Body Movements Research Articles

Energy-Harvesting Device Based on Lead-Free Perovskite

This research investigates the solid-state synthesis of lead-free (K, Na)0.5NbO3 ceramics to improve the performance of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) for energy-harvesting applications. The TENGs have developed as potential devices for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. However, traditional TENG materials frequently include lead, which raises environmental and health problems. To overcome this issue, lead-free ceramics were examined as alternative materials with superior properties. In this work, a TENG was fabricated using potassium sodium niobate (KNN) ceramics as one triboelectric layer, Kapton as the other triboelectric layer, and a flexible substrate. The aim was to create TENGs with improved performance and environmental sustainability. The output performance of the TENG was estimated to be 70 V and 1100 nA. The TENG was further used to charge capacitors, light up an LED, and harvest energy from various body motions.

Development of a body movement detection system to avoid re-exposure during radiography.

During the radiographic examination of the chest and bones in hospitals, communicating and maintaining posture is difficult for some patients, and movement before or during X-ray irradiation may necessitate re-exposure owing to body wobbling movements or breathing movements. To prevent the need for re-exposure during radiography and to determine the exposure timing, a body movement detection system that considers breathing movements was developed in this study. The posture of a patient was monitored using an RGB camera. The acquired video data was analyzed to detect body movement using either an inter-frame difference method or an optical flow estimation method. The performance of the system was evaluated by detecting the body and breathing movements during positioning. Consequently, the inter-frame difference method detected 179.8-1222.2pixels during body movements, and the optical flow estimation method confirmed that the feature points moved by 5.5-26.6mm (4.2-20.3pixels). When detecting breathing movements, 82-585pixels were detected by the inter-frame difference method, and the optical flow estimation method showed that the feature points moved by 5.2mm (2-4pixels). Therefore, the proposed method can detect body movements during radiography to prevent re-exposure due to body wobble and breathing movements. For healthcare providers, it will lead to reduce not only concerns about patient exposure but also unnecessary radiographic workload.

Fetal Outcome Evaluation in High-risk Term Pregnancy Using Biophysical Profile at a Tertiary Hospital in Anambra State, Nigeria

Introduction: A high-risk pregnancy is defined as a pregnancy in which there is a significant probability of an adverse maternal or fetal outcome that is more than the incidence of that outcome in the general population. Aim: To determine the usefulness of biophysical profile evaluation in women with high-risk term pregnancies. Methods: Biophysical profile (BPP) parameters were used to evaluate 160 high-risk women with term pregnancies. Results: All the participants had normal amniotic fluid index values [AFI] of 8.1-24.0cm. Most of the participants 115 (71.9%) showed good BPP scores. Outcome at delivery was as follows; fetal distress [presence 8.9%, absence 91.1%], stillbirth = none, admission into the intensive care unit (ICU) [Yes 2.0%, No 88%], meconium staining [Yes 8.2%, Clear 91.8%], birth weight [< 2.5kg = 5.7%, > 2.5kg = 94.3%]. APGAR score at 1 minute [<7 = 5.1%, >7 = 94.9%] while at 5 minutes [<7 = 3.2%, > 7= 96.8%]. The commonest mode of delivery was vaginal 84 (52.8%). The association between gross body movement, fetal breathing movement, and fetal outcome was not statistically significant p > 0.05. Conclusion: BPP parameters were found to be associated with fetal outcomes.

Sternalis muscle, a rare anatomical variation with clinical implications

Abstract The sternalis muscle is a rare variant of the anterior chest wall musculature. Although its frequency in general population worldwide has been reported from 2% to 8%, its prevalence depends on regions and populations. The aim of this paper is to describe one of the first cases of sternalis muscle found in Central Europe. An anterior chest wall of 64-year-old white male was dissected during a regular anatomy class at Department of Human Anatomy. A right unilateral sternalis muscle was revealed and described. The unilateral sternalis muscle laid between the pectoral and the superficial thoracic fascia. The muscle was long and wide. In addition, it had a massive tendon. According to the Snosek et al. Classification, it was a “simple unilateral” type. This report presents another case of the sternalis muscle among humans. Although the sternalis muscle serves a minor role in body movement, its occurrence gives several clinical implications. The awareness of variability in the thoracic region is important during diagnostic and treatment processes or in surgical operation planning.

