Motion Instrumentation Research Articles

Effect of cervical traction on cervicogenic headache in patients with cervical radiculopathy: a preliminary randomized controlled trial

BackgroundCervical radiculopathy (CR) is a common condition, often associated with cervicogenic headache (CGH), a secondary headache arising from cervical spine disorders. Mechanical intermittent cervical traction (MICT) is frequently prescribed to treat CR symptoms. The purpose of the study was to make a preliminary estimate of efficacy of adding MICT to conventional rehabilitation on CGH in patients with cervical radiculopathy.MethodsA total of 36 CR patients with CGH were randomly allocated to 3 equally sized groups (A, B and C). The treatment consisted of twelve sessions of conventional rehabilitation (4 weeks) combined with MICT (2 kg for group A, 8 kg for group B and 12 kg for group C). Primary outcomes were CGH intensity (visual analog scale) and frequency (days per week). Secondary outcomes were radicular pain intensity (visual analog scale), cervical range of motion (cervical range of motion instrument), proprioception (cervical range of motion instrument) and muscle strength (MicroFET2 dynamometer), handgrip strength (handheld dynamometer), function (Neck Disability Index), kinesiophobia (Tampa Scale for KInesiophobia), anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depresion questionnaire), and quality of life (World Health Organization Quality of Life). Patients were assessed at baseline, one, three and six months after the beginning of treatment. The post hoc Dunn testing was used to determine which traction load had the better effect on CGH symptoms.ResultsAt one, three and six months follow-ups, Group C exhibited the highest improvement in CGH intensity and frequency compared to the other groups (p = 0.021 and p = 0.023; p = 0.012 and p = 0.01; p = 0.005 and p = 0.005). Both groups C and B showed a significant improvement in radicular pain compared to group A at one month follow-up (p = 0.05).The improvement in group C was significantly better in terms of function (p = 0.049) and anxiety (p = 0.011) at three months and quality of life at six months (Psychological p = 0.046 and Environment p = 0.006).ConclusionsThe blend of conventional rehabilitation alongside 12 kg MICT seems to be efficacious in diminishing both the intensity and frequency of CGH in patients with CR. These advantages appear to last for up to six months following the treatment period, potentially leading to decreased CGH severity and occurrence rates, heightened functionality, reduced anxiety levels, and an overall enhancement in quality of life. These findings are preliminary and require confirmation in larger trials.Trial registrationThe study protocol was retrospectively registered at the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR202401838955948). Date of registration is 16/01/2024.

The landscape of Functional Outcome Measures Used in Patients with Bone Sarcoma of the Lower Extremity or Pelvis: A Systematic Review.

This systematic review provides a structured overview of the measurement instruments of functional outcome used in lower extremity and pelvic bone sarcoma patients. We identified 42 unique instruments covering 18 distinct functional outcome constructs with most studies measuring constructs within the activity domain of the International Classification of Functioning, disability, and health. The MusculoSkeletal Tumor Society 1993 and 1987 score, Toronto Extremity Salvage Score, and range of motion instruments were the measurement instruments most commonly used.

Predictive model for shear wave velocity of gravelly soil and its application to liquefaction triggering assessment

Several studies have established empirical correlations between shear wave velocity (Vs) and standard penetration test blow count (SPT-N) for engineering use. However, these empirical correlations cannot be applied to gravel-rich soils since the measured SPT-N is often inflated in gravel. Therefore, an empirical correlation of Vs for gravel is developed in this study using the Engineering Geological Database for the Taiwan Strong Motion Instrumentation Program. The Vs predictive model considers gravel content (GC) and coefficient of uniformity (Cu) in addition to effective vertical stress, void ratio, fines content, plasticity index, and overconsolidation ratio, which have been considered previously. The proposed model indicates that Vs increases with GC and Cu. Moreover, the Vs adjusted for GC can be used with existing Vs -based liquefaction triggering relationships to rationally define the boundary between liquefaction and non-liquefaction case histories with different GCs.

