Balance Parameters Research Articles

The Immediate Effect of Texture Foot Plate on Balance in Diabetic Patients With Neuropathy

Background and Objectives: According to previous studies, balance problems are one of the most critical disorders in diabetic patients with neuropathy. Because diabetic neuropathy may cause sense disorder and decreased balance in these patients. Thus, it seems that using texture insole may help to improve proprioception and lead to a positive effect on balance in this case. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the effect of texture insole on static and dynamic balance in diabetic patients with neuropathy. Methods: This is a single-group pre-test-post-test design with the participation of 16 patients with neuropathy who were referred by endocrine specialist physicians in terms of inclusion criteria to Firoozgar Hospital. Data were collected using a force plate to evaluate the static balance and the time up and go (TUG) test for dynamic balance. Results: Six men (37.5%) and ten women (62.5%) participated in this study. The results of this study showed that the means of parameters of static and dynamic balance among participants decreased significantly (P<0.05) Conclusion: This study showed that the static and dynamic balance has improved after using the texture foot plate by these patients.

Varus-valgus native knee laxity in extension displays an almost rectangular pattern and does not correlate with lower limb alignment.

Optimal ligament balance is crucial for successful total knee arthroplasty (TKA), which is a standard procedure for managing end-stage knee osteoarthritis. However, the reported values of ligament balance vary due to different methodologies and population differences, which requires further studies. This study aimed to investigate the varus-valgus ligament balance in healthy knees of Japanese individuals and its relationship with lower limb alignment. The studyanalyzed64 knees from 33 healthy young adults using stress radiographs to measure varus-valgus laxity. The mechanical hip-knee-ankle angle, medial proximal tibial angle, and lateral distal femoral angles were determined using digital long-leg radiographs. Varus and valgus laxities were compared, and the relationship between ligament balance and alignment parameters was analyzed. Mean varus laxity (3.6°± 1.3°) was significantly greater than mean valgus laxity(2.9°± 1.0°) (p<0.0001). No significant association was observed between ligament balance and alignment parameters. Healthy knees of Japanese individuals exhibited slightly greater varus laxity (0.7°) than valgus laxity, with no correlation observed between ligament balance and lower limb alignment. The finding underscores the importance of recognizing alignment diversity while noting that alignment does not influence ligament balance; this is particularly relevant in modern TKA techniques focusing on patient-specific joint and ligament reconstructions. The study's findings could help formulate strategies benefiting knee osteoarthritis management.

Comparison of static balance and pressure distribution in individuals with unilateral lower limb amputation: The role of barefoot, heel support, and vision.

In some cultures, shoes are not worn indoors. Prosthesis use barefoot can lead to pressure injuries and loss of balance due to abnormal residual limb loading. This study aimed to compare the effect of wearing standard alignment prostheses using barefoot at home and visual alteration on static balance and pressure distribution in individuals with unilateral transfemoral amputations (TFAs) or transtibial amputations (TTAs). Prospective parallel experimental study. Participants with unilateral TTAs (n = 44) and TFAs (n = 37) were included. Balance and load distribution were assessed using MatScan pressure platforms, both with a heel (3 × 2 cm2 area; 1.8 cm height) support (the use of shoes with a heel is mimicked) and barefoot. Balance parameters were disrupted in all groups when eyes closed position (p < 0.05). Using heels reduced anterior-posterior and medial-lateral sway in TTA group during eyes closed (p < 0.05). When standing barefoot with the eye open position, TFA group had more load on the rear foot of the prosthetic foot and less load on the forefoot than TTA group (p < 0.05). The opposite pattern was observed in the intact foot (p < 0.05). Using heels in TTA group increased the load on the front of the intact side and the rear of the prosthetic side (p < 0.05). The balance parameters were impaired in both groups while standing barefoot in the absence of vision. However, using heel supports improved static balance in the TTA but not in the TFA group. Using heel support changed this load distribution in both groups, especially in the TTAs, and created positive changes.

