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Purpose To investigate the efficacy of using Ratings of Perceived Exertion (RPE) to prescribe and regulate a 4-week handcycle training intervention. Methods Thirty active adults, untrained in upper body endurance exercise, were divided into three groups to complete a 4-week intervention: (i) RPE-guided training (n = 10; 2 female), (ii) power output (PO)-guided (n = 10; 2 female) training, or (iii) non-training control (n = 10; 4 female). Training groups performed three sessions of handcycling each week. Oxygen uptake ($${\dot{\text{V}}}O_{2}$$ V ˙ O 2 ), heart rate (HR), and Feeling Scale (FS) rating were collected during training sessions. RPE-guided training was performed at RPE 13. PO-guided training was matched for percentage of peak PO per session, based upon that achieved by the RPE-guided training group. Results There were no differences in percentage of peak $$\dot{V}O_{2}$$ V ˙ O 2 (66 ± 13% vs 61 ± 9%, p = 0.22), peak HR (75 ± 8% vs 71 ± 6%, p = 0.11) or FS rating (1.2 ± 1.9 vs 0.8 ± 1.6, p = 0.48) between RPE- and PO-guided training, respectively. The average coefficient of variation in percentage of peak HR between consecutive training sessions was 2.8% during RPE-guided training, and 3.4% during PO-guided training. Conclusion Moderate-vigorous intensity handcycling exercise can be prescribed effectively using RPE across a chronic training intervention, suggesting utility for practitioners in a variety of rehabilitation settings.

It is widely accepted that mouthguards are effective for injury protection in sports. However, findings on the effects of mouthguards in strength and power production remains controversial. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether controlled-mandible position mouthguards influence strength and power production in well trained athletes.Twenty-two male amateur rugby players (25 ± 3.84 yrs; 1.92 ± 0.07 m; 93.91 ± 11.99 kg) volunteered for this study. Every participant performed an 1RM bench press test (113.20 ± 16.83 kg) to determine his maximal strength. In a randomized order, a ballistic bench press using 40% of the obtained 1RM (44.93 ± 6.76 Kg) was performed in a guided bar attached to a linear position transducer (LPT) for the following conditions: a) no mouthguard (CON); b) controlled mouthguard (MCM - jaw in centric relation); c) non-controlled mouthguard (NCM) and d) occlusal splint (OS). Vertical dimension of occlusion was also assessed for each of the testing conditions.Athletes using a controlled mouthguard demonstrate a significant (p 0.05) higher peak acceleration and peak force than those using no mouthguard. Additionally, when analysing the results of vertical dimension of occlusion, a significant difference (p 0.05) was observed between controlled mouthguard and the other tested conditions.Controlled mouthguards enhance peak force and peak acceleration in the ballistic bench press exercise without negatively affecting any other measure assessed in this study. We speculate that this is possibly due to an increased stability of temporomandibular joint.

INTRODUCTION Up to 89% of physicians who routinely perform endoscopy experience some type of musculoskeletal pain. In this study, we sought to quantitatively analyze provider factors that influence ergonomic strain during live endoscopic procedures. METHODS Surface electromyography (sEMG) was used to measure ergonomic strain on physicians while performing upper and lower endoscopies. EMG data were normalized to a maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) recording for each muscle group, yielding a %MVC value. Subgroup analyses were performed based on glove size, physician training level, specialty, and handedness. RESULTS A total of 165 upper (n = 68) and lower (n = 97) endoscopies were recorded. Endoscopists with small hand sizes had significantly higher ergonomic strain in the left anterior and posterior forearm muscle compartments as compared to endoscopists with medium or large hands (%MVC L-anterior: small: 9.1 ± 1.1; medium: 6.4 ± 1.2; large: 5.9 ± 1.6; p

Background/objectives The study purpose was to assess the impact of birth weight and breastfeeding duration on physical fitness components. Subjects/methods Study participants were 985 adolescents boys and 1246 girls (12.5-17.5 years) participating in the HELENA study. Standardised physical fitness procedures included: cardio-respiratory fitness, flexibility, upper body muscular strength, and lower body explosive strength. Birth weight and breastfeeding duration were assessed by parents' questionnaire. Associations between neonatal data and physical fitness were investigated using linear mixed models. Results Significant associations between body muscular strength, and breastfeeding duration were observed in the unadjusted analyses for boys. When adjusting for potential confounding factors (z-score body mass index, fat-free mass, fat mass), only lower body muscular strength, by standing broad jump-a proxy measure of muscular explosivity- was positively associated with breastfeeding duration. Furthermore, significant associations were observed between upper body muscular strength (by hand grip),-a proxy measure of muscular power-in boys as well as in girls. Conclusions Birth weight and breastfeeding duration have different effects on muscular strength components. The present results suggest that birth weight positively influences the development of muscular power, while breastfeeding duration positively influences muscular explosivity.

Friesen, KB, Barfield, JW, Murrah, WM, Dugas, JR, Andrews, JR, and Oliver, GD. The association of upper-body kinematics and earned run average of national collegiate athletic association Division I softball pitchers. J Strength Cond Res 35(11): 3145-3150, 2021-Although recent literature has increased examination of the association of injury and biomechanics, there remains a lack of evidence supporting optimal windmill pitch mechanics. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate trunk and pitching arm kinematics and their association with performance outcome: earned run average (ERA), in collegiate softball pitchers. Twenty-three NCAA Division I collegiate softball pitchers (20.14 ± 1.07 years; 173.93 ± 6.68 cm; and 85.79 ± 11.06 kg) performed 3 maximal effort rise ball pitches to a catcher located at a distance of 43 ft. (13.11 m). Kinematic data of the trunk and pitching arm were collected using an electromagnetic tracking system. A multiple regression analysis was performed at each pitch event: top of backswing, foot contact, ball release, and follow-through. The multiple regression at foot contact showed an overall statistically significant regression equation (F6, 16 = 3.7, p = 0.017) and explained approximately 42% of the variance in ERA (R = 0.579, Adj. R2 = 0.421). Results revealed that those pitchers who had greater trunk (SE = 0.018, t = -2.5, p = 0.023) and elbow flexion (SE = 0.006, t = -4.2, p = 0.001) at the event of foot contact had lower ERAs. This study supported previous research on the importance of trunk and elbow angle at front foot contact on rise ball pitch performance. These key technique points and the importance of elbow flexors should be explored in future research and potentially visually attended to by coaches and strength professionals.

