Improvements In Endurance Research Articles

Optimizing the Ferroelectric Performance of Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 Epitaxial Film by La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 Capping Layer

AbstractHafnium‐oxide‐based ferroelectrics have garnered considerable research interest, primarily for their robust ferroelectricity at the nanoscale and their high compatibility with complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductors processes. However, the impact of electrodes on the ferroelectric properties of hafnium‐oxide layer, particularly that of top electrodes, is not yet fully understood even in the simplest capacitor geometry. In this study, the La0.67Sr0.33MnO3/Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 (LSMO/HZO) epitaxial heterostructure is utilized as a model system to conduct a systematic comparative study on ferroelectricity between the LSMO/HZO (H‐LS) bilayer and LSMO/HZO/LSMO (LS‐H‐LS) trilayer samples. In comparison to the H‐LS sample, the LS‐H‐LS sample exhibits a more uniform polar domain configuration and larger ferroelectric polarization. Moreover, the LS‐H‐LS sample exhibits significant improvements in leakage, endurance, and retention. These substantial enhancements in ferroelectricity are likely due to interfacial stress imposed by the LSMO capping layer and its capacity to accommodate extra oxygen vacancies. These results underscore the pivotal role of oxide‐based top electrodes in determining the ferroelectricity of hafnium‐oxide‐based heterostructures, providing crucial insights for optimizing the performance of innovative ferroelectric devices.

Multiple sclerosis and spasticity: the role of anaesthetic nerve blocks on rectus femoris muscle. When should stiff knee be treated with botulinum toxin?

To compare the effect of rectus femoris diagnostic motor nerve blocks (DNB) with anaesthetics and rectus femoris muscle botulinum toxin (BoNT-A) injection in multiple sclerosis patients with unilateral stiff-knee gait. Prospective observational study Subjects/Patients: Multiple sclerosis patients in stable condition. Patients underwent evaluation before and 1 hour after the anaesthetic block, and 1 month after the botulinum injection. Assessment included a 10-m walking test, a 6-minute walking test, a timed-up-and-go (TUG) test, and a Baseline Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Post-DNB and post-BoNT-A satisfaction was measured with the global assessment of efficacy scale. Fourteen patients with unilateral stiff-knee gait due to multiple sclerosis underwent a DNB, among whom 13 received botulinum injections in the rectus femoris muscle after a satisfying test result. Positive post-DNB results correlated with significant functional improvements after BoNT-A. Higher EDSS and longer time from diagnosis correlated with poorer post-DNB and post-BoNT-A absolute outcomes. DNB showed predictive value for BoNT-A outcomes, especially in the case of worse functional status. It effectively predicted endurance and walking speed improvement, while TUG showed greater improvement after botulinum. In cases of uncertain therapeutic benefit, nerve blocks may provide a valuable diagnostic support, particularly in patients with lower functional status.

Enhancing the performance of extreme learning machine technique using optimization algorithms for embedded workload characterization

Embedded devices are used in many domains, including healthcare, industries, and home automation, all of which entail significant workloads. As a direct consequence, the embedded devices require retrieval and processing of data of large volume, which occupy large memory space in the embedded devices. Compression along with workload characterization is an effective technique for minimizing memory usage and to the improvement of endurance of memory in such devices. This paper investigates the embedded workload characterization using Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) that is particularly suitable for large-scale datasets and real-time applications. Though ELM is single-layer feedforward network, its input weight randomization has a considerable effect on the accuracy of the classification. In this paper, the authors have proposed a hybrid algorithm for the optimization of the randomization of ELM. The Particle Swarm Optimizer (PSO), the Genetic Algorithm (GA), the Ant Colony Optimizer (ACO), and the Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA) were used in the optimization of the classification process in ELM to increase the accuracy of the results. The input data must be categorized based on the energy consumed by each workload to proceed with further processing according to the system requirements. This paper explores and analyses the performance of hybridized ELM-Genetic algorithm (ELM-GA), ELM-Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), ELM-Ant Colony Optimizer (ELM-ACO), and ELM- Whale Optimization Algorithm (ELM-WOA) optimization algorithms. The embedded benchmarks Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), Mi Benchmark (MiBench), and Embedded Microprocessor Benchmark Consortium (EEMBC) have been used as a dataset for classification in this paper. The extensive experimental study shows that the hybridized ELM-WOA provides a 98.5 % classification accuracy, 98.1 % specificity, and 98 % sensitivity compared to the other optimization methods discussed in this paper.

