being the most common. Higher white blood cell (WBC) count, obesity, atrial fibrillation (AF), and the need for enoxaparin administration were independently associated with prolonged hospitalization. Dyslipidemia was significantly associated with erysipelas recurrence (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Both primary and recurrent erysipelas are associated with specific risk factors. Recurrent erysipelas may be linked to components of metabolic syndrome, particularly obesity and dyslipidemia, which emerged as a significant risk factor in this study. Hospitalization length may be prolonged by inflammation markers (WBC and CRP) and comorbidities such as AF, obesity, or the need for enoxaparin in patients with elevated thrombosis risk. Further multicenter studies with larger cohorts are needed to assess the impact of demographics, biomarkers, metabolic disorders, and treatment strategies on erysipelas recurrence and outcomes. Awareness of these risk factors is essential for effective prevention, management, and recurrence reduction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Epidemiology of Skin Diseases: 3rd Edition)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 459 KiB  
Article
Effects of Air Splints on Sensorimotor Disturbances of the Affected Upper Extremity and Trunk Control in Adult Post-Stroke Patients
by Ana Isabel Useros-Olmo, Roberto Cano-de-la-Cuerda, Jesús Rodríguez-Herranz, Alfonso Gil-Martínez and Alicia Hernando-Rosado
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5185; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155185 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 174
Abstract
Background: The present study aimed to determine whether the protocolized use of pneumatic splints within neurodevelopmental therapeutic approaches produces a positive effect on sensorimotor impairments of the hemiplegic upper extremity in patients. Methods: A randomized clinical single-blind trial was conducted. Stroke patients were [...] Read more.
Background: The present study aimed to determine whether the protocolized use of pneumatic splints within neurodevelopmental therapeutic approaches produces a positive effect on sensorimotor impairments of the hemiplegic upper extremity in patients. Methods: A randomized clinical single-blind trial was conducted. Stroke patients were recruited and randomized into an experimental group, which completed a treatment protocol of splinting plus physiotherapy for 45 min per session, two sessions per week for four weeks; or a control group, which received the same type of conventional physiotherapy treatment for the same period of time. The patients were evaluated by Fugl-Meyer Assessment of the Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) and the Trunk Control Scale. Secondary variables were Mini-BEStest, the modified Ashworth scale for ankle flexors, and computerized measurements of upper limb functional parameters performed by Armeo Spring® robotic systems and Amadeo®. All variables were measured pre- and post-treatment. Results: Twenty stroke patients with subacute and chronic stroke completed the protocol. Mann–Whitney U tests showed statistically significant differences between groups for the FM sensation variable (Z = −2.19; p = 0.03). The rest of the variables studied in the comparison between the two study groups did not present statistically significant differences (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The use of air splints in combination with physiotherapy treatment produced improvements in exteroceptive and proprioceptive sensitivity in post-stroke adult patients in the subacute and chronic phases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Rehabilitation)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3639 KiB  
Article
Automatic Fracture Detection Convolutional Neural Network with Multiple Attention Blocks Using Multi-Region X-Ray Data
by Rashadul Islam Sumon, Mejbah Ahammad, Md Ariful Islam Mozumder, Md Hasibuzzaman, Salam Akter, Hee-Cheol Kim, Mohammad Hassan Ali Al-Onaizan, Mohammed Saleh Ali Muthanna and Dina S. M. Hassan
Life 2025, 15(7), 1135; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15071135 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 369
Abstract
Accurate detection of fractures in X-ray images is important to initiate appropriate medical treatment in time—in this study, an advanced combined attention CNN model with multiple attention mechanisms was developed to improve fracture detection by deeply representing features. Specifically, our model incorporates squeeze [...] Read more.