Comparison of Multiple Methods for Supraglacial Melt-Lake Volume Estimation in Western Greenland During the 2021 Summer Melt Season

Supraglacial melt-lakes form and evolve along the western edge of the Greenland Ice Sheet and have proven to play a significant role in ice sheet surface hydrology and mass balance. Prior methods to quantify melt-lake volume have relied upon Landsat-8 optical imagery, available at 30 m spatial resolution but with temporal resolution limited by satellite overpass times and cloud cover. We propose two novel methods to quantify the volume of meltwater stored in these lakes, including a high-resolution surface DEM (ArcticDEM) and an ablation model using daily averaged automated weather station data. We compare our methods to the depth-reflectance method for five supraglacial melt-lakes during the 2021 summer melt season. We find agreement between the depth-reflectance and DEM lake infilling methods, within +/−15% for most cases, but our ablation model underproduces by 0.5–2 orders of magnitude the volumetric melt needed to match our other methods, and with a significant lag in meltwater onset for routing into the lake basin. Further information regarding energy balance parameters, including insolation and liquid precipitation amounts, is needed for adequate ablation modelling. Despite the differences in melt-lake volume estimates, our approach in combining remote sensing and meteorological methods provides a framework for analysis of seasonal melt-lake evolution at significantly higher spatial and temporal scales, to understand the drivers of meltwater production and its influence on the spatial distribution and extent of meltwater volume stored on the ice sheet surface.

ВЛИЯНИЕ ЭКСТРАКОРПОРАЛЬНОЙ АУТОГЕМОМАГНИТОТЕРАПИИ В ИНТРАОПЕРАЦИОННОМ ПЕРИОДЕ ПРИ ПРОВЕДЕНИИ РЕВАСКУЛЯРИЗАЦИИ МИОКАРДА В УСЛОВИЯХ ИСКУССТВЕННОГО КРОВООБРАЩЕНИЯ НА КИСЛОТНО-ЩЕЛОЧНОЕ СОСТОЯНИЕ АРТЕРИАЛЬНОЙ КРОВИ

Background. To evaluate changes in acid-base balance in patients with coronary heart disease in the intraoperative period during coronary artery bypass grafting under artificial circulation using extracorporeal autohemomagnetotherapy (EAHMT). To consider the presence of a negative effect of this technique on acid-base balance. To study the possible relationship between the polymorphism of the angiotensin-1 receptor gene (AGTR1 A1166C), endothelin-1 (EDN1 Lys 198 Asn), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS3 C786T) and changes in the studied parameters of acid-base balance. Material and methods. Group 1 included standard anesthesia for coronary artery bypass grafting under cardiopulmonary bypass without the use of EAHMT (60 patients). Group 2 included standard anesthesia for coronary artery bypass grafting under cardiopulmonary bypass with the use of EAHMT (63 patients). The following parameters of the acid-base balance of arterial blood were assessed: hydrogen index (pH), lactate (Lac), base deficit (SBE), potassium (K), sodium (Na), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct). All patients of both groups underwent intraoperative venous blood sampling from the central venous catheter. Then, the polymerase chain reaction method was used to study the genotypes of the angiotensin-1 receptor gene polymorphism (AGTR1 A1166C), endothelin-1 (EDN1 Lys 198 Asn), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS3 C786T). Results. At the second stage of the study, a decrease in the hydrogen index of arterial blood, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and base deficit was revealed in both groups. A statistically significant increase in lactate and potassium was obtained in both study groups. No associations were found between the polymorphism of the angiotensin-1 receptor gene (AGTR1 A1166C), endothelin-1 (EDN1 Lys 198 Asn), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS3 C786T) and the arterial blood acid-base balance. Conclusion. The use of EAHMT does not have negative impact on the electrolyte balance and acid-base composition of the blood. The presence of polymorphism of the AGTR1 gene A1166C (rs 5186), EDN1 gene Lys 198 Asn (rs5370), NOS3 gene C786T (rs 2070744) does not affect the acid-base balance of arterial blood.

Effective stress intensity factor range for fatigue cracks propagating in mixed mode I-II loading

The actual service axles are often subjected to mixed-mode loading, and predicting the mixed-mode I-II crack propagation behaviour using the mode I effective stress intensity factor (ΔKI) differs from the real service conditions. To effectively predict the fatigue crack propagation behaviour of actual service structures, the I-II stress intensity factor range (ΔKP-R) considering two closure effects was adopted to describe the fatigue crack propagation under mixed mode loading. A test database was established based on monitoring data of mode I and mixed-mode I-II (30/45/60°) crack propagation tests under different stress ratios. Combining domain knowledge and symbolic regression (SR) methods, an angle factor was proposed for constructing correlation functions between ΔKI and ΔKP-R. The results showed that the loading angle (α) only affects the initial projection of the load parallel and perpendicular to the fatigue crack growth (FCG) direction. Compared with the geometric correction factor, the correlation function acquired by the angle factor constructed by the SR method has higher accuracy, and the balance parameters (SCORE) obtained by the former are significantly higher than those obtained by the latter under the same function complexity. The SR verification results demonstrated that constructing mode I and I-II correlation functions with angle factors has a good predictive effect.