The Benefits of Physical Activity for Patients with Cystic Fibrosis: A Literature Review

Introduction Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a complex and progressive genetic disorder that significantly impacts multiple organ systems, particularly the lungs and digestive tract. Despite advances in treatment and improved life expectancy, CF remains incurable, necessitating ongoing research and comprehensive management strategies. One of the key components in managing CF is the incorporation of physical activity (PA). Aim of the study The aim of the study is to investigate the role of physical activity in in the management of cystic fibrosis. Materials and methods This study underscores the critical role of physical activity (PA) in the management and overall well-being of individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF). It provides a comprehensive review of the multifaceted benefits of PA for CF patients, highlighting its positive impact on exercise tolerance, pulmonary function, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and quality of life. PubMed and Google Scholar database was searched for articles written in English. The search included the keywords. Results The data suggest that while CF patients face unique challenges, including muscle weakness and exercise intolerance, regular PA can mitigate these effects and improve overall health outcomes. Supervised exercise programs have demonstrated significant improvements in exercise tolerance and respiratory muscle endurance without adverse effects, indicating their feasibility and safety for CF patients. Studies have shown that patients with CF who engage in regular PA experience slower declines in lung function, fewer hospitalizations, and better nutritional status. Specific types of exercise, such as anaerobic training, have been particularly effective in increasing muscle strength and body weight.

Respiratory Muscle Training in Para-Athletes: A Systematic Review on the Training Protocols and Effects on Reported Outcomes.

Respiratory muscle training (RMT) is considered an effective tool to improve cardiorespiratory limitations in athletes. The goals of this systematic review were to explore the role of RMT and its implementation within sport rehabilitation programs in para-athletes. Several databases were searched until January 2024. Eligible studies were independently reviewed by 2 reviewers. Quality assessment was made using the PEDro scale and version 2 of the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias Tool for Randomized Trials. Eight studies (a total of 108 participants) were selected for the analysis. Five studies preferred using resistive loading, while 2 studies used normocapnic hyperpnea, and 1 study used threshold inspiratory muscle training. Respiratory functions (respiratory muscle strength and endurance, spirometry measures) and exercise performance were assessed as the main outcomes. Significant increases in respiratory muscle strength were reported in 5 studies. Two studies observed improvement in respiratory muscle endurance and 3 studies reported increased exercise capacity. This review suggests that although RMT can enhance respiratory muscle strength and endurance, it should not be considered the primary method for boosting the exercise performance of para-athletes. Additional research is necessary to explore the impact of various RMT techniques on different outcomes from the perspective of sport rehabilitation in para-athletes.

The Effect of Suspension Training and Dumbbell Training on Increasing Muscle Endurance in the Elderly

Abstract To determine the difference in the provision of suspension training and dumbbell training on increasing muscle endurance in the elderly. This study is experimental which was conducted 2 times a week for 4 weeks at Perkumpulan Senam Lansia Kelurahan Cibubur. This study consisted of 20 people and was divided into two groups of 10 people each, namely treatment group I given Suspension Training and treatment group II given Dumbbell Training. Each group of muscle endurance improvement was measured with the Arm (Biceps) Curl Test and 30 Second Chair Stand Test. This research is experimental which was conducted 2 times a week for 4 weeks at Perkumpulan Senam Lansia Kelurahan Cibubur. This study consisted of 20 people and was divided into two groups of 10 people each, namely treatment group I given Suspension Training and treatment group II given Dumbbell Training. Each group increased muscle endurance measured by the Arm (Biceps) Curl Test and 30 Second Chair Stand Test. Results: In this study successfully showed that Suspension Training pre test ACBT mean ± SD is 18.60 ± 4.138, the results of the post test ACBT mean ± SD is 19.90 ± 4.202. Pre test 30s CST mean ± SD is 11.60 ± 1.838, the results of the post test 30s CST mean ± SD is 13.20 ± 2.486. In the Dumbbell Training study, the results of the ACBT pre test mean ± SD were 18.50 ± 4.275, the results of the ACBT post test mean ± SD were 19.50 ± 4.552. Pre test 30s CST mean ± SD is 11.40 ± 2.547, the results of the post test 30s CST mean ± SD is 12.40 ± 2.271. Both of these studies showed a significant increase in muscle endurance in the elderly between before and after treatment (p < 0.05). However, the difference test between Suspension Training and Dumbbell Training on increasing muscle endurance did not show a significant difference (p = 0.273). Suspension Training and Dumbbell Training can significantly increase muscle endurance in the elderly but the two methods do not show a significant difference in the results. Keywords: suspension training, dumbbell training, arm (biceps) curl test, 30 second chair stand test, elderly