Background: Airborne personal protective equipment is required for healthcare workers when performing aerosol-generating procedures on patients with infectious diseases. Chest compressions, one of the main components of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, require intense and dynamic movements of the upper body. We aimed to investigate the protective effect of tight-fitting powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) during chest compressions. Methods: This single-center simulation study was performed from February 2021 to March 2021. The simulated workplace protection factor (SWPF) is the concentration ratio of ambient particles and particles inside the PAPR mask; this value indicates the level of protection provided by a respirator when subjected to a simulated work environment. Participants performed continuous chest compressions three times for 2 min each time, with a 4-min break between each session. We measured the SWPF of the tight-fitting PAPR during chest compression in real-time mode. The primary outcome was the ratio of any failure of protection (SWPF

Background Individuals who participate in outdoor sports are subject to an increased risk of developing skin cancer. To date, there has been no review examining skin cancer and sun protective behaviours specific to outdoor, water based sports. Therefore, this scoping reviews objectives were to (1) summarise volume and type of scientific literature available relating to skin cancer, (2) examine current sun protective behaviours and (3) identify knowledge gaps to inform future research. Method A scoping review was conducted to address the objectives following the PRISMA guidelines. Seven databases were searched; identified studies were screened based on title, abstract and full-text for outdoor water based sports which examined skin cancer and/or sun protective behaviours. Data was extracted, synthesised and critically appraised using a modified AXIS tool. Percentage frequencies were calculated, and key results were placed in tabular or graphical presentation. Results Nine cross sectional studies were identified, all defined as low level evidence. A combined sample of 4,377 participants across six countries and five water based sports showed BCC (71%) was the most common skin cancer, followed by melanoma (18%) and SCC (10%). The head (41%) and upper-limbs (27%) were the most common location. Conclusion This review highlights the minimal research available and demonstrates those in water based sports are at high risk of developing skin cancer. Due to difficulty adhering to sun protective behaviours, the most prevalent location is the upper body. Included studies were of low level evidence, providing opportunity for future research to expand upon the gaps in the current literature.

The Farmer’s Walk (FW) may supplement resistance training through functional tasks like lifting and carrying weight over various distances. Minimal information exists concerning the intramuscular responses resulting from FW performance, possibly impacting its application in exercise prescription. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to investigate Creatine Kinase (CK) and myoglobin (Mb) responses following the Farmers Walk Condition (FWC) compared to a control protocol (NWC). Fifteen participants (Mean ± SEM; age: 21.6 ± 0.5 years; height: 172.5 ± 2.4 cm; body weight: 81.8 ± 4.0 kg) completed an initial session to measure body composition, lower body power, and strength. Participants then completed two counter-balanced exercise protocols consisting of a 20-m walk performed within 5 sets of 2 repetitions while either carrying weight (FWC; average wt: 85.15 ± 25.55 kg) or not (NWC) with collection of Visually Perceived Muscle Soreness (VPMS), Ratings of Perceived Exertion (RPE), and blood samples. VPMS, blood samples, and Countermovement Jump (CMJ) height were also collected during recovery from each exercise protocol with significance of P

This study compared the perceptual responses, physiological indicators and technical parameters between different training protocols focused on upper body exercises. A randomized crossover design was performed, and 12 trained individuals (age: 27.1 ± 5.7 years; height: 173.7 ± 10.7 cm; BMI: 23.9 ± 2.3) completed three resistance training sessions under different protocols separated by at least 72 h: traditional training (TT) (4 x 6 repetitions at 85% of 1RM with 120 s of rest between sets), cluster 1 (CL1) (4 x 2+2+2 repetitions at 85% of 1RM with 15 s of intra-rep rest and 80 s between sets), and cluster 2 (CL2) (24 repetitions at 85% of 1RM with 15 s of inter-set recovery). Before training, arterial blood pressure (BP) and repetitions to failure of pull-up and push-up (FT) were collected. Muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2) in the chest and movement velocity were evaluated in barbell bench press during the training session. After finishing, lactate, BP, rate of perceived exertion and FT were assessed. The percentage of velocity loss (TT: 19.24%; CL1: 5.02% and CL2: 7.30%) in the bench press and lactate concentration (TT: 8.90 mmol·l-1; CL1: 6.13 mmol·l-1 and CL2: 5.48 mmol·l-1) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) for TT compared to both CLs. RPE values were higher (p < 0.05) in TT compared to CL1 (7.95 a.u. vs. 6.91 a.u., respectively). No differences (p > 0.05) were found between protocols for SmO2, BP, FT, pain or heart rate between set configurations. Cluster configurations allow one to maintain higher movement velocity and lower lactate and RPE values compared to a traditional configuration, but with similar concentrations of SmO2.

The present study examined cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between total and segmental subcutaneous tissue thicknesses from ultrasonography (US) and total and segmental fat mass (FM) estimates from dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Traditional US FM estimates were also examined. Twenty resistance-trained males (mean ± SD; age: 22.0 ± 2.6 years; body mass: 74.8 ± 11.5 kg; DXA fat: 17.5 ± 4.5%) completed a 6-week supervised resistance training programme while consuming a hypercaloric diet. Pre- and post-intervention body composition was assessed by DXA and B-mode US. Data were analysed using Pearson's correlation (r), Lin's correlation coefficient (CCC), paired t-tests, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and Bland-Altman analysis, as appropriate. Cross-sectionally, correlations were observed between total DXA FM and total subcutaneous tissue thickness (r = 0.88). Longitudinally, a correlation was observed between total DXA FM changes and total subcutaneous tissue changes (r = 0.49, CCC = 0.38). Correlations of similar magnitudes were observed for the upper body and trunk estimates, but DXA FM changes were unrelated to subcutaneous tissue changes for the lower body and arms. Cross-sectionally, US 2-compartment FM and DXA FM were correlated (r = 0.91, CCC = 0.83). Longitudinally, a weaker correlation was observed (r = 0.47, CCC = 0.33). In summary, longitudinal associations between US and DXA are weaker than cross-sectional relationships; additionally, correlations between US subcutaneous tissue and whole-body DXA FM appear to be driven by the trunk region rather than appendages. Reporting raw skinfold thicknesses rather than FM estimates alone may improve the utility of techniques based on subcutaneous tissue thickness, such as US and skinfolds.

Rugby union (RU) is a field-based team sport with a large number of high-intensity actions such as sprinting, change of direction, tackling, scrummaging, rucking, and mauling. Competitive success in female RU has previously been related to anthropometric and physical characteristics, and with the recent introduction of professionalism in female rugby, characterizing such physical attributes may provide insight into selection and training processes.Purpose:To identify anthropometric and physical characteristics of competitive female RU players and differences between playing positions.Methods:Twenty-two players were recruited from the top tier of female RU in the United Kingdom during the 2018–2019 Premiership season. Players were split into forwards and backs and underwent body composition testing via dual-X-ray absorptiometry and physical characteristic tests (10- and 20-m speed, 1-repetition-maximum bench press and squat, countermovement jump, drop jump, isometric midthigh pull, and 1200-m shuttle).Results:Moderate to large significant differences between playing positions in both anthropometric and physical characteristics were found (P P = .03), fat mass (P = .01), and absolute upper-body strength (P = .03), whereas backs demonstrated superior countermovement jump height (P = .01), drop jump height (P = .01), greater reactive strength (P = .03), and speed (P = .03).Conclusion:These findings provide practitioners with a greater understanding of anthropometric and physical characteristics of professional female RU players.