Automated repair of asphalt pavement cracks and potholes utilizing 3D printing and LiDAR scanning

This study introduces a method for automatic repair of asphalt pavement cracks and potholes using 3D printing and LiDAR scanning. A scanning method was developed to accurately detect and represent cracks and potholes in a 3D model. To address the limitations of LiDAR scanning, such as missing data points caused by the irregular shapes of cracks and potholes, the screened Poisson method was applied to reconstruct the missing data points. These models were validated through both theoretical calculations and sand test. In addition, the research focuses on optimizing key 3D printing parameters, such as printing temperature and printing speed, to enhance performance of crack repair throughout semi-circular bending test. Direct tensile strength test was employed to assess the impact of waste materials (e.g., rubber tire powder and waste glass) on the bond strength of filled sample. The results indicated a volume difference of 2–5 % between the scanning method and the sand test method, demonstrating high accuracy in detecting and reconstructing 3D cracks/potholes. Binders modified with 10 % rubber tire powder, or 20 % waste glass exhibited the highest tensile strength of 212 kPa and 207 kPa, respectively. However, using more than 30 % waste materials is not recommended due to a significant reduction in bond strength compared to conventional binders. An optimal 3D printing speed of 180 mm/min and a temperature of 117 °C are recommended for use in 3D printing in laboratory conditions. It was also noted that higher printing speeds decrease indirect tensile strength, highlighting the importance of balanced parameter settings.

Acute Effects of Myofascial Release on Foot Mobility and Performance in Basketball Players with Hypomobile Feet—A Randomized Controlled Trial

Hypomobility in the foot structure causes functional limitations. These functional limitations affect sportive performance negatively, especially in basketball, where dynamic movements such as jumping and sudden changes in direction are very intense. In this context, reducing hypomobility is important in terms of eliminating performance disorders caused by hypomobility. The purpose of this study was to investigate the acute effects of myofascial release on foot mobility and sportive performance in basketball players with hypomobile feet. This study was designed as randomized controlled experimental research. Twenty-four male basketball players (23.46 ± 2.81 years) participated in this study. The athletes were first subjected to foot mobility, balance and vertical jump tests. Then, the participants were divided into two groups: myofascial release (MR) and placebo myofascial release (PMR). Myofascial release (Graston technique) was applied to the MR group, and placebo myofascial release was applied to the PMR group. After application, foot mobility and performance measurements were performed again, and the results were analyzed. It was observed that there was a significant difference in right foot mobility (d = 4), left foot mobility (d = 6), vertical jump (d = 1.13) and dynamic balance (d = 1.03) parameters after application in the MR group. It was also determined that the acute effects of the intervention on foot mobility lasted for at least two hours (p &lt; 0.001). There was no change in any parameter after application in the PMR group (p &gt; 0.05). The results of this study show that a single session of myofascial release applied to the plantar sole temporarily increased foot mobility and improved vertical jump and dynamic balance performance in basketball players with chronic hypomobility.

Evaluation of Thiol Disulfide, Ischemia Modified Albumin, and Prolidase Parameters in Patients With Localized Scleroderma

Introduction: Localized scleroderma is a rare inflammatory skin disease that causes sclerosis in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Oxidative stress may play a role in the etiology or be responsible for the chronicity or progression of the disease. Objectives: We aimed to investigate the presence of oxidative stress in patients with localized scleroderma by examining thiol disulfide balance, ischemia-modified albumin (IMA), and prolidase parameters. Methods: Twenty patients over the age of 18, who were diagnosed with localized scleroderma both clinically and histopathologically and 20 control subjects were included in the study. Age, gender, age of disease onset, duration of the disease, and presence of accompanying systemic diseases were questioned and recorded. Lesion type and modified Rodnan and Lossi scores were calculated through dermatological examination. CRP, sedimentation rate, total thiol, native thiol, and disulfide levels indicated by the Erel profile, IMA level, and prolidase levels were measured and compared in both the patient and control groups. Results: Levels of native thiol (p=0.958), total thiol (p=0.979), disulfide (p=0.449), (disulfide/native thiol%) (p=0.368), (disulfide/total thiol%) (p=0.361), (native thiol/total thiol%) (p=0.368), and prolidase (p=0.121) were similar in both patient and control groups. Only IMA was significantly different. No significant relationship was found between the levels of native thiol, total thiol, disulfide, (disulfide/native thiol), (disulfide/total thiol), IMA, prolidase, and Rodnan and Lossi scores. Conclusion: According to the data obtained from this study, we can say that the thiol-disulfide balance is not disrupted and prolidase levels are not affected in localized scleroderma; however, IMA is negatively affected.

