Motor Abilities Research Articles

Physical fitness and body build parameters of children and adolescents participating in the physical activity promotion programme “Athletics for all!”

BackgroundThis study attempts to analyse physical fitness and basic anthropometric parameters of children and adolescents participating in the nationwide physical activity promotion programme “Athletics for All!” (AFA). The programme aims to establish a national system for diagnosing, selecting, recruiting, and identifying talents in youth training. It also aims to build a career development path for athletics, forming the basis of a new structure for youth training in Poland. The primary goal of this study was to assess physical fitness of AFA participants over the years of its implementation (2015–2022) and to identify the leading motor ability with consideration for age, gender, and body build parameters determined with Body Mass Index and Ponderal Index.MethodsNationwide measurements of basic anthropometric parameters as well as physical fitness tests were conducted among 31,790 girls (F) and 22,260 boys (M) participating in the AFA programme. Physical fitness assessments were performed using the OSF test (3 × 10 m shuttle run, standing broad jump, 1 kg medicine ball throw, 4-minute run). Comparative analysis of OSF test results, considering gender, was conducted using the independent samples T-test. The strength and direction of correlations between variables were calculated using the rho-Spearman coefficient.ResultsOSF test results were converted into points, considering age and gender. Gender was found to be a significantly differentiating factor in physical fitness of AFA participants. Among twelve- and fifteen-year-olds, statistically significant differences were observed in all analysed variables, i.e. in each of the four tests and the overall score. It was noted that the examined girls aged 11 to 17 exhibited higher levels of strength compared to their male counterparts. Statistical analysis revealed significant correlations between OSF test results and the age and body build indicators, with the strength of the correlations being negligible in most cases.ConclusionsParticipants of the nationwide programme “Athletics for All!” demonstrate a high level of physical fitness, with endurance being a fundamental motor ability. Physical fitness levels show significant correlations with the anthropometric parameters of children and adolescents. The study results confirm the need and justification for implementing physical activity promotion programmes for the younger generation.

Research on the mechanism of the effect of music rhythm synchronization training on biomechanics gait optimization and rehabilitation outcome

The integration of movements or activities that match the beat of music is known as music rhythm synchronization (MRS). Excessive musical tempo can enhance motor abilities and general movement efficiency and it requires synchronizing physical activities like walking or exercising. Enhancing the speed of movement that leads to quick walking, longer step length symmetric, and functional walking ability. The training with MRS mechanism, this research aims to analyze the movement in biomechanics, optimization, and the findings of rehabilitation impacts. This research utilizes 75 participants with Parkinson’s illness and they are divided into two categories group A with training in MRS mechanism and received traditional mechanism training in group B. This research explores the training in MRS mechanism-affected biomechanics movements are performed by utilizing the pre-post method by providing more evaluations. The three-week supervised rehabilitation program presenting the MRS has been followed by the two-week follow-up stage as a part of the intervention. There are two significant deviation estimations in the patterns of normal gait like the gait variable score (GVS) and gait profile score (GPS). The regression analysis, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), regression analysis, and paired sample t-test, which are the data assessment techniques are evaluated by utilizing the SPSS statistical software for the performance. The conclusion demonstrates the MRS mechanism training significantly improved gait biomechanics. The GPS score shows the enhanced overall quality of gait and it decreased significantly. These findings illustrate the potential of the MRS mechanism training mechanism in improving gait biomechanics and producing excellent rehabilitation outcomes.

Learning ballet technique modulates the stretch reflex in students with cerebral palsy: case series