Safety & efficacy of a robotic hip exoskeleton on outpatient stroke rehabilitation

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to analyze the safety and efficacy of using a robotic hip exoskeleton designed by Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Korea, called the Gait Enhancing and Motivating System-Hip (GEMS-H), in assistance mode only with the poststroke population in an outpatient-rehabilitation setting.MethodsForty-one participants with an average age of 60 and average stroke latency of 6.5 years completed this prospective, single arm, interventional, longitudinal study during the COVID-19 pandemic. Significant modifications to the traditional outpatient clinical environment were made to adhere to organizational physical distancing policies as well as guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control. All participants received gait training with the GEMS-H in assistance mode for 18 training sessions over the course of 6–8 weeks. Performance-based and self-reported clinical outcomes were assessed at four time points: baseline, midpoint (after 9 training sessions), post (after 18 training sessions), and 1-month follow up. Daily step count was also collected throughout the duration of the study using an ankle-worn actigraphy device. Additionally, corticomotor excitability was measured at baseline and post for 4 bilateral lower limb muscles using transcranial magnetic stimulation.ResultsBy the end of the training program, the primary outcome, walking speed, improved by 0.13 m/s (p < 0.001). Secondary outcomes of walking endurance, balance, and functional gait also improved as measured by the 6-Minute Walk Test (47 m, p < 0.001), Berg Balance Scale (2.93 points, p < 0.001), and Functional Gait Assessment (1.80 points, p < 0.001). Daily step count significantly improved with and average increase of 1,750 steps per day (p < 0.001). There was a 35% increase in detectable lower limb motor evoked potentials and a significant decrease in the active motor threshold in the medial gastrocnemius (-5.7, p < 0.05) after training with the device.ConclusionsGait training with the GEMS-H exoskeleton showed significant improvements in walking speed, walking endurance, and balance in persons with chronic stroke. Day-to-day activity also improved as evidenced by increased daily step count. Additionally, corticomotor excitability changes suggest that training with this device may help correct interhemispheric imbalance typically seen after stroke.Trial RegistrationThis study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04285060).

Impacts of three inspiratory muscle training programs on inspiratory muscles strength and endurance among intubated and mechanically ventilated patients with difficult weaning: a multicentre randomised controlled trial

BackgroundInspiratory muscle training (IMT) is well-established as a safe option for combating inspiratory muscles weakness in the intensive care setting. It could improve inspiratory muscle strength and decrease weaning duration but a lack of knowledge on the optimal training regimen raise to inconsistent results. We made the hypothesis that an innovative mixed intensity program for both endurance and strength improvement could be more effective. We conducted a multicentre randomised controlled parallel trial comparing the impacts of three IMT protocols (low, high, and mixed intensity) on inspiratory muscle strength and endurance among difficult-to-wean patients.MethodsNinety-two patients were randomly assigned to three groups with different training programs, where each performed an IMT program twice daily, 7 days per week, from inclusion until successful extubation or 30 days. The primary outcome was maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) increase. Secondary outcomes included peak pressure (Ppk) increase as an endurance marker, mechanical ventilation (MV) duration, ICU length of stay, weaning success defined by a 2-day ventilator-free after extubation, reintubation rate and safety.ResultsMIP increases were 10.8 ± 11.9 cmH2O, 4.5 ± 14.8 cmH2O, and 6.7 ± 14.5 cmH2O for the mixed intensity (MI), low intensity (LI), and high intensity (HI) groups, respectively. There was a non-statistically difference between the MI and LI groups (mean adjusted difference: 6.59, 97.5% CI [− 14.36; 1.18], p = 0.056); there was no difference between the MI and HI groups (mean adjusted difference: − 3.52, 97.5% CI [− 11.57; 4.53], p = 0.321). No significant differences in Ppk increase were observed among the three groups. Weaning success rate observed in MI, HI and LI group were 83.7% [95% CI 69.3; 93.2], 82.6% [95% CI 61.2; 95.0] and 73.9% [95% CI 51.6; 89.8], respectively. MV duration, ICU length of stay and reintubation rate had similar values. Over 629 IMT sessions, six adverse events including four spontaneously reversible bradycardia in LI group were possibly related to the study.ConclusionsAmong difficult-to-wean patients receiving invasive MV, no statistically difference was observed in strength and endurance progression across three different IMT programs. IMT appears to be feasible in usual cares, but some serious adverse events such as bradycardia could motivate further research on the specific impact on cardiac system.Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02855619. Registered 28 September 2014