Purpose: To explore the relationship between absolute and relative upper-body strength and selected measures of handcycling performance. Methods: A total of 13 trained H3/H4-classified male handcyclists (mean [SD] age 37 [11] y; body mass 76.6 [10.1] kg; peak oxygen consumption 2.8 [0.6] L·min−1; relative peak oxygen consumption 36.5 [10] mL·kg·min−1) performed a prone bench-pull and bench-press 1-repetition-maximum strength assessment, a 15-km individual time trial, a graded exercise test, and a 15-second all-out sprint test. Relationships between all variables were assessed using Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: Absolute strength measures displayed a large correlation with gross mechanical efficiency and maximum anaerobic power output (P = .05). However, only a small to moderate relationship was identified with all other measures. In contrast, relative strength measures demonstrated large to very large correlations with gross mechanical efficiency, 15-km time-trial velocity, maximum anaerobic power output, peak aerobic power output, power at a fixed blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol·L−1, and peak oxygen consumption (P = .05). Conclusion: Relative upper-body strength demonstrates a significant relationship with time-trial velocity and several handcycling performance measures. Relative strength is the product of one’s ability to generate maximal forces relative to body mass. Therefore, the development of one’s absolute strength combined with a reduction in body mass may influence real-world handcycling race performance.

This study aimed to (1) establish age- and sex-specific functional fitness (FF) norms in Chinese older adults living in urban communities and (2) explore ageing-related degradations and sex differences in each FF dimension. A pool of 2398 individuals (1128 men; 1270 women) aged 60–98 years were recruited from urban communities of Nanjing, China. FF was measured using the Senior Fitness Test battery. FF norms were established for men and women in 5-year age intervals using five percentiles (10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th). Significant degradations in FF were correlated with increases in age. Around half of test items in 75–79 years group (3 for men; 4 for women) and over half in 80–84 years group (5 for men; 4 for women) exhibited significant decreases in FF compared with the adjacent younger group, indicating that ages of 75 and 80 years are two potential turning points in FF declines. Significant differences existed between the overall FF of men and women; women outperformed men in flexibility and men outperformed women in upper body strength, agility/dynamic balance, and aerobic endurance. Significant age and sex effects occurred in each fitness dimension, which helps individualised program design and promotes an active lifestyle in older adults.

Purpose The present study examined acute normobaric hypoxic exposure on the number of repetitions to failure, electromyographic (EMG) repetition duration (Time), EMG root mean square (RMS) and EMG mean power frequency (MPF) during biceps brachii (BB) dynamic constant external resistance (DCER) exercise. Methods Thirteen subjects performed two sets of fatiguing DCER arm curl repetitions to failure at 70% of their one repetition maximum under normoxic (NH), moderate hypoxia FiO2 = 15% (MH) and severe hypoxia FiO2 = 13% (SH). Electromyography of the BB was analyzed for EMG Time, EMG RMS, and EMG MPF. Repetitions were selected as 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of total repetitions (%Fail) completed. Pulse oximetry (SpO2) was measured pre-and post-fatigue. Results There was no significant three-way (Condition x Set x %Fail) or two-way (Condition x Set) interaction for any variable. The number of repetitions to failure significantly decreased from (mean ± SEM) 18.2 ± 1.4 to 9.5 ± 1.0 with each Set. In addition, EMG Time increased (25% 75%>100%), and EMG MPF decreased (75% > 100%) as a result of fatiguing exercise. SpO2 was lower during MH (Δ5.3%) and SH (Δ9.2%) compared to NH and as a result of fatiguing exercise increased only in MH (Δ2.1%) and SH (Δ5.7%). Conclusion The changes in BB EMG variables indicated exercise caused myoelectric manifestations of fatigue, however, acute moderate or severe hypoxia had no additional influence on the rate of fatigue development or neuromuscular parameters., Highlights • Acute MH (FiO2 15%) and SH (FiO2 14%) did not alter the muscle contractile process. • Arm curl repetitions to failure decreased MU recruitment and conduction velocity. • EMG fatigue analysis, hypoxia and arm curls to failure, EMG RMS, EMG MPF and Time. • SpO2 was lower at MH and SH which increased following fatiguing exercise.

The present study had a dual objective: (1) to present and validate a predictive model of standing posture in the sagittal plane, joint torques and support forces for a smartphone user built from biomechanical principles; (2) propose risk scales for joint torques and reaction forces based on simulations in order to use them into the musculoskeletal disorders prevention. Comparison of the modelled data with experimental measurements (400 tested postures with sample size verification) for calling and texting tasks highlights the model's ability to correctly estimate posture and reaction forces on the ground. The model was able to provide estimates of the range of variation of each parameter for a wide range of environmental conditions as a function of the user body mass index (setting between 12.5 and 50). Joint torques risk scales have been constructed, especially for shoulder and elbow, to characterise the risks incurred by the users. Practitioner summary: The proposed model enables the postures, joint torques and reaction forces to be estimated from subject's body mass index and environmental configuration without resorting to experimentation, which is relevant in industry. This approach allows the proposition of new scales based on joint torques to reinforce the recommendations for MSDs prevention. Abbreviations: BMI: body mass index; LUBA: postural loading on the upper body assessment; MSDs: musculoskeletal disorders; RULA: rapid upper limb assessment; WHO: World Health Organization.

In this study, we propose a method to estimate the assistive timing requirements for a power-assisted lumbar suit based on upper-body acceleration. Our developed power-assisted suit combines of springs, wires, and an electrical motor to provide efficient assistance. The assistive torque provided by the suit was determined based on a digital human model. The assistive timing using the electrical motor was calculated from the upper-body acceleration measured using two internal accelerometers. Herein, we present the experimental results based on the myoelectricity of a muscle during lifting motions involving three participants acting as caregivers to elderly patients.

Background: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show difficulty in comprehension and production of the deictic verbs "come/go." Objective: To examine whether introducing conditions related to daily conversations into training would improve the use of deictic verbs. Methods: Six Japanese children with ASD participated. We set up multiple scenes where the questioner presented the sentence using "come/go" with/without deictic gestures, and children with ASD replied with "come/go." The conditions such as spatial relations between the two parties (face-to-face or side-by-side) and presentations of the gestures (moving one's arm toward or away from the body or moving one's upper body forward/backward) were introduced. Results: The appropriate use of deictic verbs during training and in daily life situations among children with ASD increased. Conclusions: Training children with ASD to look in the direction indicated by the questioner and to synchronize their bodies with the questioner's movements promotes their acquisition of deictic verbs.

The aim of this study was to analyse and compare the effects of two different dance training concepts in terms of anthropometric indices and supervised motor test performance between two groups of 56 prepuberal girls. The first group, composed of 29 girls, performed a typical classical dance training program (D group), while the second one, composed of 27 girls, followed a mixed training (D&R group) workout, with classical dance exercises alternated to rhythmic gymnastics. Anthropometric and exercise performance data were collected and assessed initially (T1) and after a 1-year (T2) training program. Data collected were firstly tested for collinearity using Belsley’s test and, after their normality was tested through the Shapiro–Wilk test, analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests were performed on a subset of noncollinear variables. The two groups showed improvements in both anthropometric parameters and exercise performance; however, no differences arose between the variation of anthropometric parameters between the two groups. On the other hand, exercise performance was improved in some fields of the D&R group, particularly in exercises regarding the upper body, such as pull-ups, chin-ups and sit-ups. In conclusion, our data provide evidence that a specific training program consisting of classic dance plus rhythmic gymnastics exercises (D&R) has a greater impact compared to a program of simple classic dance, in terms of skill performance without impairment of anthropometric parameters.