BackgroundCerebral palsy (CP) is considered the most prevalent developmental motor disorder in children. There is a need for training programs that enhance motor abilities and normalize function from an early age. Previous studies report improved motor outcomes in dance interventions for CP. Investigating the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying such improvements is necessary for efficient and safe intervention design. This study reports changes in stretch reflex responses as the primary neurophysiological motor outcome of a targeted ballet class intervention.ResultsA case series of participants with mixed spastic and dyskinetic CP (n = 4, mean age = 12.5 years, SD = 6.9S years, three female, one male) who learned ballet technique in a course of one-hour classes twice per week for six weeks is presented. Changes in stretch reflex responses and in clinical motor tests as secondary outcomes were observed after the course and at one-month follow-up. Quantitative measures of elbow or ankle stretch reflex were obtained using electromyography and electrogoniometry. The joint angle of the stretch reflex onset varied across velocities of stretch, and its variability decreased after the intervention. Within-subject tests of the central tendency of stretch reflex angle coefficients of variation and frequency distribution demonstrated significant changes (p-values < 0.05). Secondary outcomes included the Quality of Upper Extremity Skills Test (QUEST), Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), Modified Tardieu Scale (MTS), Dyskinesia Impairment Scale (DIS), and Selective Control Assessment of the Lower Extremity (SCALE). All the participants demonstrated improvements larger than the minimal clinical important difference (MCID) or the smallest detectable difference (SDD), as applicable.ConclusionsEvidence of changes in the stretch reflex responses in these four cases of mixed CP was observed. The observed variability in the stretch reflex responses may be due to the dyskinetic component of the mixed CP presentations. More studies with a larger sample size and longer duration of learning and practice of ballet technique are necessary to establish the extent of possible modulation and adaptation of the stretch reflex response as a neurophysiological basis for observed improvements in clinical measures.Trial registration: This study was registered in the Clinical Trials Protocol Registration and Results System (NCT04237506, January 17, 2020).

The effects of cognitive training on driving performance.

Driving is a complex task necessitating an intricate interplay of sensory, motor, and cognitive abilities. Extensive research has underscored the role of neurocognitive functions, including attention, memory, executive functions, and visuospatial skills, in driving safety and performance. Despite evidence suggesting cognitive training's potential in enhancing driving abilities, comprehensive cognitive training's impact on driving performance in young adult drivers remains unexplored. Our study aimed to fill this gap by implementing an intensive, 8-week, multidomain computerized cognitive training program and assessing its transfer effects on the driving performance of young adult drivers, using a high-fidelity simulator. The study employed a randomized controlled trial design, with passive control group. The mixed-design analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed a notable interaction between the time of testing and the respective participant groups concerning driving performance. Post hoc analyses showed that, compared to the control group, participants undergoing cognitive training demonstrated significantly fewer traffic infractions in the post-training evaluation. These findings suggest that cognitive training could be a useful tool for enhancing driving safety and performance in young adult drivers. Further research should aim to address the limitations posed by the absence of an active control group.

Motor balance and its relationship to the performance of the round kick skill (Hajo-Jki) among junior Taekwondo players

The element of balance is a very important element in the work of a Taekwondo player, as he must maintain his balance to a great extent in performance because any imbalance results in the player falling and losing attack points. In particular, motor balance, in addition to its close connection to the motor performance of the Taekwondo player, Research problem: The researcher wanted to explain the relationship between the performance of the round kick (hajo-jiki) and motor balance because this skill requires great motor balance, and for this reason he chose this kick, to gain points and thus end the competition in his favor. The study aimed to identify the relationship between the performance of the round kick skill (Hajo-Jki) among junior Taekwondo players. The researcher used the descriptive method using the survey method, and determined the research sample using the intentional method, which included Baghdad clubs, as their number reached (50(Players support tools, devices, when testing the content, preparing the results, when testing or processing the results. The researcher concluded that the results of the research demonstrated the existence of a correlation and direct relationship between motor balance and the performance of the round kick (Hago-Jki) among members of the research sample. The researcher recommended that it is necessary to conduct a survey of all the unresearched skills and apply them to other motor abilities.