Comparison of Muscle Adaptation to Blood Flow-Restricted Versus Traditional Resistance Training in Healthy Adults: A Brief Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

ABSTRACT The primary aim of this study was to systematically compare the effectiveness of blood flow restriction training (BFR) versus traditional resistance training (TRT) to improve muscle size in healthy adults. Secondary outcomes were improvements in muscle strength and endurance. We performed a systematic search with meta-analysis. Using predetermined criteria, 541 unique articles were identified through databases and bibliographies. After screening titles, abstracts, and full texts, 20 articles were included in the review. All 20 articles evaluated muscle hypertrophy, 19 evaluated strength, and 1 evaluated endurance in response to BFR and TRT. Data from 10 articles were included in the meta-analysis. In the qualitative analysis, TRT and BFR increased muscle size without differences between conditions for at least 1 hypertrophy outcome in 13 studies, and TRT or BFR differentially improved hypertrophy in 5 studies. TRT and BFR increased strength without differences between conditions for at least 1 outcome in 15 studies, and TRT or BFR differentially improved strength in 9 studies. Results from the meta-analysis indicate no differences in muscle size (ES = 0.045, 95% CI [−0.278 to 0.367]) or strength (ES = −0.149, 95% CI [−0.439 to 0.141]) improvements with BFR versus TRT. Practitioners can implement BFR training to increase muscle size and strength as appropriate, especially for training periods of 8 weeks or longer.

Impact of Trunk Stabilization Training on Cricketers with Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain

Background: The endeavour of this study was to check the impact of trunk stabilization training on cricketers suffering from chronic non-specific low back pain. Objectives: The objectives of the study was to examine the effects of trunk stabilizing exercises in cricketers with chronic low back pain for the change in level of pain, disability and improvement of endurance of trunk muscles. Methods: The related literature was searched and reviewed for the efficacy of interventions, reliability and validity of outcome measures. Quasi-experimental approach was chosen for conducting the study with pre-intervention and post-intervention evaluation of the outcomes. Convenient sampling and random allocation in to groups were used to select and assign the sample that comprised of 15 subjects in each groups out of total sample size of 30. Standardized tools such as VAS for evaluating the pain, modified Oswestry LBP disability questionnaire for evaluating disability trunk stabilization exercises to check improvement of endurance of trunk muscles were utilized. Trunk stabilization exercises with warm up, stretching and cool down were given to group A (experimental group). Hitting pads and back care advice was given in the form of a leaflet to the group B (control group). Results: The data were analysed with help of SPSS version 21. Paired t-test was done for intra group analysis and un-paired t-test for intergroup analysis. The results of the study suggested that there was significant difference between the difference in mean values of pain, disability and endurance between the group-A&amp;B. The findings also suggested that there was significant difference within group-A and group-B for pain, disability and endurance. Conclusion: This study concluded that on both groups, the significant reductions were seen in pain, disability and endurance of subjects after 8 weeks of intervention. However, there was more reduction in pain, disability and endurance in group-A (experimental group)

Effect of deep squat intervention in patients with chronic respiratory diseases

Abstract Background: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a structured, tailor-made 12-week deep squat intervention on lower extremity muscle strength, cardiorespiratory functional capacity, and health-related quality of life in patients with chronic respiratory dysfunction. Materials and Methods: Thirty patients aged 18–65 years were randomly assigned to a deep squat intervention group (n = 15) or a walking program group (n = 15). Assessments conducted before and after the 12-week intervention included lower extremity muscle strength, pulmonary function, cardiorespiratory endurance, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). These were measured using trunk-leg dynamometry, the chair-stand test, the deep squat test, lung volume measurements, maximum inspiratory and expiratory pressures, the 6-min walk test, and the 12-item Short Form Survey questionnaire. Results: The results revealed that the deep squat intervention group showed greater muscle strength and cardiorespiratory endurance improvements than the walking group. Significant improvements were observed in lower extremity muscle strength (42.9%), chair-stand repetitions (26%), deep squat repetitions (30.2%), maximum inspiratory pressure (67%), maximum expiratory pressure (29%), peak expiratory flow rate (32%), 6-min walk test distance (16%), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (53%), forced vital capacity (36%), and HRQoL (physical component 42% and mental component 25%) with a large effect size ranging from 1.6 to 10.7 (P &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: This study concludes that the deep squat intervention proved to be a safe and effective exercise program for mitigating physical deconditioning in individuals with mild to moderate chronic respiratory dysfunction compared with a walking program. These findings support the inclusion of deep squat training in routine pulmonary rehabilitation programs.