Wrestling is a fighting sport that requires strength, especially in the upper body. However, the strength training carried out so far is still conventional and monotonous, while literature studies have provided various other, more modern and effective alternatives for strength training, one of which is the Bulgarian Bag. This study aims to examine the effect of training using Bulgarian Bag on the strength of the upper body of wrestling athletes. Research on Bulgarian Bag itself is still relatively small because Bulgarian Bags themselves are still relatively new. The research method used is an experimental method with a pre-test post-test control group design. The subjects of this study were wrestling athletes in West Bandung Regency with 10 male athletes taken by total sampling from the population. The research instrument used was a dynamic endurance hand grip strength test and a push up test which was given 2 times to the subject. Subjects were divided into two groups, namely the experimental group which was given the Bulgarian Bag exercise and the control group which was given the conventional exercise. T-test using SPSS version 24 was performed as data analysis in this study. The results showed that the Bulgarian Bag exercise had a significant effect on increasing the strength of the upper extremity of wrestling athletes. So it can be concluded that training using Bulgarian Bags can be used as the right choice to increase the strength of the upper body of wrestling athletes. The authors suggest integrating these exercises into a structured strength training program.

The crowded marketplace in Thiruvananthapuram (aka Trivandrum) thronged with people in the late nineteenth century. Men and women clad in white mundu teemed about the busy street buying oil and salt, horseshoes and iron farm implements, coarse cloth, coir rope, jaggery, and palm toddy. The men were mostly bare-chested, though some, unmindful of the sweltering heat, wore white long shirts or an upper-body cloth. While a few young women wore printed blouses, many, particularly the older women, wore no upper-body clothes except for large, beaded necklaces made of red-colored stones. Most people, with the exception of the men who clothed their upper body, walked along the sides of the road, leaving the path clear for the occasional bullock cart. These bullock carts, also known as villuvandi, carried young men-about-town, almost exclusively landowning, upper-caste Nairs. Dressed in a spotless white shirt, white mundu, and matching white turban, the Nair riding his villuvandi assumed the haughty air of a master surveying his subjects; out to observe his inferiors as much as be seen as a superior. These Nairs, and other upper-caste men and women, had the exclusive right of way, on bullock cart or on foot, the right to wear clean white clothes, and, of course, the right to ride a villuvandi. These rights were codified through caste-based rules or norms known as jati maryada, which governed all aspects of social behavior.

Background Previous studies have typically measured velocity and power parameters during the push-up, either using one or two force platforms. The purpose of the study was to compare the force, velocity, and power parameters between the one-force-platform method and the two-force-platform method during plyometric push-ups. Methods Thirty-four physically active young adults participated in the study to perform the plyometric push-up. For the two-force-platform calculation method, the forces applied to the feet and hands were both measured. For the one-force-platform calculation method, the forces applied to the feet were assumed to be constant, while the forces applied to hands were measured by one force platform. Whole-body linear velocities were calculated based on the impulse and momentum theorem. Whole-body power was calculated as the product of the whole-body forces and velocities. Results The one-force-platform method overestimated the whole-body velocities and power compared with the two-force-platform method (1.39 ± 0.37 m/s vs. 0.90 ± 0.23 m/s, Cohen’s d = 1.59, p Conclusions For those professionals who need to accurately quantify kinetic variables during the plyometric push-up, the two-force-platform method should be considered.

[Purpose] We investigated whether blood flow-restricted training known as KAATSU training, was effective for rehabilitation of a pianist with residual neurological symptoms in the upper limbs. [Participant and Methods] A pianist with residual neurological symptoms in the upper body played “Revolutionary Etude” under two conditions: piano performance with (Piano-blood flow-restricted) and without (Piano-control) the restriction of blood flow to the upper limbs. In the Piano-blood flow-restricted exercise, a pressure of 130–170 mmHg was applied around the most proximal portion of both arms. The changes in upper limb circumference and muscle strength were measured before, immediately after, and 15 min after the performance. The impression of the piano performance was recorded after the Piano-blood flow-restricted exercise. [Results] Immediately after the piano performance, the forearm and upper arm circumferences had increased significantly in both arms, and the change was greater in the Piano-blood flow-restricted than in the Piano-control condition. The handgrip strength for the right arm also showed greater changes in the former than the latter. However, there were no significant differences between the two conditions regarding the handgrip strength of the left arm. [Conclusion] There is a high possibility that blood flow-restricted training is effective for rehabilitation of the pianist with residual neurological symptoms in the upper limbs.

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the water-repellent properties of newly-developed combat uniforms using a rainfall tower system. Two types of water-repellent- combat uniforms with an identical level of water repellency through textile tests (WR_M and WR_T) were compared with an untreated-combat uniform (Control). A static manikin was used to evaluate water-repellent properties in a standing position and eight male subjects participated to test walking effects under artificial rainfall. The results showed that it took to saturate the upper body was longer for WR_T than WR_M and Control in the standing position for both normal and heavy rain conditions (P P P P

هدف: حفظ آهنگ ضربان و انقباض قلب بهویژه حین و متعاقب فعالیتهای ورزشی از جمله چالشهایی استکه دانشمندان علم ورزش با آن مواجهاند. ازاینرو، پژوهش حاضر با هدف بررسی رابطة بین فعالیت خودکار قلبیپس از فعالیت بالاتنه با مقدار آب کل بدن در مردان با سنین مختلف انجام گرفت.روشها: تعداد ۲۴ نفر از مردان فعال پس از تشریح اهداف و مراحل انجام تحقیق داوطلبانه در تحقیق شرکت کردندو به دو گروه 1 نفره )میانسال و سالمند( تقسیم شدند. بهمنظور اندازهگیری تغییرپذیری ضربان قلب از نرمافزار 2اندازهگیری تغییرپذیری ضربان قلب کوبیوس استفاده شد. تغییرپذیری ضربان قلب در حال استراحت، حین، 5و 10 دقیقه پس از فعالیت روی کارسنج دستی اندازهگیری شد. برای تعیین مقدار آب کل بدن افراد از دستگاهتجزیهوتحلیلکنندة ترکیب بدن استفاده شد. برای بررسی تغییرات و رابطة بین متغیرهای تحقیق بهترتیب ازآزمون آماری تحلیل واریانس با اندازهگیریهای مکرر و آزمون همبستگی پیرسون استفاده شد.نتایج: نتایج نشان داد که در هر دو گروه میانسال و سالمند، مقادیر تغییرپذیری ضربان قلب در حین و بلافاصلهبعد از تمرین در مقایسه با حالت استراحت کاهش معنادار ) 05 / p بلافاصله بعد از تمرین افزایش معنادار داشته است ) 05 / p ضربان قلب و مقدار آب کل بدن در هر در گروه میانسال و سالمند وجود دارد ) 05 / .)p

Purpose: A difference in the lower body to upper body ratio between similarly heighted individuals could lead to inadequately matched transplants. There has been a perception in clinical circles that body ratio varies between people of different races, and investigating this supposition would prove useful in increasing transplant match accuracy. The investigation’s purpose was to derive an equation with a greater correlation to lung length than height alone. Methods: Lung transplantation donor data for 480 adult patients was obtained and divided by ethnicity—Caucasian, African American, and Hispanic. Height, weight, age, sex, right and left lung length were evaluated for significance. The R2 value of the multiple linear regression with these variables vs. lung length was determined and tested in a separate dataset of 100 patients. Results: Only the distribution of height was significant between the 3 ethnicities ( P = 0.041). None of the ANCOVAs were significant ( P < 0.05) or near significant ( P < 0.10). For the strongest correlation model with lung length, height had a linear fit, weight had a cubic fit, and age had a logistic fit. Multiple regression models were successfully created for right lung (R2 = 0.202) and left lung (R2 = 0.213). Independent testing showed a correlation of 0.131 and 0.136, respectively. Conclusion: Using demographic information from the donor and recipient as proxies for estimating lung size should only serve as a rough guide due to their weak correlation with lung length. As a result, for greater accuracy, donor-recipient matching should be individualized by taking donor and recipient chest X-Rays and/or TLC into consideration.