Accurate detection of fractures in X-ray images is important to initiate appropriate medical treatment in time—in this study, an advanced combined attention CNN model with multiple attention mechanisms was developed to improve fracture detection by deeply representing features. Specifically, our model incorporates squeeze blocks and convolutional block attention module (CBAM) blocks to improve the model’s ability to focus on relevant features in X-ray images. Using computed tomography X-ray images, this study assesses the diagnostic efficacy of the artificial intelligence (AI) model before and after optimization and compares its performance in detecting fractures or not. The training and evaluation dataset consists of fractured and non-fractured X-rays from various anatomical locations, including the hips, knees, lumbar region, lower limb, and upper limb. This gives an extremely high training accuracy of 99.98 and a validation accuracy 96.72. The attention-based CNN thus showcases its role in medical image analysis. This aspect further complements a point we highlighted through our research to establish the role of attention in CNN architecture-based models to achieve the desired score for fracture in a medical image, allowing the model to generalize. This study represents the first steps to improve fracture detection automatically. It also brings solid support to doctors addressing the continued time to examination, which also increases accuracy in diagnosing fractures, improving patients’ outcomes significantly. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Radiobiology and Nuclear Medicine)
Show Figures

Figure 1

34 pages, 5960 KiB  
Article
Motor Temperature Observer for Four-Mass Thermal Model Based Rolling Mills
by Boris M. Loginov, Stanislav S. Voronin, Roman A. Lisovskiy, Vadim R. Khramshin and Liudmila V. Radionova
Sensors 2025, 25(14), 4458; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25144458 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 196
Abstract
Thermal control in rolling mills motors is gaining importance as more and more hard-to-deform steel grades are rolled. The capabilities of diagnostics monitoring also expand as digital IIoT-based technologies are adopted. Electrical drives in modern rolling mills are based on synchronous motors with [...] Read more.
Thermal control in rolling mills motors is gaining importance as more and more hard-to-deform steel grades are rolled. The capabilities of diagnostics monitoring also expand as digital IIoT-based technologies are adopted. Electrical drives in modern rolling mills are based on synchronous motors with frequency regulation. Such motors are expensive, while their reliability impacts the metallurgical plant output. Hence, developing the on-line temperature monitoring systems for such motors is extremely urgent. This paper presents a solution applying to synchronous motors of the upper and lower rolls in the horizontal roll stand of plate mill 5000. The installed capacity of each motor is 12 MW. According to the digitalization tendency, on-line monitoring systems should be based on digital shadows (coordinate observers) that are similar to digital twins, widely introduced at metallurgical plants. Modern reliability requirements set the continuous temperature monitoring for stator and rotor windings and iron core. This article is the first to describe a method for calculating thermal loads based on the data sets created during rolling. The authors have developed a thermal state observer based on four-mass model of motor heating built using the Simscape Thermal Models library domains that is part of the MATLAB Simulink. Virtual adjustment of the observer and of the thermal model was performed using hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation. The authors have validated the results by comparing the observer’s values with the actual values measured at control points. The discrete masses heating was studied during the rolling cycle. The stator and rotor winding temperature was analysed at different periods. The authors have concluded that the motors of the upper and lower rolls are in a satisfactory condition. The results of the study conducted generally develop the idea of using object-oriented digital shadows for the industrial electrical equipment. The authors have introduced technologies that improve the reliability of the rolling mills electrical drives which accounts for the innovative development in metallurgy. The authors have also provided recommendations on expanded industrial applications of the research results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Industrial Sensors)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2173 KiB  
Review
Optimal Sites for Upper Extremity Amputation: Comparison Between Surgeons and Prosthetists
by Brandon Apagüeño, Sara E. Munkwitz, Nicholas V. Mata, Christopher Alessia, Vasudev Vivekanand Nayak, Paulo G. Coelho and Natalia Fullerton
Bioengineering 2025, 12(7), 765; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12070765 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 320
Abstract
Upper extremity amputations significantly impact an individual’s physical capabilities, psychosocial well-being, and overall quality of life. The level at which an amputation is performed influences residual limb function, prosthetic compatibility, and long-term patient satisfaction. While surgical guidelines traditionally emphasize maximal limb preservation, prosthetists [...] Read more.
Upper extremity amputations significantly impact an individual’s physical capabilities, psychosocial well-being, and overall quality of life. The level at which an amputation is performed influences residual limb function, prosthetic compatibility, and long-term patient satisfaction. While surgical guidelines traditionally emphasize maximal limb preservation, prosthetists often advocate for amputation sites that optimize prosthetic fit and function, highlighting the need for a collaborative approach. This review examines the discrepancies between surgical and prosthetic recommendations for optimal amputation levels, from digit amputations to shoulder disarticulations, and explores their implications for prosthetic design, functionality, and patient outcomes. Various prosthetic options, including passive functional, body-powered, myoelectric, and hybrid devices, offer distinct advantages and limitations based on the level of amputation. Prosthetists emphasize the importance of residual limb length, not only for mechanical efficiency but also for achieving symmetry with the contralateral limb, minimizing discomfort, and enhancing control. Additionally, emerging technologies such as targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) and advanced myoelectric prostheses are reshaping rehabilitation strategies, further underscoring the need for precise amputation planning. By integrating insights from both surgical and prosthetic perspectives, this review highlights the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach involving surgeons, prosthetists, rehabilitation specialists, and patients in the decision-making process. A greater emphasis on preoperative planning and interprofessional collaboration can improve prosthetic outcomes, reduce device rejection rates, and ultimately enhance the functional independence and well-being of individuals with upper extremity amputations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomedical Engineering and Biomaterials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3074 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of a BCC-CPSv3-S2Sv2 Model for the Monthly Prediction of Summer Extreme Precipitation in the Yellow River Basin
by Zhe Li, Zhongyuan Xia and Jiaying Ke
Atmosphere 2025, 16(7), 830; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16070830 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 228
Abstract
The performance of monthly prediction of extreme precipitation from the BCC-CPSv3-S2Sv2 model over the Yellow River Basin (YRB) using historical hindcast data from 2008 to 2022 was evaluated in this study, mainly from three aspects: overall performance in predicting daily precipitation rates, systematic [...] Read more.