Measurement of Muscle Flexibility and Speed In Sprinters Following Stretching - Applicability of a New Range of Motion Instrument

Measurement of Muscle Flexibility and Speed In Sprinters Following Stretching - Applicability of a New Range of Motion Instrument

A rapid and automated analysis procedure for seismic response of arch dams

The seismic safety of arch dams has long been a focal point of research. Due to the complexity of modeling and computation, analyzing the seismic response of arch dams using traditional finite element methods requires a considerable amount of time. In the event of a sudden earthquake, it is challenging to quickly obtain stress analysis results or conduct a safety assessment. To address these issues, a rapid and automated analysis procedure is proposed in this paper, providing seismic response of arch dams within hours after an earthquake. The procedure includes a pre-processing program, a computing program EACD-3D-2008, and a post-processing program, achieving a fully automated process from generating non-uniform earthquakes to analyzing dam dynamic responses and visualizing computation results. As a case study, the 294.5 m high Xiaowan arch dam in southwest China is analyzed, which is equipped with strong motion instruments that have recorded several small earthquakes. The case study revealed that accounting for the non-uniformity of the earthquake significantly improves simulation results, with maximum principal stresses typically occurring near the dam-foundation rock interface. Additionally, the procedure effectively compensates for missing data, allowing for the successful supplementation of the missing acceleration records. For stronger earthquakes, high-stress regions are clearly displayed in the result visualization, providing an effective reference for safety assessment. The case study validated the accuracy and wide applicability of the procedure, demonstrating its potential to offer valuable insights for similar analyses in various engineering projects.

Regional and Site-Specific Ground Motion Model for Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Analysis in Taiwan: A Case Study of I-Lan

In this study, a probabilistic seismic hazard analysis (PSHA) using a traditional approach with a simple logic tree that handles a single-site sigma is developed to present a site-specific ground motion hazard. The analysis relies on the accelerometer data collected from the I-Lan Plain, a deep sedimentary basin in Northeastern Taiwan where hundreds of earthquake sequences (with [Formula: see text] = 4.0–7.6) were recorded by the Taiwan Strong Motion Instrument Program (TSMIP) network between 1992 and 2016. The performance of PSHA on soil and hard sites is evaluated from two representative instrumented sites (ILA048 and ILA025), using residual measures available from a ground motion model (GMM) developed by Phung et al. [ 2023 ] (referred to as Ph23), from which the uncertainties in site terms ([Formula: see text] and single-site sigma ([Formula: see text] are estimated. We address key conceptual issues in the current PSHA approach and introduce a new region- and site-specific PSHA approach in which (1) site-to-site variability ([Formula: see text] is estimated as a random variance in a mixed effects GMM regression and (2) the GMM site-specific single-site sigma ([Formula: see text] is replaced with a generic site-corrected aleatory variability ([Formula: see text]). Comparison of the region- and site-specific hazard curves from our method against the traditional method estimates at two well-recorded sites in the I-Lan region shows an approximate 50% difference in prediction ground motion values considering for 2% and 10% probability of exceedance in 50 years.

Prediction for underground seismic intensity measures using conditional generative adversarial networks

With the escalating development and utilization of subterranean spaces, the seismic hazards faced by underground structures are progressively increasing. However, owing to the challenges associated with acquiring underground seismic data and historical seismic design norms, pertinent regulations and research in this domain are scarce. This study focused on three crucial intensity measures in the seismic design process of underground structures peak ground acceleration (PGA), peak ground velocity (PGV), and peak ground displacement (PGD). The research leverages seismic data obtained from the California Strong Motion Instrumentation Program (CSMIP) to train and evaluate a conditional generative adversarial network (CGAN) model. This model was employed to establish a multivariate joint conditional probability distribution among the intensity measures at varying depths, facilitating the stochastic prediction of shallow intensity measures. In contrast to empirical formulas, the CGAN model eliminates the need for a predefined equation structure and enables the simultaneous prediction of multiple intensity measures. The performance of the model was evaluated by comparing the predictive accuracy of the CGAN model and empirical fitting formulas across diverse site conditions and depth intervals using metrics such as relative error coefficients. It can be concluded that the proposed CGAN model can accurately predict shallow seismic intensity measures, and the predictions conform to a specific conditional distribution while retaining the stochastic nature of seismic motion. Compared with empirical formula models, the CGAN model exhibited an enhanced predictive capability.