Physical Activity, Fitness, and Body Composition After a 5-yr Exercise Counseling Intervention

ABSTRACT Introduction Physical activity (PA) is recommended to optimize health after bariatric surgery. However, there is limited evidence on how to deliver these interventions and whether they are effective long-term. The present study aimed to examine PA levels, body composition, and physical fitness outcomes up to 5 yr after bariatric surgery following engagement in a PA intervention, with a focus on whether dose and/or timing of delivery impacts postoperative outcomes. Methods Individuals (n = 80) who completed a 6-month randomized treatment study to increase PA (phase 1) were invited to receive up to six exercise counseling sessions from 1 to 5 yr after operation (phase 2). Phase 2 participants (n = 64) completed assessments at 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, and 5 yr after operation. Results Five years after surgery, participants (84.4% female; mean age, 52.9 (standard deviation, 11.5); mean body mass index, 33.8 (standard error, 1.1)) increased minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA; P = 0.001) but not steps per day, exercise bouts per week, or bout minutes per week. Participants experienced significant cardiovascular endurance improvements but decreased strength (P &lt; 0.05). Greater intervention dose (i.e., greater number of counseling visits attended 1–5 yr after surgery) was significantly associated with steps per day (P = 0.003), weight (P = 0.03), and nondominant handgrip strength (P = 0.002). Those who started counseling preoperatively (i.e., randomized to counseling in phase 1) versus 1 yr after surgery (i.e., beginning in phase 2) had greater steps per day (P = 0.04), exercise bouts per week (P = 0.006), and exercise bout minutes per week (P = 0.002). No other associations were significant. Conclusions Participants increased MVPA 5 yr after bariatric surgery and experienced improvements in cardiovascular functioning after engagement in a PA intervention. In general, individuals experienced modestly better outcomes with more treatment. Beginning exercise counseling preoperatively, instead of 1 yr postoperatively, improved PA but not body composition or physical fitness.

Core Stability Exercise on Low Back Ache, Back Endurance and Health Related Quality of Life in Primary Dysmenorrhea-A Single Group Experimental Study

Objective: To analyze the effect of core stabilization exercises on LBA, back endurance, and HRQoL in primary dysmenorrhea. Method: 58 subjects were included in a single group experimental study based on selection criteria from gynecology hospitals and clinics in Bangalore. Subjects underwent 8 weeks of core stability exercise in a 45 min session. The data was analyzed using a paired t test, descriptive analysis, and frequency distribution. Findings: A significant difference was seen in the pre- post test score for low back ache following 4 weeks. A similar reduction in LBA was seen following 8 weeks of treatment, with a p value= .001. A significant improvement was also noted in trunk endurance and HrQoL, with a p value = 0.001. Novelty: This study is one of its kind wherein the effect of core stability exercise focusing on improvement in back endurance and thereby impacting low back ache and health related quality of life in primary dysmenorrhea is studied in a relatively larger group. Conclusion: Core stability exercises improved back endurance and reduced low back ache, as well as improved the HRQoL in primary dysmenorrhea. Keywords: painful period, low back ache, back endurance, health-related quality of life, core stability exercise

Assessing the Impact of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation-Based Fingerboard Training versus Conventional Fingerboard Training on Finger Flexor Endurance in Intermediate to Advanced Sports Climbers: A Randomized Controlled Study.