Computational biomechanics for a standing human body: Modal analysis and simulation.

We develop computational mechanical modeling and methods for the analysis and simulation of the motions of a human body. This type of work is crucial in many aspects of human life, ranging from comfort in riding, the motion of aged persons, sports performance and injuries, and many ergonomic issues. A prevailing approach for human motion studies is through lumped parameter models containing discrete masses for the parts of the human body with empirically determined spring, mass, damping coefficients. Such models have been effective to some extent; however, a much more faithful modeling method is to model the human body as it is, namely, as a continuum. We present this approach, and for comparison, we choose two digital CAD models of mannequins for a standing human body, one from the versatile software package LS-DYNA and another from open resources with some of our own adaptations. Our basic view in this paper is to regard human motion as a perturbation and vibration from an equilibrium position which is upright standing. A linear elastodynamic model is chosen for modal analysis, but a full nonlinear viscoelastoplastic extension is possible for full-body simulation. The motion and vibration of these two mannequin models is analyzed by modal analysis, where the normal vibration modes are determined. LS-DYNA is used as the supercomputing and simulation platform. Four sets of low-frequency modes are tabulated, discussed, visualized, and compared. Higher frequency modes are also selectively displayed. We have found that these modes of motion and vibration form intrinsic basic modes of biomechanical motion of the human body. This view is supported by our finding of the upright walking motion as a low-frequency mode in modal analysis. Such a "walking mode" shows the in-phase and out-of-phase movements between the legs and arms on the left and right sides of a human body, implying that this walking motion is spontaneous, likely not requiring any directives from the brain. Dynamic motions of CAD mannequins are also simulated by drop tests for comparisons and the validity of the models is discussed through Fourier frequency analysis. All computed modes of motion are collected in several sets of video animations for ease of visualization. Samples of LS-DYNA computer codes are also included for possible use by other researchers.

Physical Activity in Pregnancy: The Role of Exercise in Promoting Maternal and Fetal Health

Introduction and Objective: There is no doubt that engaging in regular physical activity is beneficial for individuals of all ages. Pregnancy is a special time of life for most women. This period presents a unique opportunity for them to improve their lifestyle choices and adopt healthier habits such as exercise. The aim of this article is to find out if regular physical activity during pregnancy has a positive impact for both the mother and the baby.Review and Methods: Review and summary of available studies and meta-analyses found in open-access formats on Google Scholar and PubMed.State of Knowledge: The WHO defines physical activity as any bodily movement requiring energy expenditure, including during leisure, transport, work, and domestic activities. Regular exercise reduces the risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and poor health outcomes, while sedentary behavior contributes to this and burdens healthcare systems. For pregnant and postpartum women, physical movement decreases the risk of various complications, with no negative effects on birthweight or stillbirth risk. Conclusions: Studies show that physical activity decreased risk of pre-eclampsia, gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, excessive gestational weight gain, delivery complications, postpartum depression and newborn complications.

Digital Twin-Based Alternate Ego Modeling and Simulation: Eva Herzigová as a 3D MetaHuman Avatar