Children’s literacy skills development through non-formal education: a scoping review

The rapid advancement of technology in recent years has brought about profound changes in every aspect of our lives. Such technological advancement has impacted children in a digital age where technology permeates every facet of their existence, from education to entertainment and communication to socialization. The younger generations today appear deficient in motor, emotional, and social abilities. They appear to exhibit higher levels of aggression, anxiety, dependency, and reduced creativity. Integrating non-formal education into children’s learning aims to maximize enjoyment and engagement by capturing children’s interest and inspiring them to continue learning. Thus, non-formal education encompasses a spectrum of curricular activities in the natural environment outside of the school area. This scoping review aims to identify the focus skills development among primary school learners and how non-formal educational activities could boost learners’ learning ability. Four databases, including Scopus, web of science (WoS), Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), and ScienceDirect, were used in this research, which found 36 articles for eligibility. Only 15 articles are eligible for analysis and reference after the exclusion and inclusion process for data collection. The findings show that non-formal education offers learners the opportunity to explore a multitude of interests beyond the structured confines of the classroom.

Evaluation of hand-eye coordination fitness test performance in folk dance

Hand-eye coordination refers to the ability to perform tasks that require the simultaneous use of the hands and eyes, such as using visual-spatial perception to guide hand movements. An intricate comprehension of the brain’s functioning is vital for individuals to possess hand-eye coordination, which necessitates the integration of visual and motor abilities. The study assessed the level of hand-eye coordination fitness during folk dance. This study employed a quantitative methodology, with researchers utilizing a quasi-experimental approach evaluating the hand-eye coordination of participants in folk dance. This study comprised of seventh-grade students during the academic year 2023-2024. Researchers noted that individuals without previous performance experience encountered challenges in executing the dance action, while those who engaged in practice found it effortless. The researchers discovered a statistically significant disparity in the pretest and post-test scores of the respondents. The findings indicated that the respondents’ hand-eye coordination level may be improved and cultivated when executing a folk dance by diligently practicing the given pattern. The researchers suggested the utilization of the Drop Stick Game, Head Shoulder Knees and Ball, Chest Overhead Pass, and Clap-Catch Game. These four developmental exercises enhance hand-eye coordination and optimize performance. Additionally, it will aid students in cultivating hand-eye coordination, particularly during performances.

Basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor BHLHE22 monoallelic and biallelic variants cause a neurodevelopmental disorder with agenesis of the corpus callosum, intellectual disability, tone and movement abnormalities.

BHLHE22 encodes a Class II basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor (bHLH). It is expressed exclusively in the retina and central nervous system (CNS), and functions as an important regulator of retinogenesis and neuronal differentiation. Mice lacking bhlhe22 show nearly complete loss of three brain comminsure, including the corpus callosum. Here we report eleven individuals from nine unrelated families with BHLHE22 variants, with a neurodevelopmental disorder presenting with absent or limited speech, severely impaired motor abilities, intellectual disability (ID), involuntary movements, autistic traits with stereotypies, abnormal muscle tone. The majority of individuals have partial or complete agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC). Additional symptoms comprised epilepsy, variable dysmorphic features, and eye anomalies. One additional individual had spastic paraplegia without delayed development and ACC, expanding the phenotype to milder and later onset forms. Four individuals carry de novo missense variants within the highly conserved helix-loop-helix domain while seven individuals from five unrelated families carry a recurrent homozygous frameshift variant, p.(Gly74Alafs*18). Our findings implicate BHLHE22 variants in causing a previously unidentified autosomal dominant and recessive neurodevelopmental disorder associated with ACC, severe motor, language, and cognitive delays, abnormal tone, and involuntary movements. To our knowledge, this is the first report of Class II bHLH variants in humans shown to significantly disrupt brain development, cognition, and movement.

Designing tests for some motor abilities and predicting the level of performance skill for academic school football players aged (13-14) years

The study aims to design tests to measure some motor abilities in the study sample, to find standard grades and levels for some tests of motor abilities in the study sample, preparing equations to predict the level of performance skill of soccer players in terms of mobility tests in the research sample. The researcher used the descriptive approach, and the research community was selected from football academy players aged (13-14) years in Raparin. The research sample was selected intentionally, which included (260) players. So as to reach the results, the researcher used a set of statistical programs by using SPSS. It was concluded to find and determine the grades and standard levels modified for the research sample in the motor tests, determining an equation to predict the level of performance skill in terms of motor abilities. It is recommended that the prediction equation can be adopted as indicators through which the components of motor abilities are determined and the possibility of upgrading it according to the time period of the preparation stage to reach the level of competition.