Pengembangan Media Penilaian Gerak Dasar Lokomotor Berbasis Aplikasi dan Permainan Balok Susun Untuk Anak Usia 7-9 Tahun

The purpose of this research and development is to modify the basic locomotor movement assessment device with blocks as media for children aged 7-9 years. This research and development uses a quantitative approach and uses the Research and Development method with the ADDIE model. The subjects in this research and development are children aged 7-9 years. The instruments used in this study were interviews and basic locomotor movement instruments and media used at the following stages: (1) needs analysis (2) media design (3) media development (4) field implementation (5) product evaluation. The results of the validation test were carried out with three experts. The results of validation with learning media experts had very good interpretations with an average score of 95.5%, while the results of validation with basic motion experts had very good interpretations with an average score of 93.3%, and the results of validation with learning media experts had very good interpretations with an average score of 95.5%. This explains that the development of basic locomotor motion instruments based on stacking blocks for children aged 7-9 years is feasible to try out and to form basic locomotor movements and assist assessment. Based on the results development it can be concluded that: (1) by developing locomotor basic movement assessment instruments based on stacking blocks for children aged 7-9 years can train basic locomotor movement abilities for children aged 7-9 years (2) generate enthusiasm and (3) make it easier for teachers to carry out locomotor basic movement assessments for children aged 7-9 years.

Test–retest and inter-rater reliability of lumbar range of motion procedure using back range of motion instrument

IntroductionTo investigate the test–retest and inter-rater reliability of a new protocol using the back range of motion instrument (BROM II) to measure the lumbar range of motion (LROM).MethodsFive raters and twenty healthy subjects participated in this study. Before the measurement, all raters and all subjects were asked to watch a 4-minute video clip demonstrating the rating method. The raters and the subjects were then asked to practice the testing protocol until they thoroughly understood it. The subjects were asked to move the lumbar spine in six directions, with consistent verbal instruction. The raters measured the subjects’ LROM twice and were blinded to the data. The intraclass correlation coefficients were used to estimate the test–retest and inter-rater reliability of the LROM.ResultsThe results showed that the intra-rater reliability [ICC(3,1)] was good-to-excellent, ranging from 0.82 to 0.98, except for the LROM in the right rotation, which was moderate-to-good, ranging from 0.74 to 0.97. The inter-rater reliability [ICC(2,1)] was good-to-excellent, ranging from 0.78 to 0.87.ConclusionsThe intra- and inter-rater reliability of this protocol in measuring LROM obtained by the BROM II were reliable and suitable for both teaching and research.

Development of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Test Instruments on Parabolic and Circular Motion Materials in High Schools

This research intends to produce HOTS test instruments on high school parabolic and circular motion materials. The Borg and Gall model of research and development (R&D) includes six stages: (1) preliminary investigation, (2) planning and equipment preparation, (3) expert initial product testing and revision, (4) limited field testing, (5) revision based on the results field testing, and (6) broader field test. The data analysis used was qualitative and quantitative. The HOTS test instrument consists of 20 multiple-choice questions, including ten on parabolic and circular motion. According to three experts from material, construction, and language, the outcomes of HOTS instrument validation showed valid and feasible to use with an average value of 0.95 (high validity). The characteristics of HOTS questions have met the criteria of validity as many as 18 questions, high reliability with a value of 0.71, nine questions with a medium difficulty level, an average differentiating power of 0.41 with a good category, and 17 questions have the effectiveness of effective deception. This research concluded that HOTS-based parabolic and circular motion instruments are feasible. Thus, the instrument can be used as training material and assessment of students’ HOTS in high schools.