Abstract Due to Dimension Studios and Unsigned Group, by likeness and movement digitization, the human supermodel Eva Herzigová’s highly realistic metahuman and 3D digital twin lead to perpetual career extension (e.g., on virtual runway shows by catwalk replication or in advertising campaigns by particular pose adoption), including in virtual worlds such as metaverse spaces, by use of extended reality technologies, in terms of virtual clothing, digital hair, skin texture, facial and body expressions, and makeup styling as avatar appearance and persona. In this paper, we show how, by likeness capturing (e.g., signature walk by motion capture shoot for face and body movement tracking) and virtual clothing, Eva Herzigová’s hyperreal 3D avatar (lifelike 3D digital human clone or realistic virtual human) is configured with subsequent restyled hair and make-up, 3D clothing modeling, and extended reality fashion shows on virtual catwalks or campaign shoots. We clarify that photographic reference materials and a sensor-based motion capture suit assisted Metahuman Creator in capturing facial and motion data for Eva Herzigová’s digital avatar, configuring realistic depiction and virtual activations of beauty standards, in addition to digital likeness, signature style, talent representation, and narrations, typifying digital human creation and presence in virtual worlds (e.g., for metaverse-based shoots). We conclude that Eva Herzigová’s hyperrealistic 3D digital human twin and MetaHuman avatar operate as a styled virtual alter ego and versatile personal brand extension by motion capture technologies for immersive virtual fashion shows, live video streams and broadcast, and digital wearable modeling.

Kinematically distinct saccades are used in a context-dependent manner by larval zebrafish

Saccades are rapid eye movements that are used by all species with good vision. In this study, we set out to characterize the complete repertoire of larval zebrafish horizontal saccades to gain insight into their contributions to visually guided behavior and underlying neural control. We identified five saccade types, defined by systematic differences in kinematics and binocular coordination, which were differentially expressed across a variety of behavioral contexts. Conjugate saccades formed a large group that serves at least four functions. These include fast phases of the optokinetic nystagmus, visual scanning in stationary animals, and shifting gaze in coordination with body turns. In addition, we discovered a previously undescribed pattern of eye-body coordination in which small conjugate saccades partially oppose head rotation to maintain gaze during forward locomotion. Convergent saccades were coordinated with body movements to foveate prey targets during hunting. Detailed kinematic analysis showed that conjugate and convergent saccades differed in the millisecond coordination of the eyes and body and followed distinct velocity main sequence relationships. This challenges the prevailing view that all horizontal saccades are controlled by a common brainstem circuit and instead indicates saccade-type-specific neural control.

Optimizing link-length fitting between an operator and a robot with compensation for habitual movements

Teleoperation has become increasingly important for the real-world application of robots. However, in current teleoperation applications, operators need to visually recognize any physical deviations between the robot and themselves and correct its operation accordingly. Even when humans move their bodies, achieving high positional accuracy can be difficult for them, which can limit their speed of movement and place a heavy burden on them. In this study, we proposed a parameter optimization method for feedforward compensation of the link-length deviation and operator's habitual body movements in leader–follower control in 3D space. To optimize the parameters, we used Digital Annealer developed by Fujitsu Ltd, which could rapidly solve the combinatorial optimization problem. The objective function minimized the difference between the hand positions of the robot and targets. Simulations verified that the proposed method could reduce hand positional differences.

Proof of Kepler's Laws through the Lens of Newtonian Dynamics

At the beginning of the 17th century, Johannes Kepler developed the laws of planetary motion, which became fundamental to understanding the motion of celestial bodies. These principles have been crucial in forming our knowledge of the solar system and help us comprehend how planets orbit the Sun in elliptical orbits. Although Kepler's laws were derived from empirical observations, Isaac Newton's laws of motion and universal gravitation provided a solid theoretical foundation. This research article examines the evidence for Kepler's laws from a Newtonian dynamics perspective, highlighting the harmonious relationship between Kepler's observational discoveries and Newton's mathematical principles.