Active deicing technologies, such as conductive asphalt concrete and heating cable, are not applicable to the existing roads, and passive deicing based on mechanical methods damage the roads. A novel scraping deicing system for thin ice using end-of-life wire ropes was proposed, and the scraping deicing mechanism was given to optimizing the inclination angle for minimal external deicing force. The prototype was developed and fabricated, and a laboratory deicing experiment was designed to evaluate the deicing performance for a prefabricate frozen asphalt concrete block (ACB). The results showed that the deicing brush could naturally clean with the thickness of the ice layer of 10 mm. There was good stability when the deicing brush’s rotation speed reached 500 r/min, and the removal rate can get 92 %. No apparent scratches occurred on the upper body of the ACB, which will not cause severe damage to the pavement surface.

Background: Previous studies show that people with lower limb amputation (LLA) have a sedentary lifestyle, reduced walking capacity, and low cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2peak). There is, however, no knowledge on the relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness and objectively measured level of physical activity in daily life. Objectives: To investigate the relationship between upper-body VO2peak, physical activity levels, and walking capacity in persons with LLA. Study design: Correlational and descriptive study. Methods: Fourteen participants with LLA performed an assessment of VO2peak on an arm-crank ergometer and walking capacity (preferred walking speed and 2-minute walking test). Level of physical activity was measured over 7 days with a step activity monitor (number of steps; sedentary time; and proportion of low-intensity, moderate-intensity, high-intensity, and peak-intensity activity level). Results: VO2peak correlated significantly with number of steps per day (r = 0.696, p = 0.006), sedentary time (r = −0.618, p = 0.019), high-intensity activity level (r = 0.769, p = 0.001), and peak-intensity activity level (r = 0.674, p = 0.008). After correcting for age, correlations were still large and significant. Large correlations were also found between VO2peak, preferred walking speed (r = 0.586, p = 0.027), and 2-minute walking test (r = 0.649, p = 0.012). Conclusions: We provide the first evidence of the strong relationships between upper-body VO2peak, sedentary behavior, high-intensity activity level, and walking capacity in persons with LLA. Further research is needed to investigate the potential effect of upper-body cardiorespiratory fitness on the level of activity in daily life, or vice versa. This work was financially supported by the Research Council of Norway and Oslo Metropolitan University/Faculty of Technology, Art, and Design/Faculty of Health Sciences. The funded project is “Patient-Centric Engineering in Rehabilitation (PACER)” and project No. is 273599.

This review article summarized the literature regarding running gait. It describes characteristics of running gait and running gait cycle, explains running anatomy in relation to lower and upper body mechanism; contribution of muscles, and joint running gait cycle. The concept of running kinematics and kinetics has described motion characteristics such as position, velocity, acceleration, and force applied during the running cycle. Running gait analysis techniques has discussed such as motion analysis, force plate analysis, and electromyography.

BACKGROUND Skin cancer is strongly associated with photodamaged skin, but body sites are often referred to as 'exposed' or 'unexposed' to sun without recognizing extent of site-specific variation. OBJECTIVES To assess whole-body patterns of photodamage in an Australian population. METHODS A random sample of adult residents of Queensland underwent imaging across 10 body sites. Photodamage was graded from images using an ordinal photonumeric scale. We used cluster analysis to identify whole-body photodamage patterns and prevalence proportion ratios (PPRs) to assess associated factors. RESULTS Of 190 adults (median age 52; 58% males), 58% showed severe or moderate-to-severe photodamage on most body sites. A higher proportion of woman had severe photodamage on the arms (upper: P = 0.002, lower: P = 0.034). A higher proportion of men had moderate or severe photodamage on the lower back (P = 0.004). We identified four photodamage patterns: 'severe general' (n = 24, 13%), 'moderate-severe general' (n = 86, 45%), 'moderate-severe v-neck' (n = 40, 21%) and 'mild-moderate upper body' (n = 12, 6%). All participants with 'severe-general' photodamage were >50 years and more likely to have past skin cancer (PPR: 2.54, 95% CI: 1.44-4.49) than those with 'moderate-severe v-neck' photodamage. Those with 'moderate-severe general' photodamage showed similar associations and were more likely female (PPR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.04-1.69). Past or current smoking was associated with having higher levels of photodamage, with no smokers in those with 'mild-moderate upper body' photodamage. CONCLUSIONS Moderate-to-severe photodamage across much of the body is common in Queensland adults and associated with age, sex, past skin cancer and smoking. Assuming a universal pattern of site-specific sun exposure could lead to spurious correlations, while accurate and objective assessment of site-specific photodamage can add to understanding of the development of sun-associated skin cancers, in particular site-specific skin carcinogenesis. Additionally, degree of site-specific photodamage has the potential to assist skin cancer screening.

Objective To investigate the effect of one’s sex and pedaling intensity on upper body muscle activation patterns during typing while cycling. Background Females are at a higher risk for computer work-related musculoskeletal disorders, and mobile workstations have been suggested to induce healthier muscular patterns compared with sitting. However, the neuromuscular characteristics of performing computer work in a cycling workstation have not been investigated. Method Twenty-two participants (10 females) completed a 60-min computer typing task while pedaling on a cycle ergometer at two different intensities (25%, 4% heart rate reserve). Surface electromyography (EMG) was recorded from seven muscles of the upper body. Effects of time, sex, and intensity were assessed for muscle activation (RMS), activation variability (CV), and normalized mutual information (NMI) via generalized estimating equations. Results With time, neck/shoulder CV increased in males during higher pedaling intensity, whereas in females it decreased during lower intensity. In females, RMS of neck/shoulder and NMI of neck/shoulder muscle pairs were lower, whereas forearm RMS was 34.2% higher with higher intensity cycling compared with lower intensity. Lower back RMS decreased 28.3% in the initial half of the task in females, but in males it increased 14.4% in the later half. Conclusion and application Cycling workstation showed a sex- and intensity-specific EMG response. These differing responses should be considered when implementing the use of cycling workstation and may be important for preventing/managing sex-specific muscle fatigue and musculoskeletal disorders.