Optimization of Industrial Machine Balancing Processes for Fastening Precision and Efficiency

Balancing merupakan bagian sangat penting untuk proses yang digunakan Balancing is a very important part of the process used to adjust or balance equipment or mechanical components so that they operate stably and efficiently. Balancing machines are very important for maintaining optimal screw conveyor performance, and reducing screw conveyor noise or vibrations which can disrupt the quality of machine performance. This is one of the reasons for balancing the machine, it can experience vibrations which can cause a decrease in the quality of the machine's performance and also if left for a long period of time, these vibrations can damage other parts of the screw conveyor and cause excessive vibrations or unbalance of the machine. The balancing test method is using a HOFMAN HL-28 machine, in this test the screw conveyor tool is placed in the balancing machine then input data on the monitor with balancing parameters Rotor Wight: 1000.00 Kg, Balancing Test Speed: 149 RPM, Operation Speed: 300 RPM, Tolerance Plane 1 : 125,517, and Tolerance Plane 2 : 125,517 g. The results of the research obtained an initial unbalance left plan of 602 grams at an angle of 57.30, a right plan of 413 grams at an angle of 101.50, then the final unbalance was obtained for a left plan of 24 grams at an angle of 83.20, a right plan of 23 grams at an angle of 86.60. By conducting this research, it was found that the screw conveyor was suitable for use so that it could minimize vibration and damage to the screw motor.

Metabolic acidosis in patients with diabetes 2 undergoing cardiac surgery: The impact of SGLT2 inhibitor use: a retrospective cohort study.

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2-i) lower blood sugar and reduce cardiovascular events and kidney failure. However, there have been increasing reports of euglycaemic diabetic ketoacidosis (eDKA) linked to SGLT2-i medicines. Investigating the association between SGLT2-i use and the incidence of metabolic acidosis in patients with type 2 diabetes undergoing cardiac surgery. A retrospective observational cohort study comprising 121 patients, with 38 in the SGLT2-i group and 83 in the control group. A 2-year period at Haukeland University Hospital, a tertiary regional hospital in Western Norway. Patients with type 2 diabetes undergoing cardiac surgery. Collection of clinical and laboratory data, including acid/base balance parameters, surgery details and SGLT2-i use. Base excess and anion gap measurements as indicators of ketosis development. A subgroup analysis in patients without renal failure (glomerular filtration rate > 60 ml min-1 m-2). Lower base excess levels and increased anion gaps were observed in the SGLT2-i group compared with controls at various time points postoperatively, with no significant differences in serum lactate levels.Twelve hours postoperatively, 41% of SGLT2-i patients without renal failure had a base excess -3 mmol l-1 or less after correction for serum lactate (indicating ketosis) compared with only 8% in the control group (P < 0.001). The anion gap was elevated in the SGLT2-i group compared to the control group at 12 h postoperatively (P = 0.018).Multivariable regression analysis identified SGLT2-i use as an independent factor associated with a lower base excess after correction for lactate levels (P < 0.001). Cessation of SGLT2-i medication did not correlate with the degree of acidosis. While taking SGLT2 inhibitors, diabetic patients undergoing heart surgery are at an increased risk of ketosis and possibly metabolic acidosis. This emphasises the importance of careful observation and effective treatment strategies within this group.

Age-related changes in gait, balance, and strength parameters: A cross-sectional study.

