Fourth Limb Research Articles

Bhramari Pranayama: A Non-Pharmacological Approach Against Current Coronavirus Disease 19 Pandemic

Objective: For maintaining sound physical and mental health it is extremely beneficial for mankind to do pranayama. Prāṇāyāma bring about varying physiological and psychological effects. Pranayama is a branch of yoga practice and also considered as the fourth limb of ancient aṣṭāṅga yoga consisting of breathing techniques. This article aims to attain an insight on the effectiveness of Bhramari Pranayama (Bhr.P) on health and explores its need to be implemented in day to day life as a routine by all individuals in current covid 19 pandemic.
 Data source: The studies done in previous years were found using Medline, Embase, Google scholar, pub med and manual search. Studies conducted on the health effectiveness of Bhramari Pranayama specifically were included in this study.
 Review methods: It has been tried to keenly understand the role of Bhramari pranayam in particular and exploring some new concepts related to it in this review. Features of Bhramari Pranayama are dealt in detail with its potential effects on various systems of human body and its potentiality as a therapy tool.
 Result and conclusion: In the studies incorporated, the Bhramari pranayam practices have shown para-sympathetic dominance. There are some uplifting effects of Bhramari pranayam on different physiological systems. In holistic yoga therapy schedule pranayama is also an integral component which involves slowing down of the normal breathing rate along with an internal awareness and conscious inner focus on the respiration and reduces stress which finally causes improvement in ailments due to covid 19 pandemic.

Understanding the limits to the hydraulic leg mechanism: the effects of speed and size on limb kinematics in vagrant arachnids.

Among invertebrates, spiders (order Araneae) may be unique in their relationship between speed and mass as they use a combination of direct muscular contractions to flex their appendages, and internally controlled hydraulic pressure to extend them. To explore this, we measured maximal running speeds in 128 individual lycosids and sparassids, which varied in mass between 0.0054 and 3.01g. We show maximum speed scaled with M0.353, while mean running speed scaled much lower as M0.197. We show no strong limitation of the hydraulic mechanism, with leg extension speed being equal to or greater than leg flexion speed. The reduction in leg flexion speed, only apparent in the distal most joint of the limb, might be a result of the requirement for flexor muscles to act against the hydraulic system. We explored the role of the limbs and found an alternating pattern of joint use among limbs, which may represent a strategy to avoid interference with adjacent limbs during running. Furthermore, we observed a reduced movement speed (increased leg dragging) in the rearward facing fourth limb with size. This may be linked to the increased size of the abdomen in larger spiders and may suggest a speed limitation in larger individuals.

Defending Democracy and the Rule of Law in the Era of Post-Enlargement

Abstract This contribution critically analyses the four limbs of the EU’s defence mechanism upholding the rule of law within the Union. The first being the individual post accession rule of law mechanism, introduced by the Commission in 2006 for the two new member states Bulgaria and Rumania. The second, and arguably most powerful limb, involves the EU Court of Justice conducting a judicial review of a member state’s rule of law situation, which is of far greater concern for reviewed members than the so-called “nuclear” last-resort option of Art. 7 teu ’s sanction mechanism (fourth limb) that is politically difficult to enact. With a view to the politically fraught Art. 7 teu, the Commission introduced a new “early warning” rule of law framework in 2014 which pre-emptively enables exploring dialogue-based solutions to rule-of law issues as they emerge (third limb).

Design and analysis of a cable-driven rigid–flexible coupling parallel mechanism with variable stiffness

This paper proposes a rigid–flexible coupling parallel mechanism with variable stiffness based on a novel 3-5R parallel mechanism, which is derived from a special form of anti-parallelogram mechanism. A spring is used as the fourth limb of the 3-5R parallel mechanism to endow the mechanism with elasticity, and then the motion of the 3-5R parallel mechanism is accompanied by the spring's length and curvature. Four driving cables are installed to actuate the mechanism, and the elastic spring limb makes the stiffness of the mechanism adjustable. The working process, kinematics, and stiffness of the proposed mechanism are analyzed, the lateral flexion of the spring and rigid–flexible coupling of the mechanism are also studied. Finally, a physical prototype is fabricated, the motion trajectory and stiffness of the moving platform are tested to show the feasibility of the proposed mechanism.

Cladocera from the Upper Xingu River Basin with the description of a new genus of the Chydoridae (Crustacea: Branchiopoda: Anomopoda).