Die mediane Sternotomie ist der Standardzugang fur herzchirurgische Eingriffe. Zur Vermeidung von postoperativen Wundheilungsstorungen oder Sternuminstabilitaten werden ublicherweise Verhaltensempfehlungen formuliert, die eine Vielzahl an Bewegungen und Belastungen fur unterschiedlich lange Zeit verbieten. Uberaus restriktive Bewegungseinschrankungen behindern eine optimale Rehabilitation. Uber Herkunft und Notwendigkeit von Verhaltensempfehlungen nach Sternotomie ist wenig bekannt. Direkte Evidenz gibt es weder fur eine restriktive Vorgehensweise noch fur eine progressive Rehabilitation, die Oberkorperbewegungen und -belastungen miteinbezieht. Die Formulierung von angemessenen Aktivitatsempfehlungen statt von Bewegungsverboten konnte den Stellenwert und die positiven Auswirkungen von Bewegung und Aktivitat in den Mittelpunkt stellen und damit Patienten eine Perspektive aufzeigen, wie sie selbst zu einem optimalen Heilungsverlauf beitragen konnen. Ab welchem Zeitpunkt und in welcher Intensitat Oberkorperbelastungen in der fruhen postoperativen Phase erfolgen durfen, wird seit Jahren kontrovers diskutiert. Der Artikel gibt einen Literaturuberblick und beschreibt Erfahrungen, die zeigen, dass ausgewahlte und dosierte Oberkorperbelastungen fur viele Patienten in der kardiologischen Rehabilitation sicher und effektiv durchfuhrbar sind. Besonderen Stellenwert hat ein individuell geplantes Training im Kraftraum. Median sternotomy is the standard access for cardiac surgery. In order to avoid postoperative wound healing disorders or sternal instability, behavioural recommendations are usually formulated that prohibit a variety of movements and stresses for different time period. Extremely restrictive restrictions on movement hinder optimal rehabilitation. Little is known about the origin and necessity of behavioural recommendations after sternotomy. There is no direct evidence for a restrictive approach, nor for progressive rehabilitation that includes upper body movements and strains. The formulation of appropriate activity recommendations instead of movement prohibitions could focus on the importance and positive effects of movement and activity, thus showing patients a perspective on how they individually can contribute to an optimal healing process. At what point and in what intensity upper body loads may take place in the early postoperative phase has been the subject of controversy for years. The article provides a literature overview and describes lessons of experience that show that selected and dosed upper body loads are safe and effective for many patients in cardiological rehabilitation. An individually planned training in the strength room is of particular importance.

Background: Diabetes is a fast-grwoing health problem in Egypt with a significant impact on morbidity, mortality, and health care resources. While increasing physical activity is an essential component of all effective lifestyle-based trials for the prevention of type 2 DM. Aim of Study: Was to compare between high intensity interval training and circuit weight training on type 2 DM. Material and Methods: Sixty participants had participated in this study. Their ages ranged from forty to fifty years men were selected from Manshyet El-Bakry Hospital. Group (A): Consisted of 30 patients received high intensity interval training program 3 sessions/week for 12 weeks training consisted of interval at high intensity training (85-90% of HRmax) and recovery at (50-70% of HRmax). Group (B): Thirty men participated in this group, received circuit weight training exercises performed for 3 sessions/week for 12 weeks. the resistance (weight) 30% to 40% of 1 repetition maximum for upper body and 50% to 60% for lower-body exercises. Each participant had undergone Measurments for Fasting Blood Glucose, Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) and 6MWT before and after study. Results: The results of this study revealed that there was significant reduction in FBG by 17.68% and 14.18% in group A and group B respectively. While the results of HbA1c there was reduction by 20.77% and 13.37% in group A and group B. There was increase in 6MWT by 10.28% and 4.54% in group A and B respectively. (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Within the limitation of the current study it was concluded that both types of exercises significantly improve HBA1c, fasting blood glucose and 6 minute walk distance after 12 weeks of training in favour of high intensity interval training.

Among non-human animals, a key strategy to resolve conflicts without fighting relies on assessing relative fighting ability on the basis of physical cues such as size and strength. Recent studies suggest that the human mind too contains mechanisms for spontaneously coordinating conflict behavior on the basis of difference in physical strength, even if strength is not rationally relevant to the conflict. We provide the first direct, experimental test of the existence of such mechanisms. We do so by applying a non-physical, anonymous, economic game - the war-of-attrition - in which male contestants compete by means of perseverance to win a monetary prize. While three initial studies provided some support for the prediction, the final well-powered and pre-registered study failed to support the prediction. We interpret our findings as suggestive evidence that in conflict situations the human mind does not attribute relevance to physical factors that are irrelevant for the conflict.

Davies, TB, Halaki, M, Orr, R, Mitchell, L, Helms, ER, Clarke, J, and Hackett, DA. Effect of set structure on upper-body muscular hypertrophy and performance in recreationally trained men and women. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2021-This study explored the effect of volume-equated traditional-set and cluster-set structures on muscular hypertrophy and performance after high-load resistance training manipulating the bench press exercise. Twenty-one recreationally trained subjects (12 men and 9 women) performed a 3-week familiarization phase and were then randomized into one of two 8-week upper-body and lower-body split programs occurring over 3 and then progressing to 4 sessions per week. Subjects performed 4 sets of 5 repetitions at 85% one repetition maximum (1RM) using a traditional-set structure (TRAD, n = 10), which involved 5 minutes of interset rest only, or a cluster-set structure, which included 30-second inter-repetition rest and 3 minutes of interset rest (CLUS, n = 11). A 1RM bench press, repetitions to failure at 70% 1RM, regional muscle thickness, and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry were used to estimate changes in muscular strength, local muscular endurance, regional muscular hypertrophy, and body composition, respectively. Velocity loss was assessed using a linear position transducer at the intervention midpoint. TRAD demonstrated a significantly greater velocity loss magnitude (g = 1.50) and muscle thickness of the proximal pectoralis major (g = -0.34) compared with CLUS. There were no significant differences between groups for the remaining outcomes, although a small effect size favoring TRAD was observed for the middle region of the pectoralis major (g = -0.25). It seems that the greater velocity losses during sets observed in traditional-set compared with cluster-set structures may promote superior muscular hypertrophy within specific regions of the pectoralis major in recreationally trained subjects.