A garment-integrated textile stitch-based strain sensor device, IoT-Enabled for enhanced wearable sportswear applications

The field of wearable technology is undergoing a transformative shift with the integration of IoT-enabled, AI-assisted sensors into sportswear, bringing sophisticated performance analysis within reach for a broader audience. Despite advancements in stitch strain sensors, there is a significant research gap in developing high-performance, stable, and IoT-connected complete stitch strain wearable sensor systems. These advanced sensors are essential for enhancing wearable technology and meeting the growing demands for improved user experience and functionality. In this study by utilizing conductive sewing threads and innovative stitching techniques, we fabricated textile strain sensors that offer high sensitivity, flexibility, and durability. Extensive calibration tests revealed strong linear relationships between resistance and tensile strain, with highest sensor sensitivity (2.08 Ω/mm during loading and 2.72 Ω/mm during unloading). These sensors demonstrate reliable performance with minimal hysteresis, particularly in shorter lengths. The wearable sportswear device, tested in gym environments, demonstrated the sensor's capability to provide real-time feedback on knee flexing/bending and body movement during exercise. This functionality supports injury prevention and enhances workout efficiency. The sensor system is IoT-enabled, powered by an ESP8266 microcontroller, facilitating data transmission to the Thing Speak platform for advanced analysis and remote monitoring. This comprehensive approach not only advances wearable technology but also opens new avenues for remote health monitoring and smart e-textiles, contributing significantly to the fields of sports science and fitness technology.

Clinical features and mechanisms of neck myoclonus in narcolepsy

Study objectivesThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of neck myoclonus (NM) on sleep quality and daytime sleepiness in patients with narcolepsy (NT) and to further explore possible underlying mechanisms. MethodsWe included 72 patients with narcolepsy type 1 (NT1), 34 patients with narcolepsy type 2 (NT2) and 33 healthy controls. Patients underwent questionnaires, lumbar puncture procedure, polysomnography, and multiple sleep latency test (MSLT). Healthy controls underwent polysomnography and questionnaires. Orexin-A levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were analyzed by radioimmunoassay. Three catecholamines, including dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine, in the CSF were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS). ResultsBoth the NT1 and NT2 groups displayed a higher level of NM incidence rate and index compared to the control group in PSG. NT1 displayed greater MSLT REM–-NM incidence rate and index than NT2. NM were often associated with arousal or awakening and body movements, which had a prominent influence on sleep quality in both narcoleptic patients and controls. There was a positive correlation between the NM index and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Stanford Sleepiness Scale (SSS) and Ullanlinna Narcolepsy Scale (UNS) scores in NT1 patients. In MSLT of NT1 patients, REM–NM index were positively correlated with the CSF dopamine levels, and there were elevated dopamine levels but reduced orexin-A levels in patients with REM–NM. ConclusionNM incidence rate and index were high in patients with narcolepsy, which had a huge effect on sleep quality and aggravated daytime sleepiness. NM should be considered pathological and viewed as a new sleep-related movement disorder. Orexin-A and dopamine may be involved in the development of NM.

Nonlinear Dynamics of Motion of a Cylindrical Body with an Elastic Coupling in a Viscous Continuum

Nonlinear Dynamics of Motion of a Cylindrical Body with an Elastic Coupling in a Viscous Continuum

Laser-Induced Graphene Strain Sensors for Body Movement Monitoring.

To enable the development of artificial intelligence of things, the improvement of the strain sensing mechanisms and optimization of the interconnections are needed. Direct laser writing to obtain laser-induced graphene (LIG) is being studied as a promising technique for producing wearable, lightweight, highly sensitive, and reliable strain sensors. These devices show a higher degree of flexibility and stretchability when transferred to an elastomeric substrate. In this article, we manufactured polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-encapsulated LIG piezoresistive strain sensors with a quasi-linear behavior and a gauge factor of 111. The produced LIG was morphologically characterized via Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy before and after the electromechanical characterization and before and after the LIG transfer to PDMS. The results from these analyses revealed that the integrity of the material after the test was not affected and that the LIG volume in contact with the substrate increased after transfer and encapsulation in PDMS, leading to the improvement of the sensor performance. The sensors' capability for measuring bend angles accurately was demonstrated experimentally, making them useable in a wide range of applications for human body movement monitoring as well as for structural health monitoring. Regarding body monitoring, a PDMS-encapsulated LIG sensor for knee bending angle detection was proposed. This device showed unaffected performance of 1500 cycles under 8% uniaxial deformation and with response times in the range of 1-2 s.