Longevity is increasing worldwide due to improvements in healthcare and living standards. Aging is often associated with disability and multiple health concerns. To address these challenges, effective interventions are essential. This study investigated potential age-related declines in gait, balance, and strength. We also sought to assess any relationships between these three parameters and explore potential differences between women and men. Healthy individuals over 50 years of age were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Upper extremity (grip) strength and lower extremity (knee) strength of the dominant side were measured. Static balance was performed on the force plate in different situations each for 30 seconds: bilateral stance with eyes open, bilateral stance with eyes closed, as well as dominant leg and non-dominant leg unilateral stance with eyes open. Gait was measured during level walking using an optical motion capture system. Additionally, the dynamic stability margin (DSM) was calculated for the level walking trials. The study results indicated that gait parameters were not significantly affected by age (p≥0.12), while knee and grip strength, along with several balance parameters, showed a significant decline with age. All individuals were able to maintain their bipedal balance, but their center of pressure movement increased significantly by age (p≤0.028). Z-scores were calculated to compare significant age parameters. Unipedal stance time was found to be the most affected by age compared to other contributing factors (p≤0.001). The duration of unipedal balance showed the most significant change per decade (non-dominant: -0.62 SDs; dominant: -0.53 SDs), while strength measures exhibited the lowest amount of change per decade (grip strength: -0.34 SDs; knee strength: -0.26 SDs). Sex differences were observed exclusively in strength parameters, with no discernible impact on the decline in balance parameters. These findings suggest that the duration of unipedal stance can serve as a reliable and gender-independent measure of neuromuscular aging for both elderly male and female subjects.

Evaluating physical outcomes in elderly sport and dance rollator users

The present single-arm pilot study investigates the effects of a video-based dance intervention on physical outcomes in elderly individuals utilizing sports and dance rollators. In addition, the dance videos used in the current study are intended to integrate into the future Intercommunication Technology (ICT)-Rollator for the elderly. The aim is to evaluate the physical outcomes (such as gait, balance, mobility, and hand grip strength) during guided movement training (dance) using a video projected in a laboratory setting. The pilot study involved six elderly rollator users (aged 85 and above). In the initial assessment, subjects were screened for mobility and coordination limitations prior to pre-testing using a four-square-step test and the SF-36 questionnaire. Both pre-testing and post-testing included assessments of mobility, balance, and spatiotemporal gait parameters using the Timed Up-and-Go (TUG) test, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and the Optogait system, respectively. Hand grip strength was measured using a hand dynamometer and reaction time was measured using a pipe-drop test. Blood pressure was monitored every 15 minutes during the training sessions to prevent adverse events, maintaining an upper range of 140-150/90-96. Adherence rates were measured based on the total duration of activity, calories burned per session, and dropout rates. Post-session questionnaires were administered to verify the respondents' qualitative evaluations of their degrees of exhaustion, enjoyment, impediments, facilitators, and suggested changes. The intervention included heart rate monitoring, which revealed gradual and slight increases in heart rate intensity and gradual decreases in heart rate ranges (HRR) during the dance sessions. The results indicate improvements in balance, mobility, gait, and adherence rates. Future longitudinal research will further examine the effectiveness of the dance intervention using the ICT-Rollator, comparing it to a control group using a conventional rollator. The ICT-Rollator could be a unique rehabilitation aid for the elderly, offering promising improvements.

The effects of balance training in patients with total hip arthroplasty : Arandomized controlled pilot study.

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) causes damage to hip joint mechanoceptors, which in turn leads to decrease in proprioception and increase in balance disorders. Few research has focused on balance training in patients with arthroplasty and none investigated the long-term effect of balance training using objective balance assessment methods in THA patients. The purpose of our study was to investigate the effects of balance training in patients with THA until 26 weeks postoperatively. For this study 24 patients with hip osteoarthritis, who were candidates for THA were recruited. Of the patients with THA 16completed the study protocol and the patients were randomized to 2groups: conventional rehabilitation (CR, n = 8) or conventional rehabilitation plus balance training (CR + BT, n = 8). The CR group completed typical surgery-specific exercise programs, while the CR + BT group completed the CR plus balance exercises. The patients were evaluated by ahand-held dynamometer, single leg stance test (SLST), Tetrax balance system, Harris hip score, lower extremity function scale, 5times sit to stand test and 50-foot timed walk test preoperatively and 8, 14 and 26 weeks postoperatively. While the CR + BT group showed significant improvement for the right extremity eyes closed SLST score (p < 0.05), there was no significant difference for other assessment parameters between the CR and CR + BT groups (p > 0.05). There were significant improvements in both groups until 26 weeks following THA (p < 0.05). The results of our study indicate that there were similar improvements in the balance and functional parameters in the CR and CR + BT groups. There was no additional benefit after 26 weeks of controlled balance exercises following THA.