The performance of monthly prediction of extreme precipitation from the BCC-CPSv3-S2Sv2 model over the Yellow River Basin (YRB) using historical hindcast data from 2008 to 2022 was evaluated in this study, mainly from three aspects: overall performance in predicting daily precipitation rates, systematic biases, and monthly prediction of extreme precipitation metrics. The results showed that the BCC-CPSv3-S2Sv2 model demonstrates approximately 10-day predictive skill for summer daily precipitation over the YRB. Relatively higher skill regions concentrate in the central basin, while skill degradation proves more pronounced in downstream areas compared to the upper basin. After correcting model systematic biases, prediction skills for total precipitation-related metrics significantly surpass those of extreme precipitation indices, and metrics related to precipitation amounts demonstrate relatively higher skill compared to those associated with precipitation days. Total precipitation (TP) and rainy days (RD) exhibit comparable skills in June and July, with August showing weaker performance. Nevertheless, basin-wide predictions within 10-day lead times remain practically valuable for most regions. Prediction skills for extreme precipitation amounts and extreme precipitation days share similar spatiotemporal patterns, with high-skill regions shifting progressively south-to-north from June to August. Significant skills for June–July are constrained within 10-day leads, while August skills rarely exceed 1 week. Further analysis reveals that the predictive capability of the model predominantly originates from normal or below-normal precipitation years, whereas the accurate forecasting of extremely wet years remains a critical challenge, which highlights limitations in capturing mechanisms governing exceptional precipitation events. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Atmospheric Techniques, Instruments, and Modeling)
Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 1238 KiB  
Article
A Novel, Sport-Specific EMG-Based Method to Evaluate Movement Efficiency in Karate Punching
by László Csákvári, Bence Kopper and Tamás Horváth
Sports 2025, 13(7), 218; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13070218 - 7 Jul 2025
Viewed by 414
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to develop a method to analyze the kinetic and kinematic characteristics of the traditional karate Gyaku Tsuki (reverse punch), focusing on the activation sequence of lower and upper extremities and trunk muscles during execution. Methods: An elite male (N [...] Read more.
Background: This study aimed to develop a method to analyze the kinetic and kinematic characteristics of the traditional karate Gyaku Tsuki (reverse punch), focusing on the activation sequence of lower and upper extremities and trunk muscles during execution. Methods: An elite male (N = 1) karate athlete (in kata) performed 20 Gyaku Tsuki punches while equipped with 16 wireless surface EMG sensors integrated with 3-axis accelerometers. The five punches with the highest forearm acceleration were selected for analysis. EMG, accelerometer, and synchronized video data were recorded and processed. Results: A novel visualization technique was developed to represent muscle activation over time, distinguishing a spectrum of 0–25–50–75–100% activation levels. Muscle activation times for arm, leg, and trunk muscles ranged from −0.31 to −0.11 s relative to punch execution, indicating rapid, coordinated muscle engagement. Conclusions: This method enables detailed analysis of muscle activation patterns in karate punches. It offers valuable insights for biomechanics researchers and practical applications for coaches aiming to enhance performance and prevent injuries through better understanding of movement dynamics. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

22 pages, 6339 KiB  
Article
An Enhanced Approach for Urban Sustainability Considering Coordinated Source-Load-Storage in Distribution Networks Under Extreme Natural Disasters
by Jiayi Zhang, Qianggang Wang and Yiyao Zhou
Sustainability 2025, 17(13), 6110; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17136110 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 304
Abstract
Frequent extreme natural disasters can lead to large-scale power outages, significantly compromising the reliability and sustainability of urban power supply, as well as the sustainability of urban development. To address this issue, this paper proposes a two-layer resilience optimization method for distribution networks [...] Read more.