In this study, we investigated cladocerans (Crustacea: Branchiopoda) collected in six water bodies from the Upper Xingu River Basin, Central Brazil. In total, we found eighteen species belonging to three families. Furthermore, we also describe a new and highly specialized genus of Chydoridae. Kisakiellus aweti gen. nov., sp. nov. which shares some morphological traits with members of Chydorinae, particularly the exopodite of the fourth limb armed with seven setae. The new genus bears several autapomorphies and does not exhibit any clear affinities with any other genus of the subfamily. Apparently, K. aweti gen. nov., sp. nov. has a positive rheotactic behavior and the morphological characters related to this habitat trait are discussed. Many regions of the Upper Xingu River Basin are still in need of faunal inventories, a fact that gains more relevance due to the high potential for cryptic biodiversity. So, it is possible that an increase on the sampling effort in this basin will have a positive impact on the known diversity of Cladocera.

Effect of Bhrāmarī Prāṇāyāma Practice on Pulmonary Function in Healthy Adolescents: A Randomized Control Study.

Context:Prāṇāyāma, the fourth limb of ancient aṣṭāṅga yoga consists of breathing techniques which produce various physiological and psychological effects. Though various types of prāṇāyāma and their effects have been scientifically established, Bhrāmarī prāṇāyāma (Bhr.P) is the one whose effects still remain understated.Aims:The present study was conducted to find the effects of Bhrāmarī prāṇāyāma practice on pulmonary function in healthy adolescents.Study Design:Randomized control trial.Subjects and Methods:90 healthy adolescents including 32 females and 58 males participated in the study. They were randomly divided into Bhr.P group (n = 45) and Control group (n = 45) by a simple lottery method. Pulmonary function test was done at baseline and at end of 12th week using RMS Helios spirometry. Prāṇāyāma group students were trained to do Bhr.P as 3 to 4 breaths/min for 5 min followed by 2 min rest. This was one cycle and in this way, they were instructed to do five cycles each time for 45 minutes five days in a week. Control group students were not allowed to practice any kind of exercise throughout the study period.Statistical Analysis:Student paired and unpaired T tests were used to analyse the intra group and intergroup differences using R statistical software.Results:A significant (P < 0.05) improvement in all pulmonary function parameters; FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC ratio, FEF 25%-75% and PEFR was seen in the Bhr.P group than the control group adolescents. Slow vital capacity (SVC) and Maximum Voluntary Volume (MVV) also showed significant improvement in the prāṇāyāma group.Conclusions:Bhrāmarī Prāṇāyāma practice is effective in improving the pulmonary function among the adolescents which could be utilized for further clinical studies.

Intra‐Articular Use of a Platelet‐Rich Product in Normal Horses: Clinical Signs and Cytologic Responses

(1) To report the clinical and synovial effects of a platelet-rich product (PRPr) in normal equine joints, (2) to assess the persistence of platelets within synovial fluid after intra-articular injection, (3) to compare responses to different preparations of that product, and (4) to evaluate a gravity filtration system for PRPr preparation in horses. Experimental. A platelet-rich saline product (PRPr) was prepared from 7 normal horses using a proprietary preparation device and was divided into 3 treatments: resting, CaCl2 -activated (23 mM, final), and bovine thrombin-activated (10 U/mL, final). Each horse had 3 concurrent randomly assigned intra-articular PRPr treatments administered in their metacarpophalangeal/metatarsophalangeal joints; the fourth limb was injected with saline (0.9% NaCl) solution as a control. Clinical assessments, cytologic analysis of synovial fluid and hemograms were performed at 6, 24, 48, and 96 hours after injection. PRPr composition and growth factor content were analyzed. The gravity filtration system produced a moderately concentrated PRPr. At 6 and 24 hours, when compared to control values, all PRPr treatments caused a significant increase in synovial WBC concentration (P < .0059) and neutrophil percentage (P < .0005). Bovine thrombin-activated PRPr injection consistently caused increased effusion scores and periarticular signs. At all time points, the synovial WBC concentration after thrombin-activated PRPr was significantly greater (P < .001) than for the control, CaCl2 -activated or resting PRPr. Intact platelets could be observed in synovial fluid for up to 5 days after intra-articular PRPr injection. Resting and CaCl2 -activated PRPr may be safely used to treat equine joints, but bovine thrombin activation is not recommended at 10 U/mL. A PRPr can be prepared using a gravity filtration system, eliminating the need for centrifugation.