Numerical modeling and validation of earthquake soil structure interaction: a 12-story building in Ventura, California

Presented is a validation study for high fidelity numerical modeling of earthquake soil structure interaction (ESSI) for a building, hotel structure in Ventura, California. A detailed finite element (FE) model of the ESSI system, featuring the 12-story concrete structure, pile group foundation, and underlying soil, is developed using the Real-ESSI Simulator (Jeremić et al., The Real-ESSI Simulator System 1988–2022, 2022a). The domain reduction method (DRM) (Bielak et al., Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America, 2003, 93(2), 817–824; Yoshimura et al., Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America, 2003, 93(2), 825–841) is used to apply seismic loads, in this case the 1994 Northridge earthquake motions. Direct comparison between simulation results and California Strong Motion Instrumentation Program (CSMIP) recordings shows a high level of agreement in acceleration and displacement responses at all instrumented locations. Sensitivity study on a number of modeling choices and analysis parameters is conducted to investigate controlling factors for the ESSI response. For example, the soil-structure interaction effect and structural damping ratios are shown to have significant influence on system dynamic response. In addition, the soil inelasticity is shown to be highly influenced by the magnitude of seismic motion. Both effects are important for validation as they contribute to sensitivity of response to parametric variability.

Examination of Thoracic and Lumbosacral Spine Guide for Neurosurgery Residents.

This paper outlines a summary of examination techniques for the thoracic and lumbosacral spine. It starts with observation, palpation and a range of movements followed by various special tests to identify thoracic and lumbosacral spine pathology. Bedside instruments used include a measuring tape, scoliometer and back range of motion instrument (BROM II). Back flexion-extension, lateral flexion and rotation were assessed with bedside instruments. This would aid in increasing the accuracy and precision of objective measurement while conducting a clinical examination to determine the back range motion. Specific tests were used to localise specific anatomical locations and identify the spine pathology that can help the clinician to diagnose and treat the disease.

Validation of the Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment by the Taiwan Earthquake Model through Comparison with Strong Ground Motion Observations

Abstract To validate the probabilistic hazard assessment proposed by the Taiwan Earthquake Model (TEM), we compared it with the strong ground motion observations. We accessed the Taiwan Strong Motion Instrumentation Program (TSMIP) database and reported the maximum ground shaking of each strong-motion station. Comparing the TSMIP observations and the TEM hazard model reveals similar spatial patterns. However, some records indicate significantly higher shaking levels than the model does due to the occurrence of some large events, for example, the 1999 Mw 7.6 Chi-Chi earthquake. Such discrepancies cannot be explained by model parameter uncertainties but by unexpected events in the given short observation period. We have confirmed that, although each seismogenic structure in Taiwan is unlikely to rupture within a short period, the summarized earthquake potentials from all of the structures are significant. In addition, we discuss the impacts of some model parameters, including epistemic uncertainties of source parameters, truncation of standard deviation for ground-motion prediction equations, the Gutenberg–Richter law for area source, and the time-dependent seismicity rate model. The outcomes of this study provide not only crucial information for urban planning on a city scale and building code legislation on a national scale but also suggestions for the next generation of probabilistic seismic hazard assessment for Taiwan as well as other regions.

PredictingVpand constrained modulus reduction curve based onVsand shear modulus reduction curve in accordance with poroelastic theory

The compression wave velocity (Vp) of sediments plays a key role in seismic wave amplification of vertical motion and is required in site response analysis. However, such information is usually lacking during field exploration (e.g. the surface wave method) because only shear wave velocity (Vs) is obtained. This aim of this study is to predict Vpbased on Vsempirically and theoretically, particularly focusing on saturated conditions. The empirical approach is to establish the Vpcorrelation dependency on Poisson's ratio and Vs, and the theoretical approach is based on poroelastic theory that accounts for the interaction between fluid and soil skeleton. The engineering geological database for the Taiwan strong motion instrumentation program and the Kiban Kyoshin network database in Japan are adopted to establish an empirical model and validate poroelastic theory. The validated poroelastic approach is used to develop a constrained modulus reduction curve dependency on the porosity, Vs, Poisson's ratio and degree of saturation with a shear modulus reduction curve. The proposed approach can be used to develop generic Vpprofiles and constrained modulus reduction curves for the site response to vertical motion given a site-specific Vsprofile.