Quantifying Parental Perceptions of Their Experiences With Their Young Children's Use of Power Mobility Devices.

To quantify and explore parental perceptions of their experiences with their child's use of the Explorer Mini (EM) and a modified ride-on car (mROC) in young children with cerebral palsy. Data were gathered throughout a multisite, randomized, counterbalanced AB crossover 16-week clinical trial, wherein all participants used device A (EM) and device B (mROC) for 8-weeks each. Semistructured parent interviews were conducted at baseline (T0), post-intervention period 1 (T1), and post-intervention period 2 (T2). The Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count program was used to objectively analyze the transcribed interviews. Twenty-four child-parent dyads participated in the study. Parental perceptions were related to children's gross motor abilities, cognitive development scores, and device use order (EM-mROC or mROC-EM). Parents were positive about a potential means of helping their children. While most preferred the EM, opinions were contingent on the PM device, device use order, and child-centered factors.

Language, Motor Ability and Related Deficits in Children at Familial Risk of Schizophrenia or Bipolar Disorder.

It is known that impairments in linguistic ability and motor function tend to co-occur in children, and that children from families with parental mental illness such as schizophrenia tend to perform poorly in both domains, but the exact nature of these links has not yet been fully elucidated. In this study, we leveraged the first wave of the Danish High Risk and Resilience Study (VIA 7), which includes both genetic data and measures covering multiple developmental domains. The VIA 7 cohort comprises 522 7-year-old children born to parents with schizophrenia (N = 202), bipolar disorder (N = 120) or neither (N = 200). We investigated the relationships between linguistic ability and motor function using correlation and regression analyses, focusing on developmental coordination disorder (DCD) and specific language impairment (SLI) and their potential associations with the three risk groups. We found significant correlations between most measures of language and motor function and significant associations of DCD and SLI with language and movement measures, respectively, the largest effect being that of DCD on receptive language, with a significant interaction effect: DCD was associated with poorer performance in children from schizophrenia families compared to bipolar disorder and control families. Both disorders showed higher prevalence among children with familial high risk of mental illness. We did not find significant evidence of genetic overlap between DCD and SLI. Our results suggest strong links between the domains of motor function and linguistic ability. Children of parents with schizophrenia are at high risk of comorbid language and movement disorders.

NEXT-GENERATION EDGE CLOUD-TO-THING CONTINUUM MODEL FOR EVALUATING CHILDREN’s MOTOR SKILLS USING DEEP LEARNING ALGORITHM

Young children can enhance their movements and develop motor abilities through play and education with guidance and practice. Understanding young children’s physical development and identifying potential growth areas require an analysis of their motor skills. In this study, we assess young children’s motor skills using a unique deep residual technique on the cloud-to-thing continuum. Seven kids were used to identify autistic movements. The dataset was gathered from the Tamimi Centre for Autism in Saudi Arabia. The data preprocessing to standardize the data’s scale using min–max normalization and removing noise-relevant features is extracted using principal component analysis (PCA). This step is crucial for ensuring the quality and reliability of the data used for subsequent analysis. The bumble bees mating optimization with deep residual algorithm (BBMO-DRN) is designed to handle the complexities of motor skill assessment. Finally, we explore the potential of cloud–fog–edge computing in data storing and processing young children’s motor skill development. The results showed that the proposed method performs better compared to the existing methods. This will make it possible to evaluate how well the suggested solution works in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, [Formula: see text]1-score, and scalability. As a result, this proposed approach in evaluating young children’s motor skills is to improve data storage in the cloud to the thing continuum.