MojsiewiczKarol,Kempinska-Podhorodecka Agnieszka.The most common injuries, rehabilitation and recovery among soccer practitioners.Journal of Education, Health and Sport. 2021;11(5):65-77. eISSN 2391-8306. DOI http://dx.doi.org/10.12775/JEHS.2021.11.05.007 https://apcz.umk.pl/czasopisma/index.php/JEHS/article/view/JEHS.2021.11.05.007 https://zenodo.org/record/4779975 The journal has had 5 points in Ministry of Science and Higher Education parametric evaluation. § 8. 2) and § 12. 1. 2) 22.02.2019. © The Authors 2021; This article is published with open access at Licensee Open Journal Systems of Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Poland Open Access. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial License which permits any noncommercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author (s) and source are credited. This is an open access article licensed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non commercial license Share alike. (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/) which permits unrestricted, non commercial use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the work is properly cited. The authors declare that there is no conflict of interests regarding the publication of this paper. Received: 21.04.2021. Revised: 26.04.2021. Accepted: 21.05.2021. The most common injuries, rehabilitation and recovery among soccer practitioners Karol Mojsiewicz1, Agnieszka Kempinska-Podhorodecka2 1Student of Physiotheraphy, Department of Health Sciences, Pomeranian Medical University, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland 2Department of Medical Biology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland, Abstract Introduction. Soccer is the most popular sport in the world. As a contact sport it has a high risk and incidence of injuries, which most often affect the lower limb. For the player to recover it is neessary to attend to well planned rehabilitation. Purpose.Analyzingthe most common injuries among people practicing soccerand determiningthe role of rehabilitation in the treatment of these injuries. Material and methods. The research group was 101 individuals, 88 male and 13 female who played soccer as amateurs or professionals, aged 10 to 45 and had been training for a minimum of 2 years. Results.There were 487 injuries in total among all respondents, of which 370 were related to the lower limb and 117 to the upper body. Contussions and ankle sprains were the most common injuries. Every single preson included in the studies suffered from injury, but only 75.2% of them went to see a doctor after the incident and only 56,4% attended rehabilitation. Statistical significance has been present in the time to return to sports depending on the continuation of physical exertion after the injury, in the time to return to sport due to treatment or the lack of it, in the time to return to sports in relation to whether or not rehabilitation took place for patients with serious injury. Conclusion. The most common sports injuries in soccer are lower limb injuries, including damage to muscles and tendons. Recovery time is related to the type of injury, treatment options and rehabilitation methods. People practicing soccer should monitor their training loads with a physiotherapist. This can reduce the amount of problems later in career or daily life. Key words: soccer; rehabilitaion; injuries.

PURPOSE This proof-of-concept study compared lean mass (LM) between women with heart disease (HD) and without HD. METHODS Fifty-six community-dwelling women were pair-matched by age. Heart disease was defined using criteria from the US Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Body composition was measured using multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis. Relative LM was calculated against height (kg/m2) as the lean mass index (LMI). Sarcopenia was defined as an LMI

Robotic subtotal gastrectomy (RsTG) with a small remnant stomach for treatment of gastric cancer (GC) in the upper stomach may have advantages over robotic TG (RTG). These may affect postoperative complications and postoperative nutritional status. This is a single-center retrospective study of 46 consecutive patients with GC who underwent RsTG (n = 10) and RTG (n = 36). The indication for RsTG included tumor located in the upper body of the stomach, in which the distance between the upper edge of the tumor and the junction was 2 cm or more and less than 5 cm, and no clinical evidence of lymph node metastasis. Operation time was significantly longer (384 min) and intraoperative blood loss was significantly larger (38 ml) in the RTG group than in the RsTG group (299.5 min, P = 0.021, and 25 ml P = 0.002). Two patients (5.6%) in the RTG group had complications, while no postoperative complications of higher than grade II were observed in the RsTG group. Serum albumin levels at 3 months after surgery were significantly higher in the RsTG group (3.85 g/dl) than in the RTG group (3.2 g/dl, P = 0.001). Postoperative recovery of bodyweight at 6 months after surgery was significantly better in the RsTG group (91.3%) than in the RTG group (84.25%, P = 0.001). RsTG for treatment of patients with GC in the upper body of the stomach is safe and feasible, and may enable improved postoperative nutritional status compared with RTG.

The purpose of this study was to compare muscular power and speed between the Circle Style Male Kabaddi Players of Punjabi University Patiala and Panjab University Chandigarh. A total one hundred nine (N=109) circle style male kabaddi players of eight teams of both universities were selected. In this study the over head medicine ball throw test and 50 meters run test were used to measure the muscular power of upper body and speed of the players. The study had been analyzed with the help of mean, SD, SED and the comparison between groups was done with the help of ‘t’ ratio. For Statistical Description the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 21.0 was used. The study revealed that on the basis of the finding both Universities’ players were possessing same degree of speed ability. But players of Panjab University Chandigarh were better in muscular power of upper body than the players of Punjabi University Patiala.

Background: The quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is closely related to the survival rate of a patient, and it is crucial to maintain the quality of CPR during the ambulance journey to the receiving hospital. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of different stretcher bed heights on operator CPR quality. Methods: In this randomized crossover trial, 16 male emergency medical technicians-paramedics (EMT-Ps) performed continuous chest compressions on a hemimorphic mannequin for 5 minutes, alternating between the current height of the stretcher bed on the ambulance (38 ± 1 cm) (S-38) and the height of the participant's midpoint of the patella (S-knee), where the stretcher bed surface is. Results: According to the analysis of the quality of CPR exercises with two different stretcher bed heights at 5 minutes of continuous chest compression, the mean chest compression depth (CCD) of the S-38 position (53.81 ± 1.91 cm) was significantly lower than that of the S-knee (55.12 ± 2.03 cm; p < 0.001). The mean chest compression rate (CCR) of the S-38 position (111.44 ± 3.44 beats/min) was significantly higher than that of the S-knee (109.63 ± 4.46 beats/min; p = 0.027). The mean of total chest compressions (TCC) of the S-38 position (557.44 ± 16.81 times) was significantly higher than that of the S-knee (548.24 ± 19.40 times; p = 0.029). The rating of perceived exertion (RPE) of the S-38 position was significantly higher than that of the S-knee (12.75 ± 1.91 %; p = 0.015). Only the chest compression rebound rate (CCRR) (S-38: 97.56 ± 4.63 % vs. S-knee: 98.31 ± 1.89 %, p = 0.401) and the chest compression fraction (CCF) (S-38: 98.44 ± 0.81 % vs. S-knee: 98.44 ± 0.96 %, p = 1.000) did not reach a significant difference. Conclusion: When a resuscitator is performing chest compressions in a standing position in an ambulance, the excessive downward leaning of the resuscitator's upper body affects CPR quality and increases fatigue. This study has verified that setting the stretcher bed of the ambulance at the knee height of the EMTs provides better CPR quality and lower fatigue.

BACKGROUND: The hand-grip strength test has been widely adopted to evaluate upper limb strength. Other field based tests as push-ups and pull-ups are commonly used for the same purpose. It is however unclear if these may be used interchangeably for upper body strength evaluation. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate strength endurance of the upper body and understand which test could be the most appropriate for upper body evaluation. METHODS: Thirty-eight healthy young male participants were tested with three tests comprised of: 1) push-ups (PS), 2) pull-ups (PL) and 3) parallel dips (PD) performed to exhaustion. Grip strength (GS), total number of repetitions, time-to-complete the test, repetition cadence and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were also retrieved for investigation. RESULTS: Repetitions, time-to-complete the test and repetition cadence significantly differed across the three tests (p< 0.001). No difference in the RPE was present. No correlation was present between GS and the other tests. No correlation was present between RPE and performance values and time-to-complete the tests. BMI was positively correlated to RPE in all tests. All tests strongly correlate to each other (PS vs. PL r= 0.55; PS vs. PD r= 0.64; PL vs. PD r= 0.70) and to time-to-complete the test (PS r= 0.79; PL r= 0.69; PD r= 0.66). Only the results of the PD correlate to their respective repetition cadence (r= 0.66). CONCLUSIONS: GS is not suitable to evaluate strength endurance. PS, PL and PD are all suitable to evaluate strength endurance. However, PD may be preferred to evaluate the upper body, if velocity also needs to be taken into account.