Evaluation of the Floor Acceleration Amplification Demand of Instrumented Buildings

The floor acceleration amplification (FAA) factor is one of the most critical parameters in computing the equivalent seismic force of nonstructural component (NC). To evaluate the heightwise FAA distribution profile, the recorded acceleration response of the instrumented buildings was analyzed using the California Strong Motion Instrumentation Program (CSMIP) database. The FAA demands for three groups of buildings consisting of reinforced concrete, steel, and masonry buildings were analyzed. In each group, the buildings were classified into four subgroups according to their heights. Parabolic distribution profiles were suggested that could envelop most of the FAA data, as demonstrated by the processed results. An earthquake experience-based importance factor was suggested in terms of the percentage of the enveloped records. The obtained FAAs at the roof were generally larger than those in other levels. The percentile distributions of the roof acceleration amplification (RAA) were computed. The results showed that the roof FAA was underestimated in ASCE 7-16. The magnitudes of the FAA and the RAA correlated to the fundamental period of the building, which was considered by classifying the buildings according to the period ranges. The RAA profile against the period was obtained from a regression analysis. The developed FAA profile is expected to be useful in the seismic design of NCs, and it is expected to be adopted in future code provisions.

Ultrasonic characterization of localized passive elastic properties of human pennate muscle with a single-probe setup

Quantitative evaluation of passive elastic properties of an individual skeletal muscle in vivo is among the major challenges of biomechanics, and its clinical application is severely limited. By combining shear-wave elastography (SWE) and B-mode imaging techniques, this study develops a novel non-invasive method to measure the local elastic modulus-fascicle strain curve of human pennation muscle during passive stretching using a single probe. Physiologically meaningful parameters are estimated and compared in subjects with different ages or pathological conditions. The in vivo experimental group comprised 12 healthy subjects (four children, four adults, and four seniors) and eight patients (four suffering from pseudohypertrophy, four from atrophy). Their gastrocnemius muscles were passively stretched using an ankle joint motion instrument. Local elastic moduli of the muscle were measured using SWE imaging frames and a built-in ‘F-ROI’ tool. The corresponding fascicle strains were simultaneously obtained using B-mode imaging frames and a gradient Radon transform. Three parameters (η, μ, G0) were estimated from a normalized elastic modulus-strain curve using the Gauss–Newton method. The measured elastic modulus-strain curves all agreed with models of the estimated parameters (0.910 < R2 < 0.999) and presented different patterns among normal and diseased subjects. η values were lower for pseudohypertrophies (1.93 ± 0.12), but higher for atrophies (63.40 ± 98.89), compared with normal ones (6.02 ± 2.53). In addition, μ values were higher for pseudohypertrophies (22.65 ± 16.40), but lower for atrophies (0.28 ± 0.41), compared with normal ones (1.07 ± 1.22). The proposed method may provide novel insight into the biomechanics of pennate muscle and has the potential to serve for clinical musculoskeletal medical diagnosis, as the single-probe scanning setup is broadly accepted.

Inter, intra-examiner reliability and validity of inertial sensors to measure the active cervical range of motion in patients with primary headache.

We analyzed the inter- and intra-examiner reliability of Werium inertial sensors and the cervical range of motion (CROM) instrument for the measurement of active CROM (AcROM) in patients with primary headache. Another objective is to analyze the validity of the inertial sensors (Werium). The literature has reported symptomatology features in patients diagnosed with primary headache similar to that of patients with cervicogenic headache. The International Classification of Headache (ICHD-III) established the presence of reduced AcROM as a diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic headache. Several instruments are used for this measurement, with limitations in their applicability in daily clinical practice. A prospective longitudinal repeated measures study was conducted to assess the intra- and inter-rater reliability and validity of Werium inertial sensors in 20 adults with chronic primary headache. For the inter-rater analysis, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values were above 0.75 for all movements, indicating a good level of reliability. For the intra-rater results, the ICC values obtained by the Werium inertial sensors for all cervical movements were good for rater A (ICC >0.80) and rater B (ICC >0.84). For the validity, the ICCs obtained by the Werium inertial sensors compared with the CROM instrument for all cervical movements were moderate for both raters (ICC > 0.70, respectively). Values obtained in the standard error of measurement, minimum detectable change at 90% and limits of agreement also indicated good agreement. Werium inertial sensors have shown good to excellent reliability results, both intra- and inter-examiner (ICC > 0.75). Likewise, when the sensors were compared with another validated instrument (CROM device) they obtained high reliability results (ICC > 0.70). These results plus its relatively low price and ease of use allow us to recommend it in daily clinical practice to measure AcROM in patients with chronic primary headache.