Follow-up of expressive language and general development at 12, 18 and 36 months for children with no canonical babbling at 10 months

ABSTRACT Little is known about the developmental trajectories in children who do not use canonical babbling (CB) at 10 months. The aim was to examine how speech, language, cognitive and motor abilities developed in children without CB. For 15 children identified as not having CB, consonant production, expressive vocabulary and general development were assessed at 12, 18 and 36 months from audio–video recordings. Twelve (79%) children still lacked CB at 12 months. At 18 months, six (40%) had parent-reported expressive vocabulary results below the 10th percentile, and two (14%) did not use dental/alveolar stops. The percentage of consonants correct for the group was at the level of peers at 36 months (89%, SD 0.17), but the group had fewer established target consonants than age norms. Most children had a small expressive vocabulary in comparison with Swedish age norms for younger children as well as with age-matched norms for other Nordic languages. The general development (Bayley-III) for three children (21%) who did not use speech was 1–2 SD below the average range in at least one domain (cognitive, language or motor), but the results for the whole group were within the average range. In conclusion, the heterogeneity in early consonant development in the study group resembles that of children in clinical groups with known risk for speech and language difficulties and the expressive vocabulary resembles that of children with delayed expressive vocabulary. For about one-fifth of the children, the absence of canonical babbling at age 10 months could be seen as an early sign of a more comprehensive developmental disability.

Normative Data for Motor Free Visual Perception Test- 4 in Indian Population Between 50-60 Years in Normal Healthy Individuals

Visual perceptual skills are critical for performing various tasks, making them a key focus in Occupational Therapy, particularly across different diagnoses. The Motor-Free Visual Perception Test (MVPT-4) is a standardized tool used to evaluate visual perception independent of motor abilities in individuals aged 4 to 80+. Although MVPT-4 has been widely used across diverse populations, normative data for adults, especially in the Indian population, is limited. This study aims to establish normative data for healthy North Indian adults aged 50-60. A total of 100 individuals (50 males, 50 females) were assessed using MVPT-4. Test scores were recorded, and statistical analysis was performed. Results indicated an average score of 27.2 (SD = 7.31) in females and 29.32 (SD = 7.45) in males. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of visual perceptual abilities in the Indian population and provide normative data for future research and clinical practice in the region.

Impact of motor education levels and circuit training on enhancing wrestling techniques among adolescent athletes

Background Problems: Wrestling is a compulsory course that can improve physical strength, discipline, and strategic skills and student learning outcomes. However, the learning outcomes are still not optimal due to inconsistent training, limited technique understanding, and a lack of independent training opportunities. Research Objectives: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of motor education level and circuit training on proficiency in learning wrestling martial arts techniques. Methods: This study used an experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group where there are two groups, the high motor ability group and the low motor ability group. The population consists of 40 students, and a sample of 20 students was selected using purposive sampling techniques based on certain criteria. Motor ability in this study is defined as an individual's ability to learn and develop motor skills, which is used to measure how quickly and efficiently a person can learn new motor movements. Data collection was done by measuring the level of motor ability and evaluating the techniques of wrestling after a period of practice. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 23 statistical software to evaluate the learning outcomes of the basic techniques of wrestling. Findings/Results: The results of the data analysis showed that overall, there were no significant differences between the two groups. However, when looking closely at the level of motor skills, there are differences in the post-test scores between students with high and low motor skills. Conclusion: The conclusions of the study showed that although there were no significant differences between the two groups, the high motor skills group showed more consistent improvements. Future research could focus on the development of physical and mental skills such as endurance, strength, and discipline, which are important in improving wrestlers’ performance.

Exploring temporal congruence in motor imagery and movement execution in non-specific chronic low back pain

Chronic non-specific low back pain (NSCLBP) is linked to sensorimotor dysfunctions and altered motor planning, likely due to neuroplastic changes. Motor imagery (MI) and movement execution share neural pathways, but the relationship between imagined and executed movements in NSCLBP patients remains underexplored. This study aimed to assess the temporal congruence between imagined and executed movements in NSCLBP sufferers, with secondary goals of investigating group differences in movement chronometry, psychological well-being, and disability, as well as possible correlations among these factors. Fifty-six participants, including 28 NSCLBP patients and 28 asymptomatic subjects (AS), performed lumbar flexion and Timed Up and Go (TUG) tasks. NSCLBP patients showed significant temporal incongruence in both tasks, executing movements more slowly than imagined, whereas AS displayed incongruence only in the TUG task. NSCLBP patients also took longer to imagine and execute lumbar flexion movements compared to AS, with correlations observed between execution delays, higher disability, and greater fear of movement. The findings highlight a lack of temporal congruence in NSCLBP patients, especially in lumbar flexion, emphasizing the complex relationship between chronic pain, motor ability, and psychological factors. These results suggest that integrated treatment approaches addressing cognitive and emotional aspects are crucial for managing NSCLBP.

The Influence of The Traditional Game Cakbur on the Rude Motor Abilities of 5-6 Year-Old Children in Kindergarten

The Influence of The Traditional Game Cakbur on the Rude Motor Abilities of 5-6 Year-Old Children in Kindergarten

The Role of Visual Performance in Fine Motor Skills

The aim of this study was to analyse the relationship between fine motor skills (FMSs) and visual performance. Thirty young participants with normal binocular vision performed five fine motor tasks: Purdue, Grooved, and O’Connor pegboards, a needle threading task, and a water pouring task, which were characterised by the time taken to complete the task, the number of pegs inserted, the error made in pouring the water, and the volume spilled. To evaluate visual performance, near visual acuity, near contrast sensitivity (CS), and disability glare were assessed. Fine motor skills and visual performance were assessed under monocular and binocular viewing conditions. An overall visual performance score (OVPS) and an overall fine motor skills score (OFMSS) were calculated. All visual functions measured binocularly were better than in monocular conditions, and all FMSs tasks were performed worse monocularly than binocularly (p &lt; 0.001), except for the error made in the water pouring task (p = 0.024). There was a positive correlation between OVPS and OFMSS (rho = 0.329; p = 0.010). The regression model showed that the OFMSS can be predicted by age and CS at 21.3%. Individuals with normal binocular vision and better near visual function exhibit superior fine motor abilities. CS stands out as the visual function that has the greatest bearing on the performance of FMSs.

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Motor Planning Difficulties: A Confirmatory Study on the Overlap Between Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and developmental coordination disorder (DCD) represent two frequent neurodevelopmental disorders, which may be comorbid or have common characteristics with each other. The aim of the present study was to explore the presence of DCD or motor planning difficulties in children with behavioral disorders and/or ADHD, as already stated in the literature. Motor abilities were assessed in a sample of children which underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation. A total of 43 children were included in the study and were subdivided in three groups: those with ADHD and DCD, those with DCD, and those with ADHD but also presenting motor-praxic difficulties. The first group obtained clinical scores at the considered tests, with worse performances in the balance area; in the second and third groups lower scores were observed in the manual dexterity and balance, with more homogeneous profiles. Overall, 27.3% of ADHD subjects received a diagnosis of DCD as well, whereas 31.8% showed documented motor-praxic difficulties. Our results confirmed an increased prevalence of DCD or general motor difficulties in children with ADHD compared to the general population. Further research should investigate whether a poorer motor performance assessed by standardized tests could be either due to a comorbid neurodevelopmental condition or a direct consequence of the pivotal symptomatology of the disorder.

EFEITOS DE UM PROGRAMA DE INTERVENÇÃO DE CURTA DURAÇÃO NAS HABILIDADES MOTORAS FUNDAMENTAIS DE CRIANÇAS DO PRIMEIRO ANO ESCOLAR

This study aims to evaluate the effects of an interventional program in the fundamental motor skills of children studding at the first year of Elementary School in São Leopoldo city, Rio Grande do Sul State. The study sample was composed by 40 children that were included in the study criteria, from these 21 were male with ages between six and seven years old. The procedures realized consisted on a “pre-test” followed by an Interventional Program with a “post-test”. The fundamental motor skills performances of the “pre-test” and the “post-test” were evaluated by the Test of Gross Motor Development (TGMD-3). To analyze the effect of the motor interventional program in the fundamental motor abilities related with gender, generalized estimation equations were tested. The differences found were evaluated by the Bonferroni multiple comparison test, using Level of significance a&lt;0,05. The results demonstrated significant difference in the medias of “pre-test” and “post-test” to all abilities tested by TGMD-3, except in the “running” during locomotion, where since the beginning of the tests children showed positive performance. There was no significant difference in the comparison of gender and motor abilities.