PA01.44. Applied aspect of Pranayama in maintaining health

Purpose: Pranayama is the science of breathing and essence of being alive. It is the axis around which the entire life cycle resolves. Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well being and not merely an absence of disease or infirmity. Pranayama is compound word consisting Prana and Ayam, Prana means vital energy, breath, air etc. Prana is the vital life force that acts as a catalyst in all Physiological function and Ayama the expansion or control of this force. Method: Pranayama is a relatively simple, rhythmic, low cost intervention that can be incorporated into people's daily routine and have a positive impact on health. Maharishi Patanjali places Pranayama as the fourth limb of Ashtanga yoga. Prana is the fundamental basis of whatever is, was and will be. It consists three phase Purak, Kumbhak, Rechak. Result: Many researches show that breathing exercisesimprove respiratory physiology by increasing vital capacity and maintain homeostasis in blood. Researches show that pranayama is also helpful in improving the digestive activity by boosting enzymes action and promotes clearance of subtle metabolic wastes from the body. Conclusion: The process of breathing, vertical breathing is the more efficient way to inhale air than horizontal way. The present paper is high light the importance of pranayama in maintaining health, through previous research and contemporary concept.

Pranayama: a divine power in sports

In day to life stress became a big problem in our society, especially in sports. Though a top class sportsman is having scientific coaching and proper nutrition, still he is...

Uncoupled actuation of overconstrained 3T-1R hybrid parallel manipulators

SUMMARYBased on the Lie-group-algebraic properties of the displacement set and intrinsic coordinate-free geometry, several novel 4-dof overconstrained hybrid parallel manipulators (HPMs) with uncoupled actuation of three spatial translations and one rotation (3T-1R) are proposed. In these HPMs, three limbs are those of Cartesian translational parallel mechanisms (CTPMs) and the fourth limb includes an Oldham-type constant velocity shaft coupling (CVSC). The Lie subgroup of Schoenflies (X) displacements of the displacement Lie group and its mechanical generators with nine categories of their general architectures are recalled. A comprehensive enumeration of all possible Oldham-type CVSC limbs is derived fromX-motion generators. Their constant velocity (CV) transmissions are verified by group-algebraic approach. Then, combining one CTPM and one CVSC, we synthesize a lot of uncoupled 3T-1R overconstrained HPMs, which are classified into nine distinct classes of general architectures. In addition, all possible architectures with at least one hinged parallelogram or with one cylindrical pair are disclosed too. At last, related non-overconstrained HPMs are attained by the addition of one idle pair in each limb of the previous HPMs.

New species in the rheophilous genus Nicsmirnovius Chiambeng & Dumont, 1999 (Branchiopoda: Anomopoda: Chydoridae) and reassignment of Alona eximia Kiser, 1948 and Alonella fitzpatricki Chien, 1970

A morphological comparison of specimens previously assigned to Alona eximia Kiser, 1948 from tropical Africa, Eastern Asia and the Americas shows that this species-group shares a number of morphological characters on the postabdomen, head pores, first antenna and second and fourth limb that separate them from Alona Baird, 1843 but unite them with Nicsmirnovius Chiambeng & Dumont, 1999. Alonella fitzpatricki Chien, 1970, formerly believed to be a junior synonym of A. eximia, is separated from the latter and assigned to the genus Nicsmirnovius. Two new taxa, from Africa and the Island of Socotra (Yemen) are added to the genus. The relationship between the specialised habitat of these chydorids and their morphology is discussed. The geographic range of all known populations is figured and a key to species is presented.

Technical and economical analysis of 3‐LIMB and 4‐LIMB three phase transformers in YN/YN network

AbstractThis paper deals with the behaviour of the three phase three limb transformer (with or without tertiary winding) as well as the four limb transformer under unbalanced steady states in a YN/yn network. Technical and economical comparative analysis has been established among the different configurations of the transformers. The opportunity of the replacement of the four limb transformer, currently used in the Tunisian distribution network, by a three limb transformer equipped by a tertiary winding has been discussed. During the analysis, the example of a 20 KVA transformer with a tertiary winding and a fourth limb (which could be removed) has been tested. A satisfactory concurrent is obtained between theoretical and experimental results.