Examining the Range of Motion of the Cervical Spine: Utilising Different Bedside Instruments.

BackgroundThis paper outlines a summary of examination technique to identify the range of movement of the cervical spine. Due to common difficulties in obtaining tools for cervical examination within the district, a standardised compilation of easy-to-replicate examination techniques are provided using different tools.MethodsBedside instruments that can be used includes a measuring tape, compass, goniometer, inclinometer and cervical range of motion (CROM) instrument.DiscussionCervical flexion-extension, lateral flexion and rotation will be assessed with bedside instruments. This would aid in increasing accuracy and precision of objective measurement while conducting clinical examination to determine the cervical range of motion.

Temporomandibular Joint and Cervical Spine Mobility Assessment in the Prevention of Temporomandibular Disorders in Children with Osteogenesis Imperfecta: A Pilot Study.

Osteogenesis imperfecta is a heterogeneous group of hereditary disorders of connective tissue diseases characterized by increased bone fragility, low growth, sometimes accompanied by abnormalities within the dentine, blue sclera, and partial or total hearing impairment. The changes may affect all joints, including the cervical spine and temporomandibular joints in the future, resulting in pain. The aim of the present study was to assess whether there is a relationship between the active range of motion of the cervical spine and the mobility of temporomandibular joints due to differential diagnosis in children with osteogenesis imperfecta, and to present a prevention algorithm for temporomandibular disorders. The study involved a group of 34 children with osteogenesis imperfecta, and the control group included 23 children (age 9.1 ± 3.8 years). Data were collected through an interview based on the author’s questionnaire, and the physical examination consisted in measuring the mobility of the cervical spine using an inclinometer (Cervical Range of Motion Instrument), the Helkimo scale, and linear measurements. In children with congenital bone fragility, there were acoustic symptoms from the temporomandibular joints more often than in healthy children. A correlation was found between the mobility of the cervical spine and temporomandibular joints in the study group. In the case of detecting irregularities in the temporomandibular joints, children were ordered to perform jaw-tongue coordination exercises.

Measuring Cervical Range of Motion with Gyroscope/Accelerometer Eyeglasses (JINS MEME) in Persons with and without Neck Pain

Context: Neck pain is common in the general population. Active cervical spine range of motion (ACROM) is often measured in the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of neck pain. However, commonly used measurement tools have been deemed inaccurate or impractical. The Cervical Range of Motion (CROM) Instrument, which uses inclinometers and a magnetic reference, has demonstrated high reproducibility and validity in the measurement of ACROM, however, its practicable use is suboptimal due to its large dimensions. The JINS MEME eyeglass is a lightweight and compact wearable device that contains gyroscope and accelerometer electrodes capable of detecting body motion offering an alternative means of measuring ACROM. Aims: The primary aim of this study is to validate ACROM measurements using the JINS MEME eyeglasses in comparison to the CROM Instrument. The secondary aim is to investigate the variable range of motion patterns between individuals with neck pain (NP group) versus asymptomatic individuals (AS group). Settings and Design: This was a cross-sectional, clinical measurement, and reliability study. Subjects and Methods: Seven neck pain and 14 asymptomatic individuals underwent ACROM measurements with the JINS MEME and CROM Instrument concurrently. Statistical Analysis Used: Intraclass correlation coefficient was used to determine inter- and intra-rater reliability of the JINS MEME and CROM Instrument. Mann–Whitney's U-test was used to assess differences between the two groups (NP group vs. AS group) in ACROM. Results: Using the JINS MEME eyeglasses, we observed excellent intra- and inter-rater reliability for nearly all ACROM directions (cervical spine flexion, extension, and lateral bending) except for rotation which was considered poor. ACROM was decreased in all directions for neck pain patients when measured by both devices. Conclusions: The JINS MEME eyeglasses showed excellent intra- and inter-rater reliability for all ACROM movements except for cervical rotation. Comparing the AS group and NP group, the ACROM of the NP group was significantly decreased compared to that of the AS group in all cervical spine directions, similar to findings in previous studies. With the exception of the measurement of cervical rotation, the JINS MEME eyeglasses demonstrated similar accuracy to the CROM Instrument in the assessment of ACROM in both the NP and AS groups.