Dystroglycan-HSPG interactions provide synaptic plasticity and specificity.

This study examined the roles of the laminin and proteoglycan receptor dystroglycan (DG) in extracellular matrix stabilization and cellular mechanosensory processes conveyed through communication between the extracellular matrix (ECM) and cytoskeleton facilitated by DG. Specific functional attributes of HS-proteoglycans (HSPGs) are conveyed through interactions with DG and provide synaptic specificity through diverse interactions with an extensive range of cell attachment and adaptor proteins which convey synaptic plasticity. HSPG-DG interactions are important in phototransduction and neurotransduction and facilitate retinal bipolar-photoreceptor neuronal signaling in vision. Besides synaptic stabilization, HSPG-DG interactions also stabilize basement membranes and the ECM and have specific roles in the assembly and function of the neuromuscular junction. This provides neuromuscular control of muscle systems that control conscious body movement as well as essential autonomic control of diaphragm, intercostal and abdominal muscles and muscle systems in the face, mouth and pharynx which assist in breathing processes. DG is thus a multifunctional cell regulatory glycoprotein receptor and regulates a diverse range of biological and physiological processes throughout the human body. The unique glycosylation of the αDG domain is responsible for its diverse interactions with ECM components in cell-ECM signaling. Cytoskeletal cell regulatory switches assembled by the βDG domain in its role as a nuclear scaffolding protein respond to such ECM cues to regulate cellular behavior and tissue homeostasis thus DG has fascinating and diverse roles in health and disease.

Sensor placement determination for a wearable device in dual-arm manipulation tasks

To enhance the quality of life for individuals in various sectors, such as industry, healthcare, and everyday activities, the development of a highly efficient and cost-effective wearable device is essential. This paper presents a feasibility study for a general estimation methodology for human activity assessment using a single sensor placed on the back. The methodology considers the minimal variability in human body movements when carrying different weights. Our approach involves optimizing the sensor's position through a simple pre-processing technique. This technique utilizes virtual sensor position and orientation data derived from a virtual mannequin based on real inertial measurement unit (IMU) measurements obtained during two-arm manipulation tasks in a warehouse setting. The primary contribution is the optimization of a single, non-invasive sensor placement on the back to accurately assess activities involving two-hand manipulation with low variability in movement. We identified 54 different activity classes with an accuracy of 91.77% using a hybrid two-dimensional Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) combined with a Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (BiLSTM) network (2D CNN-BiLSTM) model. This model does not require additional sensors that measure other physical quantities, such as electromyography activity. Identifying repetitive tasks involving significant bending, stretching, and twisting, which pose risks of musculoskeletal disorders and back pain, offers a solution for designing wearable devices. The portability and autonomy of these devices are crucial, and current sensor technology meets these needs with low size, cost, and consumption. Wearable medical devices can thus be effectively used for self-monitoring health, preventive medicine, and rehabilitation.

Advances In Celestial Mechanics And Dynamical Astronomy: A Literature Review

This research paper provides a comprehensive examination of recent developments within the realm of celestial mechanics and dynamical astronomy. By conducting an in-depth analysis of existing literature, this study aims to elucidate the pivotal advancements and contributions that have significantly enhanced our understanding of celestial body motion and dynamics. Through a meticulous evaluation of scholarly articles, books, and conference proceedings, this literature review delves into the fundamental concepts and methodologies that underpin celestial mechanics and dynamical astronomy. The paper explores a wide array of topics, encompassing orbital dynamics, dynamical systems, asterodynamics, planetary science, and explanatory systems. By synthesizing the findings of esteemed researchers and scientists, this study reveals the profound impact of novel numerical methods, analytical techniques, and observational discoveries on the field. Furthermore, it identifies areas ripe for future investigation, underscoring the vast potential for continued exploration and innovation within celestial mechanics and dynamical astronomy. Ultimately, this literature review seeks to provide a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and students seeking insight into the latest advancements and emerging trends in celestial mechanics and dynamical astronomy, while also highlighting the boundless opportunities for future research and discovery.