Feeding in myodocopid ostracods: functional morphology and laboratory observations from videos

High-resolution videos, scanning electron microscopy and histology were used to study the feeding mechanism of myodocopid ostracods from the Pacific Coast of Japan, as exemplified by Vargula hilgendorfii (Muller, 1890) and a few other cypridinid species. Ostracods observed in the laboratory were attracted to a wide spectrum of natural food sources, behaving as predators of living prey (e.g. polychaete annelids), as opportunistic scavengers on dead animals (e.g. annelids, fishes, squid), and also consuming artificial food. Food sources may be detected by chemoreception. The fourth limb (endopodites with strong sclerotized setae) and the furcal lamellae (claws with teeth) act in coordination to abrade and eventually tear open the protective integument of living/dead prey such as annelids. The mandibular palps are used mainly to hold the food. Food sections and soft-body contents are transferred to the mouth by the fourth limb (endopodial “rake”) and fifth limb (exopodite with pectinate setae) and are passed to the oesophagus by the endites (mandibles, fourth and fifth limbs). Food is subsequently pumped up to the stomach by peristaltic contractions of the oesophagus (ring muscles) and stored in the stomach pouch. The upper lip of bioluminescent (V. hilgendorfii) and non-bioluminescent species of Cypridinidae often contact food, suggesting that some of the glands housed in this organ may emit digestive enzymes prior to ingestion. Ostracods are able to ingest massive quantities of food within a few minutes and to survive starvation for several weeks. In V. hilgendorfii, the midgut is a huge sac-like organ with no partition and is lined with a single layer of columnar epithelial cells. No differentiated hepatopancreas is present. The cypridinid produces a single faecal pellet wrapped in a thin reticulated, peritrophic membrane. Myodocopid ostracods exhibit a wide range of feeding strategies (detritus-feeding, comb-feeding, scavenging, predation, ectoparasitism) in both benthic and pelagic niches, and constitute a substantial source of food for many zooplankters. Adaptation of cypridinids to scavenging/predation is reflected in the morphology of their furcae, mandibles, fourth and fifth limbs, and their digestive system. Palaeontological data suggest that early Triassic cypridinids and possible late Ordovician myodocopids may have been carnivorous scavengers feeding on carcasses of cephalopods (ammonoids or orthoconic nautiloids), thus playing the same role of “recyclers” as modern representatives of the group.

Six-year follow-up of multiple joint replacement surgery to the lower limbs.

We report a 6-yr follow-up study of an original population of 50 patients who had three or more major joints (hips and knees) replaced. Thirty-one of 32 surviving patients were still ambulant in the community, and all patients described significant pain relief. No RA patient was requiring permanent inpatient or residential care and the family remained the main social support. They remained a very disabled group with a median Health Assessment Questionnaire score of 2.75. Ten required revision surgery: three hips and seven knees; four patients required their fourth lower limb joint (hip/knee) replaced and seven patients required surgery to the upper limbs and nine feet during the follow-up period. The median 10-yr survival of hip and knee arthroplasties in multiple joint replacement (MJR) patients with RA was 90.5 and 78.6% respectively. There was an increased incidence of cervical myelopathy in MJR patients 16.9%. The mortality rate was higher than expected (standardized mortality ratio = 590) but the actual surgery was not implicated. MJR therefore appears to be a worthwhile policy, even at long-term follow-up.

Limb regeneration in a common South-American littoral crabCyrtograpsus angulatus

The intermoult period (time elapsed between two successive moults) is shortened, its variation among individuals and the size increment at moult are reduced, in juveniles of the littoral crab Cyrtograpsus angulatus when the number of regenerating limbs increases. Bud growth rates of regenerating limbs are calculated from plots of R4 (length of third or fourth limb bud. 100/carapace width) as a function of relative time, considering that the intermoult period corresponds to 100%. Bud growth rates remain similar for crabs with a different number of limbs autotomized soon after moult. Regeneration of a second set of autotomized limbs follows autotomy if it occurs before the growing buds of a first set have a relative size R4 < 16. Buds of contralateral limbs autotomized at different times during the moult cycle have similar final R4 values because their growth rates are higher for limbs lost later. Buds of limbs, autotomized after part of the moult cycle has elapsed since moult, also tend to grow faster than...

Dynamic radionuclide imaging as a means of evaluating vascular perfusion of the upper extremity: A preliminary report

Vascular competence in the upper extremities of 44 patients was evaluated by three-phase bone scans consisting of rapid sequence dynamic radionuclide imaging (DRI), an immediate postinjection "blood pool" image, and a 3- to 4-hour delayed image. Findings were correlated with definitive anatomy determined by arteriography, operative findings, or both, in 50 extremities. DRI provided the correct diagnosis in all but four extremities (92%). Limited resolution precluded precise anatomic definition of aneurysms in three limbs and of digital artery occlusion, with adequate collateral circulation in the fourth limb. The greatest value of DRI was its provision of quantitative information about relative blood flow and preferential perfusion in every instance. We believe DRI to be a useful adjunct to preoperative and postoperative assessment of arterial perfusion.