Frequent extreme natural disasters can lead to large-scale power outages, significantly compromising the reliability and sustainability of urban power supply, as well as the sustainability of urban development. To address this issue, this paper proposes a two-layer resilience optimization method for distribution networks aimed at improving voltage quality during post-disaster power restoration, enhancing the resilience of the power grid, and thus improving the sustainability of urban development. Specifically, the upper-layer model determines the topology of the urban distribution network and dispatches emergency resources to restore power and reconstruct the original topology. Based on this restoration, the lower-layer model further enhances voltage quality by prioritizing the dispatch of flexible resources according to voltage sensitivity coefficients derived from power flow calculations. A larger voltage sensitivity coefficient indicates a stronger voltage optimization effect. Thus, the proposed method enables comparable voltage regulation performance with lower operational cost. Simulation findings on the IEEE-33 bus test system revealed that the proposed strategy minimized the impact of voltage fluctuations by 10.92 percent and cut the cost related to restoration by 31.25 percent, as compared to traditional post-disaster restoration plans, which do not entail optimization of system voltages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3833 KiB  
Article
Exercises Based on a Non-Immersive Virtual Reality Application for Upper Limb Rehabilitation
by Cosmin-Ilie Cotia and Silviu Dan Mandru
Bioengineering 2025, 12(7), 726; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12070726 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 519
Abstract
Virtual reality (VR) technologies have gained increasing attention in the field of physical rehabilitation due to their potential to enhance patient engagement and provide adaptive, feedback-rich environments. In this study, we report on the development and preliminary evaluation of a VR-based rehabilitation application [...] Read more.
Virtual reality (VR) technologies have gained increasing attention in the field of physical rehabilitation due to their potential to enhance patient engagement and provide adaptive, feedback-rich environments. In this study, we report on the development and preliminary evaluation of a VR-based rehabilitation application aimed at improving upper extremity function, including muscle strength, endurance, and joint mobility. The application delivers a structured set of interactive exercises designed to support recovery through engaging, gamified tasks with real-time performance feedback and scalable difficulty levels. A pilot usability study was conducted with a cohort of target users to assess the system’s practicality, therapeutic relevance, and user satisfaction. Qualitative data were collected to evaluate usability, effectiveness, and areas for further improvement. Preliminary results suggest that the VR application is usable, accessible, and well-received by users, with high levels of engagement reported throughout the intervention. Participants also provided constructive feedback, emphasizing the potential benefits of incorporating enhanced sensory feedback mechanisms to improve immersion and therapeutic impact. These initial findings support the viability of VR-based rehabilitation tools and provide a foundation for future clinical studies aimed at validating their efficacy in diverse patient populations. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 3167 KiB  
Article
Similarity Analysis of Upper Extremity’s Trajectories in Activities of Daily Living for Use in an Intelligent Control System of a Rehabilitation Exoskeleton
by Piotr Falkowski, Maciej Pikuliński, Tomasz Osiak, Kajetan Jeznach, Krzysztof Zawalski, Piotr Kołodziejski, Andrzej Zakręcki, Jan Oleksiuk, Daniel Śliż and Natalia Osiak
Actuators 2025, 14(7), 324; https://doi.org/10.3390/act14070324 - 30 Jun 2025
Viewed by 254
Abstract
Rehabilitation robotic systems have been developed to perform therapy with minimal supervision from a specialist. Hence, they require algorithms to assess and support patients’ motions. Artificial intelligence brings an opportunity to implement new exercises based on previously modelled ones. This study focuses on [...] Read more.
Rehabilitation robotic systems have been developed to perform therapy with minimal supervision from a specialist. Hence, they require algorithms to assess and support patients’ motions. Artificial intelligence brings an opportunity to implement new exercises based on previously modelled ones. This study focuses on analysing the similarities in upper extremity movements during activities of daily living (ADLs). This research aimed to model ADLs by registering and segmenting real-life movements and dividing them into sub-tasks based on joint motions. The investigation used IMU sensors placed on the body to capture upper extremity motion. Angular measurements were converted into joint variables using Matlab computations. Then, these were divided into segments assigned to the sub-functionalities of the tasks. Further analysis involved calculating mathematical measures to evaluate the similarity between the different movements. This approach allows the system to distinguish between similar motions, which is critical for assessing rehabilitation scenarios and anatomical correctness. Twenty-two ADLs were recorded, and their segments were analysed to build a database of typical motion patterns. The results include a discussion on the ranges of motion for different ADLs and gender-related differences. Moreover, the similarities and general trends for different motions are presented. The system’s control algorithm will use these results to improve the effectiveness of robotic-assisted physiotherapy. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

7 pages, 1272 KiB  
Case Report
Extraovarian Brenner Tumor in the Vagina: A Case Report and Review of Literature
by Angel Yordanov, Milen Karaivanov, Stoyan Kostov, Vanya Savova and Vasilena Dimitrova
Reports 2025, 8(3), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/reports8030103 - 29 Jun 2025
Viewed by 309
Abstract
Background and Clinical Significance: Brenner tumors are rare epithelial tumors that can occur in both males and females. They consist of ovarian transition cells surrounded by dense fibrous tissue and can be classified as benign, borderline, or malignant. While most commonly found in [...] Read more.