A flexible sensor based on ionogel/knitted coil prepared by a simple method for accurate monitoring of human physiological signals

Flexible sensors have received increasing attention due to their various applications in health monitoring, artificial intelligence, and other fields. The simple fabrication of flexible sensing devices with high performances has been a research hotpot. In this work, an ionogel composite sensor combined with elastic knitted coil (EIC) is proposed as a wearable device to monitor human movement and related feature information. This sensor can be fabricated in a simple and easy protocol, which can work as a clothing accessary to track the wellness status parameters in daily life. After washing, the redundant gel originally embedded between the fibers was removed, improving the sensitivity of the sensor, which can provide accurate information about human joint movements and other physiological activities. The EIC sensor is in high sensitivity with superior working durability, which can provide continuous piezoresistive signals in detection mode. Other than the common joint bending movements (wrist, knee, elbow and finger) of human body, this sensor can also accurately output monitoring data on periocular, oral, and pharyngeal movements, providing information about human health status. Besides, a Morse codes transmission system can be constructed based on the piezoresistive outputs of this EIC sensor under different tapping modes, providing a new working platform in other related applications.

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans in pathological protein aggregation and brain functionality

Proteoglycans are highly specialized proteins with specific interactive modules in their core proteins, allowing them to engage with a diverse range of cellular and structural proteins, contributing to many varied roles in cell processes. This review examines the roles of heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycans (HSPGs) in the assembly of pathological protein aggregates in brain tissues, which negatively impact cognitive brain function. While HSPGs play roles in normal brain development, they also contribute to the abnormal accumulation and persistence of protein aggregates in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases (AD and PD), prolonging their neurotoxic effects. HSPG-mediated effects on the innate immune system may also contribute to the development of neuroinflammation and pathogenesis of neurodegenerative changes in the central nervous system. These pathological developments lead to impaired cognition, permanent memory loss in dementia and AD, and an inability of the brain to exert normal neuromuscular control, affecting motor functions and body movement in PD. A deeper understanding of the properties of HS in these degenerative processes is essential for the development of therapeutic measures to treat these conditions. Significant improvements in neuroimaging, next-generation glycosaminoglycan analytical techniques, and functional glycomics hold great promise for elucidating the complexities of HS structure and function. These advancements may significantly aid in the development of HS biotherapeutics to treat these debilitating conditions, which are increasingly impacting the aging global population. While a number of promising therapeutic candidates have already emerged, further research is required to optimize their biotherapeutic applications in this challenging area of pathobiology, bioregulation, and the recovery of neural function.

Analysis of the Forces and Moments in Canine Bodily Movement with Different Clear Aligners’ Extraction Space Designs

This study aimed to optimize space closure efficiency by comparing the forces and moments exerted by different designs of clear aligners (CAs) during the movement of maxillary canines into the premolar extraction space. The forces and moments were measured using a multi-axis force/moment transducer on the maxillary right canine. The CAs were fabricated from thermoformed polyethylene terephthalate glycol. The following four edentulous space designs were tested: the edentulous space was left intact (Group 1); the edentulous space was replaced with a premolar pontic (Group 2); the edentulous space was replaced with a half-sized premolar pontic (Group 3); and the edentulous space was replaced with a rectangular column beam (Group 4). The maxillary right canine was moved 0.25 mm distally. All groups experienced buccodistal and intrusive forces; compared with the other groups, Group 1 showed significantly greater intrusive and smaller distal forces, and Group 4 showed significantly greater distal forces. All groups experienced distal tilting, lingual inclination, and mesial rotational moments. These findings suggest that modifying the thickness and extent of the adjacent teeth in the edentulous area of the CA can improve local stiffness, thereby reducing the tipping of the teeth into the edentulous space. This study emphasizes the importance of the CA design in controlling forces and moments for effective orthodontic treatment.