Effect of Foot Orthoses and Footwear in People with Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Updated Systematic Review.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, systemic, inflammatory disease of an autoimmune nature that causes pain and disability in affected patients. Foot pain has become a challenge due to its negative impact on physical function. The objective of this updated systematic review is to describe the effect of foot orthoses and/or footwear in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and foot problems. Scopus, PubMed, CINALH, WOS, and Dialnet were searched for all articles published from January 2013 to September 2024. Inclusion criteria included randomised clinical trials and crossover trials (level of evidence I), published within the last 10 years, involving adults with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, with no restrictions on gender, race, or ethnicity. All studies that addressed the use of foot orthoses and/or shoe therapy in any type of comparison between these interventions were considered relevant. Review Manager was used to carry out the bias analysis of the selected studies. The reporting was based on the new PRISMA guidelines. A total of 9 relevant articles were selected from an initial sample of 438. These articles analyse and compare the effectiveness of various types of foot orthoses in reducing pain, functional limitation, and disability, as well as improving balance and kinetic and kinematic parameters affected by rheumatoid arthritis. Foot orthoses reduce pain and disability in rheumatoid arthritis, improving balance and kinematic parameters. However, no significant improvements in the patients' functionality and walking ability have been demonstrated. Customised ones with good arch control, heel reinforcement, and metatarsal pad are more effective. No results on the impact of footwear on patients with rheumatoid arthritis have been found in the last 10 years. This systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023405645).

El Niño enhances snow-line rise and ice loss on the Quelccaya Ice Cap, Peru

Abstract. Tropical glaciers in the central Andes are vital water resources and crucial climate indicators, currently undergoing rapid retreat. However, understanding their vulnerability to the combined effects of persistent warming, the El Niño and La Niña climate phenomena, and interannual fluctuations remains limited. Here, we automate the mapping of key mass balance parameters on the Quelccaya Ice Cap (QIC) in Peru, one of the largest tropical ice caps. Using Landsat's near-infrared (NIR) band, we analyze snow cover area (SCA) and total area (TA) and calculate the accumulation area ratio (AAR) and equilibrium-line altitude (ELA) over nearly 40 years (1985–2023). Between 1985 and 2022, the QIC lost ∼58 % and ∼37 % of its SCA and TA, respectively. We show that the QIC's reduction in SCA and rise in ELA are exacerbated by El Niño events, which are strongly correlated with the preceding wet season's Oceanic Niño Index (ONI). Further, expansion in the QIC's SCA is observed during all La Niña years, except during the 2021–2022 La Niña. Although this is a singular event, it could indicate a weakened ability for SCA recovery and an accelerated decline in the future, primarily driven by anthropogenic warming.

Assessment of body balance status in bikers: a study using R

Road traffic injuries are one of the most important and serious causes of unnatural death in India. Two-wheelers, especially motorcycle accidents contribute significantly in this regard. In order to avoid accidents and consequent losses, emphasis should be given on safe riding. Besides the condition of the vehicle, the road surface, willingness to adhere to safety regulations, body balance is a key factor in safe riding two-wheelers in order to avoid meeting with accidents of different consequences. In this backdrop, the study was aimed to assess whether there is any differences in body balances between the Bengalee adult male motorcyclists and similar individuals who do not know how to ride a motorcycle. 41 consenting individuals, among which 25 motorcylcists and 16 indivuals who do not know to ride motorcycle, were participated in the study. Anthropometric measurements were carried out using standard procedures and tools. Body balances tests like timed up and go and single limb step test along with visuo-tactile reaction time test were performed. Statistical package R 4.3.0 was used for statistical analysis. Student’s t test was performed. The study showed significant (P&lt;0.05) differences in body balance parameters between the two groups of individuals. Which leads to the conclusion that motorcyclists shown better body balancing ability than their counter group.

Assessing Static Balance, Balance Confidence, and Fall Rate in Patients with Heart Failure and Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Comprehensive Analysis.

Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a complex clinical syndrome, associated with frailty, higher fall rates, and frequent hospitalizations. Heart Failure (HF) and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is defined as a condition where a patient with HF have a diagnosis of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of ≥ 50%. The risk of HFpEF increases with age and is related to higher non-cardiovascular mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate static balance and examine the effect of task difficulty on the discriminating power of balance control between patients with HFpEF (Patients with HFpEF) and their healthy controls. Moreover, the associations between static balance parameters, balance confidence, falls, lean muscle mass, and strength were assessed. Seventy two patients with HFpEF (mean age: 66.0 ± 11.6 years) and seventy two age- and gender-matched healthy individuals (mean age: 65.3 ± 9.5 years) participated in this study. Participants underwent a 30 s bilateral stance (BS) test and a 20 s Tandem-Romberg stance (TRS) on a force platform, evaluating the Range and Standard Deviation of Center of Pressure (COP) displacement parameters in both axes. Balance confidence was evaluated by the Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale, and the number of falls during the last year was recorded. Lower limb strength was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer, isometric leg strength, and a Sit-to-Stand test. Bioelectrical impedance analysis was conducted to assess lean fat mass, lean fat mass index, and lean%. Patients with HFpEF presented with lower static balance in BS and TRS compared to healthy controls (p < 0.05), lower balance confidence by 21.5% (p < 0.05), and a higher incidence of falls by 72.9% (p < 0.05). BS was a better descriptor of the between-group difference. Furthermore, static balance, assessed in controlled lab conditions, was found to have little if no relationship to falls, strength, lean muscle mass, and balance confidence. Although no correlation was noted between the static balance parameters and falls, the fall rate was related to balance confidence, age, muscle strength, and lean fat.

Shoulder-assist exoskeleton effects on balance and muscle activity during a block-laying task on a simulated mast climber

Interest in utilizing exoskeletons to mitigate the risks of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among construction workers is growing, spurred by encouraging results in other industries. However, it is crucial to carefully examine their impact on workers' stability and balance before implementation. In this study, seven male participants lifted a 35-lb cinder block from a production table to a simulated wall at two heights—elbow and shoulder levels—using three different exoskeleton models on an unstable platform, where their balance and shoulder muscle activity were assessed. Balance-related parameters, included mean distance (MDIST), total excursion (EXCUR), and mean velocity (VEL) of the center of pressure, were derived from force plate data. Muscle activity in six shoulder and upper arm muscles was estimated using electromyography (EMG) data. The results indicated that wearing two of the exoskeletons significantly increased both total and medio-lateral (ML) MDIST compared to not wearing an exoskeleton. Wearing one of the exoskeletons significantly increased total and ML VEL and ML EXCUR. Although lifting level did not have a significant impact on the balance parameters, it did affect the muscle activity in most of the measured muscles. Moreover, only one exoskeleton significantly reduced the activity in a particular shoulder muscle compared to no exoskeleton use. In conclusion, the evaluated shoulder-assist exoskeletons showed limited benefits for preventing upper extremity MSDs and may negatively affect whole-body balance during a block-laying task on an unstable platform. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive evaluations of balance and effectiveness prior to adopting exoskeletons in construction.

Evaluation of the balance system in amateur kickboxers

Abstract Background Kickboxing is defined as an eclectic combat sport created by combining close combat practices. While the effect of kickboxing on balance function may seem evident, controlled studies that investigate the impact of kickboxing on static and dynamic balance using objective tests are limited. Objective The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of kickboxing on the development of static and dynamic balance in amateur kickboxers using objective tests. Specifically, we sought to assess how kickboxing training influences postural abilities and balance systems. Methods A total of 20 amateur kickboxers between ages 18 and 26 years (mean age, 21.6 ± 5.65 years) and 20 healthy subjects between ages 19 and 25 years (mean age, 21.3 ± 1.41 years) who had no previous experience with kickbox sports training were recruited. The sensory organization test (SOT), adaptation test (ADT), limit of stability (LOS), rhythmic weight shift (RWS) test, weight bearing/squat (WBS) test, and unilateral stance (US) test of the computerized dynamic posturography (CDP) were used to evaluate both groups. All these subtest results were compared between amateur kickboxers and the control group. All subtest results were compared between amateur kickboxers and the control group using independent sample t-tests. An alpha level of 0.05 was set for statistical significance. Results A statistically significant difference was found in the weight bearing/squat (WBS) and limit of stability (LOS) subtest results of the CDP between amateur kickboxers and the control group compared to the control group in amateur kickboxers (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusions An increase in LOS and WBS skills was observed in the amateur kickboxers who participated in this study when compared to similar-aged individuals who did not participate in kickboxing. These balance differences may be greater in more elite-level kickboxers who have trained for longer. In addition, other balance parameters may also improve with longer periods of exposure and increasing skill complexity performed at more elite levels.