Background and Clinical Significance: Brenner tumors are rare epithelial tumors that can occur in both males and females. They consist of ovarian transition cells surrounded by dense fibrous tissue and can be classified as benign, borderline, or malignant. While most commonly found in the ovary, extraovarian Brenner tumors (EOBTs) have been reported in the uterus, vagina, broad ligament, and omentum. Case Presentation: A 71-year-old postmenopausal woman presented with a polypous formation on the upper third of the posterior vaginal wall, which was found at a routine health check. Macroscopically, the lesion appeared as a solid, polypoid mass with a yellowish-gray cut surface, measuring approximately 25 × 20 mm. Histological examination revealed a polypoid formation covered by stratified squamous epithelium, with a dense fibrous stroma (Van Gieson [VG]+) and tubular structures lined by clear epithelial cells. Parenchymal cells showed low proliferative activity, with Ki-67 expression in less than 5% of cells, also Cytokeratin (CK) 7/+/p63:/+/ CK AE1/AE3: /+/ Estrogen Receptor (ER): /+/ and Progesterone Receptor (PR)/−/; CK20/-/; p53/−/, Wilms’ Tumor (WT)-1/−/; Prostate-Specific Acid Phosphatase (PSAP)/−/. The final diagnosis was an extraovarian Brenner tumor. The patient was monitored for two months post-excision, with no signs of recurrence. Conclusions: EOBTs are extremely rarely seen and vaginal involvement is far less common. Due to their rarity, these tumors may be confused with other benign or malignant vaginal lesions. In order to differentiate EOBTs from other neoplasms, histological analysis is crucial due to their characteristic transitional-type epithelium and large fibrous stroma. Further studies are required to understand the origin and clinical behavior of EOBTs. Long-term monitoring should be performed to look for any recurrence or malignant change, even though benign Brenner tumors usually have a good prognosis. Awareness of EOBTs and their possible locations is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Obstetrics/Gynaecology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 420 KiB  
Article
Improving Upper-Limb Recovery in Patients with Chronic Stroke Using an 8-Week Bilateral Arm-Training Device
by Thanyaporn Wongwatcharanon, Pinailug Tantilipikorn Earde, Bunyong Rungroungdouyboon and Patcharee Kooncumchoo
Life 2025, 15(7), 994; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15070994 - 22 Jun 2025
Viewed by 508
Abstract
Upper-limb impairments after stroke significantly affect patients’ quality of life and require effective rehabilitation strategies. Rehabilitation devices play a vital role in enhancing motor recovery. This study evaluated the efficacy of the Arm Booster, a bilateral arm-training device, in improving upper-limb impairment [...] Read more.
Upper-limb impairments after stroke significantly affect patients’ quality of life and require effective rehabilitation strategies. Rehabilitation devices play a vital role in enhancing motor recovery. This study evaluated the efficacy of the Arm Booster, a bilateral arm-training device, in improving upper-limb impairment in patients with chronic stroke. Eighteen participants were randomly assigned to two groups: a device group (n = 9), using the Arm Booster; and a conventional physiotherapy group (n = 9). Both groups performed six bilateral upper-limb exercises (32 repetitions each) three times per week for eight weeks. Participants were further classified into mild spasticity (n = 5) and moderate-to-severe spasticity (n = 4) subgroups. The primary outcome was motor impairment, assessed using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment of the Upper Extremity (FMA-UE). Secondary outcomes included spasticity, measured by the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), and daily functional use of the arm, assessed with the Motor Activity Log (MAL). Both groups showed significant improvements in FMA-UE scores and overall arm movement. The conventional group demonstrated additional gains in hand and wrist function and coordination. Notably, in the moderate-to-severe spasticity subgroup, the device group exhibited improvements in upper-limb movement and a trend toward reduced spasticity. These findings suggest that the Arm Booster may support motor recovery, encourage the use of the affected arm, improve movement control, and provide an efficient means for patients to exercise more frequently on their own. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Research)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop