Visual-motor Reaction Research Articles

Seasonal dynamics in functional state of nervous system among skiers of the military age based on visual-motor response: cohort study

INTRODUCTION: Athlete’s training activity in conditions of the European North involves severe physical exertion in extreme climatic conditions. In this case emerging physiological and meteopathic reactions might have a negative impact on the functional state of persons of military age.OBJECTIVE: Identify the characteristics of seasonal changes in the state of nervous system among skiers of the military age.MATERIALS AND METHODS: 20 skiers of the military age took part in the study. It was carries out over a year and included 4 stages, complying with the stages of athletes’ preparation. During the work by means of the device «Psychophysiologist» there was recording indicators of mean, minimum and mean-square deviation of time of simple and complex visual-motor reaction and also the duration of cardiointervals. Statistics: Statistical software package SPSS 20.0 was used for analyzing the results.RESULTS: As a result of the study, it was found that the skiers experience deterioration of visual-motor reaction with the increasing impact of training activities and negative factors of the north.CONCLUSION: Functioning of the athlete’s body in conditions of the European North leads to deterioration of indicators of nervous system activation level and capacity in the winter training period.

Research of diver body functions’ state with different resistance to the toxic oxygen effect: prospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION: The relevance of this issue is due to the fact that nowadays there is no common understanding of the influence degree of high partial oxygen pressures on a body functions’ state, depending on individual resistance.OBJECTIVE: Research the state of the functions of the central nervous, cardiovascular and respiratory systems among people with different resistance to the toxic oxygen effect in the descending and the nearest post-descending period.MATERIALS AND METHODS: There was an examination of 11 divers aged 23 to 43 (the average age is 35.5±6.5 years) in conditions of a simulated descent in a pressure chamber to the depth of 15 m (0.25 MPa) while breathing oxygen, and also during 3 days after its termination. Statistic: Software SPSS, v. 20.0 (IBM) was applied for statistical processing of the results.RESULTS: Baseline heart rate (HR) in the low toxic oxygen resistant group (group I) is 10% (р<0.05) higher than the subjects, recognized as resistant (group II). To 60 minutes oxygen breathing (pO2=0.25 MPa) there is a decrease in heart rate (HR) by 12.5% in group I and 11% in group II, comparing the baseline (р><0.05). An increase of diastolic pressure level in group II is 10.5% to 15 min descent and 18% to 45 min, comparing the baseline (р><0.05). In group I the pulse pressure level reduced by 18%, comparing the baseline (р><0.05). Gencha test results after descent rose by 55% in group I and by 62.5% in group II, comparing the baseline (р�0.05), and indicators higher than initial remained for 3 days more. In group I there was reduction of information processing speed by a visual analyzer of 16% (from 0.788 to 0.661 b/sec) and increase in escape latency of a simple visual-motor reaction by 11.7%, comparing the baseline (р><0.05). DISCUSSION: Divers with different resistance to the toxic oxygen effect experience multidirectional reaction of the central nervous, cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Individuals, resistant to the toxic oxygen effect, are characterized by more active inclusion of counteraction mechanisms to hyperoxia and significant reduction in the level of adaptation reserves and the efficiency of the cardiovascular system. People with low resistance experience a decrease in the functionality level of the central nervous system. CONCLUSION: The results obtained have a basis for admitting the application of the method of determining individual body resistance to the toxic oxygen effect and tests with increasing dosed physical activity in order to estimate adaptation reserves and efficiency. >< 0.05) higher than the subjects, recognized as resistant (group II). To 60 minutes oxygen breathing (pO2=0.25 MPa) there is a decrease in heart rate (HR) by 12.5% in group I and 11% in group II, comparing the baseline (р< 0.05). An increase of diastolic pressure level in group II is 10.5% to 15 min descent and 18% to 45 min, comparing the baseline (р< 0.05). In group I the pulse pressure level reduced by 18%, comparing the baseline (р< 0.05). Gencha test results after descent rose by 55% in group I and by 62.5% in group II, comparing the baseline (р 0.05), and indicators higher than initial remained for 3 days more. In group I there was reduction of information processing speed by a visual analyzer of 16% (from 0.788 to 0.661 b/sec) and increase in escape latency of a simple visual-motor reaction by 11.7%, comparing the baseline (р< 0.05).DISCUSSION: Divers with different resistance to the toxic oxygen effect experience multidirectional reaction of the central nervous, cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Individuals, resistant to the toxic oxygen effect, are characterized by more active inclusion of counteraction mechanisms to hyperoxia and significant reduction in the level of adaptation reserves and the efficiency of the cardiovascular system. People with low resistance experience a decrease in the functionality level of the central nervous system.CONCLUSION: The results obtained have a basis for admitting the application of the method of determining individual body resistance to the toxic oxygen effect and tests with increasing dosed physical activity in order to estimate adaptation reserves and efficiency.

APOE & BDNF polymorphisms interact to affect memory performance at baseline in adolescent athletes

ABSTRACT Although several single-nucleotide polymorphisms have been associated with cognitive functioning in a variety of healthy and clinical samples, the influence of gene × gene interactions on cognition is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to examine interactive relationships between apolipoprotein E (APOE) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) polymorphisms on cognitive functioning in a sample of healthy adolescent athletes. Participants of this cross-sectional study included 78 student-athletes (52.6% male; age: M = 13.31, SD = 1.23). Athletes completed the Immediate Post-Concussion and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) computerized battery at baseline. APOE and BDNF genotypes were determined with buccal samples (APOE ε4+: n = 26; APOE ε4-: n = 52; BDNF Met+: n = 23; BDNF Met-: n = 55). Two-way analyses of variance (ANOVAs) were used to evaluate the associations among APOE (ε4+ vs. ε4-) and BDNF (Met+ vs. Met-) genotypes and the ImPACT cognitive composites and two-factor model. No main effects were observed for either APOE or BDNF genotypes across the cognitive outcomes. However, there was a significant APOE × BDNF genotype interaction for the verbal (p=.009, η p 2 =.091) and visual (p = .012, η p 2 =.082) memory composites and the memory factor (p = .001, η p 2 =.133), such that ε4+/Met+ carriers demonstrated poorer performance relative to other allele combinations. No significant interactions were observed for the visual motor speed (p = .263, η p 2 =.017) or reaction time (p = .825, η p 2 =.001) composites or the speed factor (p = .205, η p 2 =.022). Our findings suggest an important relationship between APOE and BDNF genotypes on verbal and visual memory performance in healthy adolescent athletes. Clinicians may use this information to offer individualized concussion management based on individual athlete characteristics related to genetics and cognition.

Integral development of coordination and cognitive abilities of basketball players in groups of initial training

Purpose: to determine the impact of the application of experimental methods on the integral development of coordination and cognitive abilities of young basketball players 6-7 years old. Material: the study was attended by 23 kids aged 6-7 years. Children were divided into two groups, 11 kids into control group and 12 kids into experimental group. Results: in the experimental group, as a result of the application of the developed methodology, was seen a significant improvement in the results of the "Romberg test", "running to numbered balls", "shuttle run 4x9m with a basketball ball", "Kopylov test", the latent time of a simple visual motor reaction, latent time of complex visual-motor reaction in "choosing two elements from three", "choosing a point in space", the number of errors in the test "choosing two elements from three". Conclusions: was seen the positive influence of the developed technique on the level of coordination and cognitive abilities of young basketball players.

Comprehensive training of statistics judges in basketball before the game season

The purpose of the study: to develop and experimentally substantiate a methodology for the comprehensive training of statisticians in basketball based on the use of special exercises. Participants: 40 basketball statisticians from different cities of Ukraine, aged 18-21. Research methods: analysis of literature data, testing of physical fitness and psychophysiological capabilities. Results: a methodology for the comprehensive training of statisticians has been developed, which includes physical exercises, exercises for the development and improvement of simple and complex reactions, choice reactions, exercises for the reaction of discrimination and switching, exercises for training reactions to a moving object. It was revealed that at the end of the experiment, significantly (p<0.05; p<0.01) improved the performance of the tests: "flexion-extension of the arms in the lying position for 30 s", "jumping with a rope for 1 min", "test" Ruler " , test "Reaction to an object", "transfer time of chips 5, 20 mm", "errors simple and complex visual-motor reaction.

Sport as a factor in the improvement of the stability of the nervous system to the exhaustion and expansion of students' orthostatic reactions

Purpose: to reveal the influence of sports on indicators of psychophysiological functions and orthostatic reactions of students of various faculties of pedagogical universities.
 Material and methods. 812 students of pedagogical institutions of higher education of Ukraine took part in the study: 88 students of the faculty of elementary education, 76 students of history, 130 of natural sciences, 131 of foreign philology, 93 of the faculty of preschool education, 198 of Ukrainian language, 25 of the faculty of physical education and sports, 24 students from the Faculty of Arts, 47 students from the Faculty of Psychology and Sociology. Psychophysiological testing was carried out according to the Psychodiagnostics program and involved determining the speed of a simple visual-motor reaction, determining the speed of a choice of two elements out of three. During psychophysiological testing, the reaction time and the number of errors were determined for each test.
 The results. Sports have a positive effect on the indicators of the strength of nervous processes according to the results of the number of errors in the test for the reaction to the choice of two elements out of three (p<0.05). Also, playing sports has a positive effect on the quality of autonomic regulation of vascular tone, which is reflected in lower values ​​of the heart rate during the transition from a horizontal position of the body to a vertical one in students who play sports (p<0.05).
 Conclusions. Sports are recommended for students of all faculties of pedagogical universities. The type of sport should correspond to the individual inclinations of the student and his professional direction.

Investigation of the Effect of Fatigue on Visual Motor Reaction Times in Elite Fencers

Eskrim, çeşitli oyun stratejilerinin ve hareketlerinin uyumlu bir şekilde sergilenmesini gerektiren bir beceri sporudur ve bazı motorik özelikler baskın bir şekilde rol oynamaktadır. Eskrimciler spor branşlarının doğası gereği öne, arkaya hücum ettiklerinde ve bunları defalarca üst üste yapmak için kas gruplarının yüksek düzeyde çalışmasına ihtiyaç duyarlar. Reaksiyon zamanı fizyolojik performansının belirleyicilerinden olarak eskrim branşının tekniğinin ve taktiğinin yanında önemli bir parametre olarak yer almaktadır. Eskrim sporunda hamlelerin sürekli, yoğun ve patlayıcı şekillerde gerçekleşmesi ve toparlanma zamanının kısıtlığı, ayrıca maçlar arasındaki sürelerin kısıtlılığı eskrimcilerin yorgunluk seviyelerinin yükselmesine neden olmaktadır. Reaksiyon zamanı, bireyin karar verebilme hızıyla doğrudan ve yakın bir ilişkiye sahiptir. Reaksiyon zamanı; bireye verilen uyaranın ardından bireyin o uyaran istemli şekilde cevap verebildiği anın başlangıcı olarak tanımlanmaktadır. Kas aktivitesi artışında vücut parçasının görülen hareketine kadar geçen süredir ve “motor süre” olarak adlandırılır. Yorgunluğun eskrimcilerin görsel motor reaksiyon sürelerine etkisi tam olarak bilinmemektedir ve ayrıca yüksek şiddetteki egzersiz esnasında ortaya çıkan stresin reaksiyon zamanı üzerindeki etkilerini araştıran çalışmalar oldukça sınırlıdır. Bu noktada, yapılan çalışmada Türkiye eskrim milli takımı sporcularında yorgunluk öncesi ve sonrası görsel motor reaksiyon sürelerindeki değişimin incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır.
 Çalışmamızın katılımcıları Türkiye eskrim genç milli takım sporcularından oluşmuştur. Çalışmaya katılan bireylerin tümüm milli takım kampına aktif olarak katılan erkek ve kadın eskrimcilerden seçilmiştir. Çalışmamıza toplamda 19 genç milli eskrimci katılmıştır. Bu sporcuların 10 tanesi kadınlardan (yaş; 15.60± 1.34, boy; 1.69± .06 cm, vücut ağırlığı 57.00± 8.81 kg) ve 9 tanesi erkek (15.55± .88 yıl, boy; 1.79± .05 cm, vücut ağırlığı; 71.22± 9.33 kg) genç milli eskrim sporcusudur. Çalışmaya katılan genç eskrimcilerin hepsi çalışmaya gönüllü olarak katılmıştır. Çalışmada katılımcıların ilk olarak yaş bilgileri, boy ve kiloları alındı. Ardından genç eskrimcilerin standart bir ısınma programı uygulandı (5 dakika boyunca eskrime özgü ısınma hareketleri). Isınmadan sonra genç eskrimcilerin görsel motor reaksiyon testi fit-light reaksiyon cihazı ile baskın ve baskın olmayan elleri ile 3 er defa ölçüm yapılmıştır ve en iyi ölçüm kaydedilmiştir. İlk görsel motor reaksiyon ölçümü ardından katılımcılara yorgunluk oluşturulması amacı ile yo-yo toparlanma-1 testi uygulanmış ve katılımcıların tükeninceye kadar testi devam ettirmeleri sağlanmıştır. Yorgunluk testi hemen sonrasında genç eskrimcilerin görsel motor reaksiyon testleri tekrar aynı şekilde alınmıştır. Veriler SPSS 24 paket programı kullanılarak analiz edilmiş olup, elde edilen verilerin analizinde Bağımsız t testi kullanılmıştır.
 Genç eskrimcilerin baskın el ve baskın olmayan eldeki görsel motor reaksiyon sürelerinde anlamlı bir farklılık görülmemiştir. Benzer şekilde, kadın ve erkek sporcuların görsel motor reaksiyon süreleri analizi sonucunda yorgunluk öncesi ve sonrasında hem baskın el hem de baskın olmayan eldeki verilerde anlamlı bir farklılık oluşmadığı gözlemlenmiştir. Eskrim sporcularının görsel motor reaksiyon parametreleri incelendiğinde; genç milli eskrim sporcularında yorgunluğun görsel motor reaksiyon üzerinde bir değişime yol açmadığı gözlemlenmiştir.

Peculiarities of the connection and interdependence of the characteristics of the level of development of the professionally significant psychophysiological functions of the students' body in the case of the use of distance and classroom forms of educatio

Annotation. Determining the peculiarities of the processes of psychophysiological adaptation of student youth is impossible without establishing the relationship and interdependence of the characteristics of the level of development of psychophysiological functions of young women and young men in the use of various (classroom and remote) forms of learning. The research included assessment of the level of development of professionally significant psychophysiological functions of students and further processing of the obtained data using procedures of correlation, factor and cluster analysis based on the use of statistical analysis software package Statistica 6.1”. The obtained data show that the most clearly defined correlation under the conditions of organization of educational activities in remote (on-line) format for young women and young men is determined during the analysis of indicators of speed of simple and differentiated visual-motor reaction, mobility of nervous processes and dynamic efficiency, that is, those characteristics of the adaptive capacity of the organism, which note the state of visual-motor coordination, the implementation of urgent reactions in response to changes in the stereotype of normal learning activities and resistance to the phenomena of monotony. However, the most clearly defined correlation in the organization of educational activities in the classroom (off-line) format for young women and young men is determined during the analysis of indicators of the speed of simple audio-motor response, balance of nervous processes and dynamic performance, ie those characteristics of adaptive capabilities of the body, which note the state of audio-motor coordination, the level of balance of major nervous processes and resistance to monotony. The results should be used in the future in the scientific substantiation of effective health technologies.

Features of cognitive mental processes and neurodynamic properties of the central nervous system in firefighters depending on polymorphisms of the regulators’ genes of the brain monoamine system

BACKGROUND: Firefighters' performance of their occupational duties is associated with significant psycho-emotional stress, as well as the complex influence of harmful and dangerous factors that are a source of risk to their health and life. One of the most important modern tasks of vocational training of employees in the EMERCOM of Russia is the problem of assessing psychophysiological reserves. Currently, traditional methods of psychological and psychophysiological testing do not allow a full assessment of psychophysiological reserves because the degree of adaptation to extreme loads is determined by hereditary traits.
 AIM: To study the features of cognitive mental processes and neurodynamic properties of the central nervous system in firefighters that depend on the polymorphisms of the regulators genes of the monoamine system of the brain.
 MATERIAL AND METHODS: Methodologically, 453 people were examined, of which 234 were the main group (firefighters), and 219 were the control group. Assessment was conducted using the following methods: "Correction test with Landolt rings", "Mnsterberg test", "Schulte tables", "Reaction to a moving object", "Simple visual-motor reaction", and KR-3-85 test batteries. Genotyping was performed using five candidate genes of 5-HTTLPR or 5HTT, 5HT2A, COMT, DRD1, and DRD2/ANKK1.
 RESULTS: The results of indicators of attention, neurodynamic properties of the central nervous system, and cognitive mental processes, depending on the nature of the occupational tasks performed and employment duration, indicates the strain of the functional systems of the body during long-term work (more than five years) in the main study group (firefighters). Firefighters carrying 5HTT L/L, 5HT2A C/C, COMT Val/Val, and DRD2/ANKK1 Glu/Glu genotypes have significantly higher rates than those of 5HTT S/S, 5HT2A Т/Т genotypes, COMT Met/Met, and DRD2/ANKK1 Lis/Lis, and at the same time lower indicators compared to individuals with similar genotypes from the control group.
 CONCLUSION: The data obtained indicate the feasibility of practical application of studies of the 5HTT, 5HT2A, and DRD2/ANKK1 genes. Changes in the level of attention and neurodynamic properties of the central nervous system depending on the polymorphic variants of the DRD1 gene were not observed. The indicators of cognitive mental processes in the control and main groups differed depending on the polymorphic variants of the COMT gene.

Психофізіологічні характеристики ватерполістів на етапі попередньої базової підготовки

The purpose of the study was to determine the quantitative parameters of the psychophysiological characteristics of water polo players at the stage of preliminary basic training. Materials and methods. 26 water polo players took part in the study at the stage of preliminary basic training. Theoretical analysis and generalization, documentary method, measurement, methods of mathematical statistics were used in the study. Results and discussion. In recent years, the development of high-performance sports has led to an increase in the requirements for the technical and tactical training of highly qualified athletes and the duration of their sports careers, so the issue of finding alternative ways to increase the effectiveness of competitive activities has become urgent. Differentiated approaches to the training of athletes at various stages of long-term training, taking into account the psychophysiological characteristics of athletes, have been successfully implemented in various sports in recent years. Taking into account these trends, the issue of considering the psychophysiological characteristics of athletes when building the training process at various stages of long-term training becomes relevant. In the course of the study, the psychophysiological characteristics of water polo players were measured at the stage of preliminary basic training using the complex for psychophysiological testing "Neurosoft-psychotest". Indicators of simple visual-motor reaction, discrimination reaction, choice reaction, resistance to obstacles, reaction to a moving object and power endurance of the hand were taken into account. It has been established that water polo at the stage of the preliminary basic preparation will lead to a high accuracy of the reaction to the rough object, and also with this type of reaction, the number of reactions outweighs the number of reactions of delay. Conclusion. Because of the conducted research, the relevance of the study of psychophysiological characteristics in water polo is substantiated. The psychophysiological characteristics of water polo players at the stage of preliminary basic training were determined according to the following indicators: simple visual-motor reaction, discrimination reaction, choice reaction, reaction to a moving object, assessment of power endurance of the hand and resistance to obstacles. Water polo players at the stage of preliminary basic training are characterized by a high speed of a simple visual-motor reaction, at the level of 207.8 mms, as well as a high concentration of attention and the strength of nervous processes. High resistance to obstacles of water polo players at the stage of preliminary basic training is observed. The determined characteristics are possible to be used as model parameters of water polo players at the stage of preliminary basic training

World Federation of Athletic Training and Therapy World Congress 2022 Peer-Reviewed Track Abstracts, May 5–7, 2022, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

World Federation of Athletic Training and Therapy World Congress 2022 Peer-Reviewed Track Abstracts, May 5–7, 2022, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Sports activities and professional specialty influence on psychophysiological functions and orthostatic reactions indicators of pedagogical universities students

Purpose: to identify the influence of the professional orientation of education and lifestyle (sports) on the indicators of psychophysiological functions and orthostatic reactions of students of various faculties of pedagogical universities.
 Material and methods. 812 students of pedagogical institutions of higher education of Ukraine took part in the study: 88 students of the faculty of elementary education, 76 students of history, 130 of natural sciences, 131 of foreign philology, 93 of the faculty of preschool education, 198 of Ukrainian language, 25 of the faculty of physical education and sports, 24 students from the Faculty of Arts, 47 students from the Faculty of Psychology and Sociology. Psychophysiological testing was carried out according to the Psychodiagnostics program and involved determining the speed of a simple visual-motor reaction, determining the speed of a choice of two elements out of three. During psychophysiological testing, the reaction time and the number of errors were determined for each test.
 The results. Students of the faculties of elementary education, preschool education, and the faculty of natural sciences have a significantly shorter reaction time in the test for a simple visual-motor reaction (p<0.05), and, accordingly, the best indicators of the mobility of nervous processes in comparison with students of other faculties of pedagogical universities. These faculties have the largest number of errors in the test for the choice of two elements out of three (p<0.05), and, accordingly, the lowest strength of nervous processes.
 Conclusions. Sports have a positive effect on the indicators of the strength of nervous processes according to the results of the number of errors in the reaction test for choosing two items out of three (p<0.05). Also, playing sports has a positive effect on the quality of vegetative regulation of vascular tone, which is reflected in lower values ​​of the heart rate during the transition from a horizontal position of the body to a vertical one in students who play sports (p<0.05).

A-39 Baseline And Initial Post-Injury Presentation Of Athletes With Self-Reported Neurodevelopmental Disorders As Measured By ImPACT

Abstract Purpose: To compare neurocognitive profiles of high school athletes with self-reported LD and/or ADHD neurodevelopmental disorders (ND) to controls at baseline (BL) and during initial post-injury (PI) testing with ImPACT. Methods: A sample of 155 (112 males, 43 females) high school athletes who completed BL and PI testing with ImPACT from 2019 to present was analyzed. Students who self-reported ND (n = 36) were compared to those who did not. ImPACT composites Verbal Memory (VM), Visual Memory (VisM), Visual Motor Speed (VMS), Reaction Time (RT), Impulse Control (IC), and Total Symptom Score (TSS) were measured as dependent variables. Data was analyzed using multiple one-way ANOVA’s accounting for gender and presence of ND as fixed factors. Results: One-way ANOVA (CI = 95%) revealed a five-point difference on BL-VMS between NDs and controls (p < 0.001). ND students’ performance declined more after injury on VMS (p = 0.042). Analysis also showed ND PI-IC score about two points higher than controls (p = 0.014). With respect to gender, females reported greater symptoms on PI and more symptom increase than their male counterparts (p < 0.001, p = 0.01; respectively). Lastly, ND males performed eight points lower on BL-VM than ND females (p = 0.031). Conclusions: The present study confirms that performance differences on ImPACT VMS may be expected between student-athletes with self-reported ND and their counterparts. Gender appears to contribute to performance on some measures of ImPACT; females endorse more symptoms than males PI, and ND males perform worse on BL-VM than ND females.

Factors for early postoperative cognitive impairment in patients after coronary bypass surgery and carotid endarterectomy

Aim. To determine the relationship between perioperative factors and cognitive function in patients after coronary bypass grafting (CABG) in combination with unilateral carotid endarterectomy (CE).Material and methods. We examined 56 men in the perioperative period with CABG combined with unilateral CE (mean age, 64,0±7,1 years). Cognitive assessment was performed before and 5-7 days after surgery with Status PF program. An advanced psychometric examination included an assessment of voluntary attention (Bourdon test), short-term memory (tests on memorizing 10 numbers, 10 words, and 10 syllables), neurodynamics (visual-motor reaction time, level of functional mobility of nervous processes, brain performance, as well as the number of errors in these tasks and missed positive signals). The concentration of neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and S100β protein in the blood serum of patients before surgery, 24 hours and 5-7 days after surgery was determined using enzyme immunoassay.Results. In the early postoperative period, an increase in reaction time (p=0,031) was accompanied by an increase in errors in this test (p=0,042) and a decrease in the number of memorized numbers (p=0,022). Twenty four hours and 5-7 days after surgery, there were no differences between the perioperative NSE level (p1-2-3>0.05). Twenty four hours after CABG surgery, the level of S100β protein increased by 9,0% (p=0,001), while regression of S100β protein to the preoperative level was observed 5-7 days after operation.Conclusion. A relationship was found between the CABG factor and the attention level (r=-0,518; p=0,031), functional mobility reaction time (r=0,476; p=0,041), and the number of errors (r=0,449; p=0,032). A correlation was found between the factor of neurochemical markers, the number of processed letters on the 1st minute of Bourdon test (r=-0,642; p=0,014), the total number of processed letters in Bourdon test (r=-0,617; p=0,017). The combined factor of perioperative period was associated with functional mobility reaction time (r=0,609; p=0,041), the number of processed letters at 4 min (r=-0,490; p=0,017), and the total number of processed letters in the Bourdon test (r=-0,334; p=0,006).

Разработка новой концепции оценки напряженности труда пилотов гражданской авиации

The article describes a concept for assessing labor intensity (LI) developed by the authors. This concept is based on the results produced by comprehensive assessment of the current working conditions, by analyzing the psychophysiological state of civil aviation (CI) pilots in flight, as well as by assessing a contribution made by flight loads and signs of fatigue to an increase in a risk of aviation accidents (AA). It has been established that, according to sanitary and hygienic profiles, LI levels at all workplaces of civil aviation pilots correspond to harmful working conditions, which are aggravated by exposure to four other harmful factors (noise, microclimate, vibration, and working posture) in 48 % of cases. The research results have shown that the risks of fatigue increase significantly after 5 hours of flight. This fatigue manifests itself in the growing number of gaze fixations by 11 %; an increase in an average latency period of a complex visual-motor reaction, by 12 %; the growing number of significant errors for flight safety, by 50 %. All these processes occur in the absence of physiological recovery of the cardiovascular system, p < 0.05. Pilots who are in a state of fatigue and stress due to violated work and rest regimes tend to have more AA. This accounts for at least 8.4 % of cases from all others causes. It is proposed to introduce the 3rd degree of harmfulness for strenuous work, as well as new LI indicators for sensory, informational and intellectual loads, such as an increase in a time required to fix the gaze on a device (in %), the frequency of image / value change on a screen (times/min), the volume of information flows per unit of time (bps), and the number of multifunctional devices (more than 10 bits per second). It has been established that the assessment of LI should be supplemented with specific indicators of the flight load and work regimes. These indicators include the number of takeoffs and landings, the number of crossed time zones, the number of stress factors during a flight, and the number of night flight shifts per week. They are directly related to developing fatigue among pilots and an increased risk of AA occurrence.

Development of a new concept for assessing labor intensity of civil aviation pilots

The article describes a concept for assessing labor intensity (LI) developed by the authors. This concept is based on the results produced by comprehensive assessment of the current working conditions, by analyzing the psychophysiological state of civil aviation (CI) pilots in flight, as well as by assessing a contribution made by flight loads and signs of fatigue to an increase in a risk of aviation accidents (AA). It has been established that, according to sanitary and hygienic profiles, LI levels at all workplaces of civil aviation pilots correspond to harmful working conditions, which are aggravated by exposure to four other harmful factors (noise, microclimate, vibration, and working posture) in 48 % of cases. The research results have shown that the risks of fatigue increase significantly after 5 hours of flight. This fatigue manifests itself in the growing number of gaze fixations by 11 %; an increase in an average latency period of a complex visual-motor reaction, by 12 %; the growing number of significant errors for flight safety, by 50 %. All these processes occur in the absence of physiological recovery of the cardiovascular system, p < 0.05. Pilots who are in a state of fatigue and stress due to violated work and rest regimes tend to have more AA. This accounts for at least 8.4 % of cases from all others causes. It is proposed to introduce the 3rd degree of harmfulness for strenuous work, as well as new LI indicators for sensory, informational and intellectual loads, such as an increase in a time required to fix the gaze on a device (in %), the frequency of image / value change on a screen (times/min), the volume of information flows per unit of time (bps), and the number of multifunctional devices (more than 10 bits per second). It has been established that the assessment of LI should be supplemented with specific indicators of the flight load and work regimes. These indicators include the number of takeoffs and landings, the number of crossed time zones, the number of stress factors during a flight, and the number of night flight shifts per week. They are directly related to developing fatigue among pilots and an increased risk of AA occurrence.

Аналіз підготовленості висококваліфікованих єдиноборців на підставі оцінки сенсомоторних реакцій

Purpose: to determine and analyze the sensorimotor reactions of a highly qualified judoka and offer recommendations for improving the quality of the training program for preparing for competitions. Material and methods. In this study, the following scientific methods were used: theoretical analysis and generalization of scientific and methodological literature; pedagogical observations; instrumental method; mathematical and statistical research methods. The study involved the champion of the 23-year Deaflympic Games in judo in the team. To determine the level of manifestation of sensorimotor reactions of the judoka, it was proposed to perform the following psychophysiological tests: determining the volume of perception of the number of visual signals; assessment of functional asymmetry; determination of the choice reaction; determination of reaction to a moving object; determination of a simple visual-motor reaction. Results: it was determined that the psychophysiological functions of a person are the biological foundation of the individual-typological features of the higher nervous system, they characterize the process of formation and improvement of special motor skills in the conditions of training and competitive activity. According to the results of a scientific study, the features of the manifestation of sensorimotor reactions in the examined judoist were revealed. Thus, the analysis of the dynamics of passing the test to determine the volume of perception showed that an athlete can control excitement, mobilize attention, quickly adapt to the appropriate work. Based on the analysis of the results of the test to determine the functional asymmetry, it was noted that the frequency of movements in the examined athlete is less than model values, and the reaction time and duration of pressing decrease at stages 2 and 3. The dynamics of changes in the frequency of pressing during the test indicates the strength of the nervous system and requires additional studies to assess it more accurately. An analysis of the dynamics of the test results to determine the «Choice Reaction» indicates that the athlete who was examined has the ability to adapt to the corresponding work (decrease in reaction time from stages 1 to 3) and has an average level of choice reaction of 569,1-705,4 ms ( according to the model characteristics of highly qualified combatants). According to the results of the study of the reaction to a moving object, it was found that the athlete has a high level of manifestation of this type of reaction – 12,7 ms (according to the model value of highly qualified combatants). Conclusions. It has been determined that the adequacy of the reaction of psychophysiological functions to training or competitive loads can be an indicator of the level of an athlete's preparedness. Based on the analysis of the results of the evaluation of sensorimotor reactions, the characteristics of some aspects of the preparedness of the female athlete who was examined were formed. The positive characteristics include: the ability to predict the occurrence of an event, to feel the time and distance, the prerequisites for successfully conducting counterattacks, the ability to perform technical and tactical actions in both stances (with a sufficient level of technical preparedness), control excitement, mobilize attention, adapt to the proposed work. Keywords: judo; elite athlete, sensorimotor reactions, volume of perception, training process.

A lack of timing-dependent effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on the performance of a choice reaction time task

Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can enhance the retention of a previously practiced motor skill. However, the effects of tDCS on the performance of the choice reaction time task are not fully understood. We examined the effects of anodal tDCS over the left primary motor cortex (M1) on the retention of a 4-choice visual-motor reaction time task (4-ChRT). Right-handed healthy participants (n=100) were randomly assigned to five groups: three groups received anodal tDCS: before (tDCSbefore), during (tDCSduring), or after (tDCSafter) motor practice. In addition, there were two control groups: with (CONmp) and without (CON) motor practice. We evaluated the speed and precision of the 4-ChRT task before (PRE), during, and 24h (POST) after the interventions. All groups, including the non-stimulation (CONmp) and non-practice groups (CON), improved (p<0.05) motor retention (Δ4-ChRT: 35.8±36.0ms). These findings suggest that the tDCS effects over M1 may differ for serial versus choice RT tasks, perhaps due to the different brain areas involved in each motor task.

Improvement in Postural Control Following Concussion in Adolescent Athletes: From Clinical Presentation to Initiation of Return to Play

Background:Impairments in balance or postural control are common following sport-related concussion (SRC). The Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) is widely utilized to assess static postural stability, but laboratory-based balance measures have been shown to more accurately detect changes in postural control.Hypothesis/Purpose:To determine whether postural control improved between presentation to the sports medicine clinic and return-to-sport (RTS) initiation, and whether this trend mirrored symptom scores and cognitive performance. A secondary aim was to assess whether changes in postural control were more accurately captured with center of pressure (COP) based measures compared to BESS.Methods:Patients diagnosed with a SRC were tested within 10 days of presentation (V0) and when cleared by a physician to begin a RTS protocol (V1). Clinical measures included Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) and the King-Devick (K-D) test. The BESS was performed with eyes closed while standing barefoot on a force platform for 6 conditions: double-limb stance, single-limb stance, and tandem stance on both firm and foam surfaces. BESS scores and total balance time were recorded for each condition, and COP-based measures were computed for both double-limb stance conditions (Table 1). Sample entropy was computed to quantify COP regularity over time with increased values indicating improvement in postural control. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were performed to determine significance between visits (α<0.05).Results:Forty patients (17 males, 13.8±2.0 years) were included for analysis. ImPACT verbal and visual memory scores improved by 10% and 12%, respectively, total symptom score decreased (V0 18.03±13.85, V1 0.97±2.08; p<0.01), and visual motor speed and reaction time were both 11% faster on the K-D test. For postural control, the BESS indicated significant improvement given the reduction in errors on both surfaces (Firm Total: V0 3.23±2.09, V1 2.25±2.11, p=0.01; Foam Total: V0 7.38±2.05, V1 6.08±1.76, p<0.01; Table 1). Similarly, COP-based measures exhibited better overall balance between visits (Figure 1), primarily in the medial-lateral direction on the firm and the anterior-posterior direction on the foam. Lastly, sample entropy improved between visits, indicating more effective postural control.Conclusion:Significant improvement in postural control was observed during the recovery period which mirrored improvement in symptom scores and cognitive performance. Additionally, while COP-based measures showed similar trends to the BESS, they provided more detailed information in regards to balance recovery. Specifically, findings from the double stance condition highlight the utility of a more advanced assessment of postural control for determining RTS readiness following a SRC.Table 1.COP-based measures of balance performance at diagnosis (V0) and clearance (V1) visitsFigure 1.Representative stabilograms of double stance balance on firm and foam surfaces at diagnosis (V0) and clearance visits (V1)

Neurocognitive functioning and symptoms across levels of collision and contact in male high school athletes

ObjectiveWe sought to determine whether male collision sport athletes perform worse on computerised neurocognitive assessments and report higher symptom burdens than athletes in contact (but not collision) sports and athletes...