Background: Clavicle fractures is the most common upper body fractures, as it is superficially placed [1, 2]. Clavicle fractures presents about 10–15% in children and 3–5% in adults [1, 2]. Depending on the lateral end fractures of clavicle which are classified into 3 types, based on their relation to coraco-clavicular ligaments by Neer [3]. In this study we wanted to evaluate the functional results of superior anterior locking plates use in the surgical management of unstable distal clavicle fractures (type II). The functional outcome were assessed by Quick DASH score, [12] we also analysed: union rates, earliest duration for the patients got back to their routine and regular activities and its complications. Methods: An observational, retrospective and prospective study of 84 patients, where 73 patients had unstable unilateral fractures where 52- right sided and 21 - left sided and 11 patients had bilateral fracture and all the patients were treated with superior anterior locking plate from January 2018 to December 2020 in our tertiary hospital. Patients were followed up at 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year after surgery. Quick DASH score was used to evaluate the functional outcome [13]. X-rays were taken regularly to look for migration of implants, rate of union and any acromioclavicular pathology. The duration to get back to their routine and regular activities from range of 6 – 8 weeks from surgery were also assessed.Results: At each follow up both clinically and radiologically evaluation showed gradually improvement. All the patients at the 1 year follow up showed full range of movement and with good union. The Quick DASH score range of 0-13.5 with average score of 4.6 which shows good satisfactory outcome (13). There was superficial wound infection in one patient and that was treated by antibiotics. All the patients got back to their routine and regular activities within 7 weeks of surgery, from a range of 6 - 8 weeks of surgery. Conclusion: The unstable distal end of clavicle fractures type II needs a particular surgical intervention with superior anterior locking plates which have specially designed pre-contoured locking plate which provides a good fitting and stable fixation, which gives an amazing results in terms of clinical and functional outcome and without any surgical intervention related complications.

Three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of human body has wide applications, for example, for customized design of clothes and digital avatar production. Existing vision-based systems for 3D body reconstruction require users to wear minimal or extreme-tight clothes in front of cameras, and thus suffer from privacy problems. In this work, we explore a novel solution based on a sparse number of soft sensors on a standard garment, and use it for capturing 3D upper body shape. We utilize the maximal stretching range by modeling the nonlinear performance profile for individual sensors. The body shape can be dynamically reconstructed by analyzing the relationship between mesh deformation and sensor reading, with a learning-based approach. The wearability and flexibility of our prototype allow its use in indoor/outdoor environments and for long-term breath monitoring. Our prototype has been extensively evaluated by multiple users with different body sizes and the same user for multiple days. The results show that our garment prototype is comfortable to wear, and achieves the state-of-the-art reconstruction performance with the advantages in privacy projection and application scenarios.

There have been very few studies involving swan motion during pilates exercises, and there is also insufficient scientific evidence to support the fact that Pilates swan motion strengthens specific muscles.Firstly, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of 5 types Pilates swan motion (swan basic (SB), swan push-up (SP), swan holding posture (SH), form roller-based swan (SF), and circle-based swan (SC)) on muscle activity of deltoideus p. acromialis (DA), infraspinatus (IP), trapezius (TP), latissimus dorsi (LD), and erector spinae (ES). Secondly, the purpose of this study was to suggest an effective Pilates swan motion for strengthening muscle strength of each targeted muscle.Twenty-four healthy men in their 20s participated and all participants were measured muscle activity in DA, IP, TP, LD, and ES muscles by electromyography (EMG) during 5 Pilates swan motions (SB, SP, SH, SF,SC). The measured values were expressed as relative voluntary contraction (%RVC) values based on the SB.The %RVC values representing the muscle activity of DA and TP were significantly higher in SH and SP than in SC, SF, and SB (p .001). The %RVC values of IP and LD were significantly higher in SH and SC than in SF, SP, and SB (p .001). The %RVC value of ES was were significantly higher in SH than in SP, SC, SF, and SB (p .001).The application of SP, SC, and SH Pilates swan motion is an effective method to activate the back muscles of the trunk.

Summary Objectives The purpose of this study was to examine myoelectric activity, fatigue index and volume load adopting different intersession recovery periods between repeated resistance training (RT) bouts. Methods Fifteen recreationally-trained men participated in this study. Eight-repetition maximum (8RM) loads were determined for the bench press (BP) and 30° incline bench press (BP30) over two non-consecutive days. Three experimental protocols were performed in randomized order to examine the effect of different intersession recovery periods between repeated RT sessions for upper body muscles (pectoral major activity, anterior deltoid, triceps brachii, and biceps brachii) on volume load and myoelectric activity (SEMG), including: 24 hours (P24); 48 hours (P48); and 72 hours (P72). Each RT session consisted of performing four sets to failure for the BP and BP30 with 8-RM loads and 2-minute rest intervals between sets. Results The results showed that for SEMG activity, during the BP and BP30 exercises, there were no significant main effects for session, protocol, or interaction between protocols and sessions in the percentage difference between sets in activity of all muscles analyzed. Considering the overall session volume load, a significant main effect for session was noted. Volume load was significantly lower in Session 2 versus Session 1 under the P24 h protocol, without significant differences between the P48 and P72. Conclusion Therefore, coaches and practitioners who need to accomplish a higher volume load without negatively impacting fatigue index and myoelectric activity for upper body muscles, should adopt recovery periods longer than 24 hours between similar RT bouts.

Background: The current study aimed to examine the quality of life, dysfunction in the neck area and upper body posture among people with moderate myopia and to analyse the relationship between myopia and upper body posture. Material and methods: ‪Participants were 11 people with moderate myopia (MG) and 11 people without myopia (CG). The general quality of life was evaluated with the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), neck area pain with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and discomfort with the Neck Bournemouth Questionnaire (NBQ). The National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ25) was used to measure vision-targeted health. Upper body was evaluated with the New York Posture Rating Chart. Correlation analysis examined the relationship between head position and vision. Results: ‪The general quality of life and upper body posture characteristics did not differ significantly in MG as compared to CG. A significant difference in NBQ (p < 0.05), NEI-VFQ25 (p < 0.05) and VAS (p < 0.01) was established between MG and CG. A significant relationship (r=-.691) between increasing severity of myopia and head position was found. Conclusions: The study findings highlight the complaints of people with moderate myopia compared to people without myopia concerning both their quality of life and musculoskeletal problems.

Women’s upper body changes with age are categorized and analyzed. The researchers validated shape-related measurement variables, extracted principal components, and classified the shapes of 423 wom...

To study the upper body characteristics of young men, the body circumference, length, width, thickness, and angle of young men aged 18–25 and 26–35 years were collected to comprehensively characterize the concave and convex features of the front, back, and side of the human body. The Cuckoo Search-Density Peak intelligent algorithm was used to extract the feature factors of the upper body of men, and to cluster them. To verify the effectiveness of the intelligent algorithm, the clustering results of Cuckoo Search-Density Peak, Density Peak, Particle Swarm Optimization-Density Peak algorithm, Ant Colony Optimization-Density Peak algorithm, Genetic Algorithm-Density Peak algorithm, and Artificial Bee Colony-Density Peak algorithm were evaluated by Silouette and F-measures, respectively. The results show that the Cuckoo Search-Density Peak algorithm has the best clustering results and is superior to other algorithms. There are some differences in somatotype characteristics and somatotype indexes between young men aged 18–25 and 26–35 years.