Competitive climbers engage in highly structured training regimens to achieve peak performance levels, with efficient time management as a critical aspect. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) training can close the gap between time-efficient conditioning training and achieving optimal prerequisites for peak climbing-specific performances. Therefore, we examined potential neuromuscular adaptations resulting from the NMFES intervention by analyzing the efficacy of twice-weekly NMES-supported fingerboard (hang board) training compared with thrice-weekly conventional fingerboard training over 7 training weeks in enhancing climbing-specific endurance among intermediate to advanced climbers. Participants were randomly divided into the NMES and control groups. Eighteen participants completed the study (14 male, 4 female; mean age: 25.7 ± 5.3 years; mean climbing experience: 6.4 ± 3.4 years). Endurance was assessed by measuring the maximal time athletes could support their body weight (hanging to exhaustion) on a 20 mm-deep ledge at three intervals: pre-, in-between- (after 4 weeks of training), and post-training (after 7 weeks of training). The findings revealed that despite the lower training volume in the NMES group, no significant differences were observed between the NMES and control groups in climbing-specific endurance. Both groups exhibited notable improvements in endurance, particularly after the in-between test. Consequently, a twice-weekly NMES-supported fingerboard training regimen demonstrated non-inferiority to a thrice-weekly conventional training routine. Incorporating NMES into fingerboard workouts could offer time-saving benefits.

Impact of low-load resistance exercise with and without blood flow restriction on muscle strength, endurance, and oxidative capacity: A pilot study.

Low-load resistance exercise (LLRE) to failure can increase muscle mass, strength, endurance, and mitochondrial oxidative capacity (OXPHOS). However, the impact of adding blood flow restriction to low-load resistance exercise (LLBFR) when matched for volume on these outcomes is incompletely understood. This pilot study examined the impact of 6 weeks of single-legged LLBFR and volume-matched LLRE on thigh bone-free lean mass, strength, endurance, and mitochondrial OXPHOS. Twenty (12 males and 8 females) untrained young adults (mean ± SD; 21 ± 2 years, 168 ± 11 cm, 68 ± 12 kg) completed 6 weeks of either single-legged LLBFR or volume-matched LLRE. Participants performed four sets of 30, 15, 15, and 15 repetitions at 25% 1-RM of leg press and knee extension with or without BFR three times per week. LLBFR increased knee extension 1-RM, knee extension endurance, and thigh bone-free lean mass relative to control (all p < 0.05). LLRE increased leg press and knee extension 1-RM relative to control (p = 0.012 and p = 0.054, respectively). LLRE also increased mitochondrial OXPHOS (p = 0.047 (nonparametric)). Our study showed that LLBFR increased muscle strength, muscle endurance, and thigh bone-free lean mass in the absence of improvements in mitochondrial OXPHOS. LLRE improved muscle strength and mitochondrial OXPHOS in the absence of improvements in thigh bone-free lean mass or muscle endurance.

P‐20: Memory Window and Endurance Improvement of In‐Ga‐Zn‐O‐Based Ferroelectric Thin Film Transistors by Inserting In‐Ga‐Zn‐O Floating Gate

We prepared oxide semiconductor‐based ferroelectric thin‐film transistors (FeTFTs) with a floating gate for memory application. Depositing oxide semiconductor on HfZrOx (HZO) as a floating gate successfully induced a polar orthorhombic phase with a larger memory window and higher endurance than conventional floating gate material TiN.

Influence of Programmed Physical Training on the Performance of Table Tennis Athletes

This study aims to explore the influence of a programmed physical training program on enhancing the performance of table tennis athletes at the local table tennis club level. The study utilizes a quantitative research approach with a case study design. Research participants consist of 30 table tennis athletes from one local table tennis club. Data were collected through physical tests covering measurements of muscle strength, agility, and cardiovascular endurance, as well as direct observation of athlete performance during table tennis training sessions. The results of the study indicate a significant improvement in muscle strength, agility, and cardiovascular endurance of athletes after participating in the programmed physical training program. Regression analysis also confirms a positive relationship between the level of participation in the programmed physical training program and athlete performance improvement. The practical implications of this research are that local table tennis clubs can utilize programmed physical training programs as a strategy to enhance their athletes' performance. However, this study has limitations that need to be considered, including the limited generalizability of the results due to being conducted in only one local table tennis club. Therefore, further research with larger samples and diversification of table tennis clubs is needed to confirm these findings more broadly.

The effectiveness of partial body weight support treadmill training on walking in people with cerebral palsy

Background: People with Cerebral Palsy (CP) face daily motor, sensory, and cognitive impairments that significantly impact their quality of life. This systematic review aimed to investigate RCTs regarding the effectiveness of treadmill walking with partial body weight support (PBWSTT) in individuals with CP. Methods: A search was performed in PubMed, Scopus and Research Gate. The study selection process was conducted by two separate reviewers. The quality of the final studies included in the systematic review was assessed using the PEDro scale. Results: Out of the 673 studies initially identified, 6 studies were included. The results showed that (PBWSTT) leads to an increase in scores on the GMFM scale, as well as improvement in walking pattern, speed, endurance, and rhythm. The method of PBWSTT in comparison to conventional physiοtherapy did not show better results, as the included studies in this review showed conflicting results. Conclusion: The effect of therapeutic exercise with partial body weight support has a positive impact on improving the gross motor function of patients with Cerebral Palsy. However, the question of whether PBWSTT is more effective than conventional physiotherapy and over-ground walking exercise cannot be conclusively answered yet, highlighting the importance of conducting further research in this field.

#1806 Cycling is safe – effect of intradialytic cycle ergometry on cerebral oxygenation and cognitive function – a pilot study

Abstract Background and Aims Patients on chronic hemodialysis benefit from intradialytic exercise with improvements in endurance, muscle strength and health-related quality of life. It is not known whether the increased oxygen demand during intradialytic exercise negatively affects cerebral oxygenation and cerebral function. The aim of the study was to assess the risk of cerebral undersupply by measuring cerebral oxygenation, perfusion and cognitive function during and after intradialytic ergometer training. Method Twelve patience on maintenance hemodialysis (HD) trice weekly were included in the study. In an initial ramp test, using bed cycle ergometer, we first determined the maximum physical strength (Pmax) at the level of exhaustion (HD A). Then, one hour after start of a second HD (HD B), patients performed 40%, 50% and 60% of Pmax for 6 min. Pulmonary function tests, blood volume (BVM), cardiac output (by electrical cardiometry), regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) (by near-infrared spectroscopy) and cerebral blood flow (CBF, by Doppler sonography) were measured. The relative changes in rSO2, CBF and hematocrit were used to calculate cerebral oxygen supply (DO2). Cognitive tests (Stroop, Trail Making and Mini Addenbrookes Cognitive Examination Test) were performed before and after HD sessions with and, as controls, without ergometry (HD-C). Results Median age was 68 (42-85) years, 9/12 were male, complete data set was obtained in 10 patients. During step test exercise (HD B), at the highest exercise level (according to Borg (1-10) 6.75 ± 2.9), rSO2 increased (+6 ± 9%, p=0.034) without a significant change in CBF. In the meantime, relative blood volume decreased during ergometry (-5.8 ± 2.73%; p=0.002), causing a temporary increase of hematocrit. Despite a small decrease in CBF in 3 patients, the mean change of rSO2, CBF and hematocrit always had a positive trend in all patients, as a surrogate of stable cerebral oxygen supply (Table 1). In comparative cognitive tests (B vs. C), we observed no significant changes in cognitive functions. Conclusion In this pilot study, intradialytic bed-cycle ergometry during the first hour of HD for &amp;lt;20 min at 40-60% of patients’ individual maximum intensity had no negative effects on cerebral oxygenation and function. Specific studies testing the safety intradialytic exercise with different conditions, such as increasing intensity or duration, are needed.

The effects of lumbar stabilization exercises with and without jaw movements in non-specific low back pain (A randomized controlled trial).

This study aimed to investigate the added effect of jaw clenching on the efficacy of lumbar stabilization exercises to manage chronic non-specific low back pain. This randomized controlled trial was conducted at the Sindh Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (SIPM&R) Karachi from April 2021 to April 2023. Eighty patients with chronic non-specific low back pain participated in this study. Forty patients each were randomly allocated to the lumbar stability exercise (LSE) group' and the lumbar stability exercise with teeth clenching (LSETC) group. Patients in both groups performed respective exercises twice weekly for 12 weeks. The Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), and Pressure Biofeedback Unit (PBU) were used to assess pain, disability, and muscle endurance respectively. Data were collected at the baseline, after six weeks and 12 weeks of intervention. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Both groups showed statistically significant improvements in pain, disability, and muscle endurance. Upon further stratification, participants aged 20-30 years in the LSETC group showed significantly higher scores than the LSE group for NPRS, RMDQ, and PBU after 12 weeks. Overall, the LSETC group showed relatively higher improvement in mean scores for NPRS, RMDQ, and PBU than the LSE group. Lumbar stabilization exercises with and without jaw movement are effective for the treatment of chronic non-specific low back pain. The addition of teeth clenching enhanced the effectiveness of lumbar stability exercises, especially in young adults. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04801212), Prospectively registered on March 16, 2021.